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MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, November 19, 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 Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt (arrived at 4:32 p.m.), Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Obagi, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: Nehrenheim
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Melissa Villa, Analyst
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION - NONE
D. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
Analyst Villa reported there were no Blue Folder Items for Closed Session.
E. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS There were no public communications on Closed Session items and non-agenda items.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED – 4:35 p.m.
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, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park and W.E.D. Director Greg Kapovich.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and
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approved by voice vote, to recess to Closed Session at 4:35 p.m.
Motion carried, 4-0. Councilmember Nehrenheim was absent.
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:
Management and Confidential Employee Group
CONTACT: DIANE STRICKFADEN, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES F.2. CONFERENCE WILL 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:
100 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
102 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
108 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
110 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
112 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
120 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
122 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
124 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
134 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
136 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
138 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
140 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
142 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
150 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
160 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
164 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (a portion of APN: 7505-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
All International Boardwalk Tenants
UNDER NEGOTIATION: Price
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F.3. 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 Brian Campbell, BC Urban
PROPERTY:
123 West Torrance Blvd #201, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Pier Plaza (a portion of APN: 7505-003-206)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Jonathan Rosenbaum, CFO of Unagi, Inc.
UNDER NEGOTIATION: Lease Status and Terms
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:
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.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:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board
Case Number: 20STCP03193
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
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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: 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.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: 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.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:
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.11. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
City of Huntington Beach, et al. v. Gavin Newsom, et al.
Case Number: 23-3694 D.C.
Number: 8:23-cv-00421-FWS-ADS
F.12. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL
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LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4).
One potential case
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 6:00 p.m.
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:00 p.m.
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Obagi (arrived at 6:01 p.m.), Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: Nehrenheim
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Melissa Villa, Analyst
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky announced that there were no reportable actions taken by Council under Closed Session.
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 6:01 p.m.
Motion carried, 5-0.
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 6:02 p.m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Nehrenheim, Obagi, Mayor Light
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
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Cheryl Park, Assistant City Attorney
Melissa Villa, Analyst
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited Veterans and Active Military to stand and be recognized them for their service.
Adam, 3rd Grader, Beryl Heights Elementary School, led in the salute to the flag.
Mayor Light called for a moment of silence.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
D.1. MAYOR’S PROCLAMATION OF NOVEMBER 30, 2024 AS SMALL BUSINESS
SATURDAY
Mayor Light called Dominic Cole, CEO of Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce, to the front and presented him with a proclamation declaring November 30, 2024 as Small Business Saturday in the City of Redondo Beach.
Dominic Cole thanked the City for the proclamation; noted that small businesses create two out of three jobs in the City; reported that for every $1 spent in the City, $.67 goes to the local economy.
Councilmember Nehrenheim wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving; announced the Holiday Stroll in Riviera Village on December 5th and invited the public to attend.
Councilmember Loewenstein announced the District 2 Community Meeting will be held November 25th on Zoom.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported her newsletter will be published this week and will have information about the upcoming District 3 Community Meeting; commended Adam for leading in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Councilmember Obagi announced the District 4 Community Meeting will be held tomorrow night at 6:00 p.m. at the Perry Park Senior Center; thanked Mike Klein for taking care of the gopher problem at Perry Park and resodding the field.
Mayor Light thanked Mayor Pro Tem Kaluderovic for running the last two Council meetings; reported attending a Friendly City visit to Itoman, Japan; spoke about the new Fire Engine and Harbor Patrol vessel; stated he was impressed with the City’s First Responders in recent incidents and thanked City staff for the quick responsiveness to resident concerns.
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E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, 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 noted Blue Folder Items for H.12, J.1 and P.1.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file Blue Folder Items.
Motion carried, 5-0.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 19, 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. JUNE 20, 2024 SPECIAL MEETING
B. JULY 9, 2024 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30017-30030 IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,810.27, PD. 11/8/24 DIRECT DEPOSIT 286465-287082 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,288,604.15, PD. 11/8/24
EFT/ACH $9,246.68, PD. 9/13/24 (PP2419)
EFT/ACH $449,079.70, PD. 10/2/24 (PP2419)
EFT/ACH $9,113.34, PD. 9/27/24 (PP2420)
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EFT/ACH $26,015.59, PD. 10/13/24 (PP2420)
EFT/ACH $450,045.56, PD. 10/16/24 (PP2420)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS CHECKS 116806-117055 IN THE
AMOUNT OF $3,979,651.61
REPLACEMENT DEMAND 116805
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, INTERIM FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH SNAILWORKS, LLC FOR POSTAL BALLOT MAIL TRACKING SERVICES FOR THE MARCH 4, 2025 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2,500 AND THE TERM NOVEMBER 15, 2024 TO NOVEMBER 14, 2025
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH SAFETYCENTRIC, INC. FOR LOW
VOLTAGE CABLING AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS/DATA CENTER
SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $30,000 AND THE TERM NOVEMBER 19, 2024 TO NOVEMBER 18, 2026
3. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH STREAMLINE AUTOMATION
SYSTEMS, LLC TO PROVIDE SOFTWARE FOR FIRE INSPECTIONS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $16,183 AND THE TERM NOVEMBER 22, 2022 TO NOVEMBER 21, 2025
4. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH AVANTPAGE, INC. FOR SPANISH LANGUAGE TRANSLATION SERVICES FOR THE MARCH 4, 2025 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT MATERIALS AT A RATE OF $75 PER HOUR (FOR A TOTAL ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE OF $5,000) AND THE TERM NOVEMBER 19, 2024 TO DECEMBER 18, 2025
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, INTERIM FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.6. ACCEPT AS COMPLETE THE CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL PROJECT, PHASE 4, JOB NO. 41140, AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A
NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE PROJECT WITH THE LOS ANGELES
COUNTY RECORDER AND RELEASE THE FINAL RETENTION PAYMENT OF $23,416 TO AMERICAN ASPHALT SOUTH, INC., UPON EXPIRATION OF THE 35-DAY LIEN PERIOD AFTER SAID RECORDATION AND NO CLAIMS BEING
FILED UPON THE PROJECT
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.7. INTRODUCE BY TITLE ONLY ORDINANCE NO. 3285-24, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 7, ARTICLE 3, SECTIONS 3-7.1201, 3-7.1203, 3-7.1204, 3-7.1205, 3-7.1206, 3-
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7.1207, 3-7.1208, AND 3-7.1209 OF THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL
CODE REGARDING PARKING ZONES AND DELETING IN ITS ENTIRETY SECTION 3-7-1210 REGARDING TAXICAB STANDS, FOR INTRODUCTION
AND FIRST READING
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. This Item was pulled from Consent for separate discussion by Councilmember Nehrenheim.
H.9. APPROVE AN ON-CALL PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
ROY COLBERT ARCHITECT, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, FOR
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $100,000 AND THE TERM ENDING NOVEMBER 4, 2026
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT FOR PROJECT SERVICES WITH LEWIS STANLEY, INC., DBA MINUTEMAN PRESS
REDONDO BEACH, TO EXTEND THE TERM BY A YEAR, THROUGH
SEPTEMBER 19, 2026, AND INCREASE THE NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT FROM $34,999 TO $64,999
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHONOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE THE CITY'S STATEMENT OF INVESTMENT POLICY 2024, AS
AMENDED
CONTACT: EUGENE SOLOMON, CITY TREASURER
H.12. This Item was pulled from Consent for separate discussion by Councilmember Kaluderovic.
H.13. RECEIVE AND FILE THE CITY TREASURER’S QUARTER 1 FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 REPORT
CONTACT: EUGENE SOLOMON, CITY TREASURER
H.14. This Item was pulled from Consent for separate discussion by Councilmember Kaluderovic.
Councilmember Nehrenheim pulled Item No. H.8 from Consent for separate discussion.
Councilmember Kaluderovic pulled Items No. H.12 and H.14 from Consent for separate discussion.
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There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and approved by voice vote, the Consent Calendar, as amended, with Items No. H.8, H.12 and H.14 pulled for separate discussion.
Motion carried, 5-0.
City Clerk Manzano read title to Ordinance No. CC-3285-24.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.8. APPROVE THE TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURE OF AVENUE H AT DORIS WAY FROM NOVEMBER 29, 2024 THROUGH JANUARY 2, 2025, AND
OTHER ASSOCIATED MEASURES, TO REDUCE TRAFFIC AND PARKING
IMPACTS IN REDONDO BEACH RELATED TO THE SEASIDE RANCHO
NEIGHBORHOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS DISPLAY IN TORRANCE
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
Councilmember Nehrenheim highlighted the item; noted past problems and challenges associated with the Seaside Rancho Neighborhood Holiday Lights display in Torrance; asked for a list of the changes and improvements made in anticipation of this year’s event.
Public Works Director Winje reported Staff is blocking the street at Avenue H as usual, but will be enhancing the signage program at the entrance of Avenue H and Prospect to provide as much information to drivers to use other options to avoid traffic; stated they are making traffic operational modifications from the Friday after Thanksgiving to January 2
nd; added that Staff will monitor it and see what other improvements might be made while working closely with RBPD and RBFD.
RBFD Chief Butler, acknowledged Council’s concerns; mentioned concerns he had with the cul-de-sacs at Circle Dr. and Massena Ave. since the rigs they operate are so long; stated he is working with Public Works and Police on finding solutions; mentioned he may invoke a Fire Marshall approach and shut those streets off to residents only; felt confident in the plans offered by Public Works.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, Item No. H.8, as presented.
Motion carried 5-0.
H.12. APPROVE AN INVESTOR AGREEMENT TO JOIN JOINT POWERS
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AUTHORITY CALIFORNIA ASSET MANAGEMENT TRUST, AT NO COST TO
THE CITY, IF THE RECOMMENDED AMENDMENT TO THE ANNUAL
INVESTMENT POLICY IS APPROVED
CONTACT: EUGENE SOLOMON, CITY TREASURER
Councilmember Kaluderovic noted that, with the approval of the agreement, the City Treasurer will be able to invest funds for a shorter term; asked how that changes any risk for the City.
City Treasurer Solomon reported this is an opportunity to add a tool for added liquidity and safety; noted the risk is low.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, Item No. H.12, as presented.
Motion carried 5-0.
H.14. RECEIVE AND FILE THE MONTHLY UPDATE TO THE STRATEGIC PLAN OBJECTIVES ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER 8, 2024
CONTACT: MIKE WITZANSKY, CITY MANAGER
Councilmember Kaluderovic referenced Goal No. 5 of the Strategic Plan regarding the shooting range; noticed the City has approval of the agreement for a grant writer and the consultant for the environmental analysis; wondered, given the grant application requirements, if the project will be “shovel ready” as needed.
City Manager Witzansky spoke about the company doing the environmental analysis and reported it is still on schedule but asked Public Works Director Winje to confirm.
Public Works Director Winje discussed the terms of the agreement; addressed next steps and related timelines.
Councilmember Kaluderovic stated based on her research that applications which are most complete will get the highest rating and wants the project to be in that category.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve Item No. H.14, as discussed.
Councilmember Obagi displayed Slide 2b; highlighted Goal 2 of the Strategic Plan and objectives for Artesia Boulevard; noted that North Redondo is getting the attention it deserves from this Council and the City.
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There were no public comments on this item.
Motion carried, 5-0, by voice vote.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1 For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Joan Irvine, District 1, spoke about a cannabis dispensary being a small business and bringing jobs to the City; expressed disappointment that the item will not come before Council for five weeks; discussed a survey asking residents if they want a dispensary along Artesia; noted there has been a democratic process regarding dispensaries and tax rates that is slowly being degraded; announced she has pulled papers to run for Mayor to get back to the democratic process.
Jonatan Cvetko, District 1, thanked Councilmembers who reached out to him to share concerns over disparaging remarks made by Councilmember Nehrenheim during the last Council meeting; explained he has a license in the City of Montebello, the City decided not to put a tax forward based off a voter initiative, but as a development agreement; stated that the latter is an illegal way to gain taxes off cannabis operators and, after much effort to engage them, reported having no choice but to file a lawsuit.
He added that his actions were for the same reason he wants to ensure that there will be no cause for the City to be sued; voiced his disappointment at Councilmember Nehrenheim’s comments.
Laura Duke, District 3, referenced comments made by Mayor Light in a prior meeting regarding knowing where the public stand and postponing a discussion regarding PI zones and the FAR; asserted that repetitive speech is still protected speech and should not be shut down; opined Former Mayor Brand would have been disappointed to know he had discouraged public comment; referenced another instance where Former Mayor Brand and her did not agree on Measure K and the Kensington project; noted there was opposition, but it was not loud or repetitive enough and the measure passed; encouraged the Mayor and Council to listen to the residents they represent, including the GPAC and the Planning Commission, who have worked tirelessly to develop reasonable guidelines to keep hold of what residents want their city to look like.
Mary Ewell encouraged Council not to be bullied by BCHD’s threatened lawsuit; noted the Planning Commission’s recommendations regarding PI land; pointed out that all three Beach Cities voted down Measure BC; referenced Eugene Solomon’s comments on the topic and appeals by citizen groups regarding how detrimental it would be to build their proposed structure; talked about Mayor Light’s exchange with Tom Bakaly regarding open space in a prior meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to extend Mary Ewell’s time for speaking by 30 seconds.
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Councilmember Behrendt asked for the reason for the extension.
Councilmember Nehrenheim stated it was to allow her to finish her comments.
Motion carried 5-0.
Mary Ewell reported that Mayor Light was on BCHD’s Advisory Committee and expressed disappointment that he is willing to advocate for his personal interest.
Geoff Gilbert, District 2, reported his neighborhood has been under attack by BCHD over the past seven years; talked about their plans to install a SCE substation across the street from residential uses to power their emergency generator at the expense of existing green space which was not included in the EIR or DEIR; spoke about a petition of residents from Torrance and Redondo Beach asking them to change their design, which was ignored and urged Council not to approve a 1.25 FAR.
Kyle Kratzer, District 1, reported that in 2022, Redondo Beach residents voted against having cannabis dispensaries in Redondo Beach; talked about increased crime associated with dispensaries and stated that houses near dispensaries decrease in value.
Alan Klainbaum, District 1, Public Safety Commissioner, spoke about an increase in juvenile delinquency around Gertruda and South Francisca; felt parents in the neighborhood may not know what their children are doing; suggested educating the parents to do proper parenting to keep their children safe and out of trouble.
Julian Peters, District 5, thanked Councilmember Behrendt for connecting residents of District 5 to what is going on in the City; spoke about the great businesses along Artesia Boulevard and how they have become less afraid of the City; spoke favorably about an existing hookah shop and smoke shops; listed issues needing improvement; felt there is no benefit to installing “bulges” for landscaping along streets thereby removing existing parking spaces.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked how he felt about the hookah shop being replaced by a cannabis shop.
Julian Peters stated the hookah shop will not be replaced because they have a niche of customers that frequent that shop regularly.
Bob Pinzler referenced a recent article in the Los Angeles Times regarding license plate readers; stated he was in that business and noted concerns related to the potential misuse as well as use of the data.
Melissa DeChant (via Zoom), District 1, thanked Council for everything they do for the City day after day; announced there will be a School Bond Oversight Committee being
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formed and information is available on the District website.
Councilmember Kaluderovic left the chambers.
Melissa DeChant reiterated her opposition to storefront cannabis dispensaries and suggested to use a delivery service only model; stated that will protect the youth, allows the City to collect revenue and allows cannabis operators to sell in Redondo Beach; voiced her disapproval of the actions of Councilmember Nehrenheim at the last meeting where he tried to slander and silence public comment; talked about the importance of civic engagement and doing and being better.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving five eComments, three opposed, one in support and one neutral.
Mayor Light responded to misconceptions; reported he has been accused of only supporting Harbor issues; commented on his track record on Measure DD; explained his prior comment that Council had heard, loud and clear, both sides of the argument on BCHD; noted that everyone knew Council was not going to decide it that night; noted Council was approving the General Plan for the whole City; stated comments began to narrow down on one topic and felt it is a travesty to rezone the whole City and all discussion focused largely on only one property; asserted there was nothing he did to stop public comment.
Councilmember Kaluderovic returned to the chambers.
Mayor Light added that he was not on an advisory committee but was invited to a group that disbanded years ago and noted that he is not about suppressing public comments.
There were no public comments on this item.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS - None
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS – None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION - None
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky referenced Measure FP; reported that Staff is preparing a next steps item, assuming the results of the measure hold, to return to Council at its December 10th meeting; addressed items to be considered on December 3rd.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
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City Clerk Manzano reported on December 3rd, Council will consider adding Charter amendments and will return with the ballot title, the Charter amendment, a measure letter, the request for the impartial analysis to the City Attorney and the arguments.
P.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING CHARTER
AMENDMENTS PERTAINING TO THE DUTIES OF THE CITY CLERK AND
CITY TREASURER AND DIRECTION TO STAFF TO PREPARE BALLOT MEASURES FOR THE MARCH 4, 2025 ELECTION REFLECTING THE
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
City Clerk Manzano reviewed details of the changes to the Charter related to the qualifications for the City Clerk position, per Council direction during the last meeting.
Discussion followed regarding separating the requirements of the position from the changes in duties, having the City Clerk review all demands, the process and required frequency of auditing City finances and preventing over auditing.
More discussion followed regarding auditing.
City Clerk Manzano believed that the City Clerk should hold a Bachelor’s degree especially as he/she will work with department heads and other staff who hold degrees.
Councilmember Nehrenheim left the chambers.
In response to Mayor Light’s question, City Treasurer Solomon stated he feels comfortable with the Charter changes related to the City Clerk.
Councilmember Nehrenheim returned to the chambers.
Bob Pinzler, former CRAC member, spoke about the CRAC’s discussions and consideration of the item; noted the Committee decided that everything should be done at one time, in one piece, as they all relate to each other; reported Redondo Beach is the only City in California where the City Clerk has any accounting duties.
In response to Councilmember Behrendt’s question regarding review of the changes by the City Attorney, City Clerk Manzano reported areas that are pending the City Attorney’s review.
Assistant City Attorney Park understood that Council could make further changes on December 3rd but at this time does not know City Attorney Webb’s opinion regarding the proposed changes.
City Treasurer Solomon stated that changes he will propose were made specific to City Attorney Webb’s comments in the last meeting.
Councilmember Behrendt referenced Slide 3A; highlighted it includes the language that
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was agreed to at the last meeting concerning the qualifications for City Clerk; proposed separating them into three separate paragraphs as shown on the slide.
Members of Council commented favorably regarding Councilmember Behrendt’s recommendations.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim’s question, City Treasurer Solomon confirmed this would be two separate ballot items.
Discussion followed regarding considering the City Clerk and City Treasurer qualifications and duties separately or together, the possibility of conflicts if one passes and the other does not and provisions for special elections and elective office vacancies.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi to approve both Charter amendments as two separate Charter amendments, one for the City Clerk relative to duties and qualifications, one for the City Treasurer relative to duties and qualifications, with the qualifications for both being broken out and enumerated.
Councilmember Obagi added that, as it relates to the City Treasurer, it goes to a first item, then conjunction, a second item which is a disjunction.
The motion died for lack of a second.
Discussion followed regarding hearing the presentation for the City Treasurer prior to making a motion.
City Treasurer Solomon reviewed the Charter amendments for the City Treasurer qualifications; explained the eliminating language “in a related field” and asked for input.
Discussion followed on suggested edits regarding requirements for Bachelor’s degree, or an Associate’s degree with two or more years of experience working in governmental accounting, financial markets or investments.
Rolf Strutzenberg, former Chair of the CRAC, advised Council to clearly write it out to avoid miscommunication.
Councilmember Obagi referenced Slide 3A and suggested 1) A Bachelor’s degree or Associate’s degree, and two or more years of work experience in governmental accounting, financial markets or investments.
Discussion followed regarding requiring a Bachelor’s degree, getting a Bachelor’s degree in a generic subject and a Master’s degree in a specific topic, verification of qualifications for the City Attorney position and writs.
City Treasurer Solomon reported the primary focus of the Treasurer’s office, if the changes as suggested are adopted by the voters, will be in investments and the other
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items in Section 11.1 will be more of an administrative role to see and analyze cash flow.
Mayor Light suggested taking a 15-minute break to allow Staff and specific Councilmembers to work on the language.
City Clerk Manzano suggested that Council also look at the Treasurer’s duties and determine whether changes are needed.
Councilmember Loewenstein felt it is acceptable as written.
Discussion continued regarding designations of CFA and CFP and others from Treasurer organizations.
In response to City Treasurer Solomon’s question regarding the added requirements discussed, Councilmember Nehrenheim stated it is important to require four or more years of work experience in governmental accounting, financial markets or investments; felt that the qualifications are for the voters to decide; talked about not creating a moat to prevent people from qualifying.
Councilmember Obagi suggested using “four or more years of work experience in financial markets, investments or governmental accounting”.
Councilmembers offered additional edits to Slide 3A regarding City Treasurer requirements.
Bob Pinzler asserted that the longer something is, the more likely it is to fail; suggested Council may have complicated this topic more than it might be acceptable to the voters; felt that eliminating Item 5 in the list of City Treasurer requirements may help; recommended keeping it as short as possible.
Council agreed to delete Item 4 and 5 on the list and continued to edit the slide.
City Treasurer Solomon reviewed a read line version of Section 11.1 regarding the City Treasurer duties, reflective of Council comments, the City Attorney’s and the City Manager’s input and direction from the previous meeting and addressed those things that were changed.
Discussion followed regarding defining “Tax Administrator” within the Municipal Code, pending review of the proposed changes by the City Attorney and the City Manager’s input, renumbering and formatting and avoiding voter fatigue.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to approve all of the changes, continue discussions to the December 3rd City Council meeting and propose four separate Charter amendments: two for the City Clerk (duties and requirements) and two for the City Treasurer (duties and requirements).
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Mayor Light invited public comments.
Austin Carmichael, District 5, spoke unfavorably about the employee writing their own job description; noted there is exclusive language in the job description for the City Clerk that gives him pause and stated if there are standards, they should sit by themselves.
Additionally, he referenced a statement by the City Clerk in a prior meeting that she had just received her degree and wanted recognition; opined that seemed unethical; noted he is a small business owner and has done real accounting for his business but would not qualify for City Clerk; felt that the qualifications for City Clerk and City Treasurer are lopsided; stated that expanding the City Clerk’s powers when the office needs improvement does not make sense.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, referenced the scenario on what would occur if the elected City Clerk quit and wondered if the position would not go to the number 2 candidate now that RCV has been implemented.
It was noted that it is not the proper process.
Julian Peters, District 5, suggested an answer may be in a neighboring city in terms of processes; agreed with a previous speaker that HR should be involved in this; talked about who applies versus who shows up and that a lot of luck may come into play; felt that talking to other agencies to learn about best practices may better attract the quality of professional and experience needed to complement the team.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Discussion followed regarding the number of years of experience required for the City Clerk’s position, whether experience should be required working in a City Clerk’s office or as a Deputy City Clerk; more discussion followed on language pertaining to job descriptions.
Councilmembers and the City Manager continued wordsmithing the requirements for the City Clerk’s position.
City Clerk Manzano pointed out that each City Clerk offices operate differently and have different requirements and duties for the position.
City Manager Witzansky stated he feels having five years’ experience as a City Clerk is an odd requirement.
Bob Pinzler reported that around 200 City Clerks in the State of California are assistants to the City Manager; addressed those elected and appointed and mentioned this is a wild group of requirements.
City Manager Witzansky mentioned succession planning and the possibility of ambiguities in titles and assignments; spoke about job requirements and creating
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progressive work experience that would provide for the ability to take the next step. He asserted that having years of full-time experience working in a City Clerk’s office will provide for some development and qualifying experience in a work-related field; noted that if the goal is to be more expansive in opening opportunities for the community, that would be a better change but if the goal is to get a higher level of skill set, then the standard should remain more restrictive.
Bob Pinzler added that in most counties, the county runs elections; stated that Los Angeles County is unique.
City Manager Witzansky gave an example of someone that may have worked in a City Clerk office for 25 years but never had the City Clerk title and they would not qualify under the requirements that Redondo Beach is proposing.
Discussion followed regarding having elections experience, the problems are in the focus of the Redondo Beach City Clerk’s role on accounting, and whether experience should include administering elections in the State of California.
Bob Pinzler talked about considering what a City Clerk, ten years from now, is going to be doing; reported they are more-and-more involved in electronic data management than anything else; stated Redondo Beach is the only city where accounting is part of the City Clerk’s requirements; urged Council to look to the future.
Councilmember Nehrenheim observed a massive amount of financial oversight related to the City Clerk that does not need to be there; acknowledged that Redondo Beach is the only city doing that and talked about everything going digital; asked City Manager Witzansky about the City’s accounting software.
City Manager Witzansky reported there are some additional transparency platforms that are helping in the City’s ability to monitor expenses that may be germane; talked about changing the Charter duties to make it more appropriate to how the office functions in today’s more contemporary world but not make such a drastic change that voters reject what the City is trying to do; felt this is a step towards the future and to align the duties, modernize them and make things functional in today’s environment.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned the confusion between the duties of the City Clerk and what the Charter states and presents a perfect example as to why the Charter should be changed as the role is everchanging.
More discussion followed.
There were no public comments on this item.
Mayor Light reported this matter will return on December 3rd; talked about discussions going full circle and focusing on accounting and mentioned there is nothing included about data management or records keeping.
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Councilmember Nehrenheim explained his motion did not include the changes discussed and that they were made after the fact (after his motion).
Substitute motion by Councilmember Obagi to include the items discussed as qualifiers as well as all of the existing duties and continue discussions to the December 3rd City Council meeting and propose four separate Charter amendments: two for the City Clerk (duties and requirements) and two for the City Treasurer (duties and requirements).
Councilmember Behrendt summarized the changes to the City Clerk’s position requirements as displayed in Slide 3A.
Mayor Light agreed with everything except experience in administering elections.
City Manager Witzansky could not foresee a lateral candidacy and noted the Mayor could expand the requirements to make them more inclusive.
Councilmember Behrendt felt that someone with experience in administering elections would be a good fit for the new duties Council has added involving oversight.
Discussion followed regarding having experience working in the County Registrar’s office and the group continued making edits.
Councilmember Loewenstein seconded the substitute motion.
The substitute motion carried 4-1-0. Councilmember Nehrenheim was opposed.
P.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A CHARTER
AMENDMENT PERTAINING TO ADDING A POSITION OF AN ELECTED CITY
PROSECUTOR AND DIRECTION TO STAFF TO PREPARE A BALLOT
MEASURE FOR THE MARCH 4, 2025 ELECTION REFLECTING THE
PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Councilmember Obagi talked about the Redondo Beach City Attorney being one-of-akind in that he has mastered civil litigation and is also a criminal prosecutor; mentioned it is rare for an attorney to have both of those skills; noted the need for both in the City; wondered whether to place on the ballot now to have in 2029, two separate elected positions: one as City Prosecutor and one as City Attorney; spoke about the possibility of mirroring the City of Long Beach model but making it gender neutral.
Bob Pinzler reported receiving this in the context of a concern regarding the now voted out District Attorney; noted that prosecutions were being pushed at the local level to a much greater extent because of the policies of the District Attorney. He noted that the District Attorney will be replaced and that the impact it will have on the local level is unknown; suggested this could wait until the next City general election and find out whether the demand on the prosecution side of the City Attorney’s office changes
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because of the change in District Attorney. He noted that Long Beach is the only city in the State with the elected City Attorney and City Prosecutor model; talked about challenges and reiterated his suggestion to wait. In reply to questions from Councilmember Nehrenheim, he explained the vote from the CRAC regarding placing this issue on the ballot.
Councilmember Behrendt stated it needs to stay an elected position for the voters; talked about needing someone who is not beholden to the Council; spoke about the current functions within the City Attorney’s office; agreed there should be two offices: City Prosecutor and City Attorney; referenced a pending BRR and noted there is an opportunity to draft the language in the Charter to get it right, to ensure there is no conflict between those two offices, and that their roles are clearly delineated. He looked forward to going through the process; spoke about wanting to hear from City Attorney Webb, to the extent necessary; understood he is in favor of the Long Beach model and agreed with it in terms of having an elected City Prosecutor and an elected City Attorney.
In reply to Mayor Light’s question regarding the BRR and related fiscal impact, City Manager Witzansky talked about different iterations of the model and options for execution; noted that Council could control spending, depending on the resources that are assigned.
Councilmember Loewenstein felt whether this goes on the March election or not, it involved a lot of work; opined it would be good to hear from City Attorney Webb; believed there is no need to rush it and Council should wait until next year.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed it should not be rushed but does not want to delay it; stated he would like it to return on December 3rd to continue the work.
Councilmember Obagi agreed it is too tight of a time frame to get it on the March 2025 election; felt there would be a loss of institutional knowledge and experience if it were left up to the next Council to address; indicated he would like to get the input of Councilmembers Loewenstein and Nehrenheim on this before they leave office.
Councilmember Loewenstein stated he is persuadable on the matter.
Councilmember Nehrenheim stated he would be interested in looking at following the County model of an elected City Prosecutor and an appointed City Attorney; noted he would not be interested in having more elected positions in splitting the roles.
Councilmember Obagi stated he does not think the election of a new County District Attorney makes a difference; talked about the Redondo Beach City Attorney’s office being overloaded with civil litigation, prosecution, and homelessness, among other things.
City Manager Witzansky spoke about getting City Attorney Webb’s input; noted December will be busy for City Council and if Council is interested in getting the City
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Attorney’s input it should be now and not later.
Discussion followed regarding the number of days required to call an election and the need for this matter to be on a general election as it involves a change in duties.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, to continue this matter to the City Council meeting of December 3, 2024, with direction to the City Attorney to prepare a draft Charter amendment.
Councilmember Kaluderovic agreed with the need for institutional knowledge and allowing City Attorney Webb to weigh in.
Councilmember Behrendt seconded the motion.
Councilmember Nehrenheim stated he would be willing to vote for the motion if it was continued to January.
Councilmember Loewenstein mentioned this does not need to be rushed.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to table this item to the third meeting in January 2025.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Bob Pinzler noted having expertise on this issue and offered to help the City Attorney.
Nancy Skiba (via Zoom) believed the positions should be appointed as opposed to elected and felt they should be accountable and answerable to Council and the Mayor.
City Clerk Manzano reported receiving one eComment in opposition to and related to Item No. P.2 and noted receiving one eComment regarding Item No. P.1.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Councilmember Obagi commented that he did not see in the Long Beach model what would happen if there was a conflict between the City Prosecutor and the City Attorney and how that would be resolved; stated he wants to ensure any Charter amendment includes a resolution to address that.
Mayor Light felt it is ludicrous to talk about yet another elected position in the City Attorney’s office; noted the City does not have that big of a pool and is comparing it to the only city in the State that has that model and has over 450,000 people. He added that the City has lived without an elected prosecutor forever and felt that, from a fiduciary perspective, it is reckless to introduce this added bureaucracy to the City.
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The substitute motion failed 2-3-0, by voice vote, with Councilmembers Behrendt, Kaluderovic and Obagi opposed.
The motion carried 3-2-0, by voice vote, with Councilmembers Loewenstein and Nehrenheim, opposed.
Mayor Light vetoed the motion.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi to override the veto.
The motion died for lack of a second.
Councilmember Obagi asserted that Council has discussed this item many times and questioned not allowing further discussion on the matter.
Mayor Light indicated that Council’s agenda is full and felt that this needs to be flushed out further and given additional time.
Councilmember Behrendt suggested continuing this until December 3rd or the 10th to check in with the City Attorney with no vote on making the change.
Councilmember Loewenstein interjected there is no urgency to bring this matter back in December.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to continue this item to the City Council meeting of December 10th.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Bob Pinzler noted this would not be taking effect until 2029.
There were no other public comments.
Councilmember Nehrenheim reiterated that this can wait until the end of January.
Councilmember Loewenstein added that Council has a lot on its plate in December and wondered about the urgency.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, and approved by voice vote, to continue this item until the City Council meeting of January 7, 2024.
The substitute motion carried 5-0.
Councilmember Obagi left the meeting at 9:30 p.m.
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Mayor Light left the chambers at 9:30 p.m.
P.3. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A CHARTER AMENDMENT PERTAINING TO THE CITY’S “PUBLISHING” PROCESS AND
DIRECTION TO STAFF TO PREPARE A BALLOT MEASURE FOR THE
MARCH 4, 2025 ELECTION REFLECTING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT Bob Pinzler noted the issue with “publishing” involves a future issue; explained the way the Charter is written, it must be in a physical publication in the City; reported that is going away; talked about related costs; addressed changing practices in terms of bid notices and responses to bids; discussed the definition of “publish” and talked about using language in the Charter that is generic enough to deal with changes in business without having to do another Charter change.
Mayor Light returned to the chambers.
Discussion followed regarding the lack of specific language, the CRAC’s discussions and recommendation to remove specific mention of “print” publications.
Councilmember Nehrenheim recalled the City Attorney was going to create language and return to Council for discussion.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to continue this item to the City Council meeting of December 3rd, pending creation of specific language for this item by the City Attorney or otherwise to the January 7, 2025 meeting.
Councilmember Loewenstein left the chambers.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Rolf Strutzenberg, former CRAC Chair, noted this was brought to the Committee by the City Clerk and was predicated around one big publishing cost, not ongoing small ones; reported there is no urgency to this but asserted the need for Council to consider this affects multiple areas of the City Charter.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, recommended changing “publish” to “post” and putting everything on the City website.
Austin Carmichael, District 5, felt that it would comply with State law; spoke about the Right to Work posters not working as now many work remotely and the State has provided language to “post” on the internet and websites.
Mayor Light noted that just because it exists in one place, does not necessarily mean it applies in all spaces.
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There were no other public comments on this item.
The motion carried 3-0-2 by voice vote. Councilmember Obagi and Loewenstein were absent.
Councilmember Loewenstein returned to the chambers.
Councilmember Behrendt left the chambers.
P.4. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A CHARTER
AMENDMENT PERTAINING TO THE RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS TO BE
ELIGIBLE FOR MAYOR AND DIRECTION TO STAFF TO PREPARE A
BALLOT MEASURE FOR THE MARCH 4, 2025 ELECTION REFLECTING THE
PROPOSED AMENDMENT
City Clerk Manzano reported this item was left to the City Attorney to draft.
Bob Pinzler reported that one of the issues is that the mayor does not have to remain a resident of the City after an election and stated that it is out of sync with everything else in the Charter.
Mayor Light hoped the intent is to make it match with the rest of the Council.
Councilmember Behrendt returned to the chambers.
Rolf Strutzenberg interjected that Council’s request was that the CRAC not draft further language, and this is simply to align the Mayor with the rest of the Council.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to continue this item to the City Council meeting of December 3rd, pending creation of specific language for this item by the City Attorney or move it to the January 7, 2025 meeting.
There were no public comments regarding this item.
The motion carried 4-0-1 by voice vote. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
P.5. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON CITY COMMISSION MEETING
PROCEDURES AND METHODS OF COMMUNICATION WITH CITY COUNCIL Councilmember Kaluderovic reported meeting with Councilmember Obagi to discuss challenges with Commissions; itemized general goals to increase attendance; talked about not getting complete information when it comes to absences; noted the Commissions do a lot of work and advise the Council; spoke about the need to make them feel they are valued and listed proposed changes to consider.
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In response to Mayor Light’s question regarding the expectation tonight, City Manager Witzansky requested general direction on what would be an update to Commission protocols and procedures; noted this would need to return for more substantive discussion and action.
Councilmember Kaluderovic referenced Slide 2A and listed details of proposed solutions to challenges with Commissions involving absences.
Mayor Light talked about leaving some discretion as there could be extenuating circumstances.
Councilmember Obagi returned to the meeting.
Councilmember Obagi mentioned there could be an appeal to Council; noted this is the initial idea and is open to input.
Discussion followed regarding codifying this by ordinance, resolution or other document, opportunities for Commissioners to petition and appeal; declaring a position vacant after three absences in one year unless it is appealed and putting the onus on them.
In response to Mayor Light’s question, City Manager Witzansky provided an update on the Commission Attendance Report; reported that the idea is to have real-time information available to Council versus relying on meeting minutes.
Mayor Light reiterated that Council has to be able to look at extenuating circumstances.
Discussion followed regarding determining excused and unexcused absences, requesting an excused absence prior to the meeting when the absence is anticipated, and allowing Commissions to provide written reports to Council at any time after they have been reviewed and approved by the Commission to facilitate communication between the Commission and Council.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned the Commissions are able to do that already; noted these are rules and guidelines for the Commissions; believed they should not be in a resolution or an ordinance and suggested it could be a Commissioner Handbook.
Mayor Light shared his experience on the Harbor Commission; reported the Commission would review and approve memorandums to submit to Council and observed no problems with the process.
Councilmember Nehrenheim mentioned that each Commission is treated differently and saw that as a separate problem.
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Mayor Light mentioned there should be consistency.
City Manager Witzansky stated the goal with this process is to try and create structure among all of the Commissions by which all Commissioners understand they have an ability to communicate with Council and they have an opportunity within their agendas, to create and schedule future agenda items.
Discussion followed regarding concerns about jurisdiction and authorities, acting within the purview of the Commission and having a check and balance on referrals to ensure appropriate allocation of resources.
Councilmember Nehrenheim agreed with having a roadmap to make changes to the Commissions in addition to a set of ordinances that can be updated; mentioned there are a lot of people in the City who would like to volunteer.
Councilmember Obagi addressed rules of conduct for Commissioners; felt they should be warned that no rudeness will be tolerated and would be grounds for removal from the Commission; mentioned that seems to be a problem with the Public Safety Commission; suggested changing the “Referrals to Staff” section of the Commission agendas to “Future Agenda Planning” and advising members of the Commission, it is their duty to advise Council, not to direct Staff.
City Manager Witzansky talked about making it clear that Commissioners understand they have the power to set their own agenda within their purview; informing them that Staff will consider whether the item is constructive to operations, towards achieving a Council policy or objective, something that is part of the Strategic Plan or something that is accretive to operations to determine Staff’s support.
Councilmember Obagi spoke about needing to staff the Commissions with someone who can manage them appropriately.
Councilmember Nehrenheim referenced the Messina Project and how it went to the Public Works Commission but not to Public Safety, where it should have gone and mentioned there may be cases where the expertise of another Commission needs to be considered. He added this is a working document and suggested separating an ordinance from the guiding document; talked about Commissioners getting their own emails, being able to create their own documents and making public records requests; asked that Councilmember Obagi circulate the document.
Discussion followed regarding conduct and meeting rules, reviewing the existing Commission Handbook, having Staff collect input from Council, advancing this as best as possible and amending the existing ordinance.
Mayor Light encouraged Council to send comments to staff.
Council continued making edits to the proposed changes.
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City Manager Witzansky stated the item will return to Council in January; noted that staff needs to be as disciplined as possible with prioritizing resources especially with Measure FP coming online.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Bob Pinzler reported Redondo Beach is not the first city to deal with this; noted there are handbooks in many cities and it would be worth reviewing what they do.
Austin Carmichael, District 5, Public Safety Commissioner, talked about the differences between referral and directives; discussed ensuring that the language is clear; questioned why the sewer system was placed under Public Safety; opined liaisons should not shut down referrals to Staff; mentioned a request for updates on specific projects that was denied because Staff was too busy; stated a report was provided to Holly Mitchell; addressed friction between the Commissions and Council.
Councilmember Obagi wanted to give clarity on referrals to Staff; stated City Council members cannot direct anybody on Staff to do anything, except the City Manager; noted it involves placing items on future agendas, as a body; noted that Commissions are advisory bodies to Council and have an obligation to give Council advice and not to tell employees what to do. He spoke about lanes that the Commissions must stay in such as the Budget and Finance Commission, the Public Works Commission and the Public Safety Commission.
Julian Peters, District 5, wondered where one would learn about commissions and committees and how to apply.
Mayor Light reported the information is available on the City website and in various other media.
Georgette Gantner spoke favorably about the item; felt there should be rules; noted it is a commitment and suggested it should be stressed during the interview process that it requires a serious commitment; felt that the position should be declared vacant after six absences.
Nancy Skiba (via Zoom), District 4, Public Safety Commissioner, thanked Council for its consideration of this item.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, and approved by voice vote, to receive and file the report and direct Staff to move forward with these items, delineating which are ordinances and which will be part of the handbook and consolidating comments and returning with an update in January.
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The motion carried 5-0.
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about the Tree Ordinance and the Riviera Village ordinance change for the notary.
City Manager Witzansky reported that Staff is working on it; announced the upcoming Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to refer, for the January 2025 Public Safety Commission meeting, a discussion regarding the truck route and speeding at Palos Verdes Boulevard and Prospect Avenue and signage, and requesting representatives from the Public Works Department be in attendance.
Discussion followed regarding including Torrance Boulevard and whether it will return to Council after consideration by the Public Safety Commission.
City Manager Witzansky believed the matter was discussed by the Public Works and Sustainability Commission; mentioned there has been related work product done on the area already; confirmed that Staff can support that discussion in January.
Councilmember Obagi seconded the motion.
Councilmember Nehrenheim reported there have been bad accidents the last few months and the matter needs to be addressed.
The motion carried 5-0, by voice vote.
Councilmember Loewenstein requested clarification offline on the City’s policy for paying municipal fines for indigent people.
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 – 10:20 p.m.
T.1. ADJOURN IN MEMORY OF JACK EPSTEIN, LONGTIME LOS ANGELES
AREA FOOTBALL COACH AND REDONDO BEACH RESIDENT
Councilmember Nehrenheim read an obituary for longtime Los Angeles area football
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coach and Redondo Beach resident Jack Epstein.
Councilmember Loewenstein shared his thoughts about Jack Epstein and spoke about his involvement in the City.
Mayor Light offered his comments and Councilmember Behrendt read a statement written by the Epstein’s in 2017 when describing then Council Candidate Nehrenheim.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to adjourn the meeting at 10:20 p.m., in memory of Jack Epstein, longtime Los Angeles football coach and Redondo Beach resident, to an Adjourned Regular meeting to be held at 4:30 p.m. (Closed Session) and a Regular meeting to held at 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chambers, 415 N. Pacific Coast Hwy.
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