REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, May 7, 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 ( via Zoom*), Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Melissa Villa, Analyst
Councilmember Loewenstein participated remotely from: Fairfield Inn and Suites – Lobby, 1929 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85288.
Councilmember Loewenstein confirmed the agenda was timely posted at his location.
C. SALUTE TO FLAG AND INVOCATION – None
D. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
Analyst Villa declared there were no Blue Folder Items for Closed Session.
E. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS Analyst Villa reported there were no public comments on Closed Session and NonAgenda Items.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION – 4:35 p.m.
Analyst Villa read title to the items to be considered in Closed Session.
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City Manager Witzansky announced that the following would be participating in Closed Session: City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Mike Webb, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, Outside Labor Negotiator Laura Kalty, Interim Fire Chief Patrick Butler, Outside Legal Counsel Damian Capozzola, Outside Legal Counsel Alex Frank, Outside Legal Counsel Jon Welner, Outside Legal Counsel Abby O’Brient, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Greg Kapovich, Human Resources Director Diane Strickfaden and possibly Brian Campbell.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by voice vote to recess to Closed Session at 4:35 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0.
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL AND LABOR NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Sec. 54957.6.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Diane Strickfaden, Director of Human Resources
EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATIONS:
Redondo Beach Firefighters Association
F.2. 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 and 223 Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach,
CA 90277 (a portion of APN: 7505-003-206)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Jariet Technologies, Inc. - Charles Harper (CEO)
Under Negotiation:
Lease Status, Price and Terms
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
F.3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
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Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
240 Fisherman’ s Wharf, Redondo Beach,
CA 90277 (a portion of APN: 7505-002-913)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
El Cinco De Mayo, Inc. - Oscar and Froylan Arellanez (Co-Presidents) Under Negotiation:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
F.4. 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 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach,
CA 90277 (a portion of APN: 7505-002-913)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Sapori Di Roma, Inc. - Robert Borgese
President) Waterfront Pizzeria, Inc. - Maricela
Martinez Acencio (CEO)
Under Negotiation:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
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:
John R. Mattarrese v. City of Redondo Beach and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive Case Number: 23TRCV04255
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F.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:
Cheryl Marie Huddle v. City of Redondo Beach, a public entity; California Water Services, a public entity; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23TRCV03349
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:
Debra Barker v. City of Redondo Beach, VLMD, LLC, dba Abbracci Med Spa, Abbracci Aesthetics, P.C., et al.
Case Number: 21STCV38177
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:
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.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:
In re 9300 Wilshire LLC
Bankruptcy C.D. Cal. Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
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:
9300 Wilshire, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community
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Development; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCP02189
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:
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.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:
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.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:
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.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:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board Case Number: 20STCP03193
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 6:06 p.m.
Mayor Light reconvened from Closed Session to Open Session at 6:06 p.m.
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H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein (via Zoom*), Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, CMC, City Clerk
Mike Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Lucie Colombo, Chief Deputy City Clerk
Councilmember Loewenstein participated remotely from: Fairfield Inn and Suites – Lobby, 1929 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85288.
Councilmember Loewenstein confirmed the agenda was properly posted at his location.
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky stated there were no reportable actions taken during Closed Session.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by roll call vote, to adjourn to the regular meeting at 6:08 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0 with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
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 6:09 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 (via Zoom*),
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Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, CMC, City Clerk
Mike Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Lucie Colombo, Chief Deputy City Clerk
Councilmember Loewenstein participated remotely from: Fairfield Inn and Suites – Lobby, 1929 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85288.
Councilmember Loewenstein confirmed the agenda was properly posted at his remote location.
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light recognized Veterans in attendance.
Payton, a student at St. James Catholic School led in the Salute to the Flag.
Mayor Light led in a moment of silence.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
D.1. MAYOR’S PROCLAMATION OF MAY 2024 AS MENTAL HEALTH
AWARENESS MONTH
On behalf of City Council, Mayor Light presented a proclamation of May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Vanessa Poster, on behalf of BCHD, accepted the proclamation and introduced a Member of the Youth Advisory Group and Student at Redondo Union High School, Yara El-Hasan who talked about the importance of social connections.
Councilmember Nehrenheim spoke about the recent Beach Life Festival; announced the District 1 community meeting this Saturday, May 11th and Mayor Brand’s Memorial Paddle Out event; reported the District 1 online community meeting will be on May 20, 2024 and invited residents to attend the Memorial Day event at Veteran’s Park.
Councilmember Loewenstein talked about the recent District 2 community meeting; reported the May community meeting will be the week of May 27th and commented on attending Beach Life Festival on Friday night.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported being part of the Executive Committee for Regional Housing Realignment; talked about the successes in Redondo Beach in terms of housing
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for the homeless and the City being a model for the rest of the County; reported on two District 3 community meetings; announced her next community meeting will be towards the end of the month; acknowledged students in the audience; discussed applications for the Youth Commission and commented on Beach Life Festival.
Councilmember Obagi thanked RBFD, RBPD and Beach Life promoters for responsibly shutting it down when it became dangerous and to the crowd for following instructions in an organized manner; reported the District 4 community meeting will be held May 16th; invited the public to attend the upcoming Mayor Brand Memorial Paddle Out and the Metro C Line Extension Board Meeting on May 23rd and added a free bus has been arranged to take people to the Metro Board Meeting.
Councilmember Behrendt talked about the recent District 5 community meeting; thanked City staff and the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and welcomed Pegasus, the City’s new audio/visual team.
Mayor Light reported attending two District 3 community meetings; talked about participating in a ride-along with RBPD and meeting new Officers; commented on attending Beach Life Festival and observing drone operations; noted he was impressed by the orderly and organized closing of the event on Sunday night and announced the upcoming State of the City events.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
City Manager Witzansky requested continuing Agenda Item No. F.2, to an upcoming meeting, regarding the Housing Authority.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim to approve the order of the agenda, continuing Agenda Item No. F.2, to an upcoming meeting.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Obagi, to reorder the agenda as follows: Agenda Items No. L, P.2, N.2, and N.1, and back to the regular agenda.
Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded Councilmember Nehrenheim’s motion, and stated he would like to participate in the logo discussion but may not be able to as he has prior commitments.
Amended motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by roll call vote, to approve the order of the agenda, as amended, to continue Agenda Item No. F.2 to a future meeting, consider the order of Agenda Item Nos. L.1, P.2, and continue with the regular agenda.
Motion carried, 5-0, with the following roll call vote:
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AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
F. AGENCY RECESS – 6:30 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by roll call vote, to recess to the Regular Meeting of the Community Financing Authority at 6:30 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0 with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
F.1. REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY FINANCING AUTHORITY CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
The City Council reconvened from the Community Financing Authority meeting as follows below.
F.2. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE REDONDO BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, INTERIM COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR
Agenda Item F.2 was continued to another meeting as voted previously.
RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING FROM AGENCY MEETINGS – 6:34 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein (via Zoom*), Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
City Clerk Manzano reported there were Blue Folder Items for Agenda Item Nos. J.l, N.2 and N.3.
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Councilmember Obagi included a draft letter to Metro under Blue Folder Items and he will forward to City Council and staff.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by roll call vote, to receive and file Blue Folder Items including the additional draft letter to Metro.
Motion carried, 4-0-1, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Behrendt
ABSENT: None
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL
ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 7, 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 THE FOLLOWING CITY COUNCIL MINUTES:
A. MARCH 5, 2024 REGULAR MEETING
B. MARCH 12, 2024 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 29697-29717 IN THE AMOUNT OF $25,611.48, PD. 4/26/24 DIRECT DEPOSIT 277754-278354 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,151,966.27, PD. 4/26/24 EFT/ACH $9,246.68, PD. 3/15/24 (PP2406)
EFT/ACH $ 441,116.74, PD. 4/8/24 ( PP2406)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 113791-113988 IN THE AMOUNT OF
3,000,045.98 EFT CALPERS MEDICAL INSURANCE
469,927.00
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DIRECT DEPOSIT 100008270-100008361 IN THE
AMOUNT OF $99,367.66, PD.5/1/24
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 113786-113790
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE THE FIFTH AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH
PACIFIC ADVANCED CIVIL ENGINEERING, INC. FOR CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE PORTOFINO WAY AND
YACHT CLUB WAY SANITARY SEWER PUMP STATIONS PROJECTS, JOB NOS. 50210 & 50260 FOR AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $34,995 AND TO EXTEND THE TERM TO MAY 7, 2026
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH DAVID HOLLAND LOFSTROM DBA
LOFTY GOALS UTILIZING GRANT FUNDS FOR WELLNESS SERVICES AT
THE POLICE DEPARTMENT INCLUDING FITNESS CLASSES AND
PERSONALIZED CONSULTATIONS TO IDENTIFY FITNESS AND HEALTH GOALS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 34,999 FOR THE TERM MAY 7, 2024 TO DECEMBER 31, 2025
3. APPROVE A NOVATION AGREEMENT WITH THE IMPERIAL COUNTY
OFFICE OF EDUCATION (ICOE) TO IMPLEMENT THE TRANSFER OF THE
ORIGINAL AGREEMENT PREVIOUSLY APPROVED BY COUNCIL ON
SEPTEMBER 6, 2022 WITH COLUMBIA TELECOMMUNICATIONS
CORPORATION TO ICOE FOR THE PROVISION, INSTALLATION, AND
MAINTENANCE OF ADVANCED NETWORK DATA SERVICES FOR THE
LIBRARY PUBLIC ACCESS NETWORK, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED 30,000, FOR THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH JULY 1, 2026
4. APPROVE THE THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH
GEOSYNTEC CONSULTANTS, INC. FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
FOR AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $ 25,000 AND THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH APRIL 4, 2028
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.6. AUTHORIZE THE CITY CLERK TO POST A VACANCY ON THE YOUTH
COMMISSION AS A RESULT OF ADULT MEMBER ANDREW GAMET
MOVING OUT OF THE CITY
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.7. APPROVE THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT FOR
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PROJECT SERVICES BETWEEN THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH AND
SANCON TECHNOLOGIES, INC. TO PROVIDE ON-CALL MAINTENANCE
AND REPAIR SERVICES TO THE CITY'S STORM DRAIN AND
WASTEWATER CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS TO ADDRESS ISSUES WITH
AGING PIPES, INCLUDING SINK HOLES, TO INCREASE THE CONTRACT BY $700,000 (PAID FOR BY MEASURE W FUNDS) FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 3,570,000 AND TO EXTEND THE TERM TO MAY 7, 2026
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A FORD EXPLORER FROM GALPIN FORD IN THE AMOUNT OF $68,528.52 TO REPLACE FIRE DEPARTMENT VEHICLE UNIT #100) AND AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE ALL RELATED
PROCUREMENT DOCUMENTS
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.9. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF AN EMERGENCY GENERATOR FOR
FIRE STATION ONE FROM QUINN POWER SYSTEMS FOR A TOTAL
COST OF $90,563.35
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-031, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AWARDING A PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACT TO AMERICAN ASPHALT
SOUTH, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, IN THE AMOUNT OF 484,044.77, FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL PROJECT, PHASE 4, JOB NO. 41140
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 8 TO FUNDING AGREEMENT #MOU.MR312.06
BETWEEN THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH AND METRO FOR THE PACIFIC
COAST HIGHWAY ARTERIAL IMPROVEMENTS FROM ANITA STREET TO PALOS VERDES BOULEVARD PROJECT, JOB NO. 40800, TO ADD AN
ADDITIONAL
1,000,000 OF MEASURE R FUNDS IN FY 2023 -24 AND TO EXTEND THE LAPSING DATE OF THE FY 2011-12 FUNDS TO JUNE 30, 2025; AND APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 7 TO FUNDING AGREEMENT #MOU.MR312.20
BETWEEN THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH AND METRO FOR THE
AVIATION BOULEVARD AT ARTESIA BOULEVARD INTERSECTION
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IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, JOB NO. 40780, TO ADD AN ADDITIONAL 550,000 OF MEASURE R FUNDS IN FY 2023-24 AND TO EXTEND THE LAPSING DATE OF THE FY 2021-22 FUNDS TO JUNE 30, 2025; AND APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO FUNDING AGREEMENT #MOU.MR312.75
BETWEEN THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH AND METRO FOR THE
KINGSDALE AVENUE AT ARTESIA BOULEVARD INTERSECTION
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, JOB NO. 41150, TO ADD AN ADDITIONAL 1,000,000 IN MEASURE R FUNDS IN FY 2023-24 AND TO EXTEND THE LAPSING DATE OF THE FY 2018-19 FUNDS TO JUNE 30, 2025
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.12. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL FOR AS-NEEDED,
AFTER-HOURS, ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2024 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2029 ON A COST PER SERVICE BASIS
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-035, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE MUNICIPAL ANIMAL CARE AND
CONTROL SERVICES
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY AND LOS ANGELES COUNTY FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2024 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2029
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.13. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-032, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA
APPROVING THE SUSPENSION OF PREFERENTIAL PARKING HOURS IN THE VINCENT AND VINCENT 2 PREFERENTIAL PARKING DISTRICTS FOR LIMITED HOURS ON JUNE 6 AND JUNE 7, 2024
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.14. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-033, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL BOOK OF CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE
POSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS SUPERVISOR
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-034, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL BOOK OF CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE
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POSITION OF PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.15. APPROVE THE THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH ROBERT HALF, INC. FOR STAFF AUGMENTATION SERVICES FOR COMPUTER
REPLACEMENT AND HARDWARE/SOFWTARE SUPPORT FOR AN
ADDITIONAL $ 25,000 OF WORK, INCREASING THE TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT TO $59,999, FOR THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.16. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH CLIFTONLARSONALLEN LLP TO PERFORM INDEPENDENT AUDIT SERVICES FOR THE CITY FOR A FIVEYEAR TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 511,513 AND THE TERM MAY 7, 2024 TO MAY 6, 2027, WITH AN OPTION TO RENEW FOR TWO
ADDITIONAL YEARS
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
There were no public comments on the Consent Calendar.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve by roll call vote, the Consent Calendar, as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
City Clerk Manzano read titles to Resolutions Nos.: CC-2405-031, CC-2405-035, CC-2405-032, CC-2405-033 and CC-2405-034.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS - None
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Nina Zak Laddon, Friends of Redondo Beach Arts, thanked Mayor Light for attending the recent exhibition at the Redondo Beach Historic Library, Councilmembers for enabling the exhibition, City Manager Witzansky and Interim Community Services Director Hause, Deputy Public Works Director Operations Mike Klein and Facility Manager Gary Laolagi
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for their excellent work.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic and approved by roll call vote, to receive and file documents submitted by Nina Zak Laddon.
Motion carried, 5-0, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Joan Irvine, District 1, thanked BCHD for acknowledging Mental Health Month; spoke about the importance of mental health; spoke about organizing medical cannabis events that will include medical deliveries; discussed delays in dispensary operations and options for cannabis patients and announced cannabis is going from a Schedule 1 to a Schedule 3 drug which should help as the City moves forward in the legalization of dispensaries.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by roll call vote, to receive and file documents submitted by Joan Irvine.
Motion carried, 4-0-1, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Obagi
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Loewenstein (Did not vote)
Ron Maroko, District 3, spoke about the Ito Family Open Space Park and requested that the item be placed on an agenda and voted on at a future meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by roll call vote, to receive and file documents submitted by Ron Maroko.
Motion carried, 4-0-1, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Obagi
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Loewenstein (Did not vote.)
Ron Maroko requested that the City authorize the installation of three descriptive signs, in the open space, with information about the Ito Family and their history in Redondo Beach, Executive Order 966, Public Law 503 and Public Proclamation No. 4, and with information
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about the Santa Anita Assembly Center and all relocation centers. Additionally, he suggested authorizing a solicitation from the general community and submission to the City Manager’s office, of photos and narratives to include in each sign and also authorize the installation of a mural consistent with the historical purposes and themes described in Resolution 2107-077 and have the Public Art Commission have a call for artist for the mural, coordinated through the Public Art Commission.
In reply to a question by Mayor Light regarding funding sources, Mr. Maroko was unsure about funding but noted the need to get the concept moving by starting to collect relative information. Mayor Light indicated he would like to discuss this further with Mr. Maroko, offline.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, provided context on the opposition in reference to the Metro C Line Extension project; stated that transit has to happen, and that the City is supporting the safest way to do it and spoke about the need for activism.
Kevin Mitchell, District 3, spoke about attending the recent Metro Board meeting outlined questions for Metro regarding the C Line Extension project such as why liquid petroleum gas rate was not discussed in the DEIR or addressed in public discussions. He talked about the proximity of BNSF and Metro tracks along the ROW; noted it was not mentioned in the DEIR; reported reviewing Metro’s agreement with BNSF and referenced a document by Wilbur Smith Associates in 2007 regarding a Harbor Subdivision Transit Analysis, referencing, “the narrowness of the track and that these modes can only share the ROW with freight trains given the provision of either temporal or spatial separation”. Additionally, he felt this matter may be worth looking into.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, talked about missing the Civic Light Opera Series and thanked Cultural Arts Manager Margolis for the recent art exhibit at the Performing Arts Center.
Councilmember Kaluderovic announced upcoming Shakespeare by the Sea performances at Veterans Park and Dominguez Park.
Councilmember Behrendt reported the art exhibit featured the Artist Caesar Anthony Hernandez.
Kyle Johnson, via Zoom, expressed concerns that public comments were made for an item on the agenda during Public Participation on Non-Agenda Items; opined it gives the appearance of impropriety; discussed his experience riding the C-Line with a transition to the J-Line noting it was a deeply unpleasant experience as there was a long wait along the side a of a freeway and being exposed to exhaust fumes.
There were no other public comments.
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K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Nehrenheim reported speaking with City staff.
Councilmember Loewenstein reported speaking with City staff.
Councilmember Behrendt reported speaking with City staff.
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
L.1. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO SOLICIT INPUT ON PUBLIC SERVICE
GRANT RECOMMENDATIONS AND TO ADOPT THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FY 2024-25 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN a. Reconvene the Public Hearing and take Testimony;
b. Continue the Public Hearing to June 4, 2024.
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, INTERIM COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR
Deputy Director Orta presented details of the Administrative Report; reported the City has not yet received a formal letter from HUD and recommended continuing the item to the City Council meeting of June 4, 2024, to allow time to receive the formal award letter from HUD.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic and approved by roll call vote, to open the public hearing and add the report to the presentation and the file.
Motion carried, 5-0, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
There were no public comments for this item.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by roll call vote, to continue the public hearing to the City Council meeting on June 4, 2024.
Motion carried, 5-0, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi
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NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Mayor Light moved to Agenda Item No. P.2.
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING APPROVAL OF A
REDESIGNED CITY LOGO
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, INTERIM COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR
Interim Community Services Director Hause narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of the redesign of the City logo.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked Councilmember Loewenstein for opening up the competition to the entire public, Interim Community Services Director Hause for her hard work on this project and the public for their participation; spoke about the logo design; stated he has not evaluated the design from a legal perspective and mentioned the need to determine whether the City would be able to enforce its intellectual property rights with respect to the logos. Additionally, he stated residents are hesitant to spend money to implement a whole new branding effort; suggested it may be prudent to wait-and-see, after upcoming budget discussions before deciding on the project and indicated he would like to hear from the public about the matter.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported she has held off on ordering new business cards until the new logo is implemented; noted she would like to hear from the public and commented on the work done by Designer Jordis Small.
Councilmember Nehrenheim felt it important to include the pier in the design, as it is a large part of the City’s history and future; presented his suggestion for the logo; provided information about the current logo and discussed copyrights, licensing and potential revenue and noted minimal costs going forward.
Councilmember Loewenstein felt Council accomplished its intent which was to seek more public input; stated he favored Jordis Small’s design with a curved sail; thought Council had decided against a mustard-colored background; proposed a gradient background; noted it does not need to be implemented all at once and suggested spreading out the costs.
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Councilmember Obagi thanked Interim Community Services Director Hause and Designer Small for their work; conducted an informal poll of attendees regarding their preferred design; talked about the need for uniformity and a simple, timeless logo; felt Councilmember Nehrenheim’s suggested concept is too busy and favored the double sail concept.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Georgett Gantner, District 2, asked to see the rest of the concepts and it was noted they are numerous and are included in the agenda packets and on the City’s website.
Bob Pinzler commented on the process; spoke about his work experience in brand creation; noted this is not the way to design a logo and suggested finding a group of citizens with brand development experience to act as an advisory group to the City Manager and present that to City Council.
Councilmember Behrendt noted this was a Council-driven exercise and reported that staff has done a great job and that they are acting at Council’s direction.
Councilmember Obagi provided a brief history of the process and how it came to this point and commented on sails as shark fins.
Diego De Pascual, District 3, talked about the logo showing more of the City’s amenities rather than minimizing them; stated the he and many of his generation like the current logo versus newer concepts; discussed the pier as an icon and addressed marketing for the future.
Patrick Mescall, District 1, questioned the process; noted the City hired a competent designer to produce a logo; reported a logo is a branding tool; spoke about things that need to be considered in a logo design; asserted the top left logo is his favorite and urged City Council to do what is best for the City, approve the logo and move forward.
Mayor Light left the Chambers at 7:31 p.m. and returned at 7:33 p.m.
Councilmember Obagi left the Chambers at 7:31 p.m. and returned at 7:32 p.m.
Jessica Small preferred the two left logos and concurred with the statements of the previous speaker.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, agreed with Mr. De Pascual and stated she prefers the current logo out of all the concepts presented; commented favorably on wavy water and reported many residents prefer the current logo.
Carlton Carpenter opined the current logo seems incomplete; suggested the setting sun
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should represent sand with the addition of surfers on the water and a double sail to replace the single sail.
Wayne Craig, District 1, spoke about his grandfather referring to the horseshoe pier and felt the logo should have elements of it and talked about keeping it simple, color wise.
Peter Singer spoke about the pier being unique; noted it draws people, consistently, to the City and felt the logo needs to represent what is unique about the City.
Jordis Small reported that she and the committee reviewed the pier and discussed several options, that a vote was taken, and that she went with the committee vote; stated she would be happy to explore further direction with the pier, if Council so choses; asserted that if everyone’s opinion is considered, the project will never move forward and spoke about the need for the logo to be simple but also to last. Additionally, she reported reviewing all comments from Council and modifying the original concept, accordingly, including addressing the “shark fin” comment.
Victor spoke about the current City logo being unique and represents the City.
Chris spoke about the logo building an identity; suggested adding “pop” to it and felt the current logo is not something everyone has.
Alethea Root Dufraine, via Zoom, reported she was in the original committee working with Jordis Small; spoke in support of the double sails and mentioned the simplicity of the logo equates to safety for citizens as it helps residents quickly identify their surroundings.
Doc Reed, via Zoom, reported that he is a designer; felt Ms. Small has done an amazing job; talked about the differences between a brand and a logo and noted a logo is supposed to be simple and iconic.
Councilmember Kaluderovic left the Chambers at 7:50 p.m. and returned at 7:54 p.m.
Austin Greene, via Zoom, indicated he prefers the two sails, including the pier and a simplistic representation and offered to send gradient color options to consider.
Christine Elfalan, District 4, via Zoom, reported she was in the original committee; noted that Jordis Small is a design professional specializing in logos and branding who has studied the dos and don’ts of historical logos and brands and who does this for a living.
She added that the City hired and paid her to do this; stated she missed the meeting where City Council discussed a contest and expressed frustration about the amount of time and work this matter has taken; acknowledged the importance of public input; opined the public representation is skewed as families of young kids are not fairly represented; urged City Council to take her comments into consideration and voiced support for Ms. Small’s design.
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Mike Hoye, via Zoom, agreed with the prior speaker; spoke about his experience in branding and marketing; voiced support for Ms. Small’s design and spoke about the importance of the logo and the impacts it will have on City communications.
Cameron Webb, via Zoom, expressed surprise that this project has lasted as long as it has; spoke about the City hiring a professional and the process of producing committee recommendations and voiced support for Jordis Small’s design. He noted the pier is significant but does not represent the City.
Christian Cannon, via Zoom, stated when he needs a haircut, he will go to a professional hair stylist and noted that, although he has personal opinions about the logo, Jordis Small is the professional, has done her due diligence and should be trusted.
Nancy Skiba, District 4, via Zoom, did not appreciate comments about residents providing comments; felt the current logo is flat and boring and agreed with Councilmember Nehrenheim’s suggestion, but simplified.
Annie Deland, via Zoom, spoke in support of Jordin Small, her professionalism and her experience and urged City Council to trust her and the committee and select the logo recommended by the committee and Ms. Small.
There were no other public comments on this item.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving two eComments, one neutral and one in support of the item.
Mayor Light spoke about everyone having different ideas of what the logo should be; acknowledged the committee’s efforts; noted the original intent was to add the diversity of the City to the logo; reported that street signs were never designed to include the logo; addressed a brief history of the logo and prior efforts at branding; talked about the people choosing the pier to represent the City in 1892 and stated his preference for the current logo.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed with Mayor Light’s comments; referenced slide 3A; noted he came to the meeting with an open mind; acknowledged the nostalgia of the current logo and the desire to incorporate into the logo the elements associated with the City; felt that using a simple design for all purposes, coupled with the name, “Redondo Beach”, is a more pragmatic and reasonable solution to the present situation and voiced preference for the Jordis Small alternate sail design, color gradient 22.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, to approve as the City’s redesigned logo, the Jordis Small alternate sail design, color gradient 22, coupled with direction to the City Attorney to assist and support City staff in ensuring that the intellectual property rights associated with
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this redesigned logo are protected and enforced.
Councilmember Obagi offered to second the motion with a friendly amendment that Council not designate any particular color scheme in the official logo but rather the black and white version as the official logo.
Councilmember Behrendt explained the reason he chose color gradient 22 was because it could be the color that could be most-easily reproduced on letterheads.
Councilmember Obagi stated that perhaps that could be the preferred color but not be limited to that color scheme only, to which Councilmember Behrendt agreed.
Amended motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve as the City’s redesigned logo, the Jordis Small alternate sail design, with color gradient 22 being the preferred color but not limited to only that color scheme, with direction to the City Attorney to assist and support City staff in ensuring that the intellectual property rights associated with this redesigned logo are protected and enforced.
Councilmember Loewenstein mentioned his experience in Marketing; spoke about asking people to donate their time to address the topic, facilitated by Jordis Small and felt that City Council should adhere to that; discussed the need for the logo to be simple; commented on allowing public input and spoke in support of Councilmember Behrendt’s motion.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned Jordis Small’s design; asserted that the pier needs to be in the logo as it is part of the City’s history and commented on the quality of concepts submitted by the public.
Councilmember Kaluderovic stated she was happy to have had this exercise; noted there is a whole populace in North Redondo that has nothing to do with the pier, beach and sails; talked about the logo being a symbol that represents something, not everything, about the City and reported she is happy with the logo.
Councilmember Obagi confirmed the logo specified in the motion and that it allows the City to use any color variant.
Councilmember Behrendt reiterated he chose color gradient 22 because it could be the color that could be most-easily reproduced on letterheads and otherwise.
Mayor Light stated he would veto that; noted City Council should choose a black and white version and a color version.
Jordis Small stated that if the logo is approved, she would suggest approving it in black and white and she would return to City Council with a color version, gradient and non-
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gradient, for approval and offered to help with the process.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed with not tying the City’s hands in terms of a chosen color and wondered about building a sense of certainty in the motion to ensure the color is appropriate.
City Manager Witzansky talked about creating a palette; noted that at some point staff can bring back color versions of the logo and work towards trademarking and other protections, work with the gradient versions identified and noted that is enough direction to move forward.
City Attorney Webb reported his office had limited involvement with intellectual property issues; stated reviewing various firms and offered to return to at the next or following upcoming meeting with a recommendation for an Attorney for City Council to hire to speed up the process and finalize it.
The following is the amended motion, as restated by Councilmember Behrendt.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi and approved by roll call vote, the Jordis Small concept of the City’s redesigned logo and direct the City Manager to return at a later date with a proposed color palette profile to the City Council and for the City Attorney to assist and support City staff in ensuring that the City is protected, and City is able to enforce its logo.
Motion carried, 4-1, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: Nehrenheim
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
The City Council moved to Agenda Item N.2.
Councilmember Behrendt recused himself from this item for reasons previously stated in the public record and left the Chambers at 8:28 p.m.
Councilmember Loewenstein left the meeting at 8:28 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and carried by voice vote, to recess at 8:29 p.m.
Motion carried, 3-0-2. Councilmembers Behrendt and Loewenstein were absent.
RECONVENE
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Mayor Light reconvened the meeting at 8:38 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Kaluderovic, Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light Councilmembers Absent: Behrendt (recused from N.2), Loewenstein The City Council continued to Agenda Item N.2.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING APPROVAL OF A
FOLLOW-UP LETTER TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY ( METRO) ADDRESSING THE CITY’S
OPPOSITION TO THE RIGHT-OF-WAY AND HYBRID RIGHT-OF-WAY
OPTIONS FOR THE PROPOSED C ( GREEN) LINE EXTENSION TO
TORRANCE PROJECT AND DIRECTION ON ANY ADDITIONAL PUBLIC
OUTREACH EFFORTS RELATED TO THE PROJECT
RECEIVE AND FILE INFORMATION REGARDING THE PROCUREMENT OF A CHARTER BUS FOR TRANSPORTATION TO THE MAY 23, 2024 LOS
ANGELES METRO BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
As previously noted, Councilmember Behrendt recused himself during this item.
Assistant to the City Manager Smude provided details of the Administrative Report.
Councilmember Obagi asked about the bus route, stops and schedules and Assistant to the City Manager Smude reported that the exact route has not been determined yet; added that booking and flexibility would need to be deferred to Gold Coast Tours, but that staff will work to make it as accommodating as possible.
Councilmember Obagi noted that Breakwater Village residents are interested in attending and have mobility issues limiting them from using the Transit Center; suggested a stop at Breakwater Village off Ruxton at 8:30 a.m. and another stop on Grant before continuing to the Transit Center and hoped residents of both North and South Redondo go and speak to the Metro Board at their upcoming Board Meeting. He reported that once at the meeting, attendees will need to check in and be included on a list of public speakers for Item No. 12; asserted the reluctance about Hawthorne Boulevard is the cost and the fact that Metro does not have enough money to build even the hybrid option; talked about choosing the option that will yield the highest amount of ridership and generate the highest amount of economic activity, as there is so much land available around the Galleria and across the street.
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Councilmember Obagi reviewed an aerial view of the area, illustrating the location of available land for economic development; listed adverse consequences related to the ROW; questioned Metro’s claim that they have 66% support for the ROW; addressed the proposed Draft Letter and asked for Council’s endorsement.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned the European mass transportation systems and the subway systems in Paris noting they lasted because they were done right and suggested adding RHNA numbers to the letter for Lawndale and Redondo Beach.
Councilmember Obagi confirmed the RHNA numbers are not in the letter.
Councilmember Kaluderovic noted the letter does mention allocation of housing.
Councilmember Obagi reported that if the Transit Center is along the ROW, it will make it tempting for the City to use the land for RHNA allocations which will displace individuals living in the pallet shelter.
Councilmember Nehrenheim explained Lawndale placed their RHNA allocation along Hawthorne Boulevard and felt that placing a station there for increased access, makes sense. He added that the Housing Elements are key markers that people look at who make these decisions. He offered to make changes to the letter.
Councilmember Obagi asked to have Councilmember Nehrenheim provide his input and place the item on Consent for the next City Council meeting.
Councilmember Nehrenheim stated he will work through the Mayor to accomplish that.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by voice vote, to adopt the draft letter subject to additions by Councilmember Nehrenheim and after review by staff, place the matter under the Consent Calendar at the next City Council meeting.
Mayor Light invited public comments on this item.
Victor spoke about the difference in costs between the ROW and the Hawthorne alignments for the Metro C Line Extension; discussed the need for increased transit ridership, now and spoke in support of the ROW option.
Matthew Lewis, District 5, stated he is a strong supporter of the Hawthorne option for the Metro C Line Extension; spoke about the letter emphasizing the catastrophic impacts of the ROW option and the number of people who will be impacted by the ROW option versus the Hawthorne alignment.
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Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, provided and update on the current status of the project; spoke about the spread of misinformation and addressed negative impacts of the ROW option being so close to residential uses.
Kevin Mitchell, District 3, talked about his neighbor’s property where the proposed Metro C Line Extension train would run 30 feet above his head in his backyard; discussed the case of another neighbor whose property encroaches the ROW; addressed misinformation by Metro and transportation of hazardous materials and voiced support for the draft letter.
Wayne Craig, District 1, spoke about the importance of writing to Metro about this; talked about being a united Redondo; addressed negative impacts to property values and voiced support for this matter.
Bob Pinzler agreed with the letter; reported the question is whether this is the best use of Metro’s funds; asked if the project should be done, at all and wondered whether it would be better to focus on bus access to other parts of the city.
Peter Singer, District 5, thanked the City for fighting to get the Metro Board to listen to the preferred, local option for the C Line Extension and suggested the costs may shrink when considering all the complications that happen when you try to build on the ROW.
Kyle Johnson, via Zoom, opined the ROW is cheaper, faster and that more people want the ROW; felt the ROW will be completed faster; addressed ridership; spoke about Redondo Beach as a transit-oriented City; questioned economic opportunities along Hawthorne; discussed comments regarding the ROW displacing people living in pallet shelters; referenced European transit systems and opposed having a bus to transport citizens to the Metro Board Meeting in Los Angeles.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving one eComment in support of the letter.
The motion carried 3-0, with Councilmember Behrendt recused and Councilmember Loewenstein, absent.
Councilmember Behrendt returned to the Chambers at 9:16 p.m. and took his place on the dais.
N.3. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CHARTER REVIEW ADVISORY COMMITTEE’S REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS AND
DIRECTION TO STAFF REGARDING THE PREPARATION OF BALLOT
MEASURES FOR POSSIBLE CHARTER AMENDMENTS
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
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Councilmember Behrendt commended the CRAC and Alternates for their work, time and effort on this topic as well as City Clerk Manzano, City Attorney Webb and City Treasurer Solomon; noted it was a diverse group of people making an all-star team; talked about the process; felt this is a big deal, considers potential changes to the Charter, holds everything together and guides everything the City does and looked forward to hearing from the Committee. He added there needs to be a compelling reason, an essential need and any changes to effectuate that need to be narrowly tailored to that goal and envisioned hearing from the Committee and residents, deliberating, doing additional research and outreach and returning before any final decisions are made.
Councilmember Obagi claimed there has not been a Charter amendment placed on a ballot as a Council, that has failed, since he has been on Council; noted what was integral is that all five Councilmembers supported it ( 5-0), or the majority of Councilmembers supported it (4-1) and would like to apply the same criteria for determining whether to place the matter on the ballot. He thanked School Board Members in attendance this evening.
With respect to the City Clerk, Mayor Light suggested bifurcating the votes for the duties versus the qualifications.
City Clerk Manzano felt the City Clerk should have oversight on expenditures; spoke about ensuring clarity in terms of the City Clerk’s access, duties and responsibilities when there are changes in Directors or City Managers; wondered if what is recommended is strong enough and agreed with the education requirements and requirements for a degree, especially to aid in working and interacting with Department Heads.
Matt Kilroy, CRAC Member, reported that as part of a subcommittee, he was asked to summarize the Committee’s discussions and create a report that captured all opinions that were presented; agreed with the Mayor’s suggestion to bifurcate the City Clerk’s duties and qualifications; mentioned there was a lot of discussion regarding the necessity to clarify the City Clerk’s job duties as reflected in the report by Moss Adams and in that same discussion, the City Treasurer’s job duties; commented on considering those two issues as a priority; addressed Councilmember Obagi’s comments regarding a 5-0 or 4-1 vote; noted that historically, voters have not been receptive to some of the things to be presented tonight and opined if it is to be supported by the voters, it needs the full support of the Council.
Councilmember Nehrenheim wondered if it should be left to the voters to decide what the qualifications should be.
CRAC Member Kilroy reported it was discussed but there was a conflict between raising the bar in terms of qualifications and reducing the size of the candidate pool and at what point are the voters allowed to decide what is important in terms of qualifications. He added that is a valid point and noted that it is a balance act for Council to decide in terms of priorities and placing it on the ballot and where it would be set and reported the
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Committee felt it was important for the current City Clerk to support any proposed changes.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked why that was so important especially if the current elected official is violating the City Charter.
CRAC Member Kilroy spoke about prior efforts to change the City Clerk, City Treasurer or City Attorney positions have failed, especially when they have been opposed by the elected official in that position.
Councilmember Nehrenheim spoke about an elected official running unopposed being essentially, “ appointed”; reported that he watched the CRAC’s discussion and felt that what was missing from the conversation was that fact, that when Redondo as first formed and laid out, it was expected to have a lot more residents; noted it is up to the voters to decide what the qualifications should be; opined that the current elected official should not have that much of a “sway” and listed proposed qualifications including a requirement to live in the City for at least 30 days and have the minimum legal requirements to run.
CRAC Member Kilroy responded that there was significant discussion from the Committee about this subject and spoke about Members of the CRAC setting a college degree as a minimum standard for the City Clerk’s position.
In reply to Councilmember Nehrenheim’s inquiry regarding access rights for the City Clerk and protections, City Clerk Manzano reported that when she became City Clerk, the Finance Department was under the City Manager and as she was an Accountant, she was given access to financial systems in certain areas so that she could review invoices and conduct analyses and indicated that based on the duties, she wanted to ensure access was included and still available.
Mayor Light asked about why there was focus placed on accounting when the job involves managing elections, creating meeting agendas and Brown Act compliance.
CRAC Member Ron Maroko stated the CRAC started with the language in the Charter which included a requirement for a background in accounting.
City Clerk Manzano added that it also includes, “or have five years of experience as a City Clerk in the State of California”.
Councilmember Behrendt referenced duties versus qualifications for office and noted there is much more happening in the City Clerk’s office than accounting.
CRAC Member Kilroy reported there was a lot of discussion regarding what constitutes accounting experience and felt the duties need the full attention of Council.
Councilmember Behrendt reiterated that the voters should decide who is the most
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qualified.
CRAC Member Pinzler explained how the item was addressed; noted the CRAC considered how the job has changed over the years; discussed a requirement for 15 units of accounting and commented on the CRAC attempting to create a structure that may work for the way the job is focused now, for the next person who comes in.
Mayor Light invited public comments on this item.
Austin Carmichael, District 5, took exception to the education requirement; noted that experience matters; felt someone is basing the changes on their experience; spoke about the current City Clerk being an Accountant, by trade and thereby focusing on accounting functions and felt that the requirement limits the ability of future City Managers to implement his/her vision and may not be effective.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about how many other elected City Clerks there are in California and how many currently perform accounting functions.
CRAC Member Pinzler reported reviewing every Charter; referenced SB 79; stated that many are “mini Charters” and do not even mention the City Clerk; added that often the City Clerk acts also as the Assistant to the City Manager (in smaller cities); noted there are about 60 to 70 elected City Clerks in California and that none of them focus on government accounting.
Councilmember Behrendt asked whether the City Attorney has had the opportunity to review the proposed changes to the duties and powers of the City Clerk.
City Attorney Webb responded affirmatively and stated he has no concerns with the duties, but in terms of the qualifications, he reported that he advised the Committee about the last sentence and gave the Committee suggestions as to how it could be changed stated he would be happy to clean up the language, going forward. He added this corrects a problem that was put into the Charter involving having an elected position being under the direction of the City Manager; added there is no good answer; talked about his exhaustive research on the matter and stated that if approved, this Charter amendment will remove that conflict.
Councilmember Obagi reported that the GPD indicates that, “ 80% of City Clerks in California are elected, while the remaining 20% are appointed either by the City Council or City Manager” and asked whether, since the voters would be changing the duties of the City Clerk, this would have to go on the ballot in a November election.
City Attorney Webb stated that it would not, as it is only a change in status such as full
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time versus part time that would need to go on a November election.
Mayor Light conducted a straw vote which resulted in two Councilmembers agreeing to the changes in duties as written and two Councilmembers wishing to continue this item for additional time to consider the duties and qualifications for City Clerk.
Councilmember Obagi spoke about needing more time to review the report as Council just got the report on Friday.
Councilmember Kaluderovic agreed with the need for more time to review and discuss the matter with residents.
In terms of qualifications, Councilmember Obagi agreed with the changes, Councilmember Nehrenheim disagreed and Councilmembers Behrendt and Kaluderovic requested additional time for review.
Mayor Light invited public comments related to the matter of the Redondo Beach Unified School District.
Rachel Silverman Nemeth, Board Member, Redondo Beach Unified School District, wanted to ensure that the City understands that as a Board, they have made it clear that they want to remain in the Charter; reported the Board took a vote, 4-1, with Rolf Strutzenberg opposed, then the CRAC voted 6-1, with Chair Strutzenberg, opposed, to remain in the Charter. Additionally, she referenced a letter summarizing the Board’s position that the majority of the Board wanted to remain in the Charter; noted that what bothered more was the dissent opinion and indicated she would have liked to have seen the Board’s letter in the agenda materials rather than focusing on the dissent.
Councilmember Nehrenheim confirmed the Board is in the City Charter, yet the City does not charge for elections; reported that he plans to charge the School District for elections in the future, as they are expensive and asked whether that would change the Board’s perspective.
Rachel Silverman Nemeth asserted the Board has discussed this and has asked to remain in the Charter.
Councilmember Nehrenheim talked about Chair Strutzenberg having an issue regarding pay and benefits; discussed other issues including that the they are not “districted” and there have been lawsuits; reported the City and the Board would be held liable if there were to be a lawsuit because they are not districted and asked how the Board would address it.
Rachel Silverman Nemeth reported that was not something that came before the Board.
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Mayor Light reported that was not agendized.
Councilmember Nehrenheim reported it was part of the conversation related to being in the City Charter, or not.
City Attorney Webb reported the Committee discussed the issue, at length and decided not to have the Board go to districts; talked about the Board having greater protection, against lawsuits, for being in the Charter; discussed different ways the issue could be remedied; addressed receipt of benefits and compensation; detailed his efforts to address the matter with the School Board and submitted a letter from Mr. Larsen, dated February 27, 2024, assuring that payments had ceased. He added that as of now, the two complaints he received have been addressed.
Councilmember Nehrenheim explained that he believes that any person doing work for somebody else should be paid; felt that if the School Board is unpaid, that is ridiculous and that they should be compensated.
Rachel Silverman Nemeth agreed, but noted it is not something she can represent to Council on behalf of the Board at this point; reported that at the time the Board voted on this issue, Mr. Strutzenberg had not raised the issue of the $250 payment and they were not aware of the issue. She added that if this were raised again, the Board would agendize the item and might ask the City to strike, “without compensation”, but she cannot make that representation at this time.
Ms. Flinn, Redondo Beach Unified School District Board President, reported her office is working on the agenda for the next Board Meeting and would be happy to add the matter to their agenda for action. She added that it would be as simple as striking, “without compensation”.
Councilmember Obagi asked not to get “wound up” about Mr. Strutzenberg’s dissent; talked about Council asking the CRAC to provide recommendations; stated he was prompted to advance the CRAC discussion on the School Board when he heard the Charter prohibited the Board from receiving compensation; reported he will not make a motion at this time and listed the changes he would like to see implemented to Section 16 including adding that the school starts at Transitional Kindergarten and striking, “without compensation”. He spoke about a feeling that the School Board is not paying its fair share of the burdens carried out by the City; suggested adding language that the School District will reimburse the City for the portion of costs associated with conducting its elections and with crossing guards helping students cross streets by the school.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported the Education subcommittee is discussing costs carried by the City and those carried by the School District and is trying to “true up” and talked about property being owned by different sides (i.e., Franklin Park and Alta Vista is owned by the School District), noting that Council has not discussed this in a long time.
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City Attorney Webb added that if City Council sequences it, it may be important for this to return sooner rather than later because there is an argument that it changes the status and may be more prudent to put on the November election.
CRAC Member Pinzler reported there is a story in every line of the Charter; noted the story about compensation was animus between certain people in the City and certain people on the School Board and indicated the CRAC asked the School Board what it would like changed and they responded, nothing. He added that it is rare to have a City Charter that has a lot of information about a School Board. He added that the issue of compensation is important and agreed it can be changed by ordinance and talked about putting things in the Charter placing the City in a position to have it that way for 20-30 years.
In reply to questions from Councilmember Behrendt regarding compensation, City Attorney Webb cautioned against providing legal advice to the School Board; noted that would be up to the School Board to decide and talked about limits in the Education Code.
Councilmember Obagi talked about striking out the language, “without compensation”.
CRAC Member Pinzler addressed the City Treasurer’s position; noted the Committee’s memo clearly indicates the decision made and the rationale for it; reported there are issues regarding the City Treasurer that, because of the changes that were made without a Charter change, places the City Treasurer, as it exists now, in the possible position of not performing Charter tasks, when the Council decided to give those tasks to the Finance Department.
CRAC Member Dawidziak added that the CRAC is trying to “true up” the changes that were made in 2005 to minimize the possibility of Charter violations.
Discussion followed regarding the rationale for omitting the CPA requirement.
City Treasurer Solomon reported working with the Committee to create that language; reported that Charter Financial Advisor and Certified Financial Planner were used instead of CPA, as the principal duties of the Treasurer’s office now relates to investments rather than accounting functions and other revenues.
In reply to Mayor Light’s inquiry, City Attorney Webb provided background; shared case law relative to the Treasurer’s ability to perform his/her Charter duties; presented options for City Council consideration and confirmed he is fine with the recommended changes.
Councilmember Nehrenheim questioned whether the current process is the best case scenario that the City should be following, going forward.
CRAC Member Pinzler reported the basis for many of the changes was the Moss Adams
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report; noted speaking with the Finance Director about the relationship between and the responsibilities of the Finance Director and the City Treasurer and spoke about a history behind the City Treasurer’s office that has not kept up with the way the City operates or that cities, in general, operate.
Discussion followed regarding changing the Charter or changing businesses practices, first, determining the best practices, going forward, qualifications, whether the current City Treasurer would meet the qualifications and the City Treasurer’s responsibility of collecting City taxes and license fees (Item F).
City Attorney Webb added even when the position was part-time, the City Treasurer still had the collecting of City taxes and license fees, and the City was much more effective in collecting business licenses than it has been since then and that now it will be an audit function only and suggested, “Audit collection of City taxes and collect license fees”.
City Treasurer Solomon stated that, were these changes to be placed on the ballot and adopted by voters, he would recommend that the policy-making body create an ordinance that would formally delegate the authorities that are currently held within the Charter, in the Treasurer’s Office, to the Finance Director, or as would be directed by City Manager in that if the changes are made without formally delegating the duties elsewhere, there would be no one responsible for those tasks. He added that the Moss Adams report has examples of an ordinance to create a formalization of that process. With regard to the qualifications, he suggested the gravity of the situation is intense, related by the Moss Adams report saying that “The risk level of an error is moderate to high, and the impact of occurrence is high and that was five years ago.
City Treasurer Solomon continued that with regard to qualifications, the person in the role of City Treasurer should have experience and knowledge in investments; wondered if that should be decided by voters or by the Charter and emphasized the importance of that experience in this role.
CRAC Member Pinzler stated that can be done by ordinance is important because the Charter is generally reviewed every 20 to 30 years and things change faster and urged City Council to think from the perspective of what needs to be in the document to present it to the voters.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked Committee Members Pinzler and Dawidziak for their work on this topic and suggested editing language from “audit collection of City taxes and license fees, to audit and collect City taxes and license fees”.
City Attorney Webb suggested, collecting license fees or a subset of license fees.
City Manager Witzansky explained this language has been developed working with the Finance Director and the City Treasurer and stated they are content with how it is currently
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drafted.
City Attorney Webb continued suggesting, “audit taxes and collect license fees as directed by City Council ordinance”.
Councilmember Behrendt talked about the proposed qualifications and felt it is a good idea to think further about who decides what the qualifications will be.
Councilmember Obagi mentioned the collection of license fees would require additional staffing.
City Attorney Webb added Council could allow the ability to have the Council direct the City Treasurer to do it, by ordinance which would allow for flexibility.
Councilmember Nehrenheim reiterated that in terms of qualifications, it is up to the voters to decide.
Relative to the City Attorney, CRAC Member Maroko stated the report is missing a few pieces; noted it is a two-part report; indicated this report is a response to Councilmember Behrendt’s comment about the City of Long Beach model and elected versus appointed and should be appended to what City Council is reviewing and ultimately decided in two steps.
CRAC Member Pinzler presented background information; talked about the practice in other cities in terms of having elected versus appointed City Attorney; mentioned the issue of how City Council gets legal advice and noted City Council knows this issue better than anyone.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked CRAC Member Pinzler for digging deep into this matter; shared a letter from a resident listing reasons for advocating for an elected City Attorney; commented on the opinion of the League of California Cities regarding the matter; felt the City Attorney should be the person giving the City legal advice and the voters should choose who that person will be and spoke about having a check-andbalance already built in.
CRAC Member Pinzler noted that most cities in California do not have an elected City Attorney and most Charter cities in California do not have an elected City Attorney.
Discussion followed regarding checks and balances, the ability for the City Council to find different legal opinions, planning for the next person to be in the role, qualifications for City Attorney, the cost involved in running the City-wide election and the need to raise money.
Councilmember Obagi requested a BRR on the cost associated with the Long Beach model for a City Attorney and Prosecutor.
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City Attorney Webb agreed to provide that information working with the Finance Director; reported the time spent between his City Attorney and Prosecutorial functions is about 50/50 and talked about each role growing exponentially, in the future.
In reply to Councilmember Obagi’s question relative to impacts on City operations because of the City Attorney’s workload, City Manager Witzansky reported that it ebbs and flows, depending on where the City is in its annual cycle and referenced the strategic plan.
City Attorney Webb responded to questions from Councilmember Obagi regarding when he was elected and his experience and qualifications at the time and believed there will be a greater number of candidates if the position were to be split into a City Attorney and Prosecutor.
Councilmember Obagi stated that his top concern about selecting a new City Attorney is that they may be lost when it comes to the City’s civil litigation if they are not seasoned as such.
City Attorney Webb stated that residents seem to care more about the prosecution side of his office and mentioned that every time he ran, his opponents were either civil litigators or Deputy District Attorneys. In reply to Councilmember Obagi’s question, City Attorney Webb stated that City Council cannot direct the City Attorney to hire another attorney for a second opinion and explained the rationale.
CRAC Member Pinzler mentioned a case in San Bernardino where the elected City Attorney became a policy maker and reported the Committee raised the issues so that Council may consider them.
Mayor Light felt there are arguments on both side of the issue in terms of whether the City Attorney should be elected or appointed; mentioned there is no perfect answer and stated Council will just need to decide.
CRAC Chair Strutzenberg stated the primary recommendation from the Committee remains to transition from an elected City Attorney to an Appointed City Attorney and noted that as an alternate, the CRAC provided one change to the current language that strikes the portion discussed.
There were no public comments on this item.
Specific to term limits, CRAC Member Kilroy reviewed a summary of the Committee’s discussions; noted there was no interest to implement the Long Beach model; spoke about Manhattan Beach having a revolving door issue and reported that in the end, if there is anything but unanimous support, the issue of term limits is unlikely to pass by the voters.
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Additionally, he stated the CRAC strictly addressed the Mayor and City Council positions and recommended extending both from two terms to three terms.
Councilmember Behrendt commented favorably about the report and mentioned arguments in favor and arguments against term limits.
CRAC Member Kilroy reported that the original action on term limits included the people in office at that time and felt the two issues requiring the most attention were the City Clerk and City Treasurer’s offices.
There were no public comments on this item.
Councilmember Kaluderovic thanked the CRAC for its work; reported watching some of the meetings and felt the discussions were very thorough and intensive.
In reply to Councilmember Kaluderovic’s question regarding outstanding items remaining, CRAC Member Pinzler talked about an issue related to “publishing” the General Plan and the definition of “residency” and felt confident the CRAC can address them at its next meeting.
Discussion followed regarding the timelines for the November and March ballots and having Councilmembers return with red line versions of suggested edits.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to receive and file the report, wait for the CRAC to return with the two remaining items and return with the School Board issue and any other issues in the July meeting to have verbiage ready in August.
Discussion about appropriate dates for returning to City Council with the two remaining items to be addressed by the CRAC.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to bring to the City Council on the second week of July (1st week will be canceled), with the School Board issues, a report of the two items that the CRAC is still discussing, and the remainder of items discussed at this meeting to return at a later date.
Mayor Light suggested that the motion include the possible action to terminate the CRAC.
Councilmember Nehrenheim agreed and added it to his original motion.
Councilmember Obagi, prior to making a second to Councilmember Nehrenheim’s motion, made a friendly amendment to include that after the School Board items are discussed, that each Charter amendment be presented to the City Council one subject per meeting, not two or three at a time.
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Councilmember Nehrenheim agreed and said that it could be worked out by the City Manager and Mayor.
Council briefly discussed expectations on the process in regard to this item when it is presented to the City Council.
The motion was agreed to as follows.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, approved by voice vote, to bring to the City Council on the second week of July (1st week will be canceled), with the School Board issues, a report of the two items that the CRAC is still discussing, the remainder items discussed at this meeting to return at a later date, include the possible action to terminate the CRAC, and that after the School Board items are discussed, that each Charter amendment be presented to the City Council one subject per meeting.
Motion carried, 4-0-1, Councilmember Loewenstein was absent.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky commented favorably on the recent Beach Life Festival.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
P.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING CONSOLIDATION OF
CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 2, CHAPTER 9, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 2-9.101 TO IMPLEMENT
A PROCESS FOR THE CANCELLATION OF COMMISSION MEETINGS
Mayor Light reviewed the current structure of the City’s Council and Boards and Commissions; discussed issues with the current structure; addressed a projection of vacancies and a comparison of other cities; provided details of recommended changes and the rationale for the recommendations and spoke about constraints in terms of preservation and discussions with affected commission liaisons. Additionally, Mayor Light discussed cost savings from the recommended changes and the implementation schedule and addressed consideration of an amendment to the Redondo Beach Municipal Code regarding the process for cancelling commission meetings.
Councilmember Kaluderovic discussed ensuring the membership requirements for the Handicap Access Appeals Board translates into the new Public Works and Sustainability Commission, expanding the purview of the Public Arts Commission and the possibility of
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placing the Library Commission as part of the Cultural Arts Commission.
Library Director Vinke spoke about wanting to expand the Library’s programming and asked for clarification.
City Manager Witzansky stated it would determine what commission would advise on library matters; spoke about not losing the sense of library in the conversation and suggested naming the commission the Library and Cultural Arts Commission and spoke about the other group being part of the Public Amenities Commission.
Library Director Vinke stated either group would create efficiencies and noted he is open to suggestions.
City Manager Witzansky noted that if Council consolidates, staff will need to determine who will be the primary liaison.
Councilmember Obagi thanked Mayor Light for his work and asked to hear from the public.
Georgette Gantner spoke about her experience in the Public Arts Commission; discussed the possibility of a Cultural Arts Commission having too broad of a scope; mentioned there have been complaints that the City is not working fast enough, especially in terms of art projects and felt that if additions are made to the scope of the commission, it will complicate and lengthen processes and projects.
Bob Pinzler spoke about there being so many commissions because the Former Mayor felt there was an opportunity to appoint and engage more people; felt it diluted the effectiveness and the importance of those commissions and agreed with the Mayor’s recommendations adding that there is a need to empower those commissions to have greater input and talked about the importance of the selection of the people who remain.
Desiree Galassi stated it has been her honor to serve as Preservation Commissioner the last three years; noted her recommendation would have been to merge the Historical, Preservation and Library Commissions and maintain Recreation and Parks to continue to work on programming and commented on the importance of the Cultural Arts Commission.
Christina Kelly, Public Arts Commission, agreed with merging the Preservation, Historical and Library Commission; felt the Public Arts Commission has enough projects and work; spoke about the importance of boards and commissions and urged City Council to give each commission and board its value.
Mayor Light noted the goal is not to disenfranchise people, but to make it more efficient, more effective and more meaningful.
Austin Carmichael, Public Safety Commissioner, stated he would love to merge the Library
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Commission with the Public Safety Commission.
Councilmember Obagi left the Chamber at 12:00 a.m. and returned at 12:02 a.m.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving one eComment in opposition to the item.
There were no other public comments.
Councilmember Behrendt confirmed the process for applying, reviewing and appointing members to commissions.
City Attorney Webb noted that typically, interviews for commissioners are heard by City Council at the second meeting in July.
Mayor Light stated he is looking for a buy-in on the recommendations today, and interview applicants under the new structure, then the ordinance changes can happen in parallel.
City Attorney Webb mentioned there is no specificity on what the duties of the new commissions will be and suggested having each affected commission provide language as to what they believe should be included.
Mayor Light did not want to do that as the new commissions are consolidated and he spoke against having four commissions opine on the duties of one.
Discussion followed regarding having each affected commission provide input as to duties that should be carried forward, as soon as possible, and the need to do a legal review.
City Manager Witzansky reported he will work with staff to prepare a draft of duties under the consolidated format and will run it by the involved commissions to gain their input before returning to City Council with a recommendation on the ordinance.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and carried by voice vote, to adopt the eliminations, suspensions, integrations recommended on the recommended streamlining as well as to revise the ordinance on cancellations of meetings and to direct staff to follow up with the appropriate documentation and seek input from the involved commissions and liaisons. To approve or modify the recommendations, to direct staff and the City Attorney to prepare ordinance changes for City Council approval and to direct staff to coordinate with affected commissions and liaisons.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim’s question, City Manager Witzansky addressed having alternates, quorum issues and the effectiveness of changing the meeting schedules such as meeting every two months rather than monthly. Relative to the latter, he stated the consolidation and volume of work will make the monthly meeting frequency more appropriate; spoke about the ability to cancel for a lack of business allowing flexibility and
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mentioned the possibility of having more than seven commissioners on a consolidated commission at the start and work down to seven but felt that with the number of vacancies coming up, there will be a home for everyone that is interested. He agreed that appointing alternates could be an option.
Mayor Light spoke about having regular meetings to facilitate the ability to plan properly.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion carried 4-0-1. Councilmember Loewenstein was absent.
P.2. MAYOR’S RECOMMENDATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO THE PUBLIC
SAFETY COMMISSION
Mayor Light recommended Daniella Wodnicki for the Public Safety Commission.
Councilmember Obagi agreed with the recommendation and spoke about Daniella Wodnicki’s care for and involvement in the City.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim and approved by roll call vote, to appoint Daniella Wodnicki to the Public Safety Commission.
Motion carried, 5-0, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Mayor Light moved to Item No. N.1 and followed the rest of the agenda, as published.
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Mayor Light requested a BRR on phasing and reestablishing a Harbor Department starting with a Harbor Director and a Harbor Patrol, a BRR for phasing and executing the Wilderness Park Master Plan and asked about appropriating funds for Moonstone Park.
City Manager Witzansky reported it speaks to the issue of capital projects and how the City sequesters and appropriates funds and mentioned that Council could, under special circumstances, place a restricted hold on capital assignments.
Mayor Light asked for a BRR on funding the El Segundo Blue Butterfly habitat from
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Veterans Park to the end of the City, north and a BRR on a plan to eliminate overtime in the Public Safety Department and what the impacts may be.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION – None
There was no Closed Session at this time.
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION - None
T. ADJOURNMENT – 12:30 a.m., May 8, 2024
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and was approved by voice vote, to adjourn the meeting at 12:30 a.m., May 8, 2024, 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, May 14, 2024, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Loewenstein was absent.
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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