REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Closed Session - Special Meeting 4:30 p.m.
Open Session – Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
4:30 PM - CLOSED SESSION – SPECIAL MEETING
A. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A Special 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: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Behrendt (arrived at 4:31 p.m.), Obagi (arrived at 4:32 p.m.)
Councilmembers Absent: None
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 - None E. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS Analyst Villa reported no eComments and no one on Zoom.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION – 4:34 p.m.
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION – The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of the case:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board Case Number: 20STCP03193
F.2 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION – The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government
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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.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 the 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:
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.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; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCV10146
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
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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 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:
121 W. Torrance Blvd. Suite #203, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 a portion of APN: 7505-002-908)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Compcare Hospice Inc.
Steve Torres – Principal
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
F.9 CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR – The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon 239 & 245 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
portions of APN #’s: 7503-029-900 and 7503-029-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford, BeachLife Festival
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
Analyst Villa read title to the items to be considered in Closed Session.
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City Manager Witzansky announced that the following would be participating in Closed Session: City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Joy Ford, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, W.E.D. Director Greg Kapovich, Outside Legal Counsels Abby O’Brient and Jon Welner and Outside Leasing Agent Brian Campbell
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, and carried by voice vote, to recess to Closed Session at 4:34 p.m.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:00 p.m.
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Obagi, Mayor Light Councilmembers Absent: Kaluderovic, Behrendt
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Laura Diaz, Deputy Records Mgmt. Coordinator/Sr.
Deputy City Clerk
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky stated there were no reportable actions that evening.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Waller, and carried by voice vote, to adjourn to the regular meeting at 6:01 p.m.
Motion carried 3-0-2, Councilmembers Kaluderovic and Behrendt 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 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Cheryl Park, Assistant City Attorney
Laura Diaz, Deputy Records Mgmt. Coordinator/Sr.
Deputy City Clerk
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited Veterans and Active Military to stand and be recognized for their service.
Councilmember Waller led in the salute to the flag.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/AB 1234 TRAVEL
EXPENSE REPORTS
D.1. MAYOR’S PROCLAMATION OF APRIL 25, 2025 AS NATIONAL ARBOR DAY Mayor Light announced he had one proclamation for Arbor Day; asked Andy Winje to come up to the podium; stated Friday, April 25, 2025 is Arbor Day and was established in 1872 when the Nebraska Board of Agriculture created a special day to be set aside for the planting of trees and is now celebrated and observed throughout the nation and around the world; noted all the benefits of planting trees; noted on March 16, 2023, the City Council adopted its first ever tree ordinance to formalize its commitment to planting, maintaining and protecting trees; thanked residents and South Bay Parkland Conservancy for the activism; stated in 2024 the City received designation as a Tree City USA, over the past 3 years has planted over 400 new trees and has an ongoing goal to plant 100 new trees every year.
Public Works Director Winje wanted to recognize Mark Garlock, Urban Forester, for all his work.
Mayor Light, on behalf of the City Council of Redondo Beach, proclaimed April 25, 2025, as Arbor Day.
Councilmember Kaluderovic thanked the Community Services Department for the Eggstravaganza Easter event held at Franklin Park on Saturday; mentioned Councilmember Behrendt’s District 5 Community Meeting the following evening with Mayor Light as the guest; extended it out to her residents stating it will be a great opportunity to hear from the Mayor regarding his priorities for the City; noted the District 3 Community Meeting will be on Zoom on the 22nd at 6:00 p.m.
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Councilmember Obagi stated that USC Dornsife School found in a renewed study that vegetation in Los Angeles offsets 60% of fossil fuel emissions and mentioned that is why the City is always pushing for trees every budget season for Public Works; thanked the Police and Fire personnel that supported him in his campaign; thanked the Mayor and Councilmember Behrendt for their support; recapped those that attended his March 26th Community Meeting and thanked them for their contributions to his meeting; congratulated the SBCCOG for celebrating 30 years.
Councilmember Behrendt stated his Community Meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center.
Councilmember Waller wanted to congratulate Redondo Union alumni Matthew Yonemura for presenting a documentary he created on Ryse Williams called Ryse Up at the Redondo Union High School the previous night.
Mayor Light announced attending the opening of the Harbor Yacht Club for the year; attended the meeting of the North Redondo Beach Business Association; stated the Army Corps of Engineers had delayed the work on the break wall but understood it is going to come up in May and noted there may be some hazards to look out for; mentioned he attended Mayor Bass’ meeting where she invited all 88 Mayors from the LA region to her abode to discuss all the major events coming up; stated he will be setting up a Mayor’s working group for these events and asked that if interested to reach out to him.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
City Manager Witzansky asked if he and City Clerk Manzano could pull item H.20 to defer to a later meeting date and item H.13 (via Blue Folder) to a later position on the Agenda.
Mayor Light suggested swapping the Consent Calendar with the Public Participation on Non-Agenda items in order to give them time to review the Blue Folder Item.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, and approved by voice vote, to approve the order of the agenda, as amended, swapping the order of the Consent Calendar and Public Participation on Non-Agenda Items.
The 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 for Item No. H.13, H.17, and H.1.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, and
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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 SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 15, 2025
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. DECEMBER 10, 2024 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
B. JANUARY 14, 2025 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
C. MARCH 11, 2025 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
D. MARCH 18, 2025 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
E. APRIL 1, 2025 REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30175-30197 IN THE AMOUNT OF $27,888.76, PD. 4/11/25 DIRECT DEPOSIT 293381-294009 IN THE AMOUNT OF $ 2,364,725.27, PD. 4/11/25
EFT/ACH $9,289.90, PD. 3/28/25 (PP2507)
EFT/ACH $466,320.55, PD. 4/7/25 (PP2506)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 118881-119158 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,803,746.70
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 118879-118880
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH GREEN HALO SYSTEMS, INC. FOR A WASTE TRACKING SYSTEM IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $20,244 FOR THE TERM APRIL 15, 2025 TO APRIL 14, 2028
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2. APPROVE A CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT OF THE AGREEMENT WITH AERODOME, INC TO FLOCK GROUP, INC. FOR UNMANNED AERIAL
SUPPORT SERVICES WITH NO CHANGE TO COMPENSATION AND FOR THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH JUNE 30, 2025 WITH TWO AUTOMATIC ONEYEAR RENEWALS
3. APPROVE A CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT OF THE AGREEMENT WITH SANCON TECHNOLOGIES, INC. TO VORTEX SERVICES, LLC DBA SANCON
TECHNOLOGIES FOR ON-CALL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICES TO THE CITY’S STORM DRAIN AND WASTEWATER CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS
WITH NO CHANGE TO COMPENSATION AND FOR THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH MAY 7, 2026
4. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH KEYSER MARSTON ASSOCIATES, INC.
FOR ADMINISTRATION OF THE CITY’S AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAM IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $22,181 FOR THE TERM NOVEMBER 1, 2024 TO OCTOBER 31, 2025
5. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH YORKE ENGINEERING, LLC FOR NOISE STUDY SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $12,992 FOR THE TERM APRIL 16, 2025 TO APRIL 15, 2026
6. APPROVE A FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH PRO
DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS, INC. DBA PROVOTESOLUTIONS FOR THE
MARCH 4, 2025 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR BALLOT
PRODUCTION OF VOTER GUIDES PAGES FOR MEASURES FOR AN
ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $ 21,000 FOR THE EXISTING TERM THROUGH APRIL 30, 2025
7. APPROVE A REVOCABLE LICENSE AGREEMENT AND EQUIPMENT
OWNERS CONSENT WITH BEACH CITIES HEALTH CARE DISTRICT FOR
THE USE OF THEIR FACILITIES FOR UNMANNED AERIAL SUPPORT OPERATIONS FOR THE TERM APRIL 15, 2025 TO APRIL 14, 2026 WITH
THREE AUTOMATIC ONE-YEAR RENEWALS
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.6 APPROVE CITY COMMISSION APPLICATION DEADLINES FOR NEW TERMS AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the City Council set Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. as the deadline for receiving applications ( http://www.redondo.org/commissionapp) for appointment to City Commissions;
2. That a notice regarding all vacancies be published in the official newspaper of the City of Redondo Beach, posted at City Hall’s bulletin board outside near the Council Chambers and on the City’s website;
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3. That a meeting be scheduled on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to interview applicants for vacant positions;
4. Councilmembers submit their recommendations for appointment to the Mayor by Thursday, July 31, 2025;
5. That the Mayor make commission appointments at the Regular City Council meeting of Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.; and
6. That the City Clerk administers the Oath of Office to new and returning Commissioners at the regular City Council meeting of Tuesday, September 2, 2025, and that the City Clerk schedule a commissioners’ orientation to be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.7. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF THREE HONDA AFRICAN TWIN POLICE
MOTORCYCLES FROM HUNTINGTON BEACH HONDA FOR AN AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED $97, 954
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH ARDURRA GROUP, INC. FOR
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION SERVICES FOR THE RESIDENTIAL STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT, CYCLE 2, PHASE 4, JOB NO. 40190, FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $353, 600 AND THE TERM APRIL 15, 2025 TO DECEMBER 31, 2025
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.9. ACCEPT AS COMPLETE THE DOMINGUEZ PARK PLAY EQUIPMENT AND WALKWAYS IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, JOB NO. 30730, AND AUTHORIZE
THE CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION WITH THE LOS
ANGELES COUNTY RECORDER AND RELEASE THE FINAL RETENTION PAYMENTS TO SIERRA CONSTRUCTION AND EXCAVATION, INC., AND TO PLAYCORE WISONSIN INC., DBA GAMETIME, 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.10. APPROVE AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT WITH
WATERFRONT EDUCATION, A CALIFORNIA NONPROFIT CORPORATION AND TAX EXEMPT 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION, FOR YOUTH SAILING CLASSES AND CAMPS ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY, RESOLUTION NO. CC-2504- 022 OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE DONATION OF TWO CATALINA 14.2 BOATS AND TWO DECK BOXES TO
WATERFRONT EDUCATION, A CALIFORNIA NONPROFIT CORPORATION AND TAX EXEMPT 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION, AND APPROVING THE
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ATTACHED EQUIPMENT DONATION AGREEMENT
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH ROBERT HALF, INC. FOR STAFF AUGMENTATION SERVICES TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY
ASSISTANT PLANNER AND A TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT FOR AN AMOUNT OF 40,000, INCREASING THE TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUT OF THE AGREEMENT TO $152,499 AND EXTENDING THE TERM THROUGH JUNE 30, 2025
CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.12. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH PEGASUS STUDIOS FOR AUDIO/VISUAL
PROJECT SERVICES FOR THE LIVE BROADCASTING OF CITY COUNCIL, COMMISSION, AND SPECIAL MEETINGS THROUGH APRIL 16, 2026 FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $110,000
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.13. This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by Councilmember Kaluderovic.
H.14. This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by Councilmember Behrendt.
H.15. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT FOR LEGAL SERVICES WITH BEST BEST &
KRIEGER LLP
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.16. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT FOR LEGAL SERVICES WITH ANASTASIA
PAPADAKIS LAW AND ADD THE LAW FIRM OF ANASTASIA PAPADAKIS LAW TO THE CITY ATTORNEY’S APPROVED LAW FIRM LIST
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.17. This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by Councilmember Behrendt.
H.18. RECEIVE AND FILE THE MONTHLY UPDATE TO THE STRATEGIC PLAN OBJECTIVES ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER 8, 2024
CONTACT: MIKE WITZANSKY, CITY MANAGER
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H.19. REGRETFULLY ACCEPT THE RESIGNATION OF COMMISSIONER SHEILA
LAMB FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY
CLERK TO POST THE VACANCY
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.20. This item was pulled by City Manager Witzansky and City Clerk Manzano to be discussed at a later date.
Councilmember Kaluderovic pulled Item H.13.
Councilmember Behrendt pulled Items H.14 and H.17.
City Manager Witzansky confirmed he pulled Item H.20 to be removed from the agenda to be deferred to May.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve the Consent Calendar except for Items H.20, which has been moved to a future date, H.13, H.14 and H.17.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Jess Money, District 3, spoke on Items H.15 and H.15; stated he has two problems with these agreements: 1) Papadakis contributed $500 to Joy Ford’s campaign quid pro quo and 2) alleged she is one of the ten highest paid people in the State of California yet she farms out work to outside counsel; felt if she can not win in court or in negotiations the City should not have her in the position.
Robin Eisenberg stated when people are in-house they typically use outside firms and it is very normal because otherwise City Attorney Ford would be litigating maybe one or two cases in court day in and day out; stated it is perfectly fine to outsource to law firms.
Councilmember Obagi stated it is worth noting, for the record, that the agreement with Attorney Papadakis is to provide services for the City’s Homeless Court; noted the fee is 1,985 a year.
City Clerk Manzano reported no eComments and no one on Zoom.
Mayor Light called for the vote. Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
City Clerk Manzano read Resolution No. CC-2504-022 adopt by title only.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.13. APPROVE THE SIXTH AMENDMENT TO THE AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT FOR SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES AND REVOCABLE LICENSE
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WITH SANFORD VENTURES, INC. FOR THE USE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR
THE BEACHLIFE FESTIVAL AMENDING THE FACILITY USE FEE,
OPERATING HOURS, AND REIMBURSEMENT OF MUNICIPAL EXPENSES
ASSOCIATED WITH THE FESTIVAL FOR TWO EVENTS TO OCCUR DURING THE TERM APRIL 16, 2025 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2025
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Councilmember Kaluderovic stated she pulled H.13 just to vote separately.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to approve Item H.13.
Councilmember Behrendt asked for clarification on the item.
City Manager Witzansky stated it is the Blue Folder item and it is posted on -line and available in the Blue Folder electronically.
Mayor Light asked if Council can accept a friendly amendment that adds to receive and file the new Blue Folder Item.
City Attorney Ford stated it was emailed to Council and so the motion incorporated it so the friendly amendment is not needed.
Councilmember Obagi noted that Sanford Ventures does great work putting together BeachLife and opined that the annual renewals puts a strain on the partnership between them and the City; hopes a future long term deal can be created that benefits both parties; happy to reach this short term deal.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Andy Porkchop questioned whether the entity does not have to pay fees to the City to hold the event; gave his opinion about the event and other events in the City; spoke about not having to pay fees to hold events.
Scott Crowell, 517 Avenue G, suggested Council work with the Police Department and the Post Office regarding the parking situation during BeachLife and the Super Bowl; shared his experience during Super Bowl where people used the Post Office parking lot as free parking.
City Clerk Manzano reported no eComments and no one on Zoom.
Mayor Light called for the vote. Motion carried 4-1 by voice vote. Councilmember Kaluderovic was opposed.
H.14. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY ORDINANCE NO. 3293-25, AN ORDINANCE OF THE
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CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 34 TO TITLE 4 REGARDING UNLAWFUL CAMPING, FOR SECOND
READING AND ADOPTION
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
Councilmember Behrendt asked City Clerk Manzano to put up slide 2B; noted it is regarding the Camping Ordinance; stated he spoke to City Attorney Joy Ford , Councilmember Obagi and the Mayor about the item; mentioned his concern is specifically with regards to the bus stop sites (4-34-05B) since it is written that if somebody is seen at the bus stop within a 24-hour period it can be presumed they were there improperly; suggested shortening the time to 20 hours and explained that some people go to work very early and may be there within a 24 -hour period; proposed changing and striking by interlineation the 24-hour period to a 20-hour period; wondered if Council would need to re-introduce it or not.
City Attorney Ford stated it would need to be re-introduced; that this would be the First Reading if passed by the Council; noted they would submit for a Second Reading and adoption at the next meeting; stated she is in support of the change.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to adopt by title only Ordinance No. 3293-25 with the amended municipal code Chapter 34 to Title 4 regarding unlawful camping, for First Reading as amended.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Andy Porkchop spoke about being homeless at one point in his life; opined this ordinance does not help the homeless.
Melissa DeChandt ( via Zoom) wanted to share an situation she experienced with the Council regarding a homeless and handicapped person; reported she sent the information to Councilmember Waller and discussed it with Lila Omura; stated it happened last Wednesday at around 10 p.m. on PCH and Garnet ; she was able to place the person in a hotel along with police assistance; noted the same person had spent many hours at the library and stated she and her daughter have never had any problems with the unhoused in the library; spoke of needing to have discussions on how to help the unhoused during the cold evenings, especially ones with disabilities; suggested to create a program similar to Project Safe Landing.
Mayor Light reminded everyone that the item is not about homelessness but about a specific ordinance, an anti-camping ordinance.
City Clerk Manzano reported no eComments and no one on Zoom.
Mayor Light called for the vote. Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
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H.17. AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN A LETTER OF OPPOSITION TO SENATE BILL 79, WHICH, IF APPROVED BY THE STATE, WOULD OVERRIDE LOCAL
ZONING AND STRAIN CITY RESOURCES BY ALLOWING TRANSIT
AGENCIES TO DEVELOP HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL
PROJECTS THAT DO NOT CONFORM TO LOCAL ZONING AND PLANNING
REGULATIONS
CONTACT: JANE CHUNG, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Councilmember Behrendt asked City Clerk Manzano to light up 2B which featured the proposed letter to Sacramento regarding SB 79; opined that Redondo Beach has been more supportive at addressing the affordable housing crisis more than any other city; suggested shifting it form a notice of opposition to a notice of support if amended and amend it to exempt, from this bill, cities that are “housing abundant”; explained that to mean any cities that have residents of 10,000 per square mile and a certain percentage of multifamily units, such as Redondo Beach.
Mayor Light stated it must go in by tomorrow.
City Manager Witzansky interjected and said they can make some changes to the language; stated the League and the South Bay COG are in unison in opposing this particular bill because of the housing implications and the requirement for the local agency to build and fund the infrastructure associated with the transit oriented development in this case; noted if Council wanted them to include some of the modifying language, they can do that and have it prepared for the Mayor’s signature tomorrow.
More discussion followed.
Mayor Light asked that it is not word smithed that evening and action is given to allow him and the City Manager’s office to work on it and have something tomorrow.
Councilmember Kaluderovic agreed with the approach and the amended version which she felt would give a pathway to what Council is talking about and would bring attention to what Redondo is doing; stated she would be in support of it.
Councilmember Obagi agreed with Councilmember Behrendt ’s proposal; mentioned there is great data in the proposed housing plan for the public hearing about the City’s housing stock; referenced page 679 of the agenda packet showing 47% of households are renter occupied with a vacancy rate of 8.33%, that is 2,490 units vacant in Redondo Beach; recommended pulling some of the more favorable data to include, that shows how housing rich and inherently affordable the City is.
Councilmember Waller voiced concerns for the other cities regarding the requirement to have cities pay for the infrastructure; stated he would support if amended since it shows the City being more cooperative instead of antagonistic.
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Councilmember Castle questioned whether Redondo Beach is the only “ housing abundant” city in the South Bay or if there are others that can use the same reasoning.
City Manager Witzansky stated he believes there is only one other city in the South Bay that would meet the definition of “housing abundant”.
Discussion followed regarding the letter and the power of pulling together with other cities, the intent of writing the letter and the message the City is hoping Sacramento understands, which is Redondo Beach is doing what other cities should strive to do.
City Manager Witzansky explained the importance of the language of the letter; stated the goal tonight is to create a policy type of filter that allows the City Manager’s office to work with the Mayor automatically on drafting letters and submitting them without having to bring them to Council through the agenda process.
More discussion followed.
Councilmember Behrendt announced (for the AB 1234 disclosure) he attended the policy meeting for HCD Cal Cities and parking was $25.
Councilmember Obagi stated he preferred Redondo write the letter on only their behalf, representing only itself and gave reasons why including the City achieving functional zero and offering Section 8 Housing.
More discussion followed.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to give the City Manager and his staff the discretion to work with the Mayor, consistent to a prior letter already written, in drafting letters and submitting them without having to bring them to Council through the agenda process.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Andy Porkchop voiced his support for the item; mentioned Mike Griffiths has been fighting Sacramento on this issue for 5 to 6 years unsuccessfully.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and 5 eComments opposed.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Rick McQuillin mentioned he was there two weeks ago to give an update on See Artesia but the ceremony was going on so decided to wait; informed Council See Artesia is expanding into South Bay streets; stated Joan Irvine reminded him that the Olympics are coming in 2028, Super Bowl is coming in 2027, and World Cup events are in 2026; gave
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his vision for getting people to come to Redondo Beach and said he is working on a Commerce Map; mentioned differences from other mapping apps and to look at it as a mapped storefront directory”; stated he is mapping the whole city; mentioned he is searching for help but that he is a “for profit” so volunteer work has issues for him and would welcome any ideas for help.
Mary Simon said Happy Earth Month; asked “doesn’t everyone deserve clean air, water, and soil to enjoy life on planet Earth?”; stated she is a retired educator that resides in Torrance; volunteers for non-profits and works regularly in Redondo Beach; mentioned she has lived in multi-unit housing for most of her adult life and her family has experienced health and quality of life issues that come from second and third hand smoke; stated her parents and uncle died from lung disease and she will probably too; mentioned the conditions of certain living conditions cause chronic health conditions; stated no one should have to choose between affordable housing and health; noted rates of respiratory disease has gone up continuously; spoke of being involved in research studies as a research scientist monitoring air quality and it was conclusive that respiratory health in children was directly affected by specific pollutants in the air that humans put there; spoke of problems the LGBT community has in finding work, healthcare coverage and affordable housing with clean air; spoke about friends battling lung disease and cancer; expressed the need to reduce smoking indoors and how that can also help cut down the toxic waste that ends up in the waterways and beaches; mentioned she has more information if anyone is interested.
Jess Money, District 3, spoke of referring to the Redondo Government as the Redondo Beach Organized Crime Family; stated Councilmember Castle is being investigated by the California Fair Political Practices Commission for violating the Election Reform Act, that City Attorney Ford and former City Attorney Webb have had to hire attorney Phil Toomey regarding possible violations done during her campaign; referenced a letter he distributed during a previous meeting that he had sent to the DA’s Public Integrity Unit, was dissatisfied with the response received, and has escalated the situation to the Assistant District Attorney, Mark Breart, in the Public Integrity Unit; mentioned adding more charges and information and also wanting to add City Manager Witzansky as a coconspirator; spoke of Mayor Light and Councilmember Obagi forcing Jim Cruickshank to withdraw his argument against Measure FP; quoted sections 518 and 522 of the Penal Code.
Andy Porkchop, Torrance, spoke about stochastic terrorism and told the Council to look it up; mentioned the erosion of the topsoil at the Esplanade and losing one ramp; stated he goes by the Delgado project every day and hasn’t noticed any trees planted; stated the City is a Tree City but needs to plant more trees.
City Clerk Manzano stated there were no eComments or anyone on Zoom.
Mayor Light went back to Consent Calendar items and asked if any member of the Council wished to pull any items.
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J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
City Clerk Manzano reported no comments or eComments.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Mayor Light polled Council on any Ex-Parte communications related to L.1.
Councilmember Kaluderovic mentioned speaking with the Mayor.
Councilmember Behrendt spoke with the Mayor and City staff.
Mayor Light spoke with Councilmembers Kaluderovic and Behrendt.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to open the public hearing and take testimony.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
L.1. PUBLIC HEARING FOR INTRODUCTION AND PUBLIC REVIEW OF THE PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ( CDBG) 2025- 2030 CONSOLIDATED PLAN
PROCEDURES:
1. Open the public hearing and take testimony regarding the introduction of the proposed CDBG 2025-2030 Consolidated Plan; and
2. Close the public hearing regarding introduction of the Consolidated Plan; and
3. Direct staff to schedule a Public Hearing for consideration of adoption of the Consolidated Plan for May 6, 2025
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Community Services Director Hause reported she is providing Council with an overview of the City’s proposed 2025 to 2030 consolidated plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG); stated the City receives annual CDBG funding to support a range of community activities including infrastructure improvements, housing assistance, and public service programs; spoke about the requirement for the City to prepare a five year consolidated plan that outlines their community development and housing goals in order to qualify for the programs; introduced Joyce Lee, a Project Manager from MNS the City’s consulting group for CDBG, to walk the Council through the plan.
Joyce Lee narrated a PowerPoint presentation; explained that the consolidated plan ConPlan) identifies priority housing and community needs and how federal grants help
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meet those goals; stated the grants are administered by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development; spoke about the ConPlan being similar to an application and is required to receive and implement federal grant funds which is over a five -year cycle; stated their plan is for the upcoming FY of 2025 to 2030; went over what the ConPlan includes, and what data is collected and analyzed; spoke about the types of outreach conducted and mentioned they received over 120 responses; went over the priority needs that were identified and the list of 7 priorities the uncovered which included: supporting the development of decent housing, create sustainable neighborhoods, provide vital public services, expand affordable opportunities, planning and administration, to create economic opportunities, and to prepare pre-disaster recovery plans and response to disaster (recommended by HUD due to the unprecedented fires seen in Palisades and Altadena); showed the timeline for Staff to meet the May 15th HUD deadline and mentioned the 2025-2030 consolidated plan is available for public review and commenting; asked that any comments be submitted by May 5 th and announced their
next public hearing will be on May 6th.
Councilmember Obagi thanked staff for preparing the comprehensive plan; appreciated the curb cut work that is done under the plan.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Councilmember Obagi left the chambers at 7:18 p.m.
Andy Porkchop expressed his gratitude for public hearings.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and one eComment in support.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to close the public hearing.
Motion carried 4-0-1 by voice vote. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
Councilmember Obagi returned to the chambers at 7:22 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to direct staff to schedule a public hearing for consideration of adoption of the consolidated plan for May 6, 2025.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING MODIFICATIONS TO
THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE
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PERMITTING AND OPERATION OF COMMERCIAL SMOKE SHOPS
DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE AN URGENCY ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING
A MORATORIUM ON THE APPROVAL OF NEW COMMERCIAL SMOKE
SHOPS IN THE CITY AND TO SCHEDULE A PUBLIC HEARING FOR MAY 6, 2025 TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF THE URGENCY ORDINANCE
CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Community Development Director Wiener presented a PowerPoint that included:
Background
o 15 smoke shops in Redondo Beach based on the City’s record o Documented issues of compliance
o City Council discussion in January 2025
o Draft ordinance to effectively regulate
o Recommend Council review and provide policy direction Draft Ordinance
o Creates a definition of Smoke Shop/Tobacco Retailer
o Requires a CUP
o Limit to 2 per CC District, max of 10 citywide
o 1,000 ft between businesses, 600 ft from schools
o Express prohibition on sale of illegal products
Smoke Shop Amortization
o Allows existing legal nonconforming smoke shops to continue o No CUPs may be issued for smoke shops at a new location until the City is below the cap
o Existing legal nonconforming smoke shops must obtain a CUP within 5 years from the effective date of the ordinance
o Change of ownership a new tobacco retail permit shall not be issued unless below the cap
Smoke Shop Enforcement
o Subject to unannounced inspections
o Subject to criminal penalties in Title 1, Ch 2
o May be guilty of violation each day
o Revocation of CUP and/or business license
Blue Folder Modifications
o C(3)(b) – reviewed the changes and reasoning which is so the City can issue existing businesses a CUP for the specific site in an effort to bring it into compliance
o ( f) – clarifies that a max of 10 CUPs shall be granted in accordance with the location and concentration provisions stated in the ordinance o C(3)(d) – No retailer shall be located within 150 ft of Dale Page Park, too many residential homes
Urgency Ordinance
o Places a moratorium on new smoke shops, explained a permanent
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ordinance could take several months
o Pursuant to Government Code Section 65858
o Requires a four-fifths vote of the City Council and would go into effect immediately
Recommended Action
o Provide policy definition on draft
o Direct staff to prepare Urgency Ordinance and to schedule a Public Hearing for May 6, 2025 for adoption
Discussion followed regarding the number of shops chosen, definition of smoke shop, and why five years to get a CUP.
Assistant City Attorney Park responded to the CUP question stating the law provides anyone with a vested right a reasonable amount of time to recoup any kind of investment that they made in the business; referenced a case law that dealt with marijuana dispensaries, which ultimately led to a reasonable time being about 4 years but it wasn’t passed into law; commented that a reasonable time is at the Council’s discretion; noted that the urgency and the public health impacts need to have a nexus to that period and the investment.
Mayor Light commented that this situation is different since they are not asking businesses to shut down, just asking them to get a CUP.
More discussion followed.
Mayor Light questioned who gets charged the offenses daily, the business or the people who are actually breaking the law in the shop.
Assistant City Attorney Park replied that it is the business license holder.
Mayor Light spoke about an article that said Pasadena was successful in also charging the people who were in the shops breaking the law at the time; asked if that is an avenue the City can consider.
City Attorney Ford stated that would be an enforcement issue and would be separate but could provide a basis to revoke the license and would still have to go through the hearing process.
More discussion followed on the language of the ordinance and possible revisions, the ability to be similar to the cannabis ordinance regarding outside appearance, protection of minors and the legality of allowing minors into the shops.
Councilmember Kaluderovic echoed the things the Mayor brought up; stated she would not be in favor of more than one per district; asked if an ordinance was created to ban flavored synthetic tobacco would they need to amend this ordinance to include banning flavored synthetic product.
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Assistant City Attorney Park suggested including it in this ordinance just to be safe.
More discussion ensued regarding including specifically flavored synthetic tobacco in the ordinance.
Councilmember Kaluderovic noted she would also like the ordinance to include limiting advertising like the cannabis ordinance and limiting distracting electronic signage and bright lighting; asked about the years for the CUP.
Assistant City Attorney Park mentioned they used 3 years as a starting point but it is up to the Council to reevaluate.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked what enforcement is given to shops that have not applied for the CUP, are not in compliance with what the City is requiring and are in violation of selling illegal products.
City Manager Witzansky reported it is spelled out in Section G, at the end of the ordinance; explained existing violations will have to follow the current process and would not be subject to these new rules.
Community Development Director Wiener pointed out that these new rules would be applied to existing ones that currently don’t have a CUP as soon as it is effective; highlighted Subsection E notes standard conditions for any CUP moving forward.
Councilmember Waller mentioned the amount of smoke shops in District 1; wondered if the City opens itself up to lawsuits if it becomes to restrictive and that would be the only reason he would want to allow more than one.
Councilmember Obagi mentioned his surprise that no parents were there urging Council to pass this restriction since unlike a cannabis store, any youth can walk into a smoke shop without restriction; reported doing a Google search on the age requirement to purchase tobacco in California and found it is 21; wondered what products the tobacco store can sell that does not require being 21; mentioned having a screening process in the shops; stated he agrees with everything else especially design review; prefers the design allowed to be as discreet as possible and to go to the Planning Commission for review; asked City Attorney Ford if there is a way to write in cost recovery for unlawful sales.
City Attorney Ford stated it is illegal to recoup costs for enforcement; stated the City can not fine and then use those fines or fees towards enforcement.
Discussion ensued regarding fees and penalties, risks involved in reducing or limiting the number of shops, and if restrictions could be made on type of products bought by minors.
City Manager Witzansky mentioned there is already a standard that minors need to be
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accompanied by an adult.
Councilmember Behrendt asked about the ability to ban flavored synthetic tobacco products but did not want to jeopardize this ordinance; stated it can be decided at a future date if needed.
Mayor Light suggested a referral to staff to explore that item and Councilmember Kaluderovic stated she is happy to make that referral.
City Manager Witzansky noted for the purposes of this ordinance look into Section D.5 and see how expansive the City can be as it pertains to the products the City is prohibiting inside the smoke shop and then if needed take it outside the City’s normal citywide ordinance.
More discussion followed regarding restrictions and the ability of smoke shops to operate.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to direct staff to incorporate the comments from tonight in the ordinance and return to Council and to direct staff to prepare an emergency ordinance placing a moratorium on any new smoke shops in the City of Redondo Beach.
Councilmember Kaluderovic offered a friendly amendment, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to come back for public hearing on May 6th.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Andy Porkchop mentioned the ability to buy cigarettes from a machine anywhere when he was growing up; stated when it became difficult to buy it he gave up smoking; suggested limiting alcohol consumption.
Mary Simon, South Bay LGBTQ Center and Surfrider Foundation South Bay, reported over half a million deaths are attributed to smoking every year; spoke about not knowing the long term effects of synthetic tobacco products, knowing the amount of nicotine in tobacco products have been increasing, and the US Government subsidizes the tobacco industry; stated she is a teacher and it makes her sick when she sees her students smoking on the street; spoke of keeping tobacco products out of the hands of children and reasons why we need to; mentioned how active policies can make a difference.
Jonatan Cvetko ( via Zoom) thanked Council for their active role in trying to keep dangerous products out of stores and shops and for putting together the emergency/urgency ordinance; hoped to see a more robust ordinance in the future.
Mayor Light asked if Jonatan Cvetko could provide input on the ordinance in an email so they can review his suggestions sooner than later.
Melissa DeChandt (via Zoom) thanked the Council for doing this; stated she felt this
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would make a big impact on the health and safety of the youth; mentioned really good peer reviewed data on ID checking from LA County and nationwide and stated there is guidance from the LA County Department of Public Health and some prevention groups that suggest the ideal number of smoke shops be one per every 10,000 residents; thanked Councilmember Kaluderovic for bringing up the topic of flavored synthetic tobacco products; explained the timeline of getting these products banned and asked if the City would consider issuing a citywide ban of the products.
Mariam Butler ( via Zoom) spoke in support of the ordinance; agreed with everything Melissa DeChandt said; made a comment regarding no parents in the audience and noted parents have put in a lot of eComments on the item.
City Clerk Manzano reported 13 eComments, 12 in support and 1 opposed.
Councilmember Obagi wondered if it was possible to prohibit these vendors from selling products that appeal to youth and would give them cause to enter the stores and shops.
Community Development Director Wiener stated he would say yes, at least for the smoke shops going forward since that would require a CUP; deferred to the City Attorney’s office on existing businesses.
More discussion followed regarding restricting minors from entering the store without an adult and not allowing food and drink products from being sold in the stores.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A FOLLOW UP
REPORT ON E-BIKE USE IN THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
Chief Hoffman stated he is back tonight with an update on the status of e -Bikes in the City; noted he will be covering enforcement, education, things the PD has been doing, and encouraging legislation currently available; introduced Lt. Brian Long who is part of the City’s Special Operations Bureau.
Lt Long gave some background on the item and presented a PowerPoint which included:
Enforcement and Citations
o August 2024 to March 2025, responded to approx.. 150 calls for service involving e-Bikes.
o Chief complaints were: failure to stop at stop signs, running red lights, and disobeying rules of the road
o Enforcement efforts included: Redondo Beach Traffic Unit organized MultiAgency e-Bike enforcement details around RUHS o 55 stops were made on 8/28/2024
o 20 stops were made on 2/20/2025
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o Citywide 171 citations have been written over the last 6 months Positive Interactions
o Proper riding is acknowledged with gift cards to local businesses E-Bike Collisions and Safety Concerns – August 2024 to March 2025 o 4 collisions were reported – all minor injuries
E-Bike Training and RBUSD Sticker Program
o Offered to middle school and high school students
o Provides hands-on safety training, followed by the issuance of an official eBike sticker upon completion o 370 stickers have been given, 43 violation notices have been issued Community Outreach & Engagement
o Bike Rodeo – free event, focuses on bike safety and education, kindergarten through 12th grade
o Paid through grant money paid by the State
o Gift card program
o Beach Cities e-Bike Town Hall
o RUHS Work Program Presentation along with the Immanuel Lutheran Public Safety Fair
Legislative Updates
o CA Assembly Bill 2234 (introduced in February 2024)
The San Diego Electric Bicycle Safety Pilot Program” bill took effect in 2025 and runs to January 1, 2029
Only in San Diego County
Age restrictions: AB 2234 prohibits children under 12 from operating Class 1 or 2 e-Bikes
Required ID: valid DL or valid ID along with a skills waiver issued by the CHP
o CA Assembly Bill 875 – introduced in February 2025
Introduced by Al Muratsuchi
Illegal motorized cycles marketed as e-Bikes
Empower Peace Officers to remove e-Bikes operated by anyone under 16 on class 3 e-Bikes or if no helmet is worn
Impound e-Bikes that exceed 750 watts, helps distinguish e-Bikes from motorized bikes
Lt. Long explained the differences between the three classes of e -Bikes.
RBPD e-Bike Recommendations:
o Continue education/outreach
o Continue enforcement of State and Local laws
o Continue multi-jurisdictional enforcement details
o Monitor and report back on pending legislation
o Review reasonable prosecution alternatives with the City Attorney’s office Chief Hoffman highlighted how far they have come; noted the City has plenty of laws to do the enforcement; mentioned they are pushing for state legislation; stated he personally
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met with members from Assemblyman Muratsuchi’s office; spoke of all the actions the Police Department is doing to ensure safety for all when it comes to e -Bikes; thanked Council for giving them the opportunity to present.
Mayor Light asked if any adults have been given any citations.
Lt. Long stated he has not personally seen any adults stopped on e -Bikes.
Mayor Light felt adults seem to put people at risk or are as unlawful as the kids; mentioned adults having heavier bikes and carve in and out in crowds.
More discussion followed on the collisions, type of violations, and altered e -Bikes and how to enforce these types of bikes.
Mayor Light mentioned Council can be an avenue to push legislation if needed and to let him know if the Police Department would like him to mention anything to Ben Allen or Al Muratsuchi’s staff in the next couple of weeks so they can make it a part of the agenda.
Chief Hoffman stated one thing to consider is writing a letter of support for the assembly bill that is currently in the transportation committee that has already been introduced to legislation.
Councilmember Behrendt congratulated the Police Department on their work and success on this item; asked for more information on AB 875 and would do anything needed to support them; asked of the four collisions, if they knew if any were the 750 e -Bikes.
Lt. Long and Chief Hoffman stated they do not, and it is challenging even gathering those statistics at this time; Chief Hoffman mentioned enforcement is one of balance.
Councilmember Obagi highlighted the drop in numbers of reported incidents and congratulated the Police Department and thanked them for everything they do; stated he would be in support of a motion on this to prepare a letter in support of AB 875.
Councilmember Castle thanked the RBPD for all the hard work; noticed the positive behavior of kids on e-Bikes at the high schools and middle schools.
Chief Hoffman opined that the education and awareness has really made an impact and not only enforcement.
Councilmember Waller credited the School District for its part by requiring the kids to have the permits if they want to get to school on e-Bikes; mentioned the need to check brakes on e-Bikes since they go at faster speeds than normal bikes.
Councilmember Kaluderovic referenced the Bike Rodeo and how exceptional the events are; gave a shout out to 7-Eleven for their donation.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to write a
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letter in support of AB 875 for consideration and bring back as a Consent item.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Scott Crowell spoke about the dangers of e -Bike riding; highlighted the Esplanade as a high danger zone since people are often taking in the ocean views and not paying attention to passing cyclists; noted that the riders are often on the sidewalks ; noted that if AB 2234 requires a skills waiver and ID to ridge that suggests e -Bikes belong on the road and not in the pedestrian spaces; mentioned the inconsistencies in enforcement and gave reasons why; stated the City needs stronger enforcement, better infrastructure and leadership that is proactive and not reactive.
Andy Porkchop suggested no e-Bike riders under the age of 14 should be allowed to ride one; also suggested the youth should not be allowed to ride in groups or gangs.
Nancy Skiba (via Zoom) spoke of many kids are not wearing helmets , reckless behavior and an accident she witnessed and also mentioned their tendency to mob; felt parents should be held accountable.
City Clerk Manzano reported no more on Zoom and two e -Comments in support.
Motion passed 5-0 by voice vote.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky stated there would be no City Council meeting on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, and the next meeting will be at 3:00 p.m. on the 29th where the meeting will be opened in the chambers and then recess to the Main Library on the 2 nd floor for the
Strategic Planning Session.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Councilmember Waller requested a BRR for the creation of an AI agent for the Redondo.org website to assist residents and businesses on navigating through the site and a BRR for a new version or an update of the access Redondo app.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to make a separate referral to have a discussion for a citywide ban of synthetic flavored tobacco products.
Councilmember Obagi asked if anyone knows if there is no current law; mentioned seeing on Google AB 3218, SB 1230, and SB 793 prohibiting retailers from selling flavored tobacco products including solids, complexes and synthetic or naturally flavored versions.
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More discussion ensued. City Manager Witzansky stated they can look into whether state law currently restricts it and in that case, they may not need to expand the current ordinance; stated they can report back on it.
Mayor Light called for the vote.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Councilmember Kaluderovic requested a BRR regarding additional funds needed for the Perry Park Teen Center including the wish list of items and any additional staff needed.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
R.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION – The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney -client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board
Case Number: 20STCP03193
R.2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION – The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege. Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire LLC
Bankruptcy C.D. Cal. Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
R.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney -client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
9300 Wilshire, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCP02189
R.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:
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
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Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, and DOES 1 through 25 inclusive
Case Number: 23TRCP00325
R.5. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney -client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive Case Number: 23STCV10146
R.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
R.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
R.8. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR -The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
121 W. Torrance Blvd. Suite #203, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 a portion of APN: 7505-002-908)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Compcare Hospice Inc.
Steve Torres - Principal
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UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
R.9. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - the Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Greg Kapovich, Waterfront & Economic Development Director PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon 239 & 245 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
portions of APN #’s: 7503-029-900 and 7503-029-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford, BeachLife Festival
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION - None
T. ADJOURNMENT – 9:06 p.m.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic to adjourn the meeting at 9:06 p.m. to an adjourned Regular Metting Strategic Planning Session to be held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 to begin in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, and reconvene in the Redondo Beach Main Library, 2nd floor.
The motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
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