REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Closed Session – Cancelled
Open Session – Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
4:30 PM - CLOSED SESSION – ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING -
CANCELLED
6:00 PM – OPEN SESSION – REGULAR MEETING
A. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order at 6:03 p.m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Mayor Light, Behrendt (arrived at 6:53 p.m.)
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Laura Diaz, Records Mgmt. Coordinator/ Sr. Deputy
City Clerk
Mayor Light asked that any veterans or active duty military in the audience stand and be recognized for their service.
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited Karen to lead in the salute to the flag.
Karen, 5
th Grader at Alta Vista Elementary School, led in the salute to the flag.
Mayor Light asked all to remain standing for a moment of silent invocation.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/AB 1234 TRAVEL
EXPENSE REPORTS
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D.1. MAYOR’S COMMENDATION TO KUNIKO ISHIMOTO AND KAREN LEE,
REDONDO BEACH AMBASSADORS TO SISTER CITY ITOMAN CITY,
OKINAWA, JAPAN
Mayor Light provided some information regarding the visitors from the City’s sister city, Itoman City in Okinawa, Japan; noted that the visitors from Japan could not have come without the help and translation from Kuniko Ishimoto and Karen Lee, ambassadors to Itoman City, Okinawa, Japan; presented commendations to Kuniko Ishimoto and Karen Lee.
D.2. CITY CLERK ELEANOR MANZANO TO ADMINISTER THE OATH OF OFFICE
TO NEW CITY PROSECUTOR SYDNE MICHEL
City Clerk Manzano administered the Oath of Office to Sydne Michel.
City Prosecutor Michel thanked City Attorney Joy Ford for all her support and congratulated her on her new appointment; thanked former City Prosecutor Melanie Chavira and several other people for their support; stated she looks forward to upholding the law for the City.
D.3. CITY CLERK ELEANOR MANZANO TO ADMINISTER THE OATH OF OFFICE
TO APPOINTED BOARD MEMBERS AND COMMISSIONERS
City Clerk Manzano invited the newly appointed and re-appointed Commissioners up to the front and administered the Oath of Office to all of them; each person introduced themselves and stated what commission they were appointed to.
Mayor Light stated he had no expenses to report; announced he would be on vacation from October 10th through October 22nd and stated Councilmember Behrendt will preside over the meetings as Mayor Pro Tem; reported he attended the Port Royal Yacht Club fundraiser for two different non-profits over the weekend, met with City Manager Witzansky and the Southern California Association of Governments Housing Group, met with State Senator Ben Allen and his staff regarding housing, reported going to the Chamber mixer at Seaside Lagoon, and attended the groundbreaking of the lower pond at Wilderness Park; announced a meeting on water polo coming up and the first ever Open-Water Water polo Event on September 20th, which will be the first ever in the history of the City’s Harbor; reported he will have a follow up meeting on the potential “watch party” for the FIFA World Cup at Seaside Lagoon.
Councilmember Obagi reported attending the groundbreaking event at Wilderness Park and noted all five Councilmembers were in attendance and that Mayor Light was the MC; thanked Community Services Director Hause for organizing a bus to take them to Wilderness Park; thanked the Planning Commission for approving the 350 residential units for the Galleria and imposing conditions that look out for the City and the residents.
Councilmember Castle reported attending the groundbreaking at Wilderness Park,
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attending the water polo meetings, noted it starts at 8:00 a.m. on September 20th, attended the Chamber mixer and the launch party for a new magazine called City Lifestyle; stated he and Councilmember Waller attended a review with the RBPD for a state law that looks into military type equipment as well as crowd control equipment that they needs to be reported; announced he attended the Southern California Association of Governments meeting on housing.
Councilmember Kaluderovic announced her District 3 Community Meeting would be held on Friday, September 19th at 6:00 p.m. on the Beach Cities Health Campus in their meeting room; announced Swim the Avenues is that Saturday and Dine-Around-Artesia is on the 10th; stated she would be going to the Executive Committee for Regional Homeless Alignment Meeting on Friday.
Councilmember Waller reported he also attended the groundbreaking for Wilderness Park, the Chamber regional mixer, and the police equipment review; noted he had attended the South Bay Aerospace Alliance meeting, and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments meeting but no quorum was met but still heard some good information; reported he had a conversation with Torrance Councilmember Sheikh regarding with the MAT and bike lanes; announced Keep the Esplanade Beautiful would have their monthly cleanup on Saturday, September, 6th at 9:00 a.m., Swim the Avenues is Sunday, September 7th at 8:00 a.m., Dine-Around-Artesia on September 10th, his next Community Meeting would be on September 13th at Alta Vista Community Center at 9:30 a.m., and Southland Conservancy is doing Esplanade Bluff restoration every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. and alternate Saturday mornings.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to approve the order of the agenda.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. AGENCY RECESS – 6:31 P.M.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to recess to the Housing Authority at 6:31 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F.1. REGULAR MEETING OF THE REDONDO BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
F.2. REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY FINANCING AUTHORITY CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
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RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING FROM AGENCY MEETING – 6:55 P.M.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Laura Diaz, Records Mgmt. Coordinator/ Sr. Deputy
City Clerk
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
City Clerk Manzano reported three Blue Folder items: H.3, J.1, and P.1.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file the Blue Folder items.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
G.1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 2, 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. AUGUST 5, 2025 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
B. AUGUST 12, 2025 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
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CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30372-30386 IN THE AMOUNT OF $18,806.82, PD. 8/29/25 DIRECT DEPOSIT 299794-300434 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,375,668.79, PD. 8/29/25
EFT/ACH $9,315.20, PD. 7/18/25 (PP2515)
EFT/ACH $470,070.98, PD. 7/28/25 (PP2514)
EFT/ACH $470,678.05, PD. 8/11/25 (PP2515)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 121180-121396 IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,923,932.45
EFT CALPERS MEDICAL INSURANCE $518,309.82
DIRECT DEPOSIT 100009711-100009798 IN THE AMOUNT OF $99,902.42, PD.8/29/25
REPLACEMENT DEMAND 121179
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AND LICENSING
AGREEMENT WITH DARIUS LABS, INC. FOR A 3-MONTH TRIAL OF A
COMPUTER REPORT WRITING SOFTWARE PLATFORM AT NO COST TO THE CITY FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 3, 2025 TO DECEMBER 2, 2025 CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
2. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH TYLER
TECHNOLOGIES, INC. FOR THE ADDITION OF WORK NUMBER
EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATION SERVICES AT NO COST TO THE CITY BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 UNTIL TERMINATED
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, IT DIRECTOR
3. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH DISABILITY ACCESS CONSULTANTS, LLC TO UPDATE THE CITY’S ADA SELF
EVALUATION AND TRANSITION PLAN FOR AN AMOUNT OF $34,700 AND TO EXTEND THE TERM TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2026
CONTACT: ANDY WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
4. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH CLEARGOV, INC. FOR A CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BUDGETING MODULE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $25,110 FOR THE INITIAL TERM SEPTEMBER 8, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 7, 2026, WITH ONE-YEAR RENEWALS AT $21,060 PLUS A 6%
PRICE INCREASE FOR EACH RENEWAL TERM
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CONTACT: ANDY WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.6. APPROVE THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE RESIDENTIAL STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT, CYCLE 2, PHASE 5, JOB NO. 40190,
AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY CLERK TO ADVERTISE THE PROJECT FOR
COMPETITIVE BIDS
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.7. APPROVE FUNDING AGREEMENT (#9200000000M460114) WITH THE LOS
ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
(METRO) TO REIMBURSE THE CITY FOR PREDESIGN COSTS ASSOCIATED
WITH THE AVIATION BOULEVARD PEDESTRIAN SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS
PROJECT
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH KEYSER MARSTON ASSOCIATES, INC.
FOR CONSULTING SERVICES FOR ADMINISTRATION OF THE CITY’S
AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAM IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$34,999 AND THE TERM NOVEMBER 1, 2025 TO OCTOBER 31, 2026 CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.9. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH MNS ENGINEERS, INC. FOR COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) CONSULTING SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $40,000, USING HUD ENTITLEMENT FUNDS, FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 3, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 2, 2026
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH CARFAX, INC. FOR ENROLLMENT IN THE “CARFAX FOR POLICE PROGRAM” TO ALLOW FOR THE EXCHANGE OF
VEHICLE-ONLY TRAFFIC COLLISION DATA AT NO COST TO THE CITY, FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 1, 2026, WITH ANNUAL
RENEWALS UNLESS TERMINATED
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.11. RECEIVE AND FILE THE REDONDO BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT’S ANNUAL MILITARY EQUIPMENT REPORT, IN COMPLIANCE WITH TITLE 3, CHAPTER 16 OF THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE AND
ASSEMBLY BILL 481
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CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.12. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2509-066, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
LEASING CERTAIN PROPERTY TO EL CINCO DE MAYO MEXICAN FOOD
LLC APPROVE A LEASE WITH EL CINCO DE MAYO MEXICAN FOOD LLC FOR RESTAURANT SPACE AT 102 AND 104 INTERNATIONAL BOARDWALK FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2030 CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.13. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2509-067, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
LEASING CERTAIN PROPERTY TO GUNGHO ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA, INC. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE LEASE WITH GUNGHO ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA, INC. FOR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE SPACE AT 127 W. TORRANCE BLVD., SUITE 100 AND 105 W. TORRANCE BLVD., SUITE 106, FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 1, 2026
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.14. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH KOSMONT & ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR
REAL ESTATE CONSULTING SERVICES FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $50,000 AND THE TERM SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.15. APPROVE A LEGAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH COVINGTON &
BURLING, LLP FOR LEGAL SERVICES
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.16. RECEIVE AND FILE THE CITY ATTORNEY AUTHORIZATION REPORT FOR SETTLEMENTS IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $25,000
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
Councilmember Obagi thanked Public Works for Item H.6.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to approve the Consent Calendar items H.1 through H.16.
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Mayor Light invited public comment.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and one opposed eComment for H.15.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
City Clerk Manzano read H.12 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2509-066 and read H.13 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2509-067.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS - None
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
(Sheila) Lucila Johanknecht spoke in support of seniors, widows, and widowers about the hardships of the costs of permits and remodeling of their homes; reported she was shocked to hear from the Planning Department that 100 sq ft costs about $6,000 and 150 sq ft costs almost $8,000 which does not include plumbing, electrical, or mechanical; described the size of her home as being 780 sq ft and asked what portion of the money goes to schools; noted they already pay towards schools in their property taxes and due to the state of the economy, tariffs, and other factors they are all on a budget and struggle to fix their homes to prepare for their “golden” years; gave some background on her life in Redondo Beach; asked for the senior discount to be established for homes that are 12,000 sq ft or lower so they can remodel and stay on budget.
Mayor Light asked staff if any of the fees from Planning go to the schools.
City Manager Witzansky responded that it does not, it goes to the General Fund.
Lisa Happee-Cates, President of Keep the Esplanade Beautiful, asked to receive and file flyers for their mixer.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to receive and file.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Lisa Happee-Cates announced their annual mixer would be on October 22nd from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at HT Grill and listed out their sponsors; noted proceeds would go towards scholarships for various schools which has been a goal of theirs as a non-profit since 2017; announced they would be hosting the Boy Scouts Club 555 at their Saturday Sweep and they will be selling trees for $25 for their big tree push.
Holly Osborne, District 5, referenced the last Planning Commission meeting regarding Phase 2 of the Galleria; commented that it appeared on the agenda with very little public
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awareness; voiced concern about the information given regarding the parcel for the 15 new townhomes along Kingsdale and that they could be broken off from the Galleria property and sold separately, stated it was unclear whether they would be sold before or after the homes were built; thought the whole purpose of the project was to give the developer some advanced money upfront; opined selling assets before it has started sounds like a Ponzi scheme; questioned if it was sold empty, whether the developer could do whatever they wanted to do, or if they were required to build the 15 homes; stated if they are built and sold off as one, hedge funds could buy the whole development and will control them, worried that they would not sell them to people but would control them to rent; expected Council to ask the questions of the developer.
Jim Mueller, District 5, stated he had a contrary opinion of the plan and felt it is a very good plan for Redondo Beach; noted it has the ability to increase the City’s housing supply, add property tax revenue, and give opportunity for thriving retail since it will put about 1,000 people right next to the Galleria; opined the City government should not sit back ready with a permit pad and spoke about the changes in consumer and commercial behavior; spoke of people wanting experiences as they shop for goods; suggested that the City research, communicate with, and encourage the types of businesses that could provide the right social atmosphere for that community; stated that the Redondo Beach needs to no longer have negative value businesses as their standard.
Lara Duke, District 3 and Friends of Redondo Beach Arts, asked to submit information to be received and filed.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to receive and file.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Lara Duke encouraged people to participate in the Jewel of Redondo Beach 2025, which will recognize a home with exceptional architecture, artistic elements, and garden and landscaping; hoped to get submissions from all five districts as soon as possible; explained how to submit candidates for the award and that more information could be found on the Friends of Redondo Beach Arts website; reported winners would receive a certificate of recognition and an original painting of the property by an artist with the FRBA and mentioned the deadline is September 30th.
Mickey Johnson, President of NRBBA, spoke about the next Dine-Around-Artesia being the grand finale for 2025, being held on September 10th, located at Artesia West, and will feature 44 local businesses, restaurants, shops, and artists; mentioned this year they added an art-walk and hoped next year to add Friends of Redondo Beach Art; provided more details on cost, discounts, and prizes; mentioned they added Dining and Doggies, which will feature a non-profit rescue run by Sydney Maleman; announced Rise and Shine Redondo on September 11th with guest speaker Dr. Wesley, the superintendent, a Community Meeting with Beau Basse to talk about the public art project on Artesia, and on September 13th they will have their second Saturday Sweep from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00
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p.m.
Ron Maroko, District 3, spoke about Lt. Ed Staal and his donation of old cameras they used for mug shots and the stained-glass window he and his wife were married in front of being located at the historical museum; hoped they could build on the collection and glad he is being recognized in the adjournment.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and no eComments.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS - None
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CITY’S EFFORTS
TO UTILIZE GRANT FUNDING TO PROCURE A MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN
TO PROVIDE A TARGETED RESPONSE TO MENTAL HEALTH-RELATED
INCIDENTS IN THE CITY
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Ford stated she is providing an update to their ACR Program, which is in the Strategic Plan; provided a PowerPoint presentation which included:
- Alternative Crisis Response
o Alternative to law enforcement for mental health support, hoping to save resources for the City.
o Whole-person healthcare services - have appropriate, certified, specialist who can respond.
- Options Considered - outcomes
o Department of Mental Health – for a dedicated clinician but not able to provide.
o BCHD – outcome: provided $50k a year for two years towards the City’s homeless programs but had to cease that grant.
o Third-Party i.e. L.A. CADA – L.A. CADA not interested in doing a mobile ACR team
o City employed mental health clinician – challenges: HIPAA laws and insurance for medical malpractice; very complicated and difficult o Clear Recover Center – possible option – will expand in the presentation - Partnership with Hermosa Beach – Council request
o Hermosa ACR to expire 9/30/25 – due to funding
o Interim City Manager and staff agreed to partnership
o SBCCOG working on grant awards
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▪ Measure A Local Solutions Fund
o Collaboration increases chances of grants
- Clear – mentioned Ron White as the City’s second angel, have partnered with the City since 2019, will provide the City:
o Project Director
o Licensed therapist
o Counselor
- Clear Requesting:
o Mutual indemnity
▪ Clear indemnifies City for Clear’s negligence, gross negligence and willful misconduct
▪ City indemnifies Clear for City’s gross negligence and willful misconduct
o Liability limited to insurance coverage of $10 million City Attorney Ford went into more detail regarding the indemnity clauses; mentioned she needs to speak to Risk Management before agreeing to anything; noted she is not making any recommendations at this time; continued with the presentation. - Seeking Direction – Options
o Accept Clear’s terms as amended
o Continue to look for other options
o Execute an RFP
City Attorney Ford stated the 2nd and 3rd option would delay the ACR program and risk losing their grant.
Mayor Light noted she seemed to be steering them to Clear. City Attorney Ford agreed.
Discussion followed regarding the mutual indemnity, grant funding and the need to show progress in order to get it extended, and that the City is still in talks with Hermosa Beach regarding a joint program.
Councilmember Behrendt referenced Clear’s requests and wondered if the indemnity would be a comparative fault; asked the City Attorney how the indemnity would work under what Clear is proposing.
City Attorney Ford stated if the City is negligent, gross negligent or acted with willful misconduct then Clear would have to indemnify the City 100%, if it is Clear that was negligent or acted with willful misconduct the City would indemnify them for those two categories.
Discussion followed regarding gross negligence, that the terms still needed to be agreed to but what they have agreed to is that Clear would indemnify the City for gross negligence; discussed the limited liability coverage, the need to speak to risk management, and the terms of the agreement still needing to be worked out.
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Councilmember Waller spoke about the need to have the right person in situations such as this, someone who is trained and who can handle the type of work it involves; felt comfortable moving forward with City Attorney Ford’s preference to proceed with Clear, as long as risk management finds nothing wrong with the liability limited to insurance coverage of $10 million.
Mayor Light commented that he appreciated the work put into this and agreed with City Attorney Ford’s preference to sole source; mentioned he was impressed with the court appearance he witnessed with Clear and liked the idea of going with someone they have worked with as long as it does not violate any City’s rules; supported proceeding with that direction as long as risk management finds nothing wrong with the terms.
City Manager Witzansky mentioned he would follow up with Diane before he brings the contract back to Council.
Councilmember Castle echoed that it boils down to risk management to dive into all the issues and measure what the City’s actual risk is in the contract and then the City can proceed.
Councilmember Obagi commented that there are mentally ill people out there not receiving treatment while they work out the indemnities in the agreement.
Councilmember Kaluderovic mentioned what the scope of the team would be doing which included assisting housed individuals with mental health issues and pointed out that 80% to 90% of the RBFD’s calls are for housed individuals; voiced support for the Clear option.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and one eComment support.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky mentioned there is a meeting next week and one scheduled for September 16th and then dark for the Tuesdays on the 23rd and the 30th.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
P.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING CHANGES TO THE
RULES OF CONDUCT AND DECORUM FOR CITY COUNCIL AND
COMMISSION MEETINGS, REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODES RELATED
TO CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS, AND THE POSSIBLE CREATION OF
AN ON-CALL POLICE, FIRE, AND HOMELESS SERVICES COMMISSION
REVIEW AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON THE DRAFT RULES OF CONDUCT
AND DECORUM FOR CITY COUNCIL AND COMMISSION MEETINGS,
INCLUDING UPDATES TO MEETING AGENDAS AND SCRIPTS FOR
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MEETING CHAIRS TO ADDRESS DISRUPTIONS TO PUBLIC MEETINGS
REVIEW AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON THE DRAFT ORDINANCES TO
UPDATE THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO THE
UNIFORM REGULATIONS OF COMMISSIONS, PUBLIC WORKS, TRAFFIC,
SAFETY, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION, HARBOR COMMISSION,
PLANNING COMMISSION, BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMISSION,
CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION, PUBLIC AMENITIES COMMISSION, AND
HISTORIC RESOURCES PRESERVATION
REVIEW AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON THE POSSIBLE CREATION OF ONCALL POLICE, FIRE, AND HOMELESS SERVICES COMMISSION Mayor Light explained what would be discussed under this item and would be providing a presentation; noted that nothing was being approved tonight, that tonight he is just presenting the results of the first draft for feedback from Council, staff, and the public.
City Manager Witzansky mentioned the rules of conduct were created before he was born, so it has been around for about 48 years; noted ultimately the Mayor and Council need to make the decision on policy and the Commissions will follow their direction; stated they do not need to couple all of it together, if they come to agreements with parts of the policy they can go ahead and move forward with those and keep working on other parts of the policy.
Mayor Light thanked the City Clerk and her office for providing comments to the City Attorney and the liaisons that handle the meetings for providing input; started off his PowerPoint presentation with:
- The path to rules of conduct and decorum
1) First targeted civility in public meetings for Council and Commissions; reported later receiving staff reports on changes requested by previous Council but never acted upon; stated he read through the Rules of Conduct for Council Meetings and the Commissioner’s Handbook and felt they were light on decorum and were not very comprehensive.
2) Some of Council’s concerns ended up being rooted in duties and roles of specific Commissions; spoke about the Municipal Code defining Commissions and articles and ordinances that also provide duties and roles for Commissions; stated looking through those there were inconsistencies, duplications, and loose definitions which allowed wide interpretation. 3) Actions of the public added concerns with ability to enforce public civility; reviewed Council Code of Conduct and Commissioner Handbook with former City Attorney Mike Webb; concluded they did not have the documentation required to take meaningful action
4) After an issue at a City Council meeting, Chief Hoffman provided the Mayor with scripts from another city that defined statements leading to the removal of disruptive members of the public; reviewed this with former City Attorney
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Mike Webb and he stated it could not be implemented without more back up documentation.
5) Reviewed his April briefing with former City Attorney Mike Webb, who recommended he use the Rosenburg’s Rules of Order which is what Mayor Light used.
- Summary of Tasking and Results – 4 objectives
1) City Council and Commission Civility
2) Definitively bound scope of Commissions
3) Ability to control public disruptions
4) Adopt formal meeting procedures
Mayor Light explained he took the existing documentation, tailored it, created new areas that needed to be covered, integrated and aligned them, and received staff input to create the recommended draft they have tonight; broke down the changes he made in the Rules of Conduct and Decorum he presented that evening:
- Summary of Changes
o Section 1: Policy on Meeting Conduct – unchanged
o Section 2: Participation via teleconference
▪ Does Council want to continue teleconference participation for general public
o Section 3: Rules, Guidelines, and Procedures for Conduct of Meetings ▪ Rosenburg’s Rules of Conduct – tailored to the City’s standard agenda
▪ Established 9:30 p.m. as time for Council to decide whether to truncate the agenda and continue remaining items, except Public Participation on Non-Agenda Items
▪ Emphasizes role and limits of Commissions and staff liaisons ▪ Describes procedures for and types of motions
▪ Defines rules for Public Participation
▪ Does Council want to adopt written records of ex-parte discussions similar to Coastal Commission?
Discussion followed regarding ex-parte discussions, City Attorney Ford explained the point of ex-parte disclosures is to disclose what they are considering in a public hearing, and that it is about transparency, felt what they are doing now is minimal and could subject them to some liability; stated the Coastal Commission is more complete in their disclosures.
Mayor Light explained that he is against doing it like the Coastal Commission because they are reluctant to have conversations with the public because they do not want to write the disclosures; noted it is up to the Council if they want to do it that way.
More discussion followed on how they would disclose, the level of disclosure can be decided on, and what they might want to limit it to.
Mayor Light continued his presentation on Summary of Changes:
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Tuesday, September 2, 2025
o Section 4: Describes Public Participant Rules of Conduct, Decorum and Courtesy
o Section 5: Courtesy, Decorum and Personal Conduct of Council and Commissioners
- Standard Agenda
o Summary of limited suggested changes
▪ Adds rules and consequences for violations in public participation ▪ Cleans up items
▪ Changes start times to 3:30 p.m. for Closed and 5:30 p.m. for Open ▪ Expands Mayor and Council referrals to include referrals to Commissions and Subcommittees
▪ Does Council want to change start times?
- Scripts for disruptive members of the public
o Completely new
o Police Chief and City Attorney provided input
o Provides scripts for: exceeding time, disruptive individuals, disruptive groups, disruptive remote participants
- Ordinance Changes
o Significant rewrite of MC “Title 2 Chapter 9 – Boards and Commissions” o Summary of changes
▪ Article 1 Uniform Regulation – explained nine items he made changes to.
▪ Highlighted: Limits absences to 4 over rolling period of preceding 12 months; asked Does Council want a different metric?
Discussion followed.
Mayor Light continued with his presentation.
▪ Article 4 Public Works, Traffic, Safety and Sustainability Commission o Rename the Commission
o Removed sections that were also in Article 1
o Revised language on powers and duties
o Added annual review
▪ Article 6 Youth Commission – Changes previously approved by Council
▪ Article 7 Harbor Commission
o Removed sections that were also in Article 1
o Changed appointment qualifications
o Added details to powers and duties
o Cleaned up wording related to advising Council on all new leases and subleases
o Harbor Commission’s role in reviewing zoning changes under Harbor jurisdiction documented
City Manager Witzansky mentioned there are items that fall under the Planning
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Commission’s jurisdiction that Council sometimes sends to the Harbor Commission and did not feel it needed to be documented but noted he can take a closer look at it.
Mayor Light explained his reasons for adding the need for documentation.
More discussion followed and examples given of various situations in respect to zoning changes in the Harbor; Mayor Light continued his presentation. ▪ Article 8 Public Safety Commission – terminated
▪ Article 10 Planning Commission
o Removed sections that were duplicative to Article 1
o Expanded section on powers and duties so Commissioners would not be required to search the entire Muni Code.
▪ Article 13 Budget and Finance Commission
o Minor changes for consistency
▪ Article 14 Cultural Arts Commission
o Eliminated “original term” provisions
o Added leeway on qualifications
o Eliminated relief from monthly meetings clause
o Eliminated special meetings section
▪ Article 15 Public Amenities Commission
o Made changes to reflect actual duties
o Incorporated substantive changes recommended by staff ▪ Other Municipal Code Ordinances
o Found outdated references to several commissions
o Minor updates to align with current Commission structure - Summary
o Project aimed at meeting specific objectives specified by Council o Project draft involved a number of different sources
o Draft eliminates known inconsistencies and duplications o Goal of the draft is that it addresses Council objectives - Recommendation
o Provide guidance on the four questions raised
o Continue item to future meeting to give Council time to review and develop specific recommendations
- Recommended Path Forward
o Councilmembers review the draft and provide recommendations to the Mayor
o Mayor will track comments in Comment Verification Matrix o Mayor will integrate inputs and draft recommended changes o Staff, City Attorney, City Clerk review recommended changes o Introduce the new draft to the Council for review and provide Comment Verification Matrix
o Provided rationale for the process of creating the draft Mayor Light concluded his presentation and moved on to the next topic.
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City Manager Witzansky stated there was a referral from Council during the discussion about the elimination of the Public Safety Commission, Councilmember Behrendt prepared concepts for the structure of the potential ad hoc commission and the document has been included in the packet; sought direction from Council whether they wanted to advance that to an ordinance stage or simply rely on what was proposed as part of the process which is to reallocate the duties of the Public Safety Commission to existing commissions.
Councilmember Behrendt commented that this is a big deal and should not be rushed; stated he was able to review the documents over the weekend, was able to speak with the City Attorney’s office, the Mayor, City Manager, and with Councilmember Obagi regarding the documents; referred to the City Charter which says City Council has exclusive jurisdiction over formulating rules of conduct over proceedings and commented that it is their duty as Council to create the Rules of Conduct and same with the Commissions; felt forming a subcommittee would be a good way to go with the Mayor involved; suggested they take a couple of weeks for everyone to read through the documents and come back with their feedback, have the subcommittee along with the Mayor, City Attorney, and staff take the draft and revise it and bring it back for further discussion; spoke about voting to eliminate the Public Safety Commission and also offering a Plan B in case there were some items impacting the quality of life that needed to be addressed by a commission; felt an existing commission would be ideal such as the Public Works and Sustainability Commission; spoke about the need to review the requirements and restrictions of the Commissions by the subcommittee along with the Mayor; commented that the City Charter needs to be reviewed by the Council and gave his reasons why.
Mayor Light wanted to clarify that Councilmember Behrendt is backing off the idea of having an ad hoc Public Safety Commission.
Councilmember Behrendt felt that instead of the ad hoc commission folding the duties into an existing Commission would be fine and it would still be on an “as referral” basis from the Council.
More discussion followed on what types of contracts PWSC would need to review for public safety.
Councilmember Behrendt stated contracts that have a substantial and significant effect on matters of public safety, and quality of life.
Councilmember Kaluderovic gave an example of contracts for drones; concerned that they only meet once a month and would that delay and back up the system.
City Manager Witzansky voiced how he understood Councilmember Behrendt’s proposal to mean was staff, as assigned by or referred by the Council, or assigned by staff for input, not all contracts but those determined by the liaison such as the Chief of Public Safety, or City Attorney Ford or himself to be a contract that they would like the
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Commission to review and provide feedback; summarized as not all contracts but any contract deemed important by Council or staff to have the Commission provide input on it.
Councilmember Castle referenced the Mayor’s presentation and the slide titled Recommendation with the question: “Does the Council still want public participation electronically?”, spoke in favor of keeping it; felt that it doesn’t impede or interrupt the flow of the meeting and allows more of the Redondo Beach public to speak; mentioned there are first amendment auditors that love to try to get kicked out of meetings so they can turn around and sue a city with the argument that they weren’t able to express their freedom of speech; felt that it would not happen with electronic participation since they can hang up the call; spoke about commissions and how they function and noticed that the commissions have made up subcommittees of one person, who may or may not go back to their commissions for approval; recommended that the Commissioners be required to go back to their Commission for approval before submitting it to Council or to City staff so they act as one voice.
Discussion followed regarding the purpose of forming subcommittees, every Commission has a different way of doing things, that the revisions the Mayor has made tries to address the duties and powers of the Commissions, and that Commissions are to speak as one voice and not as individuals.
Councilmember Castle spoke in favor of the current method they follow for ex parte communications; in favor of starting the meeting at 4:00 p.m. but earlier than that would be difficult to make.
Discussion followed on start times, whether there is flexibility to change from 4:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. when needed.
Councilmember Castle felt that three absences for Commissioners are sufficient and if there is a fourth, they need to resign; felt if they can’t make 75% of the meetings maybe they do not have time to be a commissioner.
Discussion followed on the need to be present as a commissioner, extenuating circumstances would be considered, and that lack of quorum does not reflect on those that could make the meeting.
Councilmember Obagi spoke of feeling years ago that rules of conduct during meetings needed to be address; glad to see that they are being addressed and encouraged each Councilmember to think about rules they would like to have; opined the current way the Council makes motions or Mayor Light invites Council to make a motion works fine; mentioned he would like to see motions be forced into a vote if the discussion gets repetitive and drones on.
Mayor Light stated it is in his draft he put that Councilmembers, as well as the Mayor, could call for the vote; mentioned under Rosenburg’s Rules the person that generally
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keeps the meeting moving forward is the Chair and if the Chair is not moving things forward the Body (Council) can always make a motion and vote to force the Chair to move the meeting forward.
Councilmember Obagi spoke in favor of the Mayor, Councilmembers, and Commissioners being respectful and professional with City staff and the public; felt detailed disclosures for ex parte would not be workable.
Discussions followed regarding start times and past end times being very late.
Councilmember Obagi said he is flexible on start times; recommended striking out the section regarding teleconferencing in the Mayor’s draft, mentioned the Brown Act was just changed and noted that the new rules would be out of sync with the state law rules; felt the state law rules are adequate.
City Clerk Manzano stated that two Councilmembers teleconferencing in for the meeting is fine but three would not work.
Councilmember Obagi stated that members just needed to be in the jurisdiction to count towards a quorum.
Councilmember Behrendt reported that currently the Brown Act is scheduled to sunset at the end of this year, no teleconferencing in; hoped that will change since there is still time.
Councilmember Obagi stated he is fine with public participation electronically; commented that Traffic should not be included in the title for Public Works Public Safety and Sustainability Commission; clarified that public safety issues would not be in every agenda for every meeting for that Commission; agreed with Councilmember Castle’s point about three absences for Commissioners but flexible with three or four absences; suggested that Councilmember Behrendt and himself form a subcommittee to take the draft and redline it, bring it back to Council and the rest of the Councilmembers could review it and redline it, and bring it back in about a month with all the suggestions included.
Discussion followed.
Mayor Light brought up the topic of telecom-bombing and he had heard about it at other conferences he had attended and stated that is why he chose to include it in his draft.
Councilmember Castle stated since there is a 30-minute limit to public participation on non-agenda items and priority is given to people who appear in person, it does not give too much time for those that Zoom or call in so it is not too much of an issue for Redondo Beach.
More discussion followed.
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Councilmember Waller agreed with Councilmember Behrendt about the ad hoc subcommittee; stated as long as their referrals to Public Works Public Safety and Sustainability Commission does not overburden them; stated having the ad hoc committee would alleviate any added pressure to the PWSC but if they feel they have the bandwidth to do it then he is fine with not adding the ad hoc committee.
Mayor Light stated the Harbor Commission provides quarterly reports on Police and Fire in the Harbor and it doesn’t seem to overburden that Commission; noted that is why he suggested it in his draft.
City Manager Witzansky stated that a lot of what the PWSC deals with pertains to traffic and traffic engineering and felt it was appropriately assigned to that Commission and had overlap with the Public Safety Commission; understood the comment of overburdening them so they do need to be judicious in any referrals to them.
Councilmember Waller spoke in favor of the subcommittee to review the Mayor’s draft as long as they have a week turnaround.
Mayor Light pointed out that the subcommittee would also need to get it to the City Attorney and staff and get it on the Tuesday agenda.
City Manager Witzansky recommended it come back on September 16th if they vote in favor of the subcommittee option.
More discussion followed.
Councilmember Waller spoke in support of their current process of making motions; favored the ability to call the question which goes to immediate vote; spoke in favor of following state law; supported in favor of electronic public participation and in keeping ex parte communications as is; stated he is fine with changing the start times to 3:30 to 5:30 or 4:00 to 6:00 and fine with three or four absences for Commissioners for the year; in regards to allowable content in public comments, he does not want to disallow marketing for civic/community organizations and nonprofits to be able to announce events, would like the draft to specifically allow these types of organizations to be able to announce events or to state that these organizations announcements are not considered marketing.
Mayor Light interjected to say the only reason he put that in the draft was because it technically does not fall within their jurisdiction and public participation is for things under their jurisdiction, so it takes away time for people that want to talk about things under the City’s jurisdiction.
More discussion followed regarding whether it matters if it is to better the City, whether the City funds the organization (which would then fall under their purview), and questioned since some of the events are at places that fall under the City’s purview so should be allowed.
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Councilmember Castle asked if the goal was to exclude that type of marketing.
Mayor Light stated it was to follow the guidelines of needing to fall under the City’s purview.
More discussion ensued, the Mayor mentioned Hermosa has a section that allows for community announcements and asked how much time would they want to allow for that; reminded Council that those events are not controlled by the City and do not fall under their purview.
More discussion followed. Mayor Light stated he is open to the idea of adding a section for it.
Councilmember Kaluderovic spoke in support of section 5.10 regarding members should be mindful of their dealings outside the meetings, in addition to inside the meetings; felt it is important to understand that they represent the City and any discussions regarding City matters needs to be setting a standard of decorum that represents the City positively; agreed with absorbing the duties of the Public Safety Commission into the PWSC; spoke in favor of allowing the public to participate electronically as it currently stands; felt that the two proposals for ex parte communications are at opposite ends and wondered if there was something in the middle for them to consider, wanted to clarify if there was a suggestion to require more detailed ex parte communication for just appeals.
City Attorney Ford responded that there is definitely something the Council could consider; suggested that Council agree to just disclose more in their description or keep as is but it is completely up to Council.
More discussion ensued. Mayor Light spoke about possibly adding more to their description besides just naming who they spoke to but adding what they discussed as opposed to having to write it all down.
Councilmember Kaluderovic said she is open to verbally reporting who they spoke to and what they spoke about in the section for ex parte communications; spoke in favor of a 4:00 p.m. Closed Session start time and a 6:00 p.m. Open Session start time with flexibility on times if needed; felt three absences for Commissioners is reasonable; favored keeping the existing structure of Mayor duties and privileges in regards to motions, and aligning with state laws on Brown Act video conferencing or otherwise; spoke in support of the Mayor’s proposal to receive all the comments and use his Comment Verification Matrix, felt it is the most transparent way for the community to see what’s being proposed, pulled as a concern, and addressed; mentioned creations of subcommittees would delay the item further.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed that for transparency and efficiency that would be best, suggested including a presentation prepared by staff similar to the budget model would provide even more transparency.
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Councilmember Obagi commented that he didn’t care either way but his vision in forming a subcommittee was in two weeks’ time, the subcommittee (himself and Councilmember Behrendt) create a version, send it over, after that another subcommittee could be formed or each Councilmember that hasn’t reviewed it could take the document and make changes they want, then come back with those changes and then everyone will have a document that they agree to hopefully.
Discussion followed that either that option or the option to have the Mayor view it first would both come to the same destination.
City Manager Witzansky offered another option; stated they could continue this item to next Tuesday, confirmed that Councilmembers Obagi and Behrendt are Brown Acting the item and suggested they could prepare to drop their redlines and edits at the Tuesday meeting, possibly circulate it as Blue Folder material prior to the meeting, the rest of the Councilmembers could provide comments to the Mayor on the document that is pending and then everyone can discuss it next Tuesday.
Mayor Light felt that would be worse than what they just discussed because then they would have a fully rewritten document.
More discussion followed on the best path to follow, Councilmember Castle suggested having the Mayor handle it including what was discussed tonight and bring it back to the next meeting, Councilmember Behrendt offered another suggestion to consider which included redlining the current draft and adding a list of items they didn’t cover that evening.
City Manager Witzansky stated the agenda for the following week was light and they would have the bandwidth to discuss it further at the next meeting on Tuesday but wanted to make sure there would be progress made.
More discussion followed. Council agreed to have Councilmember Behrendt redline and edit the Mayor’s draft and include any comments made that evening and bring it back to Council at the next meeting.
City Manager Witzansky clarified what was agreed upon by Council as agendizing the item for next week, Councilmember Behrendt will be prepared to drop the document at the latest by the start of the meeting that evening, then there will be an opportunity to do another round of revisions after that.
Mayor Light voiced concern over that plan.
City Manager Witzansky reminded the Mayor and Council that they are not preparing anything for first reading or approval, that they are still in concepts, explained the process in more detail and, after the Mayor and Council opine on the draft documents, it will go back to staff for them to formulate the documents for a resolution and the various introductory ordinances to make the changes.
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More discussion ensued.
City Manager Witzansky stated if they miss next week’s meeting to discuss the item, the next time Council will be able to talk about the proposed revisions will be on the 16th and the next time they will be able to coalesce around the provisions at a minimum would be the first meeting in October, staff drafting and then coming back to Council a couple of weeks after that with a final draft for approval; recommended they bring it back next week, refine it, and come back on the 16th with comments.
More discussion followed.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, for a subcommittee to be formed to redline the Mayor’s proposed Council rules and the deadline for the submission of the redline will be Tuesday, September 9th at 2:00 p.m., and have a discussion on the relined sections at the next Council meeting on Tuesday, September 9th.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Ron Maroko commented on how the Code of Conduct affects him as a Commissioner on the Public Amenities Commission; stated that he was unclear regarding review and advise City Council on the currency and completeness of the City register, wondered how the word currency plays into it; wondered why the recommendation of reviewing the historic resources and getting the City to step up was being completely deleted; felt his role in the Commission is to promote history in the community; supported bifurcating the Code of Conduct with the statute, the ordinances that they are doing, and commented he could speak more about it but does not have the time; spoke in favor of Rosenburg’s Rules; thanked the Mayor and Councilmember Behrendt for all the time they have spent working on the draft.
Mayor Light commented on the changes he made for the Public Amenities Commission stating the way it was written before made the Commission responsible for the register and for the currency and both are not true; stated he attempted to say it is still under their purview but that they are not responsible for it but are to advise the Council and staff if they are not doing their jobs in respect to currency (meaning current as it exists today).
Mark Hansen spoke in favor of the proposed updates to the Harbor Commission; appreciated the changes because it has been difficult under the old language to fill certain positions; felt it may need to be more specific in stating they can have multiples in there if that is the intent; commented that it will be much easier to create subcommittees with the changes in the draft; voiced concern over the requirement that there needs to be one whose a paddler, mentioned that has been a difficult one to fill and they have tried in the past, asked that the language be changed from “will” to “shall”; referenced the last line in Section F stating “appointees may qualify in more than one discipline or designation and may be counted against any of the designations or disciplines over the duration of their terms when vacancies are filled.” Mentioned it needs to be word smithed a bit to make it
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clear; mentioned he is more in favor of Robert’s Rules; commented on the Mayor’s voting and felt they should compare Rosenburg’s Rules and Robert’s Rules and see if that helps them; supported 6:00 p.m. as a start time for Open Session meetings, electronic participation, and preferred public participation before the Consent Calendar.
Mayor Light commented on Harbor vs Paddle, stating they are two distinct classes of boaters and they both have different understandings of boating, felt that should not be difficult to fill; explained why he changed the language for the qualifications in Section F.
More discussion followed supporting the changes, explanations that the Harbor Commission used to have more power and over time has dissolved some of the power, but the requirements were not adjusted to reflect the changes.
Desiree Galassi, Public Amenities Commissioner, stated she had some questions regarding the ordinance for the PAC; referenced item C, Recreation and Parks duties, under item #1 and read “act as an advisor to the City Council in all matters pertaining to public recreation programs including playgrounds and entertainment.” commented that they were never responsible for entertainment and thought that might be better under the Cultural Arts Commission; questioned the ordinance for historic resources preservation, 10-4302, read the ordinance and asked if it pertains to the current list of historic resources or if they are for any properties that are 50 years of age; commented that they have a list of historic resources that dates properties 30 years ago, noted it is outdated, and that there is money earmarked for a new survey to be done; wanted clarification on if that ordinance pertained to the current outdated list or for any home that is 50 years old.
Mayor Light asked Commissioner Galassi to submit her questions in writing so that he could review it more closely; noted that the ordinance was written from the ordinance they just wrote about a year ago and that ordinance contained “entertainment” and he didn’t realize there is probably some overlap with the new Cultural Arts Commission and thanked her for pointing that out.
Lara Duke spoke in support of the electronic public participation and provided several reasons why it benefits the City more than negatively impacts them; voiced her opinion to keep the current start times for the meetings; suggested to move Public Participation on Non-Agenda Items above Consent Calendar and hoped they would consider changing that; felt it was important to allow people to make announcements for events for the community; thanked the Mayor and Council for all the work they have done on the draft.
Julie Young, District 4, asked for Special Meetings to be excluded from attendance requirements since those are often given short notices and not everyone can adjust their schedules to accommodate them.
Councilmember Obagi agreed with her comment.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and two eComments in support.
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Councilmember Obagi asked Councilmember Behrendt if his intentions are to go over the Commissions as well by Thursday.
Councilmember Behrendt said yes, and that he had already reviewed the Commissions over the weekend.
Councilmember Castle pointed out that in some Commissions there is a rotating Chair and they are allowed to make a motion and vote.
Councilmember Behrendt stated that is a voting member of the body as distinct from what the Council has and will be in the document.
More discussion followed. Mayor Light said they had a motion on the floor but felt it was incomplete in who would be on the subcommittee.
City Manager Witzansky commented that Councilmembers Obagi and Behrendt are Brown Acted on the item anyways, so it was not a subcommittee motion, it was a motion to continue the item to next week with the commitment from the two Brown Act partners to deposit their proposed red lines to the documents.
Mayor Light interjected that he would like consideration that he is consulted on the changes.
More discussion followed and Mayor Light wanted to make sure he had a chance to explain his reasoning for some of the changes.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to bring back a previously proposed ordinance by Chief Hoffman called the Social Host Ordinance for discussion, which was an ordinance that allows penalties to be given to adults/parents that host parties where alcohol is knowingly provided or allowed.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Discussion followed that the ordinance was vetoed when it was brought up last time, but it is a heavy subject and it will take a lot of time so it should be brought back in 2026, the need to get other items/issues completed before diving into this ordinance, and the need to get more information before pursuing the item.
R. ADJOURNMENT – 9:51 P.M.
R.1. ADJOURN IN MEMORY OF ROBERT A. WINJE, FATHER OF PUBLIC WORKS
DIRECTOR ANDY WINJE
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R.2. ADJOURN IN MEMORY OF RBPD RETIRED LT. EDWARD G. STAAL Mayor Light stated tonight’s adjournment was in memory of Robert Winje and retired Lt.
Edward Staal.
City Manager Witzansky commented that thoughts and prayers go out for the Winje crew.
Chief Hoffman spoke highly of Lt. Staal and felt he was accomplished in that he was able to retire in his career and live to 95 years old; mentioned that he was able to chat with him often and that he has attended many events with his granddaughter who his family is friends with.
More positive reminiscent comments were made regarding Lt. Staal Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to adjourn the meeting at 9:51 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
The next meeting of the City Council of the City of Redondo Beach will be an Adjourned Regular meeting to be held at 4:30 p.m. (Closed Session) and a Regular meeting to be held at 6:00 p.m. (Open Session) on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, CA.
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