REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
December 19, 2023
Minutes
Redondo Beach City
Council Tuesday,
December 19, 2023
Closed Session - Adjourned Regular Meeting 4:30 p.m.
Open Session –Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
4:30 PM - CLOSED SESSION – ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING (CANCELLED) 6:00 PM - OPEN SESSION - REGULAR MEETING
A. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Councilmembers Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, and Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein
Councilmembers Absent: Councilmember Obagi and Mayor Brand Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Lucie Colombo, Chief Deputy City Clerk
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein led the salute to the flag followed by a moment of silence.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
D.1. PRESENTATION BY LOS ANGELES COUNTY SUPERVISOR HOLLY J. MITCHELLTO THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH FOR THE AWARD OF $800,000 OF COUNTY GRANT FUNDING FOR EXPANSION OF THE CITY’S PALLET SHELTERS
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein announced that L.A. County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell presentation would be briefly delayed as her Board of Supervisors Meeting is running late but she would be joining the meeting later tonight.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
City Manager Witzansky requested removing Agenda Item Nos. H.5. (only Sub-item 5) and H.12. from the agenda, as staff is waiting on the contracts and will return with those items on City Council’s next meeting of January 9, 2024.
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Councilmember Kaluderovic requested moving N.4. to right after Supervisor Mitchell’s presentation. After brief discussion, the City Council will delay this item and at such time, reorder the agenda.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by voice vote, to approve the agenda, as amended, continuing Agenda Items No. H.5. (Sub-item 5) and H.12 to January 9, 2024 and reordering the agenda so that Agenda Item No. N.4. is heard after Supervisor Michell’s presentation.
Motion carried, Councilmember Obagi was absent.
F. AGENCY RECESS – None
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G.1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by voice vote to Receive and File Blue Folder Items.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CITY COUNCILMEMBERS
Councilmember Nehrenheim discussed the recent District 1 community meeting; cautioned residents about upcoming storms; announced the AES Powerplant will be permanently shut down on December 31, 2023 and wished everyone Happy Holidays.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported she toured the Homeless Court and the Pallet Shelter; noted she attended the opening of the Diamond Street Bike Path; commented on Space Force celebrating its fourth anniversary and wished everyone Happy Holidays. Additionally, she reported attending Supervisor Mitchell’s walk of the Metro ROW option and noted it was great to see so much support for the Hawthorne Boulevard option.
Councilmember Behrendt announced that the District 5 community meeting will be held January 4, 2024 and wished everyone Happy Holidays.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein congratulated Councilmember Obagi on his recent marriage; reported attending the Diamond Street Bike Path and the tour of the Metro ROW with Supervisor Mitchell; spoke about the closure of the AES Powerplant and the event relating to the closure; invited residents to the ceremony at 2:00 p.m. and wished everyone Happy Holidays.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF DECEMBER 19, 2023.
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
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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: NONE
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 29483-29511 IN THE AMOUNT OF $38,597.58, PD. 12/8/23 DIRECT DEPOSIT 271748-272327 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,120,742.43, PD. 12/8/23 EFT/ACH $8,191.86, PD. 10/27/23 (PP2322)
EFT/ACH $413,710.48, PD. 10/30/23 (PP2322)
EFT/ACH $8,191.86, PD. 11/9/23 (PP2323)
EFT/ACH $8,058.52, PD. 11/24/23 (PP2324)
EFT/ACH $410,834.04, PD. 11/29/23 (PP2323)
EFT/ACH $417,402.63, PD. 12/8/23 (PP2324)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 111840-112094 IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,077,878.60
EFT M.S. CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT GROUP $183,825.00
EFT PALLET PBC $300,057.41
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ( CDBG) PUBLIC SERVICE FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH 1736 FAMILY CRISIS CENTER FOR
SHELTER AND COUNSELING SERVICES PROGRAM IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $12,664 FOR THE TERM OF JULY 1, 2023 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024, WITH AN OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM FOR TWO (2) YEARS.
2. APPROVE A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ( CDBG) PUBLIC SERVICE FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH ST. PAUL’S UNITED METHODIST
CHURCH FOR PROJECT NEEDS PROGRAM IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED 9,498 FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2023 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024, WITH AN OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM FOR ONE (1) YEAR.
3. APPROVE A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ( CDBG) PUBLIC
SERVICE FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH VENICE FAMILY CLINIC FOR BEHAVIOR HEALTH SERVICES PROGRAM IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $6,332 FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2023 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024, WITH AN OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM FOR ONE (1) YEAR.
4. APPROVE A VOTE CENTER FACILITY USE AGREEMENT AND THE ELECTION
AND SAFETY PLANS FOR USE OF THE ALTA VISTA PARK COMMUNITY
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CENTER AND PERRY PARK TEEN CENTER WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER/COUNTY CLERK FOR THE STATEWIDE MARCH 5, 2024 PRIMARY PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION AT NO COST TO THE CITY FOR THE TERM DECEMBER 19, 2023 THROUGH NOVEMBER 12, 2024.
5. THIS AGENDA ITEM WAS CONTINUED TO JANUARY 9, 2024, AT THE CITY MANAGER’S REQUEST.
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.6. EXCUSED ABSENCES FROM VARIOUS COMMISSION AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.7. APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF ALL-WAY STOP CONTROLS AT THE
INTERSECTION OF FLAGLER LANE AND SPEYER LANE
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH NICHOLS CONSULTING ENGINEERS, CHTD TO INCREASE THE NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT BY $319,750, FOR A NEW TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $ 553,750, TO PREPARE PLANS,
SPECIFICATIONS, AND ESTIMATES FOR THE RESIDENTIAL STREET
REHABILITATION PROJECT
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.9. ACCEPT AS COMPLETE THE REDONDO BEACH TRANSIT CENTER PROJECT, JOB NO. 20120 AND THE KINGSDALE AVENUE WIDENING PROJECT, JOB NO 41150
APPROVE AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY ENGINEER TO EXECUTE A FINAL CHANGE ORDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $190,000 FOR THE WORK
AUTHORIZE THE CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE
PROJECT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER AND RELEASE THE RETENTION PAYMENT UPON EXPIRATION OF THE 35-DAY LIEN
PERIOD AFTER SAID RECORDATION AND NO CLAIMS BEING FILED UPON THE
PROJECT
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. THIS AGENDA ITEM WAS PULLED BY MAYOR PRO TEM LOEWENSTEIN FOR SEPARATE CONSIDERATION.
H.11. APPROVE EQUIPMENT AND LABOR COSTS WITH SOUTH COAST, EMERGENCY
VEHICLE SERVICE FOR REPAIRS AND UPGRADES TO THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESERVE LADDER TRUCK FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $97,348 CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
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H.12. THIS AGENDA ITEM WAS CONTINUED TO JANUARY 9, 2024, AT THE CITY MANAGER’S REQUEST.
H.13. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF ONE GAPVAX 2023 MC1309 -3S3S COMBINATION VACUUM/JETTER (CNG) VEHICLE FROM PLUMBERS DEPOT INC. FOR USE BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FOR A TOTAL COST OF $842,009.54 CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.14. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH ONWARD ENGINEERING, INC. FOR DESIGN SERVICES, AS-BUILT PREPARATION AND
CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE INGLEWOOD AVENUE AT
MANHATTAN BEACH BLVD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS ( SOUTHBOUND RIGHT TURN LANE) PROJECT, JOB NO. 40960, FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $44,163 FOR THE TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2024
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.15. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH NC COMMUNICATIONS FOR
LOW VOLTAGE CABLING, TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND DATA CENTER SERVICES FOR AN ADDITIONAL $150,000 OF WORK, INCREASING THE TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT TO $184,999, FOR THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.16. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-136, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH AND THE REDONDO BEACH CITY EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION, FROM JANUARY 1, 2024 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2026
CONTACT: DIANE STRICKFADEN, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES H.17. APPROVE AN UPDATED PAY AND BENEFITS PLAN FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND
CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEE GROUP
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-137, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, UPDATING THE PAY
AND BENEFITS PLAN FOR MANAGEMENT AND CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES CONTACT: MIKE WITZANSKY, CITY MANAGER
H.18. APPROVE THE FINAL TRANSIT SERVICES STUDY REPORT FOR BEACH CITIES
TRANSIT
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
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H.19. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH MATRIX CONSULTING GROUP, LTD TO CONDUCT
AN ORGANIZATIONAL ASSESSMENT OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 74,940 FOR THE TERM DECEMBER 19, 2023 TO JUNE 30, 2024
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
H.20. RECEIVE AND FILE THE MONTHLY UPDATE TO THE TWELVE -MONTH STRATEGIC PLAN OBJECTIVES ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON MAY 30, 2023 CONTACT: MIKE WITZANSKY, CITY MANAGER
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein pulled Agenda Item No. H.10, from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments on the Consent Calendar.
There was no one wishing to speak in-person or via Zoom.
City Clerk Manzano announced eComments were received for Items No. H.18, in opposition and another for H.19, neutral.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approve by voice vote, the amended Consent Calendar, as presented for Agenda Items H.1 – H.4, H.11, and H-13-H.20, except for Agenda Item No. H.10., which was pulled for separate discussion and Agenda Items Nos. H.5-(5) and H.12, which were continued until January 9, 2024.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
City Clerk Manzano read title to Resolution Nos. CC-2312-136 and CC-2312-137.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Lina Carrillo, President, Redondo Beach Professional and Supervisory Association (PSA), noted that PSA is the only employee group to not have reached a new agreement; reported that PSA feels that the City’s offer of a 15% addition to salary ranges fall short and does not achieve the market median shortfall; spoke about base salary ranges being the main drivers of retention, not total compensation; noted more than half of the items listed were prepared by PSA employees not the Department Heads listed under them and indicated City Council should question PSA’s expertise and knowledge if they were to accept what the City is offering.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.10. APPROVE CHANGES TO STREET SWEEPING HOURS ALONG THE SOUTH SIDE OF
DIAMOND STREET BETWEEN PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY AND DEL AMO STREET CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
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Public Works Director Semaan and Traffic Engineer Lou presented details of the Administrative Report.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein expressed concerns regarding negative comments of residents; spoke about residents complaining that students park in neighborhood streets during street sweeping hours and asked about efforts by the School District to ensure their parking lots are being used.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited School Board Member Dan Elder to the podium.
School Board Member Elder addressed the Council; spoke about expensive parking spots noting they are well-utilized.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein noted that most of the parking spots in the lower parking lot are empty.
School Board Member Elder reported that lot is for school staff and spoke about safety concerns with the lower parking lot.
Discussion followed regarding having the street sweepers start at 8:00 a.m., getting more input from residents and Councilmember Obagi and the possibility of creating a pilot program to determine effectiveness.
City Manager Wtizansky suggested approving the item as a pilot program or delaying it to January 16, 2024, for further discussion.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein suggested delaying the change until the City Council meeting of January 16, 2024 and placing a start time of 8:00 a.m. on Mondays.
Councilmember Kaluderovic spoke about overflow parking in the Police lot ; discussed a one-hour window where the street sweeper, Athens, can commit to working within that window instead of a three-hour window and commented on how the school serves the entire City.
Councilmember Nehrenheim voiced his support for the item.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments.
Lynn Bailey spoke about the lack of parking for students and residents; felt that Mondays at 8:00 a.m. is still early and urged City Council to institute permit parking on North Irena so that high school students are not allowed to park there.
Steve Bopp spoke about impacts on daily parking in the area around the high school; reported there is an unnecessary red curb between the auto shop and the science building that could provide additional parking; hoped City Council will leave things the way they are and consider residents versus the school district.
Public Works Director Semaan reported there are a variety of reasons for the red curb and offered to return to City Council to consider it as part of the assessment.
Wayne Craig believed increased community outreach is in order for this item ; questioned why this item is being considered; felt people’s ability to park in front of their own homes should be respected
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and noted the need for further consideration.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein spoke about parking overflow into surrounding areas especially during street sweeping days; discussed students needing to move their cars being disruptive and suggested having students move their cars after lunch as many seniors leave school then.
Public Works Director Semaan spoke about Athens not having flexibility in the middle of the day to have Athens return to finish their street sweeping tasks and explained the reason for the red curb between the auto shop and the science building.
Byung Cho, School Board Member, via Zoom, spoke in support of this item; noted this was a joint effort; discussed looking at other options.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving nine eComments on this item, eight in support and one opposed.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Discussion followed regarding expanding notification for this item , helping residents, considering other options to parking and the possibility of having the school board issue a questionnaire to parents.
Councilmember Behrendt gave deference to District 2; agreed with expanding outreach and implementing a one-time pilot program and obtain additional community feedback.
Councilmember Nehrenheim felt the window of 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. could worsen the situation; commented on the possibility of Athens conducting street sweeping in the afternoon, when less students are at school and noted the need to be careful about impacting residents.
Councilmember Kaluderovic noted that students are also residents of the City and agreed to consider the matter as soon as possible.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed with continuing the matter to allow for Councilmember Obagi’s attendance and input.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, by voice vote, to table this item to the City Council meeting of January 16, 2024 , expand outreach for this item to everyone living between Diamond and Cornelian from PCH to Juanita on both sides, narrow the window on Thursdays after lunch, investigate whether Mondays at 8:00 a.m. is feasible for Athens and obtaining additional input from residents and the School Board.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Joan Irvine, Keep the Esplanade Beautiful, asked that residents try to keep the Esplanade clean and beautiful during the holidays and invited the public to join them on January 6, 2024 for the year’s first Saturday Sweep of the Esplanade.
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Lina Carrillo, President, Redondo Beach Professional and Supervisory Union , stated they are the last remaining unit without a new contract; spoke about employees’ commitment to their jobs, the City and residents; reported the City negotiator claimed the City has no retention issue with PSA employees; spoke about staff writing most of the Administrative Reports presented to Council as well as presenting data and analysis for Council to make informed decisions and noted PSA is committed to ensure a fair and competitive contract.
Kirsten Dossett, Executive Assistant to the Chief of Police and PSA Member, reported working for the City for almost ten years; addressed her duties and roles; asserted that her institutional knowledge and commitment to the City, as well as that of other PSA Members should be valued and not ignored and urged City Council to consider that she is worth more than 26% under market value and PSA Members are collectively worth more than 18% under market value.
Lauren Sablan, City Principal Engineer and PSA Member, discussed her duties and tasks; spoke about difficulties with recruiting and high department turnover and asked Council to give PSA a fair contract.
Holly Osborne, District 5, reported on her participation in the recent Metro ROW Walk; listed examples of misstatements in the DEIR; spoke about areas where flooding occurs; discussed the need to educate people and suggested inviting someone from the pipeline companies and BNSF to respond to detailed questions from Council and residents.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, spoke about the Metro ROW Walk; thanked Councilmembers who attended; discussed the Hawthorne Boulevard option as the preferred option and noted the need to continue the conversation and keep residents engaged.
Wayne Craig, President of Rescue Our Waterfront, spoke about participating in the recent Metro ROW Walk; stated he was happy to meet Supervisor Holly Mitchell and for her support and commented in the upcoming closure of the AES Powerplant.
AGENDA ITEM D.1 MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER
City Clerk Manzano briefly interjected and announced that L.A. County Supervisor Holly Mitchell was on a brief recess from her Board meeting and was available. City Clerk Manzano introduced her via on Zoom.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to revise the agenda to return to Agenda Item No. D.1. (moved out-of-order) now to allow a presentation by Supervisor Holly Mitchell. Councilmember Kaluderovic requested that Agenda Item N.1 be taken out-of-order, at the conclusion of the public participation of Non -Agenda Items. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein so ordered.
City Council returned to Agenda Item No. D.1.
D.1 PRESENTATION BY LOS ANGELES COUNTY SUPERVISOR HOLLY J. MITCHELL TO THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH FOR THE AWARD OF $ 800,000 OF COUNTY GRANT FUNDING FOR EXPANSION OF THE CITY’S PALLET SHELTERS
L.A. County Supervisor Mitchell, briefly joined the meeting via Zoom, thanked residents for attending
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her recent event; affirmed her support of the pallet shelter program; thanked the City for its leadership in this regard and spoke about a private entity who contacted her to provide additional funding for the project. Supervisor Mitchell excitedly presented and awarded the City of Redondo Beach $800,000 of County Grant Funding for expansion of the program Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein thanked Supervisor Mitchell for her support and award to the City.
City Attorney Webb confirmed receiving additional funding for the balance of $ 760,000 from a private entity referenced by Supervisor Mitchell and thanked her for her generosity and support.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS - CONTINUED Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein returned to Agenda Item No. J.1 and continued with Public Participation.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments.
Nancy Skiba, District 4, via Zoom, invited residents to attend the RBPD upcoming seminar, “Run, Hide, Fight”, about active shooter training, on January 6, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center.
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving two eComments for Agenda Item No. J.1.
There were no other public comments.
AGENDA ITEM N.4 TAKEN OUT-OF-ORDER
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by voice vote to consider Agenda Item No. N.4, out-of-order, at this time.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
N.4 APPROVE A MASTER PRODUCT AND SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH PALLET PBC FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWENTY-FIVE ( 25) PALLET SHELTER UNITS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $300,057.41 AND AUTHORIZE THE ADVANCEMENT OF A
PORTION OF LA COUNTY PALLET SHELTER EXPANSION GRANT FUNDS TO
COMPLETE THE PURCHASE
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
JOY ABAQUIN, QUALITY OF LIFE PROSECUTOR
TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
City Attorney Webb presented details of the Administrative Report and announced that in addition to the County Grant funding ($ 800,000) presented by Supervisor Mitchell the City received a contribution by Health Net and thanked South Bay COG Representative Ronson Chu and Councilmember Kaluderovic who worked on a separate grant proposal for mental health 768,000).
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Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein commented on the success of the program and hoped it would be copied in other municipalities.
Councilmember Behrendt asked about impacts to the Public Works yard and City Manager Witzansky reported the Public Works Department’s operations will not be impacted further by the expansion of pallet shelters and addressed use of the underutilized Park -and-Ride lot at the Transit Center, creation of temporary fencing and screening and making the area safe and secure. He added that the space could conceivably create more maintenance area and noted no risks in the near future.
Councilmember Nehrenheim referenced comments made at the recent District 1 community meeting; questioned the long-term viability and asked about ownership of the pallet shelters.
City Attorney Webb reported the City does not yet have the terms of the MOUs; noted it is unspecified as to what would happen but asserted that in the past, money from the County that has not been used, goes back to the County to use elsewhere in the County.
Discussion followed regarding expansion of wrap-around services, availability of innovation funds, ensuring the City has control of the pallet shelters and surrounding services, ensuring the Public Safety Commission receives quarterly updates of pallet shelter operations/issues, risks of the pallet shelter attracting people experiencing homelessness from outside the City and challenges with addressing end of lines.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported that she was contacted by a resident who reported a former neighbor was sleeping near the Seven-Eleven and wanted to ensure that he was housed; announced that he was housed at the pallet shelter and is doing well and asserted these are Redondo residents and neighbors who need help.
City Attorney Webb claimed that if the City does not expand the program, it will not receive the 800,000 from Supervisor Mitchell or the $ 768,000 from Health Net and reported on Edison requirements for electrical upgrades which will benefit the City in the long term.
At the request of Councilmember Kaluderovic, RBPD Chief Hoffman reported he has not seen significant calls based on the pallet shelter and felt that because of the pallet shelters, the Police Department is not getting calls that they would otherwise have to handle, were the pallet shelter not be there.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments on this item.
Wayne Craig commented on the success of the program; spoke favorably regarding Housing Navigator Lila Omura; suggested that City Council consider a succession plan going forward and noted the cost to the City is minimal, considering how many people have been helped.
City Clerk Manzano announced receiving one eComment in opposition to the item.
Bowden Allen, Student at Redondo Union High School, spoke in support of the item.
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There were no other public comments on this item.
Discussion followed regarding the deadline for the MOU with Los Angeles County.
City Attorney Webb spoke about the need to have MOUs in place prior to obtaining the funding; Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim to approve A MASTER PRODUCT AND SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH PALLET PBC FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWENTY-FIVE ( 25) PALLET SHELTER UNITS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 300,057.41 AND AUTHORIZE THE
ADVANCEMENT OF A PORTION OF LA COUNTY PALLET SHELTER EXPANSION GRANT FUNDS TO COMPLETE THE PURCHASE, direct staff to return with a quarterly status report to City Council as well as the Public Safety Commission, list who is responsible for what services and how many people have been helped and ensure MOUs are signed for wrap -around services and all the services surrounding the pallet shelter program.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to approve by roll call vote, A MASTER PRODUCT AND SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH PALLET PBC FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWENTY-FIVE (25) PALLET SHELTER UNITS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $300,057.41 AND AUTHORIZE THE ADVANCEMENT OF A PORTION OF LA
COUNTY PALLET SHELTER EXPANSION GRANT FUNDS TO COMPLETE THE PURCHASE and have an MOU in place before starting construction.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein NOES: None
ABSENT: Obagi
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried, 4-0-1.
City Council returned to the Agenda order, Agenda Item No. K.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Behrendt reported speaking with City staff regarding Item No. L.1.
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
L.1. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE FISCAL YEAR 2024 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE
RIVIERA VILLAGE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD AND THE LEVYING OF AN ASSESSMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-133, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CONFIRMING THE 2024
REPORT OF THE RIVIERA VILLAGE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD AND LEVYING AN ASSESSMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024
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PROCEDURES:
A. OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING, TAKE TESTIMONY;
B. CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING; AND
C. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO CC-2312-133
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, approved by voice vote to open the public hearing.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein so ordered the Public Hearing open.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein left the Chambers at 8:00 p.m. and returned to the dais at 8:02 p.m.
Senior Management Analyst Dave Charobee introduced the item and deferred to Alan Sanford, President, Riviera Village BID.
Alan Sanford, President, Riveria Village BID, narrated a PowerPoint presentation with an update of the Riviera Village BID, the proposed assessment, 2023 accomplishment and parklets.
Councilmember Nehrenheim spoke favorably regarding the work of the BID and thanked Mr.
Sanford for his involvement and participation .
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments on this item.
Joan Irvine, District 1, spoke favorably about the BID and its work in Riviera Village and commented on having permanent, retractable bollards.
There were no other public comments.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to close the public hearing. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein so ordered.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein, to ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-133, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CONFIRMING THE 2024 REPORT OF THE RIVIERA
VILLAGE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD AND LEVYING AN ASSESSMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 and direct staff to move forward with a multi -year agreement, raise BID fees and return for City Council’s consideration by August 2024.
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The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein NOES: Obagi
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried, 4-0-1.
City Clerk Manzano read title to Resolution No. CC-2312-133.
Councilmember Behrendt left the Chambers at 8:12 p.m. and returned to the Chambers at 8:13 p.m.
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS – None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE IN THE SOUTHERLY PORTION OF THE 500 BLOCK OF N. GERTRUDA AVENUE ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-134, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CREATING A
PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE FOR THE RESIDENCES ABUTTING THE SOUTHERN 400 FEET OF THE 500 BLOCK OF N GERTRUDA AVENUE, SUBJECT TO OBTAINING A COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT; AND ESTABLISHING THE TIME LIMITS OF THE PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE AS FROM 8:00 AM TO 6:00 PM, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE A COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT APPLICATION
FOR THE PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE AND SUBMIT IT TO THE
CALIFORNIACOASTAL COMMISSION FOR CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
Traffic Engineer Ryan Lou narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of the Administrative Report.
Discussion followed regarding the need for Coastal Commission approval, preferential parking time limits and opposition to preferential parking zones by nearby businesses.
Councilmember Nehrenheim left the Chambers at 8:18 p.m. and returned to the Chambers at 8:22 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments.
Cathy Elliot, via Zoom, spoke in support of the item.
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Brad Horne noted nearby businesses have plenty of parking; explained challenges with auto shops parking in the public streets; discussed the Coastal Commission and beach access and reported they often do not leave their house for fear there will be no parking upon return.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein encouraged residents to address the Coastal Commission regarding this matter.
Carl congratulated the City for the closure of the AES Powerplant and its work with the homeless; confirmed issues with auto shops parking client cars in public streets and at times, he does not leave his house because he is afraid there will be no parking when he returns.
Discussion followed regarding the possibility of modifying the auto shops’ operating permits to prohibit parking client vehicles on public streets, loss of spaces by delineating street parking spaces and difficulties related to limiting parking on public streets.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein explained the City is at the mercy of the Coastal Commission and encouraged residents to contact them and make their case.
In reply to Councilmember Behrendt, Public Works Director Semaan addressed the timeline in preparing a permit application for the Coastal Commission; noted that it will depend on the Coastal Commission’s schedule; felt the City could make a strong argument before the Coastal Commission upon direction from City Council and asserted it will not hurt the City’s credibility with the Coastal Commission.
Mike Brown noted problems accelerated once Range Rover moved into the area and sometimes they can get aggressive.
Councilmember Kaluderovic spoke against the privatization of public parking.
Mike Brown noted problems accelerated once Range Rover moved into the area and sometimes they can get aggressive.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-134, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CREATING A PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE FOR THE RESIDENCES ABUTTING THE SOUTHERN 400 FEET OF THE 500 BLOCK OF N GERTRUDA AVENUE, SUBJECT TO OBTAINING A COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT; AND ESTABLISHING THE TIME LIMITS OF THE PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE AS FROM 8:00 AM TO 6:00 PM, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY and
DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE A COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT APPLICATION FOR THE
PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE AND SUBMIT IT TO THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION FOR CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Nehrenheim, Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein
NOES: Kaluderovic
ABSENT: Obagi
ABSTAIN: None
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Motion carried, 3-1-1.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein offered to draft an email to the Coastal Commission in this regard.
City Clerk Manzano read title to Resolution No. CC-2312-134.
Councilmember Kaluderovic left the Chambers at 8:32 p.m.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON THE PROPOSED CANNABIS LICENSING
APPLICATION PROCESS AND ASSOCIATED SALES TAX RATES
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER City Manager Witzansky thanked Elizabeth Hause for her work on this item.
Assistant to the City Manager Hause narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of the Administrative Report.
Councilmember Kaluderovic returned to the Chambers at 8:35 p.m.
Discussion followed regarding police activity related to licensed cannabis retail operations, advancing the item forward and benefits to the community.
Councilmember Behrendt spoke about potential legal liabilities; talked about the need for a written, legal review by the City Attorney; suggested taking the time to allow for the legal review and for Councilmember Obagi to be in attendance.
Councilmember Nehrenheim felt Council can move forward in different areas; agreed with setting sales tax rates at 5%; spoke about setting a tax rate for cultivation; discussed benefits of having a property requirement; referenced the Community Benefit Plan implemented by the City of Montebello and integration into the community; addressed having an appeals process and a blackout period and talked about waiting in terms of cannabis delivery and the application process until after the retail process is addressed.
Councilmember Nehrenheim noted the need to move forward with retail to squeeze out the illegal market; narrated slides illustrating a retail operation in another City and addressed the need for a Community Benefit Plan.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim’s question, Assistant to the City Manager Hause discussed bond requirements and having TR West review the City’s proposed processes for consistency and clarify.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein invited public comments.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein, to receive and file documents submitted by Joan Irvine. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein so ordered.
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Joan Irvine, District 1, referenced a suspension of Councilmember Obagi for misappropriation of funds belonging to a client, who happened to be in the cannabis industry as well as dealings with other cannabis-related clients and asserted Councilmember Obagi cannot be impartial and should recuse himself from any official cannabis discussion or vote in Redondo Beach. Additionally, she opined Councilmember Nehrenheim should also recuse himself as he received money for his reelection campaign from a lobbyist for a cannabis company that initiated the Councilmember Obagi recall effort. She stated she was pleased the City was moving forward with this matter; preferred not having a property and suggested a tax rate of 3%.
Jonatan Cvetko, District 1, thanked Elizabeth Hause for her work on this item; spoke about California having a failing cannabis industry; claimed there is a systemic problem with the industry, currently; spoke about SB 1186; discussed establishing a separate tax rate for medical versus recreational use; agreed with Councilmember Behrendt in terms of needing a legal opinion and urged Council to start with the cannabis delivery process and set a tax rate.
Wayne Craig spoke about the spread of misinformation and ignoring libelous comments from the public.
Councilmember Nehrenheim left the Chambers at 9:37 p.m. and returned to the Chambers at 9:38 p.m.
City Attorney Webb reported reaching out to the League of California Cities and reviewed many of their documents; confirmed SB 1186 goes into effect January 1, 2024; talked about consistency in policies and ordinances; felt it would be beneficial to hire a consultant before the legal opinion to have their thoughts in place so the City can be specific on whether to change the ordinances or the policies and offered to return in early March with a written report from him.
Discussion followed regarding setting a hierarchy of priorities, developing an appropriate tax rate in the current environment, having staff focus on the cannabis delivery application process, cannabis being an area that is fraught with litigation and getting best practices in place.
City Treasurer Solomon stated that in terms of retail businesses, taxes are being levied and the retail businesses are not paying them or are in arears in order to survive and suggested using METRIC for seed-to-sale tracking where data is delineated by zip code to generate sale tax reports and identify those businesses that are in arrears or no paying taxes for suspension of their permits or their CUPs.
In response to Councilmember Kaluderovic’s question, City Manager Witzansky reported the sales tax rate would be set by resolution.
Discussion followed regarding the pros and cons of cannabis delivery in the City.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein, to direct staff to return with a contract with TR West for the full scope of reviewing the cannabis ordinance and the application process and to create a resolution on cannabis sales tax on retail and delivery at 5% and direct the City Attorney to return with a written report by March 4, 2024.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
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AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein NOES: None
ABSENT: Obagi
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried, 4-0-1.
Councilmember Behrendt commented on buffer maps an ensuring there is no cannabis shop in the heart of the TRW Tract and expressed concerns about having cannabis on Artesia between Aviation Way and the green belt and felt Manhattan and Inglewood would be a better location.
Discussion followed regarding continuing the conversation about modifying buffer areas when the whole Council is in attendance.
Councilmember Nehrenheim expressed concerns that changes to one area will affect other areas in the City and did not agree with considering changes to the buffer areas.
City Attorney Webb responded to question and concerns.
It was briefly discussed to continue this discussion when Councilmember Obagi is present.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to direct staff to include a discussion to review of the buffer map(s) and follow up with the cannabis.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein
NOES: Nehrenheim
ABSENT: Obagi
ABSENT: None
Motion carried, 3-1-1.
N.3. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING RECOMMENDATION TO
APPROVE ASSIGNMENTS OF GENERAL FUND BALANCE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23, WHICH ENDED JUNE 30, 2023
ADOPT BY 4/5THS VOTE AND BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-135, A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE RE-BUDGETING OF DEPARTMENTAL CARRYOVER REQUESTS AND CARRYOVER UNEXPENDED BALANCES AS OF JUNE 30, 2023 FOR
DONATIONS, GRANTS, AND CAPITAL PROJECTS
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
City Manager Witzansky introduced and presented highlights of the item and deferred to Finance Director Collazo for a report.
Finance Director Collazo narrated a PowerPoint presentation summarizing revenue and
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expenditure performances, impacts of COVID-19 on property taxes in 2020/2021, General Fund constraints outline and the resulting remaining available unassigned balance and next steps.
Discussion followed regarding evaluation of the midyear 2023/2024 mid -year budget, rising utility costs, sales and property tax performance, tracking expenditure and revenue performances, CIP spending,
There were no public comments regarding this item.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to ADOPT BY 4/5THS VOTE AND BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2312-135, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE REBUDGETING OF DEPARTMENTAL CARRYOVER REQUESTS AND CARRYOVER UNEXPENDED BALANCES AS OF JUNE 30, 2023 FOR DONATIONS, GRANTS, AND CAPITAL PROJECTS.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Mayor Pro Tem Lowenstein NOES: None
ABSENT: Obagi
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried, 4-0-1.
City Clerk Manzano read title to Resolution No. CC-2312-135.
N.4. THIS AGENDA ITEM WAS TAKEN OUT-OF-ORDER AND MOVED UP AFTER J.1 – PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NON-AGENDA ITEMS.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky thanked members of the website subcommittee and the citizens group who tested it and announced the plan is to go live in early January and reminded the public about City Hall closures during the Holidays.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Councilmember Nehrenheim referenced the anti-camping ordinance around the pallet shelter; asked that it be included for the Project Moonstone location as well as its status and including the no-smoking ordinance and consideration of a privacy fence around the perimeter. Additionally, he requested an update on the sailing program.
Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein reported the City budgeted, over two years ago, money for refurbishing the Perry Park Teen Center and requested an update on the project as well as regarding Alta Vista play equipment.
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December 19, 2023
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION - None
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION ADJOURNMENT – None
The Closed Session meeting was cancelled.
T. ADJOURNMENT – 10:38 p.m.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to adjourn the meeting at 10:38 p.m., to a Regular meeting to be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Loewenstein 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
1/ 24/ 2024 | 12: 49 PM PST