REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
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
A. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
An Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order at 4:30 p.m., by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chamber, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Melissa Villa, Analyst
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION - None
D. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
Analyst Villa announced that there were no Blue Folder Items for Closed Session.
E. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Analyst Villa reported there were no public comments on Closed Session and Non-Agenda Items.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION: 4:37 p.m.
Analyst Villa listed items to be considered in Closed Session.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote to recess to Closed Session at 4:37 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0.
City Manager Mike Witzansky announced that all of the following would be attending Closed Session: City Attorney Mike Webb, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, Outside Legal Counsels Jon Welner and Timothy McKeon, Alex Frank, representatives from Public Works and Waterfront Economic Development, and Waterfront & Economic Development Director Greg Kapovich.
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Analyst Villa listed items to be considered in Closed Session.
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board Case Number: 20STCP03193
F.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:
New Commune DTLA, LLC and Leonid Pustilnikov v. City of Redondo Beach and City Council of the City of Redondo Beach
Case Number: 22TRCP00203
F.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, et al.
Case Number: 23STCP00426
F.4. 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:
New Commune DTLA LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCV10146
F.5. 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:
9300 Wilshire, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCP02189
F.6. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed
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Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire LLC
Bankruptcy C.D. Cal. Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
F.7. 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:
Yes in My Back Yard, a California nonprofit corporation; SONJA TRAUSS, an individual v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, and DOES 1 through 25 inclusive
Case Number: 23TRCP00325
F.8. 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:
Debra Barker v. City of Redondo Beach, VLMD, LLC, dba Abbracci Med Spa, Abbracci Aesthetics, P.C., et al.
Case Number: 21STCV38177
F.9. 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:
Shonna Counter v. City of Redondo Beach, and DOES 1-10
Case Number: 24TRCV00603
F.10. 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:
City of Redondo Beach v. Independent Cities Risk Management Authority, et al.
Case Number: BC674909
F.11. 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:
City of Redondo Beach, a California Charter City; City of Carson, a California
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Charter City; City of Torrance, a California Charter City; City of Whittier, a California Charter City; City of Del Mar, a California Charter City v. Rob Bonta, in his official capacity as California Attorney General, State of California; and DOES 1 through 50, inclusive
Case Number: 22STCP01143
F.12. 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:
AIDS Healthcare Foundation and City of Redondo Beach v. Rob Bonta, in his official capacity as California Attorney General; State of California; and Does 1 to 100
Case Number: 21STCP03149
F.13. 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:
Daryn Glenn v. City of Redondo Beach, et al.
Case Number: 22STCV29401
F.14. 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:
Harry Stuver, et. al v. Redondo Beach Police Department, City of Redondo Beach and DOES 1 through 100, Inclusive
Case No: BC461376
F.15. 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:
City of Redondo Beach v. Mike Madani, Trustee of the Madani Family Trust Under Declaration of Trust Dated May 6, 2022, et al.
Case Number: 21STCV11444
F.16. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERSONNEL MATTER/EVALUATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54957(b).
Title: City Manager
F.17. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is
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authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
103 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
105 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
107 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
109 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
111 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
113 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
115 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
117 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
119 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
121 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
123 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
125 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
127 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
129 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
131 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
123 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
179 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
NEGOTIATING PARTY:
Larry Kosmont, Kosmont Real Estate Services
UNDER REVIEW:
Leasing Strategy
F.18. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director Dave Charobee, Senior Management Analyst
PROPERTY:
102-164 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Redondo Beach Basin III Marina
a portion of APN: 7503-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTY:
Craig Stanton, Property Manager
Redondo Beach Marina
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
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Both Price and Terms
F.19. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
203 and 240 Fisherman’ s Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 a portion of APN: 7505-002-913)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Concord Real Estate Management - Pier Plaza Office
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
F.20. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - This Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon Portions of APNs: 7503-029-900 and 7503-033-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTY:
Allen Sanford, BeachLife Festival, LLC
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
F.21. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
230 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
a portion of APN: 7505-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford, Beachlife Festival, LLC
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UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
F.22. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
239 & 245 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach, CA 90277
a portion of APN: 7503-029-900)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford & Jeff Jones - California Surf Club
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 6:00 p.m.
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
Councilmember Absent: Kaluderovic (arrived at 6:01 p.m.) Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Lucie Colombo, Chief Deputy City Clerk
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky reported the Closed Session is still pending, but there is reportable action related to Closed Session Agenda Item No. F.9, noting Council gave the City Attorney direction to defend the case listed in that matter. He added that Closed Session will continue at the conclusion of the Open Session meeting.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Light recessed to the Regular Meeting at 6:01 p.m. 6:00 PM - OPEN SESSION - REGULAR MEETING
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A. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order at 6:01 p.m., by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi Mayor Light
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 Light invited Veterans and Active Military Members to stand to be recognized.
Mayor Light led the Salute to the Flag followed by a moment of silence.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Nehrenheim announced the District 1 community meeting on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Veterans Park Senior Center at 9:30 a.m.; reported the April and May District 1 community meetings will be at Veterans Park Senior Center as well; talked about Mayor Brand’s Memorial Paddle Out on May 11, 2024; noted the District 1 online community meeting will be on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 6:30 p.m., and mentioned the recent Public Safety Fair and Kite Festival.
Councilmember Loewenstein commented favorably on the Kite Festival and announced the District 2 community meeting on March 26, 2024, via Zoom at 6:00 p.m.
Councilmember Kaluderovic announced the District 3 community meeting will be on March 30, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at the Galleria Leasing Office; noted it will be a combined meeting with District 4; reported Redondo Union will be putting on their Spring Musical, Beauty and the Beast, this weekend and next weekend.
Councilmember Obagi reiterated the combined District 3 and 4 meeting will be held March 30, 2024 at 9:30 a.m., at the Galleria Leasing Office and thanked the RBPD and RBFD for the recent Public Safety Fair.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked Mayor Light for attending the recent District 5 community meeting.
Mayor Light reported that he and Councilmember Behrendt helped the Girl Scouts cut the ribbon for their project at the Girl Scout facility at Anderson Park and commented on the success of the Public Safety Fair.
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E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to approve the order of the agenda, as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
F. AGENCY RECESS - None
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G.1 For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting City Clerk Manzano reported there was one Blue Folder Item related to Agenda Item No. J.1.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to receive and file Blue Folder Items.
Motion carried, 5-0.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 12, 2024
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.2. APPROVE MOTION TO READ BY TITLE ONLY AND WAIVE FURTHER READING OF
ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE AGENDA
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.3. APPROVE A SIXTH AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH PLACEWORKS, INC.
FOR CONSULTING SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH THE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE FOR AN ADDITIONAL COST OF $295,225 TO BE FUNDED BY THE GENERAL PLAN
MAINTENANCE FUND AND THE LOCAL EARLY ACTION PLANNING (LEAP) GRANT FOR A NEW TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2,272,372 CONTACT: SEAN SCULLY, ACTING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR H.4. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH ROBERT HALF, INC. FOR STAFF
AUGMENTATION SERVICES TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY ASSISTANT PLANNER FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $34,999 AND THE TERM MARCH 13, 2024 TO JUNE 30, 2024
CONTACT: SEAN SCULLY, ACTING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
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H.5. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2403-018, A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE
OFFICIAL BOOK OF CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF TRANSIT
OPERATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES MANAGER
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.6. This Item was pulled by Councilmember Loewenstein for separate discussion.
Councilmember Nehrenheim spoke about Agenda Item No. H.3; stated he is glad to see General Plan will get done after seven years and noted he is glad it is in its final stages.
Councilmember Loewenstein pulled Agenda Item No. H.6 for separate discussion.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by voice vote, to approve the Consent Calendar, as presented, except for Agenda Item No. H.6, which was pulled for separate discussion.
Motion carried 5-0.
City Clerk Manzano read titles to Resolution No. CC-2403-018.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.6. APPROVE THE ANNUAL AUDITED FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
Councilmember Loewenstein spoke about pension obligations; felt Redondo Beach is lucky compared to other cities and asked for additional information.
City Manager Witzansky discussed the bonding and payments made by the City; reported it does not reflect full payment and spoke about a new assessment in FY 2024/2025 that will increase the amount and about the money saved by the City over a thirty-year period.
Councilmember Loewenstein expressed his appreciation to the Budget and Finance Commission for recommending this.
City Manager Witzansky noted it is a year-to-year calculation and that there will be financial challenges in the future, but at the end of last fiscal year, the City was in a strong position and hoped it will be the same going forward.
Councilmember Nehrenheim reported attending the Audit Committee meeting; spoke about the City having the highest ever reserves; referenced the Moss Adams report and moving forward with another Moss Adams report to check the systems that are in place and stated he was
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pleased with the report.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented on low revenue growth; believed it is reflective of not capitalizing on potential business in the City; mentioned issues regarding staffing after -school programs because the City does not pay competitive rates; noted this is something that Council should pay attention to and hoped to have further discussions on this topic, moving forward.
Councilmember Obagi reported the City has had the largest increases to staff salaries across all employment groups the City has negotiated with in the history of the City; agreed there is a need to address filling or retaining part time staffing that residents rely on after school and in the summer.
City Manager Witzansky reported it is a constant challenge to recruit and retain individuals at all levels of the organization and in particular, part time positions.
Mayor Light requested a BRR on the topic.
Councilmember Loewenstein addressed impacts to revenue such as increased internet Amazon) sales; spoke about the Galleria being a “sales tax machine” and it being devastated over the last ten years has hurt the City and discussed Del Amo and Manhattan Village.
Councilmember Nehrenheim spoke about property tax revenues; urged people to get involved at www.ourneighborhoodvoices. com to take back local control from the State in order to promote commercial uses and increase tax revenues.
Mayor Light commented on the need to address the business climate in the City.
City Manager Witzansky reported the Galleria is performing at twenty percent of its peak level.
Councilmember Obagi thanked Councilmember Behrendt for focusing on Marine Avenue hotels and noted that park enhancements have served to increase property values.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, Agenda Item No. H.6 , as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1 For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Ron Maroko thanked Deputy Public Works Director Operations Mike Klein for his work for the City and reported that today the 10th history marker was installed at Czuleger Park.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, spoke about a meeting with Stuart and Jeff at the Galleria; reported sharing speaking points with them regarding reaching out to the Metro Board of Directors and listed benefits of the Hawthorne Boulevard option.
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Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to extend Niki Negrete-Mitchell’s time to speak by 30 seconds. There being no opposition, Mayor Light so ordered.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell continued listing the benefits of the Hawthorne Boulevard option for the Metro C Line extension.
Dr. Andrew Lesser, District 1, thanked the RBPD for their recent Open House.
Joan Irvine, District 1, spoke about her advocacy for legal cannabis; encouraged education based on current reality; announced starting a monthly radio program, “ Your Best Life”, on www.healthylife.net where she discussed the benefits of cannabis with other experts in the field and talked about her background as a cannabis and a sex educator.
Brad Waller, District 1, spoke about the process for choosing the present Mayor; noted that it was done at one meeting and most residents expected to learn about the process so they could attend subsequent meetings; stated many people complained it was a backroom deal and not transparent and felt the speed in which it was done made people feel there was a lack of democratic process.
Nancy Skiba, via Zoom, spoke about violence against women; reported the City use to offer a Women’s Defense class but there has not been one for a long time; talked about one class she attended in El Segundo hosted by their Police Department and hoped RBPD would consider offering the same, perhaps in collaboration with the Beach Cities Health District.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving two eComments.
There were no other public comments and Mayor Light closed this portion of the meeting.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS - None
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS – None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CITY COUNCIL’S POLICY POSITION ON CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL 2560 (ALVAREZ) WHICH PROPOSES
TO ELIMINATE THE PROVISION IN EXISTING LAW THAT PREVENTS HOUSING
DENSITY BONUS APPLICATION IN THE COASTAL ZONE PROVIDE DIRECTION TO
STAFF ON THE PREPARATION OF A LETTER OR RESOLUTION ARTICULATING THE CITY COUNCIL’S POSITION ON AB 2560
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Assistant to the City Manager Smude narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of the Administrative Report.
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Councilmember Obagi announced that at his request the COG added this to their legislative matrix; spoke about the City’s support of any efforts to establish affordable housing but noted this is a snippet of how the State is usurping the City’s power to control land use in the City and opposed this part of the legislation.
Councilmember Nehrenheim provided a brief background on the Coastal Act and Commission; spoke about the State taking over more and more local control; voiced his opposition to the legislation and urged residents to get involved in www.ourneighborhoodvoices. com. He added that the State can change the laws; discussed about Palos Verdes Estate and the importance of having access to the coastline; addressed a 50-story skyscraper project, Slope Boulevard, that will go through if AB 2560 passes; commented on the need to fight it and urged the public to write to their legislators, opposing it.
Mayor Light agreed with Councilmember Nehrenheim; spoke about the Coastal Act; noted this is an attempt to remove the Coastal Act; discussed impacts to the City and hoped Council will vote to oppose AB 2560.
Councilmember Behrendt spoke about being in favor of affordable housing and also in favor of protecting coastal access and ensuring that there is environmentally responsible and sustainable development in the Coastal Zone; added that AB 2560 is not in harmony with that and voiced his opposition.
Councilmember Obagi wondered whether the Coastal Act allows the legislature to amend it, as it was a voter-led initiative and what recourse the City has to challenge the law if it were to pass on that basis.
Mayor Light provided background information noting the initial initiative had a sunset date but out of that came the legislation which formed the Coastal Commission and the Coastal Act, so legislature can amend it.
Councilmember Loewenstein spoke in opposition to AB 2560; felt this is an assault on the Coastal Commission and urged residents to oppose it and write to their legislators.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, to direct staff to prepare a letter signed by all City Councilmembers and the Mayor, to be sent to the Governor and Legislators, as well as a Resolution.
Motion carried, 5-0.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEM - None
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
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In reply to Councilmember Nehrenheim’s questions, City Manager Witzansky addressed money set aside for a geologist and other expenses related to the C -Line extension; reported the EIR should be completed in April and reported there are plans to bring the EIR up for discussion during an upcoming Closed Session. Councilmember Nehrenheim thanked Public Works for their work on the backstops and commented on the room share ordinance which the City Manager will check with staff regarding status.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, and approved by voice vote, to direct staff to bring back a discussion item regarding the BeachLife Ranch September event relative to the area around the International Boardwalk for local community members to have vendor tables.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Mayor Light thanked City staff and fellow Councilmembers for their help.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION – 7:15 p.m.
City Manager Witzansky stated that the City Council will continue specific Closed Session matters, with the same representatives mentioned previously and with the addition of Acting Community Development Director Scully. The Closed Session Agenda Items will include, R.1 – R.7, R.10 – R.15, R.17 – R.22.
City Attorney Webb stated that Closed Session Agenda Items No. R.10 and R.12 – R.15, will be continued to an upcoming agenda.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to continue to the next meeting Closed Session agenda, Items No. R.10 and R.12 – R.15.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote to recess to Closed Session at 7:15 p.m., to conduct Closed Sessions attended by City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Mike Webb, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, Acting Community Development Director Sean Scully, Outside Legal Counsels Jon Welner and Timothy McKeon, Alex Frank, representatives from Public Works and Waterfront & Economic Development, and Waterfront & Economic Development Director Greg Kapovich.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Colombo, read the Closed Session Agenda Items as follows:
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:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board
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Case Number: 20STCP03193
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:
New Commune DTLA, LLC and Leonid Pustilnikov v. City of Redondo Beach and City Council of the City of Redondo Beach
Case Number: 22TRCP00203
R.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, et al.
Case Number: 23STCP00426
R.4. 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:
New Commune DTLA LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCV10146
R.5. 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:
9300 Wilshire, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCP02189
R.6. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire LLC
Bankruptcy C.D. Cal. Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
R.7. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
Yes in My Back Yard, a California nonprofit corporation; SONJA TRAUSS, an individual v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, and DOES 1 through 25 inclusive
Case Number: 23TRCP00325
R.8. 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:
Debra Barker v. City of Redondo Beach, VLMD, LLC, dba Abbracci Med Spa, Abbracci Aesthetics, P.C., et al.
Case Number: 21STCV38177
R.9. 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:
Shonna Counter v. City of Redondo Beach, and DOES 1-10
Case Number: 24TRCV00603
R.10. Continued to the next Closed Session meeting.
R.11. 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:
City of Redondo Beach, a California Charter City; City of Carson, a California Charter City; City of Torrance, a California Charter City; City of Whittier, a California Charter City; City of Del Mar, a California Charter City v. Rob Bonta, in his official capacity as California Attorney General, State of California; and DOES 1 through 50, inclusive
Case Number: 22STCP01143
R.12. Continued to the next Closed Session meeting.
R.13. Continued to the next Closed Session meeting.
R.14. Continued to the next Closed Session meeting.
R.15. Continued to the next Closed Session meeting.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
R.16. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERSONNEL MATTER/EVALUATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54957(b).
Title: City Manager
R.17. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
103 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
105 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
107 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
109 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
111 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
113 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
115 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
117 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
119 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
121 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
123 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
125 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
127 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
129 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
131 W. Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
123 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
179 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
NEGOTIATING PARTY:
Larry Kosmont, Kosmont Real Estate Services
UNDER REVIEW:
Leasing Strategy
R.18. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director Dave Charobee, Senior Management Analyst
PROPERTY:
102-164 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Redondo Beach Basin III Marina
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
a portion of APN: 7503-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTY:
Craig Stanton, Property Manager
Redondo Beach Marina
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
R.19. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
203 and 240 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
a portion of APN: 7505-002-913)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Concord Real Estate Management - Pier Plaza Office
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
R.20. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - This Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon Portions of APNs: 7503-029-900 and 7503-033-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTY:
Allen Sanford, BeachLife Festival, LLC
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
R.21. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
PROPERTY:
230 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
a portion of APN: 7505-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford, Beachlife Festival, LLC
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
R.22. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
239 & 245 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach, CA 90277
a portion of APN: 7503-029-900)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford & Jeff Jones - California Surf Club
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 10:26 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
City Manager Witzansky announced there were no reportable items during Closed Session.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, to reconsider Item No. Q, MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF.
Motion carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to direct Council to place a discussion on the agenda for the first meeting in April, regarding Article 27, Ballot Measure amendment.
Motion carried 5-0.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by voice vote, to agendize a discussion about adding a 360 review and salary analysis to the City Manager’s contract.
Motion carried 5-0.
T. ADJOURNMENT – 10:26 p.m.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and was approved by voice vote, to adjourn the meeting at 10:26 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, March 19, 2024, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
Motion carried, 5-0.
All written comments submitted via eComment are included in the record and available for public review on the City website.
Respectfully submitted:
Eleanor Manzano, CMC
City Clerk