REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, May 21, 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 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 Chambers, 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 - NONE
D. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
Analyst Villa announced 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 communications on Closed Session and Non-Agenda Items.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED – 4:33 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote to recess to Closed Session at 4:33 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Analyst Villa read title to the items to be considered in Closed Session.
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, Interim Fire Chief Patrick Butler, Human Resources Director Diane Strickfaden, Outside Labor Negotiator Laura Kalty and Outside Legal Counsel
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Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Abby O’Brient.
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 LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney- client privilege, Government Code Section 54956. 9(d)(1).
Name of case:
re 9300 Wilshire LLC
Bankruptcy C.D. Cal. Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
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:
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.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:
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
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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:
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.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:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board
Case Number: 20STCP03193
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
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 6:03 p.m.
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:03 p.m.
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: Nehrenheim, Obagi
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Melissa Villa, Analyst
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky noted there were no reportable actions taken during Closed Session.
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J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic and approved by voice vote, to adjourn to the regular meeting at 6:03 p.m.
Motion carried, 3-0-2. Councilmembers Nehrenheim and Obagi were absent. 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 6:03 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, Obagi, Nehrenheim ( arrived at 6:05 p.m.), Mayor Light
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Melissa Villa, Analyst
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited Veterans to stand and recognized them for their service.
Hope, 4th Grade Student, Jefferson Elementary School, led the salute to the flag.
Mayor Light called for a moment of silence.
Councilmember Nehrenheim arrived at 6:05 p.m.
D. PRESENTATIONS/ PROCLAMATIONS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS
D.1. MAYOR’ S COMMENDATION TO MONA CHO, RECIPIENT OF FIRST LADY JILL BIDEN’ S “ GIRLS LEADING CHANGE” AWARD
Mayor Light presented a commendation to Mona Cho, recipient of the First Lady Jill Biden’ s “Girls Leading Change” award.
Mona Cho expressed her appreciation and spoke about joining other girls/women across the country who are doing activism and fighting for change.
D.2. MAYOR’ S COMMENDATION TO THE BEACH CITIES ROBOTICS TEAM, A
FINALIST AT THE FIRST ROBOTICS COMPETITION WORLD
CHAMPIONSHIP
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Mayor Light presented a commendation to the Beach Cities Robotics Team, a finalist at the First Robotics Competition World Championship.
Sarah, Beach Cities Robotics, presented the robot designed by the team and thanked the City for the recognition.
Councilmember Nehrenheim discussed the recent District 1, online community meeting and announced the upcoming Memorial Day ceremony at Veterans Park.
Councilmember Loewenstein announced the upcoming District 2 online community meeting on May 29th.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Pallet Shelters in Hawthorne; spoke about attending the South Bay Leadership and Wellness Conference at Alcove; announced the online District 3 community meeting on May 30th and the in-person District 3 community meeting on June 1st at Jefferson Elementary School and encouraged residents to attend the upcoming Metro Board Meeting regarding the Metro C-Line Extension project.
Councilmember Obagi spoke about the importance of the upcoming Metro Board decision on the C-Line Extension project; urged residents to sign up on the City’s website for the bus to the meeting and advocate for the preferred Hawthorne Boulevard option.
Councilmember Behrendt announced the District 5 community meeting on June 25th at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, 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 Blue Folder Items include Public Communications for NonAgenda Items and related to Item No. N.1.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file Blue Folder Items.
Motion carried, 5-0.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 21, 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. APRIL 9, 2024 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 29718- 29737 IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,965.87, PD. 5/10/24 DIRECT DEPOSIT 278355- 278964 IN THE AMOUNT OF $ 2,270,305.69, PD. 5/10/24
EFT/ACH $453,665.64, PD. 4/22/24 (PP2407)
EFT/ACH $ 9,246.68, PD. 4/12/24 (PP2408)
EFT/ACH $448,855.04, PD. 5/6/24 (PP2408)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 113989- 114292 IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,627,151.96
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $ 35,000:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH MILLER MENDEL, INC. AND EXPERIAN INFORMATION SYSTEMS, INC. FOR DATABASE MANAGEMENT OF
PRE-EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOR POLICE
DEPARTMENT JOB APPLICANTS REDUCING BACKGROUND
INVESTIGATORS DATA ENTRY TIME IN AN ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF 12,000 ANNUALLY FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING UPON
EXECUTION OF AGEEMENT WITH AUTOMATIC ANNUAL RENEWALS.
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH AUTOLIFT SERVICES, INC. FOR
PURCHASE AND INSTALL OF A LIFT IN THE PUBLIC WORKS FLEET GARAGE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 32,492.64 FOR THE TERM MAY 21, 2024 UNTIL COMPLETED.
3. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH DUDEK, INC. FOR SOLID WASTE
CONSULTING AND REPORTING SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $ 5,000 FOR THE TERM MAY 21, 2024 TO MAY 20, 2026.
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MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
4. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
AUDITOR- CONTROLLER TO PROVIDE FOR THE PLACEMENT OF DIRECT ASSESSMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 ON THE SECURED TAX
ROLL FOR CITY STREET LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING DISTRICT
CHARGES, SEWER USER FEES, AND REFUSE FEES FOR AN AMOUNT OF
0.25 PER ASSESSMENT PER PARCEL AND $ 13.00 FOR EACH
CORRECTION ( ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE FOR FY 2024-25 IS $15,000).
5. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH OVERDRIVE, INC. FOR ACCESS TO
DIGITAL LIBRARY PLATFORM PROVIDING ANNUAL MAGAZINE
SERVICE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 26,000 FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2024 TO JUNE 30, 2026.
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.6. APPROVE THE CITY ENGINEER’ S REPORT FOR THE 2024- 2025 FISCAL
YEAR STREET LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-037, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO ORDER AN ASSESSMENT FOR THE
MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENTS OF CERTAIN STREET LIGHTING
FIXTURES, APPURTENANCES AND LANDSCAPED AREAS FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2024 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2025,
AND SETTING A TIME AND PLACE FOR THE PUBLIC PROTEST HEARING SET JUNE 11, 2024, AS THE DATE TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR STREET
LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING DISTRICT ASSESSMENT.
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.7. APPROVE A CHANGE ORDER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PHASE 2 OF THE
INGLEWOOD AVENUE AT MANHATTAN BEACH BOULEVARD
SOUTHBOUND RIGHT- HAND TURN LANE PROJECT, JOB NO. 40960, IN THE AMOUNT OF $365,680, TO BE PAID FROM GRANT FUNDS, AND RESET THE CITY ENGINEER’ S AUTHORIZATION LIMIT FOR FUTURE CHANGE ORDERS FOR THE PROJECT TO $125,000.
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT # D1104 WITH LOS ANGELES METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION
AUTHORITY ( METRO), CITY OF LAWNDALE, AND COUNTY OF LOS
ANGELES FOR THE REDONDO BEACH BOULEVARD ACTIVE
TRANSPORTATION PROJECT AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN THE
SHARE OF GRANT FUNDING TO BE USED FOR THE PRELIMINARY DESIGN PHASE.
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
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H.9. APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF SPEED CUSHIONS ON THE 700 BLOCK OF N JUANITA AVENUE.
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH FRANCISCO AND ASSOCIATES, INC. TO PROVIDE CONSULTING AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES FOR THE CITY’ S PROPOSITION 218 REFUSE RATE PROCESS AT A COST OF $38,095 FOR A NEW NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $220,602 WITH NO CHANGE IN TERM.
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE THE AGREEMENT WITH DAN BOYLE & ASSOCIATES, LLC FOR
ON-CALL SERVICES AND GENERAL TRANSIT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 126,000 FOR THE TERM MAY 21, 2024 TO JUNE 30, 2027.
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, INTERIM COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR
H.12. APPROVE THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH PARKING CONCEPTS, INC. TO INCORPERATE A 3.5% CONSUMER PRICE INDEX INCREASE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 OPERATIONS AND
MAINTENANCE OF THE BEACH CITIES TRANSIT AND WAVE DIAL- A-RIDE
SYSTEM FOR AN UPDATED ANNUAL TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $ 3,396,833.
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, INTERIM COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR
H.13. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH TYLER TECHNOLOGIES, INC FOR
ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING SOFTWARE AS A SERVICE ( SAAS) LICENSING AND MIGRATION SERVICES NOT TO EXCEED $ 1,437,761.07 AND THE TERM MAY 22, 2024 TO MAY 21, 2029.
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.14. This Item was pulled by Councilmember Nehrenheim for separate consideration.
H.15. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2405-036, A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL BOOK OF CLASS SPECIFICATIONS TO UPDATE THE POSITION OF COMPUTER SUPPORT SPECIALIST.
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
H.16. RECEIVE AND FILE THE MONTHLY UPDATE TO THE TWELVE- MONTH STRATEGIC PLAN OBJECTIVES ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON MAY 30, 2023.
CONTACT: MIKE WITZANSKY, CITY MANAGER
H.17. This Item was pulled by Councilmember Nehrenheim for separate consideration.
H.18. APPROVE THE AMENDMENT TO THE ONLINE RESEARCH SUBSCRIPTION
AGREEMENT PREVIOUSLY ENTERED INTO BETWEEN LEXISNEXIS, A DIVISION OF RELX INC. AND THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH.
CONTACT: MICHAEL W. WEBB, CITY ATTORNEY
H.19. APPROVE THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH CITY NET
FOR A CENSUS OF THE REDONDO BEACH HOMELESS POPULATION FOR AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $ 57,985.74 FOR THE TERM MAY 1, 2023 TO JUNE 30, 2024.
CONTACT: MICHAEL W. WEBB, CITY ATTORNEY
Councilmember Nehrenheim pulled Agenda Item Nos. H.14 and H.17 from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration.
Councilmember Kaluderovic referenced Consent Calendar Agenda Item No. H.19 and commented how important this item is for Redondo Beach residents.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving three public comments for Item No. H.9.
There were no other public comments on the Consent Calendar.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, and approved by voice vote, to approve the Consent Calendar, as amended, excluding Agenda Item Nos. H.14 and H.17 which were pulled for separate discussion.
Motion carried, 5-0.
City Clerk Manzano read titles to Resolutions No. CC-2405-037 and CC-2405-036.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.14. APPROVE A SERVICE POLICY AND AGREEMENT WITH GLOBAFONE INC.
FOR SATELLITE PHONES AND SERVICE, AND AN INITIAL PURCHASE OF SATELLITE TELEPHONE DEVICES AND SERVICE NOT TO EXCEED $ 21,386 FOR YEAR 1, WITH AN ONGOING ANNUAL SERVICE COST OF $ 8,832 FOR ALL SUBSEQUENT YEARS.
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
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Councilmember Nehrenheim wondered why this item is not being charged to the Radio Communications Fund and Information Technology Director Cook explained it is within the IT budget; reported there are pieces that line up with the IT budget and others that line up with the Communications budget and added money is held in the fund, but the departments are allocated the expenditure through the ISF formula.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about an audit that was supposed to be done for the Communications fund and items that are added and City Manager Witzansky spoke about items the City is absorbing into its carry forward and ongoing budget; addressed new technology costs throughout the City and reported that in some cases it is better organized within IT and charged to the department and in other instances it might be something that would be directly charged to the Communications fund, depending on the specific type of equipment and more time will be spent during mid-year to review the IT and Communications funds through the ISF formula.
Interim Fire Chief Butler reported working with the IT Department and addressed deployment of the satellite telephone devices; discussed City-wide and County- wide talk groups and in response to Councilmember Nehrenheim’ s question about using Motorola radios Interim Fire Chief Butler reported it is done under the assumption that there will be a major disaster, where cellphone systems are down.
IT Director Cook added that the goal is to get public safety personnel to speak to each other and spoke about T-Mobile relying on ground- based communications.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to approve Consent Calendar Agenda Item No. H.14, as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
H.17. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH COMPLETE
PAPERLESS SOLUTIONS ( CPS), A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY
COMPANY, FOR LASERFICHE FOR ADDITIONAL SERVICES TO INCLUDE SCANNING AND FILE COMPRESSION, IN THE AMOUNT OF $38,700.
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
MARC WEINER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Councilmember Nehrenheim wished the name of the company were 100% true; commented favorably on the item and talked about the possibility of other City departments using the service.
IT Director Cook spoke about the departments that have been already included in the system; discussed abilities to scan and store to eliminate bulk paper rather than digitizing forms; reported that what is proposed will take a few months of work and noted the ratio
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of employees to printers/ copiers.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to approve Consent Calendar Agenda Item No. H.17, as presented.
Motion carried, 4-0-1. Councilmember Behrendt abstained.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1 For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Joan Irvine, District 1, thanked City Council for its work on the cannabis ordinance; urged City Council to move it forward as soon as possible and prioritize this issue and bring it back on the agenda, every two weeks, until the City has chosen the two finalists; spoke about continuing to educate people about cannabis through her radio show and blog and spoke about her transition from alcohol to cannabis, for health reasons.
Georgette Gantner, came forward and provided documents to the City Clerk.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file Georgette Gantner’ s written comments.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, reported walking down Artesia and making a list of all existing businesses to get a feel for the kind of art to install in the area; talked about speeding traffic; discussed the beautification process occurring prior to placement of art; suggested an art center on existing vacant property; acknowledged it will be challenging and spoke in support of large pieces of art and a welcome sign.
Brad Waller, Vice President, Keep the Esplanade Beautiful, spoke about the organization; discussed their monthly sweeps on the first Saturday of every month and invited residents to participate.
Kevin Mitchell, District 3, shared a conversation with a Condon ROW resident who is an engineer who is familiar with handling LPG tank cars and with the ROW; reported they transport hazardous materials including hydrofluoric acid; talked about Hazmat training and emergency procedures; addressed an elevated section of light rail between Prairie and Del Amo; felt more clarity is needed about the section south of 190th Street and suggested going early to the upcoming Metro Board meeting and provide a speaker list of City officials, prior to the meeting.
Niki Negrete- Mitchell, District 3, talked about gaslighting and bullying on the part of the City of Torrance and Metro in terms of the Metro C Line extension project; noted a majority of residents prefer the Hawthorne elevated option; talked about increased support for the Hawthorne elevated option; the train also carries hydrofluoric acid of
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which advocate against use of hydrofluoric acid at the Torrance refinery.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file the document submitted by Niki NegreteMitchell.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Holly Osborne reported the option chosen by Metro for the C Line extension project was not written up in the DEIR; mentioned they have never sent a BNSF representative to speak with the City and commended Council for the presentation to Metro.
Robin Eisenberg, encouraged residents to write to the City and/or Metro in support of the Hawthorne elevated option.
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 COMPARATIVE
DEPLOYMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL ANALYSIS PREPARED BY
CITYGATE ASSOCIATES, LLC, OF THE REDONDO BEACH FIRE
DEPARTMENT AS COMPARED TO THE CONSOLIDATED FIRE DISTRICT OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY.
CONTACT: PATRICK BUTLER, INTERIM FIRE CHIEF
Interim Redondo Beach Fire Chief Butler provided a brief background of the item; introduced the Executive Team from the Los Angeles County Fire Department ( LACFD); noted this will be a facilitated discussion and offered to respond to questions from City Council.
Councilmember Obagi asked LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien up to the podium and asked about changes in quotes from the LACFD over the years.
LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien responded about the start of the process in 2018 and reported an estimate was provided at that time involving a cost-share formula but was based upon incomplete information and stated the formula has been changed.
In response to Councilmember Loewenstein’ s question, LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien reported the quote did not include pay raises; talked about Redondo Beach joining as a fee-for-service city and reported pay raises are negotiated through the various labor
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groups with the Board of Supervisors. Additionally, he reported that Workers Compensation is included in the quote, that the contract with the City will be refactored, yearly and that generally, they factor about a 3-3 ½% yearly COLA; discussed the general life cycle on engines and talked about taking on day-to-day maintenance of facilities but not major renovations. The latter would involve negotiations with the City and LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien discussed inclusion of liability risks associated with running a Fire Department.
In reply to questions from Councilmember Kaluderovic, LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien commented on the services for which the City would be contracting; addressed accountability, performance terms and response times, dedicated liaison, and mentioned enforcement of Harbor related items requiring an amendment to the County code.
Councilmember Nehrenheim confirmed the City is not currently under negotiations and that this is a survey where the next steps may be to enter into negotiations for a contract and in response to his question, LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien talked about the concept of consolidated fire protection and number of fire engines, response forces in terms of the types of structure fires and balancing resources; discussed the reporting schedule and addressed available and sharing of resources, potential of sharing nearby units. He noted that in the event of a disaster, there will not be enough first responders and talked about offering CERT classes to increase public preparedness.
Mayor Light referenced the level of service and responsiveness and asked about how it gets imbedded in the agreement. LACFD Deputy Chief O’Brien reported that what you see in the proposal is what the City’s expectation is in terms of units that will be assigned within the City; spoke about moving resources around when there are bad incidences; noted that service levels relate to daily staffing and commented on response time goals.
He added that Bay Watch does rescues, primarily and stated they do not issue citations but will address boating safety issues. Regarding the City Gate report, he stated he has not read it but would want to meet with Mr. Gary to understand his assumptions on how he got to some of what he articulated in the report before providing comment.
Council Member Obagi, reported this started six years ago and at the time, the County could provide quotes that were competitive with cities operating on their own; noted that at this time, it would cost the City an additional $ 13.8 million for 10 years to contract with the County and felt it does not make financial sense and the City would be acquiring a service that it cannot afford. He added that the City has a great service that, thanks to Chief Butler and thanks to the work of Chief Kaufman before him, has been analyzed and reanalyzed by City Gate and put into a report of 191 pages long; noted Council received an excellent presentation last month about all the strengths and the quickness of the RBFD and areas needing improvement and suggested focusing on RBFD and improving the quality and speed of service within the community.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to approve by voice vote, to receive and file the City Gate study, thank the County for its quote, and close the matter.
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Councilmember Nehrenheim shared PowerPoint slides and reported that a year ago, May 2, 2023, Councilmember Obagi made a motion which Councilmember Nehrenheim seconded, which was to, “ Approve a reimbursement agreement with LA County for a phase two feasibility study and an agreement with staff to go forward with City Gate to do a study of RBFD and comparative services as well as to make recommendations for RBFD”. The last part of the motion, which never came back, was for a resolution to return to Council, forming a Brown Act Committee with five Council appointed members and two Mayoral appointments, similar to the Charter Committee and a with backup member for each Councilmember. He added that is direct verbiage from the motion and that never came back for Council’ s consideration; spoke about needing to have a community conversation about what is happening because Councilmember Lowenstein and he, in last year's budget gave more than twice what the Fire Chief asked for in services and reoccurring costs and have been vehement supporters with what is occurring with RBFD, to move forward and treat employees, getting better retention and moving forward.
Councilmember Nehrenheim referenced the title of the item; stated these are not negotiations, but rather studies of the Fire Department; noted he is proud of his and Councilmember Loewenstein’ s work since 2017, uncovering, fixing an iterative cycle and moving forward; thanked the County for providing this study to give the City a great point of view as to what they would be able to provide for a cost of services; addressed claims that he has a conflict because he works for L.A. County Fire Department, Lifeguard Division; explained he is not a Firefighter and does not work for Bay Watch; Councilmember Obagi left the Chambers at 7:18 p.m. and returned at 7:19 p.m.
Councilmember Nehrenheim continued that he has delved deep into this subject; noted this is a serious subject as it concerns public safety, response times, equipment failures, etc.; explained this is a feasibility study; discussed local control; reported that in the 2021 budget he and Councilmember Loewenstein fought vehemently against, but Council cut a fourth person off the ladder truck, which represents a 50% reduction in the level of service to frontline firefighter service; stated he voted no on that budget; addressed cuts in public safety frontline services and claimed if they do not have enough personnel to run fire equipment, they cannot safely run the Fire Department. Additionally, Councilmember Nehrenheim talked about a comparison of the RBPD and RBFD; reported his first priority is having Fire Engines that are maintained and ready for emergencies; claimed RBFD will have the newest fleet in the South Bay; spoke about the need to upgrade the City’s Fire Stations; felt Firefighters in Redondo Beach love their profession; asserted the City is not treating them correctly as they are having to live in subpar facilities; opined that before issuing bonds, the City needs to find its efficiencies and presented updates to information presented by City Gate that are factually wrong.
Councilmember Nehrenheim claimed that the $ 14 million number is factually wrong, because in the City Gate report, it says the City is only spending $ 800,000 a year for 10 years across the board for claims and liability insurance; reported the Budget and Finance Commission, on November 12, 2020 had the Actuarial speak to them about what it would cost and read a statement from him, “ In response to Commissioner Samples regarding the possibility of contracting fire out to the county, Mr. Glickman said,
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Assuming fire moved prior to June 30th, 2020, the dollar figure would not change at all because the injured workers have already been injured’. He said that as of 2020/2021, the numbers would reduce gradually over time and talked about the Harbor Station and other issues missing from the City Gate report as well as inaccuracies; wished for the various commissions to review the City Gate report; wondered how much the City is willing to add to the Fire Department budget to fix these issues; discussed the possibility of issuing a bond from property taxes or the General Fund or increasing sales taxes and will send the slides to City Clerk Manzano.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Vicky Oetzell, District 3, spoke in support of keeping the RBFD and not contracting out fire services from LACFD.
Erika Snow Robinson, District 2, spoke in support of keeping the RBFD and not contracting out fire services from LACFD; stated it would be worth it to raise whatever money is necessary to fix the Fire Department; opined Councilmember Nehrenheim should recuse himself, as LACFD is his boss; referenced the $100,000 spent on a study; stated having a hard time believing residents get the same level of amazing service that we get right now; alleged the reason the City does not have any funds is because of bad decisions by Councilmembers Loewenstein and Nehrenheim; stated she lost the election against Todd Lowenstein, because he and Councilmember Nehrenheim were backed by the Fire Union Association; asserted Council will not change residents’ minds on this issue and reiterated her support for the RBFD and opposition to contracting fire services with LACFD.
Steve Oetzell, District 3, spoke in opposition to contracting out fire services to LACFD and in support of the RBFD and urged City Council to vote against the plan.
Brad Waller, District 1, spoke in support of Councilmember Obagi’ s motion to receive and file the item; noted this has been discussed a lot and that resident support is straightforward; reminded Council that it works for the people that elected them and asserted that residents have been in strong support of keeping local control.
Pat Aust, Former Fire Chief and Former President of L.A. County Fire Chiefs Association, reported having been involved in several studies on consolidating South Bay Fire Departments in LACFD, none of which worked; asserted it is not beneficial to the City to consolidate; spoke about being proud of the work of the RBFD and voiced support for the motion.
Jim Mueller discussed other cities consolidating with LACFD because they could not afford their own Fire Departments; opined they would have preferred to have their own Fire Departments; spoke about RBFD providing a personal service by people committed to the community; looked for a comprehensive study of not only the ongoing expenses, but the capital budget needed to keep RBFD and did not find one; suggested the need for a detailed capital and expense analysis and offered to help, as he has past experience in such things.
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Mariam Butler noted there are 77 eComments on this agenda item and all but one oppose consolidating fire services with LACFD; heard that in the case of a disaster, residents would be much better off with the local Fire Department and asserted that is a benefit money can't buy; added that the City Gate study concluded there are no financial or service benefits by consolidating with LACFD. Additionally, she reported that Councilmember Kaluderovic rightfully moved to conclude any further discussions around this topic on April 16, 2024 in an effort to move on and address the many other issues plaguing the City but did not get a second to her motion so that the fire union had an opportunity to review the results and that would ultimately help them in their negotiations.
She continued that she supports people receiving the data they need as they have a right to information, but once it was received, the issue could have been put to rest; spoke about people feeling stressed and wanting the matter concluded; acknowledged the need for employee raises, decreased revenues; addressed the importance of supporting candidates who are pro-growth, pro-business and leadership that will support improving the City’s financial wellness. In reference to Councilmember Nehrenheim’ s presentation, she asserted it should not fall to residents to pay so that certain members of the community keep their part of the City quiet and quaint.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file Mariam Butler’ s written comments.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Mel Samples, District 5, stated he will not advocate for or against either choice which means that he has half of Council thinking he is on their side but does not know which half; referenced handouts highlighting specific issues with the City Gate report and commented as follows, “ Everything is out of the City Gate report with the exception of one flyer that talks about NFPA 1710, ( and I'll get to that in a minute). But page 3 of the City Gate report says that we save $ 13 million if we keep our own Fire Department. If you read in the really tiny letters next to it, that's over 10 years or about $ 1.3 million a year. It talks about this being a flat line projection. It doesn't consider things like workman' s comp costs, overtime costs, or any of the other costs that go into the Fire Department, purely talking about salary. You might spend a little bit of time actually in the paragraphs that immediately follow that. There are a lot of caveats to the number, and they leave out many relevant details. It's been pointed out otherwise. But you might spend some time on page 5 of the summary where the last few sentences say, ‘ Base operational costs for either agency could be more expensive in just a few years, and the City has two capable but different fire service provision options before it’ so, this is where I get kind of upset with the City Gate report and the discussion that we're having”.
Mel Samples continued that, “The report contains no discussion of what we the citizens expect in terms of service from either choice, or it doesn't identify what assumptions County Fire has made in order to arrive at their proposal having to do with service delivery. The report mentioned several standards, but it doesn't do anything to explain their relevance. That's why I gave you the summary of NFPA 1710. That's a nationally recognized standard. And no, there are no laws that govern what we do, but there are nationally recognized standards that Fire Departments benchmark themselves against in order to determine what the response times are. If you know how to read the City Gate
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report, you'll find out that particularly for EMS responses, we fail in a lot of areas, in a lot of places. Pages 31 and 32 of volume 1 of the City Gate report contains graphics of how important these response times are, and page 5 of volume 2 is a map with expected drive times in Redondo. You'll notice that every district in Redondo Beach has an at risk area where the Fire Department can't get to you in this stated 4 minutes’ drive time for a major emergency, that's not just fires. Don't forget our Fire Department is 70% EMS.
It's only 30% fire.” He added these are the kinds of items that are important no matter which choice the City makes and talked about the need to fix deficiencies.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim’ s question, Mr. Samples reported that he is on the Budget and Finance Commission and announced the Commission asked for a copy of the report during its last meeting. He urged City Council to not make a decision tonight but defer this and appoint a committee.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file Mark Hansen’ s written comments.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Mark Hansen reported reviewing the City Gate report, in detail and addressed concerns about the references to Harbor Patrol; believed some statements and recommendations demonstrated a lack of understanding of Redondo Beach Harbor Patrol. He added that the Administrative Report acknowledges that the analysis of King Harbor operations was beyond the scope of the work and the consultant, acknowledged that their overview was based entirely on review of various documents and conversations. He felt they should have stopped right there instead of trying to do a study and provide findings; mentioned they lost credibility with Harbor people and some of the ways they described the harbor; noted they claimed Fire Station 3 was on a wharf, which it has never been; talked about a crow’s nest on a pier where no one has ever slept and Basin A having private towing, where there is no Basin A or private towing; and pointed out other inaccuracies in the report and spoke in support of an Independent Harbor Department with a new Waterfront Director.
Arnette Travis, spoke about residents having their own Fire Department as personal; reported that in January of 2021, her husband called 911 and the RBFD was at her house within two minutes and took her to emergency where she was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer and stated has lived in Redondo Beach for 33 years and until that time had had no need for the Fire Department; voiced support of maintaining local fire services by RBFD and addressed RBFD having EMT personnel. In reference to the report, she agreed that money is needed to address capital and operating needs; talked about developers not wanting to build in the City because of difficulties in getting things done and urged City Council to take this as an opportunity to engage in thinking of creative ways to increase revenue to fix the Fire Department.
Robert Moore, District 3, spoke about working for LACFD, Lifeguard Division for many years and with RBFD; reported Bay Watch does not do enforcement, but rather rescue, and the Harbor Patrol and Coast Guard do enforcement and urged City Council to do what it needs to do to keep the RBFD and make the necessary improvements.
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Abbey Gaske, M.D., District 2, spoke in support of Redondo Beach and keeping RBFD; reported working with many amazing paramedics and RBFD Fire Fighters; urged City Council to focus its attention on what residents want, especially in light of upcoming elections.
Georgette Gantner suggested that street sweepers operate in the City every other week; spoke about needing to raise sales taxes; mentioned the City needs to lure people and stop being afraid of development and noted that the work that Councilmember Nehrenheim presented that needs to be done, would not be done by LACFD as they would not do major renovations and spoke in support of a Police Firing Range.
Carissa Gallardo, District 3, spoke in support of RBFD Fire Fighters and keeping the Fire Department, local; talked about other cities that have contracted with LACFD; discussed the need to learn from other cities to ensure the stability and adequacy of the RBFD and voiced support for Councilmember Obagi’ s motion.
Wayne Craig, District 1, wondered where was the support First Responders was when crew teams were cut, when pay was not increased and when there was a need to replace two 65-year old stations that are out of date and do not comply with earthquake codes as well as other challenges; talked about needing to pay RBFD Fire Fighters appropriately and build new Fire Stations and about a issuing a bond to fund the important projects and suggested having the Budget and Finance Commission as well as the Public Safety Commission weigh in on the subject.
Gerald O’Hagan, District 1, Former Inglewood Fire Fighter, believed the concept of the Fire Department should be a regional aspect as the City is surrounded by other cities that will impact fire operations and spoke in support of transitioning to LACFD.
Nancy Skiba, District 4, via Zoom, Member of the Public Safety Commission, spoke in support of the RBFD; hoped they will have a great outcome to their bargaining and the City will be able to renovate the Fire Stations as soon as possible.
City Clerk Manzano announced receiving 77 eComments: 72 opposed to transitioning to LACFD and 5 with no responses.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Mayor Light dispelled some of the misstatements by the public; reported the City has not chased out investments, the harbor has not been neglected for 20 years and produces more revenue for the City than any place else; noted the City did not chase out the Galleria and stated the project in the harbor was cancelled because it violated State and local law.
Councilmember Nehrenheim invited the President of the Redondo Beach Fire Union Kenny Campos to the podium and responded to questions regarding endorsements by the Fire Association, reported LACFD provides a great service; spoke about some conditions being addressed and increased morale from previous years and discussed
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the importance of upgrading and fixing the Fire Stations.
In reply to Mayor Light’s question, President of the Redondo Beach Fire Union Campos stated the Fire Association wants to be supported, no matter what decision the City makes.
Councilmember Obagi acknowledged that City Council was not taking care of the Fire Department until the last three years, when Councilmembers Nehrenheim and Lowenstein were supported; provided a brief background of the matter; thanked them for their dedication; referenced a referral he made last week to discuss a general obligation bond to support renovating or building new Fire Stations; talked about the School District and BCHD seeking bonds in November and suggested the City do the same.
Councilmember Loewenstein thanked Chief Kauffman, Chief O’Brien and others from LACFD and Chief Butler; spoke about caring for public safety in the community; felt it is a good thing they have done so much work and had so much transparency in the process; mentioned this is not political, but rather it is in seeking what is best for the City and commended Councilmember Nehrenheim for his work on the matter. He hoped that everyone who is passionate about this topic will help to promote and pass the bond to make sure that the City’s Fire Stations are first rate.
Councilmember Kaluderovic agreed that public safety is a top priority; spoke about the long but beneficial exercise bringing good change to the Fire Department and talked about moving in a direction, choosing a path and continuing to address the issues affecting RBFD.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to receive and file these reports to the Budget and Finance Commission, to seek direction for a bond issuance to upgrade RBFD Stations, and maintain the RBFD equipment through future budget needs and requirements.
In reply to Councilmember Obagi’ s question regarding his request to bring back a general bond discussion, City Manager Witzansky reported it will return either the first or second meeting in June.
Councilmember Nehrenheim understood that to be a general bond discussion and explained his motion involves a specific RBFD bond and needing to know capital costs and future needs.
City Manager Witzansky announced part of the cost estimation to be presented in June includes renovation and/or reconstruction costs of both Fire Stations, the Police Stations, City Hall and the Public Works yard.
Councilmember Loewenstein withdrew his second because he wanted to ensure that the report by the City Manager occurs first.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned the report was due in February and City
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Manager Witzansky noted that was a slightly different report involving a feasibility analysis and that this report involves getting cost estimation for renovation or reconstruction of primary facilities for purposes of having a bond conversation. He added it will be a stand-alone item and will run parallel to the budget discussion.
Councilmember Obagi recalled the City Gate study was going to be sent to a specific commission for discussion and Councilmember Nehrenheim stated that it did not.
City Manager Witzansky stated that Council bifurcated the discussion with the first action to return tonight and that Council decided to make a determination regarding sending the second component, the Master Plan, to commissions at a later date.
The Substitute motion made by Councilmember Nehrenheim died for lack of a second, since Councilmember Loewenstein withdrew his second.
Amended motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by roll call vote, to receive and file the LACFD quote with no action on it, direct staff to send the City Gate report ( the comprehensive final study) to the various commissions, including Public Works and Sustainability, Public Safety, Harbor and the Budget and Finance Commissions, that they be told that anything related to the county does not need to be addressed but to focus on the Redondo Beach Fire Department and the changes the City might implement in response to the City Gate recommendations, and then come back to City Council with a proposed course of action four or five months from now with regard to the recommendations from the commissions and staff recommendations for what the City should do in response to the City Gate report; and secondly, direct staff to return with a bond analysis for upgrading all City facilities including RBFD and the Commissions are to exclude discussion of anything specific to our own department operations.
Councilmember Loewenstein noted it is separate from the recommended bond.
The Amended motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
The amended motion carried.
RECESS
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to call for a short recess at 8:30 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0.
The City Council recessed briefly at 8:30 p.m.
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RECONVENE
Mayor Light reconvened the meeting at 8:37 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2024- 2025 CITY MANAGER’ S PROPOSED BUDGET AND FISCAL YEAR 2024-2029 CITY MANAGER’ S PROPOSED FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
RECEIVE AND FILE THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 CITY MANAGER’ S PROPOSED BUDGET, THE FISCAL YEAR 2024- 2029 CITY MANAGER’ S
PROPOSED FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
SET JUNE 4, 2024 AS THE DATE TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING ON
THE PROPOSED BUDGET
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
City Manager Witzansky introduced the item and thanked City staff for their work. He mentioned the printed document should be available tomorrow or Thursday; noted Budget Reports are not included at this time but should be available starting June 4th; and highlighted Budget Themes. He discussed the proposed GF Budget Summary; talked about the new software; commented on interesting links and roll ups that are occurring in the software that staff is working through and noted there may be adjustments between now and the final adopted version and staff will codify, where appropriate any necessary corrections that will be reflected in what will be provided each year in the form of Budget Response Reports. Additionally, he stated that the City’s numbers are solid; indicated some areas may need refinement; reported that staff will continue to work through the document to provide a clean version tomorrow or Thursday; addressed the transmittal letter (the City Manager’ s Message), the core budget, Decision Packages ( DP) and Budget Response Reports ( BRRs) which will be presented at a later meeting; listed goals under Budget Themes; discussed budget constraints in Public Works that do not reflect new, ongoing service changes and addressed one-time initiatives, pilot programs, incorporation of essential technology costs and money set aside to manage known increased cost associated with claims over the last few, significant increases in insurance premium costs, upcoming and anticipated CalPERS unfunded accrued liability payment, which is being proposing this year to be roughly $ 3.2 million. He talked about the option to go pay CalPERS less than that ($ 1.8 million, by contract) and stated staff is proposing $ 3.2 million because it covers full principle, and interest and avoids a negative amortization scenario where the City is going backwards
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in the total URL.
City Manager Witzansky presented the proposed General Fund Budget Summary; urged City Council to think about areas in the budget where funding could be redirected towards other initiatives; asserted this budget does not rely on the pension reserve fund of $ 8 million or the economic contingency of roughly $ 9 million; added both of those funds will remain intact and discussed structural revenue growth.
Brief discussion followed regarding the ability to draw from the pension reserve fund, as needed.
City Manager Witzansky addressed General Fund tax revenues; reported that in the aggregate there are $ 2.6 million increased tax increment over the mid-year forecast; addressed the General Fund Expenditure Summary, Capital Budget Summary including carryover appropriations and new projects and reported anticipating to complete 25 projects and 20 design projects or awarded for construction in FY 2023-2024; noted it has been an outstanding year in terms of capital productivity and discussed details of the Budget Calendar, additional outreach and community participation and listed the recommended actions.
Mayor Light congratulated City Manager Witzansky, Finance Director Wendy Collazo and City staff, for their work on this budget.
Councilmember Loewenstein referenced the General Fund Budget Summary and commended staff for not having a lot of ongoing decision packages.
City Manager Witzansky stated there is more to that number both on the revenue and expenditure side, so that is a net positive and talked about ongoing revenues in excess of ongoing expenditures.
Councilmember Loewenstein agreed that hopefully, the City can stay away from the CalPERS reserve and the economic contingency reserve.
Discussion followed regarding the expected date Legado will be online and minimum TOT projected for the site.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to receive and file the presentation of FY 2024-2025 City Manager’ s Proposed Budget and the FY 2024-2029 City Manager’ s proposed five-year Capital Improvement Projects CIP).
In reply to Councilmember Obagi’s question regarding the status of QUIMBY fees, City Manager Witzansky expressed concerns about how that particular table may be pulling as it pertains to the subdivision trust fund, it may not be pulling in carryover appropriations against that fund balance, so it could be artificially high on that particular match up and staff will follow up on it.
Councilmember Obagi asked about the open space acquisition fund which, at one point,
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appropriated $ 725,000 for acquisition of property along Artesia Boulevard but then the money was loaned out for the Manhattan Beach Boulevard reconstruction and City Manager Witzansky clarified that it was loaned out to the Grant Avenue acquisition and reported the City is in line to receive a grant offsetting or reimbursing the City for at least a portion of that acquisition through Metro. He added that if the City receives it this summer, he recommends putting that money back into that fund. City Manager Witzansky reported that will be a CIP conversation that can be had in a few weeks.
In terms of BRRs, City Manager Witzansky recommended not getting into details as this is not yet scheduled as a public hearing and is merely a receive and file.
City Attorney Webb explained the matter cannot be part of the record and added that the motion needs to set the time and place for the public hearing.
Amended motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and passed by voice vote, to receive and file the FY 2024-2025 City Manager’ s Proposed Budget and the FY 2024-2029 City Manager’ s proposed five-year Capital Improvement Projects and set June 4, 2024 as the date to conduct the first public hearing on the proposed budget.
There were no public comments on this item.
The amended motion carried, 5-0.
Councilmember Obagi requested a BRR for the updated costs of repaving Grant Avenue.
City Manager Witzansky reminded Council there are 80 BRRs at this point.
Councilmember Behrendt requested a BRR on the possibility or recommendation associated with fee increases not captured in the Decision Packages to be considered during the third budget hearing, another on obtaining and performing ambulance transport rights from the County and a BRR on creating comforts or initial upgrades similar what was done for the dormitory at Station 1).
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked for a list of the BRRs staff will present, as soon as possible; requested a BRR on costs of elections for the School Board, a BRR on the City Prosecutor for Hermosa, noting the contract has not been updated in twelve years, and another BRR for historical markers and for Alta Vista Movie Nights.
Councilmember Loewenstein asked for a BRR regarding striping to improve traffic flow around Redondo Union High School on Diamond.
Councilmember Obagi reported that, at a recent SBCCOG meeting, SCAG announced grants for transportation improvements and in response to his inquiry, City Manager Witzansky addressed the City’s process for identifying and going after grant funding; stated that staff could provide a BRR on grant opportunities or possible grant projects that could be funded through various programs. He added that staff tends to apply when
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money is available and offered to look at the program and report back as to potential new funding opportunities for new projects.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEM - None
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
P.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING OPTIONS TO CELEBRATE JUNE 2024 AS PRIDE MONTH
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER Assistant to the City Manager Hause narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of the Administrative Report.
Discussion followed regarding options for Council considerations, the proposed pier lamps under Option No. 3, materials and costs for wrapping the lamps with rainbow colors.
Additionally, Assistant to the City Manager Hause reported on the installation of an art piece commemorating the LGBTQIA+ community in the South Bay and reported the Public Art Commission is considering folding it into the Artesia project.
Councilmember Obagi referenced last year’s discussion about lighting up the pier; mentioned he envisioned something like the way the Los Angeles Civic Center is lit, and City Manager Witzansky pointed out that requires a significant capital effort and would not recommend that change.
Councilmember Obagi favored Option No. 1, to fly the Progress Flag every day in June except for June 19th, when the Juneteenth Flag will be flown.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to raise the Progress Flag at the City Civic Center for the month of June.
Mayor Light asked about the ceremony and Councilmember Behrendt stated not this year.
Discussion followed regarding the possibility of the pier lighting retrofit to be funded by the John Parson’ s Art Fund and finding a way to fund the project.
Councilmember Nehrenheim commented on the U.S. Flag, the California Flag; noted Redondo Beach has no City Flag and felt that flying flags from different groups tends to divide people and that it gets murky.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked for an update on the Public Art Commission’ s work.
Vice Chair Christian- Kelly, Public Art Commission, discussed the Commission’ s consideration of a permanent art piece recognizing the LGBTQIA+ community along
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Artesia Boulevard and did not believe the pier lighting retrofit should be funded by the John Parson’ s Public Art Fund.
Councilmember Obagi suggested avoiding placing/ painting art on crosswalks, as they get run over by vehicles and pedestrians.
Vice Chair Christian- Kelly noted it depends on the media that is used.
Councilmember Obagi suggested a piece on the median, along the bike path.
Councilmember Kaluderovic provided a friendly amendment to the motion to include a brief ceremony when raising the flag.
Councilmember Behrendt felt it would be taking away from the inaugural event held last year and rejected the friendly amendment.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to raise the Progress Flag every day in June and have a brief ceremony when the flag is raised.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Sarah Betty Leinen, President of South Bay LGBTQ Center, spoke in support of the recommendations under this item; addressed their upcoming Paddle and Lunch event and urged the City for its support.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to extend Sarah Betty Leinen’ s comment time.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Sarah Betty Leinen offered to respond to questions from Council.
Mark Hansen, King Harbor Boater, spoke in support of the motion and of any additional support the City may want to provide; addressed his service in the Armed Forces, his respect for the American Flag and noted the American Flag provides for the freedoms of people in all communities and would be proud to see the Progress Flag fly under the American Flag.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Discussion followed regarding whether Council will have Closed Session in its June meetings, having Council attend for the raising of the flag only, without speeches or presentations, prior to the June 4th meeting.
Councilmember Behrendt offered a friendly amendment to add to the substitute motion that the flag-raising will occur at 4:00 p.m. on June 4, 2024 and Councilmembers Kaluderovic and Loewenstein accepted the friendly amendment.
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Amended substitute motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and carried by voice vote, to raise the Progress Flag every day in June and have a brief flag raising ceremony on June 4, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.
The motion carried, 4-1. Councilmember Nehrenheim was opposed.
P.2. DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION TO STAFF REGARDING AMENDMENT OF
THE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH MIKE WITZANSKY TO SERVE AS
CITY MANAGER
Councilmember Obagi reported that he and Councilmember Behrendt served on the subcommittee reviewing the amendments to the employment agreement with Mike Witzansky to serve as City Manager; addressed an evaluation conducted using an outside consultant and the process and noted the Brown Act requires that any changes to the City Manager’ s compensation be discussed and negotiated in Open Session, as it involves public funds. Additionally, he addressed a survey of City Manager salaries of other cities, the City Manager’ s specific requests in terms of salary and extension of contract terms; listed recommendations; noted reasons for recommending that the salary increase be retroactive, including challenges with scheduling the evaluation on Council’ s agenda and commented on City Manager Witzansky’ s performance.
Mayor Light stated it has been a pleasure working with City Manager Witzansky and thanked him for everything he has done for the City.
Councilmember Nehrenheim commented on the amount of change occurring since he and Councilmember Loewenstein joined Council; took exception to the recommendation regarding the salary increase being retroactive; believed it is not fair to other employees that are not offered the same and suggested extending the term to 2026 and doing a review in October or November. He talked about items that need to get done, suggested that if those are accomplished, a bonus could be assigned to that and discussed setting goals and expectations and ensuring that things do not fall by the wayside.
Councilmember Loewenstein agreed with Councilmember Nehrenheim; noted City Manager Witzansky has been very communicative; stated he is split in terms of the retroactive portion, as this should have been addressed long ago and mentioned it is not about money, but about principle and about ensuring that City Manager Witzansky does not leave.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented on City Manager Witzansky being selfless in terms of placing things on the agenda and trying to get projects done and stated she would approve the salary increase to be retroactive, at this time.
Councilmember Obagi stated the recommendation is to make the salary increase retroactive to January 1, 2024 and have a review in October, with a January 2025 deadline. He pointed out that the contract language states, “ City Council may annually review his performance and compensation during Closed Session”, and opined if Council does not make it retroactive then Council should set his compensation, higher.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
City Attorney Webb reported the language was changed to make it more mandatory; spoke about an agreement that October would be an ideal time for the City Manager’ s review and about the possibility of adding language to hold Council accountable, allowing Council maximum flexibility and the challenges involved with scheduling.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Officer Carlborg, President, Redondo Beach Police Officers Association, spoke favorably about the proposed salary increase for the City Manager; commented on his excellent performance and was pleased to see that Council is considering retroactive pay; encouraged Council to approve the agreement and noted it sends a clear signal that Redondo Beach has turned the corner when it comes to employee relations.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned bringing the topic up last October or November; felt uncomfortable about where this path is going in terms of the salary being retroactive; believed that City Manager Witzansky deserves the money and suggested not making it retroactive but adding a percentage point starting January 1st.
Councilmember Obagi suggested making the salary $ 295,000 and not making it retroactive.
Councilmember Loewenstein alleged that the retroactive pay would be about $ 4,000.
Councilmember Obagi pointed out that the City is not changing its policy on retroactive pay, except relative to this unrepresented employee.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to direct the City Attorney to prepare an amendment to the City Manager’ s contract with the City, increasing his salary by $15,000 from $265,000 to $280,000 making the salary increase retroactive to January 1, 2024 and extend the term of his contract to December 31, 2026 and further, agendize the discussion of the evaluation of the City Manager for the second meeting of October 2024.
Councilmember Nehrenheim suggested giving him a bonus at the end of the year if he accomplishes his goals.
Councilmember Obagi noted that would be after the October evaluation.
City Attorney Webb asserted Council cannot have the discussion in October because it cannot talk about compensation at that time.
Mayor Light called for the question.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Obagi
NOES: Nehrenheim
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried, 4-1.
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF - None
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION – None
The Closed Session meeting was cancelled.
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – None
The Closed Session meeting was cancelled.
T. ADJOURNMENT – 10: 00 p.m.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and was approved by voice vote, to adjourn the meeting at 10:00 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, June 4, 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