REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Closed Session – Adjourned Regular Meeting 4:30 p.m.
Open Session – Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
4:30 PM - CLOSED SESSION – ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
A. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
An Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order at 4:30 p.m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Melissa Villa, Analyst/Liaison
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
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL AND LABOR NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Sec. 54957.6.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Diane Strickfaden, Director of Human Resources
EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATIONS:
Redondo Beach Police Officers’ Association, Redondo Beach Police
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Management Unit; Redondo Beach Firefighters’ Association and Management and Confidential Employee Group
F.2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Sec. 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATORS:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Luke Smude, Assistant to the City Manager
PROPERTY:
3007 Vail Ave., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(a portion of APN: 415-001-7931)
Parking Lot at the Corner of Felton Ln. and 182nd St., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(APN: 415-803-3900)
715 Julia Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(portion of parcels APN: 750-702-0900 and APN: 750-702-1900) 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(APN: 404-900-8903)
807 Inglewood Ave., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(a Portion of APN: 408-302-4900)
200 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 750-500-9902)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Dr. Nicole Wesley, Superintendent
Redondo Beach Unified School District
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
F.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2).
One potential case
Analyst Villa read titles to items that would be covered in Closed Session.
City Manager Witzansky announced the following would be participating in Closed Session: City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Joy Ford, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, Human Resources Director Diane Strickfaden, Outside Legal Counsel Lisa Bond, and Public Works Director Andy Winje.
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Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to move to Closed Session at 4:33 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 6:00 P.M.
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:00 p.m.
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: 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
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky announced no reportable action for Closed Session.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to adjourn to the Regular Meeting at 6:00 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
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 6:01 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, Behrendt, Mayor Light
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Tuesday, September 16, 2025
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
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light recognized any veterans and active-duty military for their service.
Gianna, 7th Grader at Adams Middle School, let is 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 D.1. MAYOR’S PROCLAMATION OF SEPTEMBER 15, 2025 TO OCTOBER 15, 2025
AS HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Mayor Light proclaimed September 15th to October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month and invited South Bay resident and author Alex Moreno Areyan to the podium; provided some background and information regarding the importance of recognizing Hispanic and Latino communities; mentioned the books Mr. Areyan has written about the culture and his own personal life; thanked Mr. Areyan for joining them today and presented him with the proclamation.
Alex Moreno Areyan spoke a few words about what Redondo Beach means to him and thanked the Mayor for being invited. Each member of the Council was provided with a copy of one of Mr. Areyan’s books.
Councilmember Castle announced the first water polo match in the Harbor would be on Saturday, September 20th from 8:00 a.m. and reported Beryl Elementary would be celebrating their 100th anniversary from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Councilmember Obagi announced his next Community Meeting would be held on October 1 st from 6:00 p.m. at the North Branch Library with Library Director Vinke as the special guest; reported attending a meeting in Lawndale regarding the Metro ROW and final EIR.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported participating in a tour of Northrup Grumman last week, attending the second part of Dine-Around-Artesia, touring Redondo Union High School and spoke about the amenities and opportunities RUHS offers; announced her District 3 Community Meeting will be at BCHD’s meeting room on September 19th at 6:00 p.m.
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Councilmember Waller reported attending the Northrup Grumman tour, Dine-AroundArtesia, and the 9/11 tribute memorial; spoke about awarding a certificate to a 100-yearold resident named Julia Clark in Silverado; attended the System Delta 88 Activation and Assumption of Command Ceremony for Col. AJ Ashby at the LA Airforce base and the Riviera Village Association meeting that morning; announced the Perry Park Teen Center opening would be on Thursday, September 25th at 5:00 p.m. and the groundbreaking for the Herondo Nature Park would be on September 30th at 3:30 p.m.
Councilmember Obagi thanked the NRBBA for putting on Dine-Around-Artesia; reported meeting with Mo Sharifi, a commercial RE broker, and speaking about Artesia Blvd.
Councilmember Castle announced his next Community Meeting would be on the 24th at 5:30 p.m. at the Library.
Mayor Light reported he spoke to a nursery moving into the 190th St. ROW that morning and would be speaking to them again on Friday and hoped they would be able to start their first installment of the green belt to the sea on their property; attended the 9/11 tribute; mentioned an Artesia survey on the City’s website that he hoped would provide feedback regarding art on Artesia, a boat launch workshop on September 23rd from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the library; mentioned speaking to a lot of participants of the Kings 5K for hydrocephalus and will be meeting with the Kings on Friday to discuss other opportunities; stated they have a meeting with the LA Galaxy on September 17th regarding a World Cup watch party in Seaside Lagoon; reported he and City Manager Witzansky had a meeting with staff from the County Supervisor’s Office regarding the opening of Dominguez Park.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to approve the order of the agenda as presented.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. AGENCY RECESS – None
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G.1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting Laura Diaz reported three Blue Folder items: H.4, J.1, and M.1.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file the Blue Folder items.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
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Tuesday, September 16, 2025
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 16, 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. SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30387-30400 IN THE AMOUNT OF $17,712.41, PD. 9/12/25 DIRECT DEPOSIT 300435-301073 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,397,882.29, PD. 9/12/25 EFT/ACH $9,315.20, PD. 8/1/25 (PP2516)
EFT/ACH $9,315.20, PD. 8/15/25 (PP2517)
EFT/ACH $475,228.74, PD. 8/25/25 (PP2516)
EFT/ACH $485,453.77, PD. 9/8/25 (PP2517)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 121397-121635 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,329,457.89
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE FOR IMPLEMENTATION AND USE OF THE DA’S ELECTRONIC CHARGE EVALUATION REQUEST PORTAL (eCER) FOR
ELECTRONIC SUBMITTAL OF CRIME REPORTS AND ASSOCIATED
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION FOR THE EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL
CRIMINAL CHARGES AT NO COST TO THE CITY FOR THE TERM
SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 15, 2030
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
2. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH PHOENIX
GROUP INFORMATION SYSTEMS FOR FALSE ALARM PERMIT
MANAGEMENT AND FEE COLLECTION SERVICES, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED 16% OF THE FEES COLLECTED, FOR THE INITAL TERM
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AUGUST 19, 2025 TO AUGUST 19, 2027, TO INSERT THE CITY’S
STANDARD LIABILITY PROVISION
CONTACT: JOE HOFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
3. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH NV5, INC. FOR DESIGN AND
CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE SOUTHBOUND PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY AT TORRANCE BOULEVARD PROJECT, JOB NO.
40800, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $34,000, FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 17, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 16, 2027 WITH TWO OPTIONAL
ONE-YEAR RENEWALS
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.6. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2509-068 OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA APPROVING
THE FILING OF A CLAIM WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025- 26 CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR H.7. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH LOCALITY MEDIA, INC., DBA FIRST
DUE, TO PROVIDE FIRE DEPARTMENT RECORDS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SERVICES FOR A THREE-YEAR AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $70,406 AND THE TERM AUGUST 16, 2025 TO AUGUST 15, 2028
CONTACT: PATRICK BUTLER, FIRE CHIEF
H.8. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH DIGITALEMS SOLUTIONS, INC. FOR
ELECTRONIC PATIENT CARE REPORTING SERVICES FOR A THREE-YEAR AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $89,705 AND THE TERM SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2028
CONTACT: PATRICK BUTLER, FIRE CHIEF
H.9. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH STELLEN DESIGN LLC TO PROVIDE
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES FOR UPDATING THE KING HARBOR GATEWAY SIGN FOR A COST NOT TO EXCEED $9,430
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH SLATER WATERPROOFING, INC., A
CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, FOR COMPLETION OF THE NORTH PIER PARKING STRUCTURE REPAIRS PROJECT, JOB NO. 70610, FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $931,861 AND A TERM LASTING THROUGH
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FINAL COMPLETION AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE PROJECT BY THE CITY ENGINEER, WITH THE REPAIRS EXPECTED TO TAKE 45 WORKING DAYS CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH TORO ENTERPRISES, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $378,875,
TO PERFORM CRITICAL SEWER AND STORM DRAIN REPAIRS AT
VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN THE CITY FOR A TERM THROUGH SEPTEMBER 16, 2028
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.12. RECEIVE AND FILE A REPORT ON THE STATUS OF THE CITY’S GRANT
APPLICATION TO THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION TO FUND A
SEA LEVEL RISE ASSESSMENT FOR ALL PROPERTIES WITH A COASTAL ZONING DESIGNATION AS REQUIRED BY SB 272
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.13. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE LETTER OF ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH AND JL GROUP, LLC TO CONDUCT
INDEPENDENT WORKPLACE INVESTIGATIONS ON AN AS-NEEDED BASIS CONTACT: DIANE STRICKFADEN, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES H.14. Pulled by Councilmember Behrendt
H.15. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF THREE EFLYN ELECTRONIC DISPLAYS
FROM INSIGHT PUBLIC SECTOR FOR INSTALLATION AT THE REDONDO
BEACH PIER AND INTERNATIONAL BOARDWALK IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $60,680
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.16. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH CHOICE MEDIATION FOR AS-NEEDED
DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND HEARING OFFICER SERVICES ON
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS FOR THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH FOR AN INITIAL TERM OF SEPTEMBER 17, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026, WITH
TWO ONE-YEAR RENEWAL OPTIONS, FOR A TOTAL COST NOT TO
EXCEED $52,000, INCLUDING THE RENEWALS
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
H.17. RECEIVE AND FILE THE MONTHLY UPDATE TO THE STRATEGIC PLAN
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OBJECTIVES ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON JUNE 10, 2025 CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve the order of the Consent Calendar with the exception of H.14.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Laura Diaz reported no one online and one eComment opposed to H.9.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Laura Diaz read H.6 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2509-068.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.14. APPROVE THE ANNUAL AUDITED FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
Councilmember Behrendt reported he has not been able to review what was provided in the Blue Folder and asked the City Manager and staff what it contains, why they received it and what does it add.
City Manager Witzansky commented that it is an update from the material that was circulated as part of the agenda on Friday; noted some changes in the language in the final document, some inclusion of the transmittal letter but in all financial respects it is the same.
Finance Director Meyer explained further that the governance letter, internal controls letter, and the inmate trust fund financial statement were drafts that were not ready last week and that is why they are included in the Blue Folder.
Bob Callanan, CLA Audit Partner, added that the internal controls letter is a listing of findings that CLA came across during the audit and are required to disclose to the Council, the governance letter is a synopsis of what happened during the audit, and the inmate trust fund financial statement is an ancillary separate report.
Finance Director Meyer mentioned that the governance letter and the internal controls letter were presented by Mr. Callanan at the Budget and Finance Commission on September 11th; stated they are waiting for the final letters from the auditors to share with the Council.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if the final letters would be put on the agenda for
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Council to review.
City Manager Witzansky responded no that the data and the material of the audit would be complete, the Audit Committee, and Budget and Finance Commission have reviewed it and it would only be a receive and file action for the Council.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if Council would receive a report from the Audit Committee.
Mayor Light stated he will report out since he is on the Audit Committee; mentioned they went through corrective actions and the Finance Director would bring it back to show them the process changes that will fix the issues in their processes; stated the Audit Committee unanimously recommended for Council to approve (technically, receive and file) the item.
City Manager Witzansky noted that Moody’s received their draft audit and retained the City’s AA1 rating; stated they went over their weaknesses and practices have been updated to meet the new auditor’s requirements.
Discussion followed regarding working on the prior FY audit immediately and reasons why they were so delayed with this one.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file the annual audited financial reports for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if they would have the opportunity to receive and file the final report when it is completed.
City Manager Witzansky responded affirmatively and reported it would be posted online.
More discussion ensued regarding the items discussed during the Audit Committee meeting; spoke of the new auditors doing a deep dive into the City’s finances and addressing several issues.
Laura Diaz reported no Zoom attendees and no eComments.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Jim Mueller, District 5, brought back his suggestion of a Public Market and the reasons why it would be a revenue generating solution for the City; mentioned at the last meeting Councilmember Castle implied that the City would not initiate or sponsor a public market but that a civic group may be able to; asked if the Planning Department could approach
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the civic groups to assist with permitting and safety requirements; reported he has brought the idea up to Councilmember Obagi since it is in District 5 but has not received any support and felt it was due to GrubHaus; spoke about the delays with AACAP and current farmer’s markets and opined that the greenway is a perfect location for a Public Market; recommended the City contact civic organizations to assist in the creation of a Public Market.
Holly Osborne, District 5, spoke about the Metro, referenced an email and pictures she sent prior to the meeting, and wanted to focus on the section between Artesia and Grant in Redondo Beach; mentioned the FEIR, the distance of 7 ft, the “trench”, and explained the diagrams she brought.
Wayne Craig, District 1, spoke about the efforts for the gun range, allocating $1.3 million, and spending $200,000 supporting the effort; mentioned the City has financial issues and is at a $3.5 million structural deficit; felt the City could use the funds towards CIP projects or CalPERS; stated he has never been against the gun range but felt they need to move on and focus on projects they can complete.
Laura Diaz reported no one online and no eComments.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS - None
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS
M.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING CHANGES TO THE
RULES OF CONDUCT AND DECORUM FOR CITY COUNCIL AND
COMMISSION MEETINGS AND VARIOUS REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL
CODE SECTIONS PERTAINING TO CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
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
MEETING CHAIRS TO ADDRESS DISRUPTIONS TO PUBLIC MEETINGS
REVIEW AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON DRAFT ORDINANCES TO UPDATE
THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE UNIFORM
REGULATIONS OF COMMISSIONS, PUBLIC WORKS AND SUSTAINABILITY
COMMISSION, HARBOR COMMISSION, PLANNING COMMISSION, BUDGET
AND FINANCE COMMISSION, CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION, PUBLIC
AMENITIES COMMISSION, AND HISTORIC RESOURCES PRESERVATION Assistant to the City Manager Luke Smude introduced the item as a continuation from the previous meeting; mentioned the documents that were included with the agenda and Blue Folder item represented the previous to current state of the documents including the 99
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edits that were provided by Mayor Pro Tem Behrendt; stated tonight they are reviewing it further and discussing the general path forward.
Councilmember Behrendt echoed the statement Assistant to the City Manager Smude stated and once it is done he will consult with the City Attorney’s office to confirm it is conformed to the law, consistent with the code and the updated Charter; mentioned one additional item that was suggested to him from the City Treasurer and asked for any other additions/subtractions from the Council; mentioned a Blue Folder item related to the Rules of Conduct and Decorum was received on Friday and that the document still has some fine tuning to be done; stated they need to add specific language “upon death of a Commissioner” in the section of declaring vacancies for Commissioners.
Mayor Light thanked Councilmember Behrendt for all his work.
Councilmember Waller wanted to clarify on the Rules of Decorum when speaking about disruptive groups that only the disruptive member is ejected and not the whole group; suggested that a separate Social Media policy be established to better define the intent.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed it is tricky, especially because of the First Amendment protections; stated he will meet with the City Attorney to see if they can go further in defining it.
Councilmember Castle mentioned situations where a commissioner may need to recuse themselves from voting due to comments they have written in social media posts.
Councilmember Kaluderovic noted Rules of Conduct and Decorum apply to all discussions Council and Commissioners have with the public in City matters and not just social media; reiterated Council has the unilateral right to dismiss someone that does not act accordingly.
More discussion followed on what specific behavior or expectations are meant in the Code, how to define it in the Code, and the need to figure out the specific language but that Council and Commissioners should have a general sense of what is right and wrong.
Councilmember Waller opined that Public Comment should be placed before Consent Calendar in the order; recognized he lost that battle last week.
Councilmember Castle referenced the Harbor requirements regarding the resident living near District 1 or 2 is currently stated as 1000 ft but suggested they change that to 500 ft since that is what is required of Councilmembers; explained the closer they are to the water the more aware they would be of issues for the Harbor; noted the 1000 ft language was also added to the Recreational User category but it should be removed since it is not a requirement of any other categories for the Harbor Commission; spoke about other language that should be consistent across the board for all Commissions.
More discussion followed in support of Councilmember Castle’s suggestion to make
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certain language uniform throughout the document; time was spent developing the language for the ordinances; discussion followed regarding the 1000 vs 500 ft residency requirement.
City Attorney Ford commented that the FPPC rules state that if it is within 500 ft then it is clearer that there can be a conflict but between 500 and 1000 ft more of an evaluation can be made to determine if there can be a conflict.
More discussion followed on arguments of changing the residential requirement to 500 ft and the requirements of the Recreational User category; conflicts of interests and the potential for Commissioners to have to recuse themselves from voting.
Mayor Light took a consensus from each Councilmember, and all agreed they were fine with “just the resident only 500 ft.”
Councilmember Obagi referenced item 6 regarding Recreational User and asked if a member of the Paddle House counts as a commercial Harbor/Pier association.
Discussion followed regarding what constitutes having a commercial Harbor/Pier association and if language is needed to clarify the intention.
Councilmember Obagi asked if the Rules of Conduct and Decorum are included in the ordinances or referenced at all in the ordinances.
Mayor Light stated the Charter allows Council to define the Rules of Conduct but there is no hard criteria on what defines types of misconduct, just expectations.
More discussion followed on scenarios and situations that may occur and reasons for possible dismissal from the body.
Discussions followed summarizing the next steps in regard to the draft.
City Manager Witzansky stated his office will put the final draft into the City’s normal formatting, they will prepare the ordinances for first reading and introduction and, once that is done, get them ready for adoption; noted the rules would be codified through a resolution which they would prepare and bring back for consideration of approval.
Discussion followed regarding the timeline and the document may be brought to Council in parts for approval.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Mark Hansen noted Public Participation is given a maximum of 30 minutes but the Consent Calendar has no time limit; felt that the inconvenience level is much higher for the public than for staff; referenced the qualifications for the Harbor Commission and read a statement he typed where he noted the changes the Mayor made on September 2nd,
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which stated “to the extent practical”, stated that line was deleted from the September 7th and September 11th drafts; asked if the Council would consider re-inserting that line back into the document.
Laura Diaz reported no hands raised online and no eComments.
Mayor Light asked each Councilmember to vote on whether they wanted to move Public Participation in front of the Consent Calendar.
All Councilmembers with the exception of Councilmember Waller preferred to keep it as is; noted they do have the ability to change the order when necessary.
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ESTABLISHING A LEGISLATIVE
ACTION PLATFORM FOR THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH
CONTACT: JANE CHUNG, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
City Manager Witzansky stated there is no urgency on this item and it is a first introduction and draft that evening; stressed that it is meant to cover the basic/primary topics of the City’s legislative platform.
Assistant to the City Manager Jane Chung provided a PowerPoint presentation which included an overview, the legislative priorities, the process to implement, and their recommendations from staff to the Council; stated the last time the City adopted a Legislative Action Platform was in 2013 and their goal is to refresh that platform; spoke of their intended goals and noted it would enhance their ability to act in real time when legislative opportunities arose; mentioned the proposed platform includes 11 priority areas along with areas of focus for each:
1) Coastal Access & Preservation – 4 key areas
2) Economic Development – 4 key areas
3) Employee Relations – 4 key areas
4) Environment – 4 key areas
5) Finance – 4 key areas
6) Homeless & Mental Health Services – 2 keys areas
7) Housing – 2 key areas
8) Library & Recreation Services – 3 key areas
9) Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness – 4 key areas 10) Telecommunications – 2 key areas
11) Transportation – 2 key areas
Jane Chung explained the process to implement would begin with either the Mayor, City Manager, or designated person providing the City’s position on issues in the Legislative Action Platform, all advocacy efforts would then be coordinated through the City
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Manager’s office and letters would be posted on the City’s website, and all platforms will be reviewed annually and amendments can be made if needed; recommended that the City Council provide direction to staff on the proposed Legislative Action Platform.
City Manager Witzansky added that this platform would allow staff to prepare a letter without having to get a referral from Council prior to drafting a letter for their approval and also allows staff to act between meetings knowing the general parameters, guidelines and policy position and explained the delays they have in the current process; noted it is not a tool to bypass Council’s participation but it helps them make decisive and urgent decisions when needed and they will provide “receive and file” and communicate with the Mayor and Council during the process.
Mayor Light noted the City has missed opportunities to comment on several bills because of the current process; reported he has penned letters just in his name because there was no time to meet and discuss; strongly urged the Council to consider the item and reminded staff not to overstep their authority; referenced the Coastal Access and Preservation, felt sea-level rise and resilience related to that needs to be included; advocated for tort reform and its impact on the City budget and the allocation of internet sales taxes to be included in the item.
Councilmember Behrendt spoke about the current process and the positives in being able to discuss items and produce a good work product; felt when they have the time they should continue the current process but voiced his support of having the flexibility with the platform proposed and as long as the City Manager approves it; provided some suggestions on certain words to use when drafting letters to Sacramento.
Councilmember Obagi requested that letters sent out because of exigent circumstances just get filed as “receive and file” rather than as “not approved” on Consent; asked that “develop climate change resistance and protect against sea-level rise” be added and “support micro-mobility solutions and integration of a complete bicycle master plan” be added for transportation and also add language to increase ridership from the City’s transit center through non-stop rides to specific destinations and preference for transportation solutions that cause the least amount of significant environmental adverse impacts to Redondo residents.
Councilmember Castle asked if they could review it every year as part of the Strategic Plan; spoke about CalPERS comment regarding transparency and cost control and mentioned CalPERS has underperformed the return that they are guaranteeing to pensioners and the City is in a deficit due to it this year; stated he would like to figure out a way to address the issue with CalPERS.
Councilmember Kaluderovic spoke about local legislation that would affect surrounding cities should be brought to the Council even if it needs to be done quickly and would prefer a special meeting be called to order.
City Manager Witzansky commented that they do prefer to bring those to Council as well
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as have public input on things of that nature and stated the purpose of the Legislative Action Platform is more to act on state legislation actions or Senate bills.
More discussion followed regarding grey areas where direction from Council and a special meeting may need to be called and others regional and local legislation where Council may not need to give direction.
Councilmember Waller referenced the section regarding the environment, low water use, native plants but not having language that mandates requiring artificial turf or something to that nature; spoke about drought tolerant landscaping.
City Manager Witzansky mentioned there is language that supports initiatives that increase regional water liability and conservation efforts.
Discussion followed on leaving it generic, focusing on sustainability, and going to a more micro level would create limitations for the City to act.
Councilmember Waller supported Councilmember Obagi’s comments regarding bicycle lanes and the bicycle master plan.
Discussion followed on the different perspectives regarding bicycle lanes and creating language to prevent conflicts where it could negatively impact vehicles and pedestrians.
Councilmember Waller opined the language regarding internet taxation needed to be clearer that the intent is for internet revenue sales.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Wayne Craig supported the Legislative Action Platform; commented that the Hermosa situation Councilmember Kaluderovic mentioned earlier was incorrect and that he pulled up public records to find out what happened, spoke to members of the City Council and explained what he found out; opined that the incident in Hermosa Beach would not happen in Redondo Beach.
Mark Hansen, a member of the Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, mentioned he serves on the Government Relations Committee for local issues and they have a sister committee for state and federal issues and offered their support and assistance if Council comes across any issues they would like their help on.
Laura Diaz reported no one online and one eComment in opposition.
Councilmember Obagi commented that there is nothing referencing the Economic Development Subcommittee and asked if something should be added.
City Manager Witzansky stated they have generic language that incentivizes local investment and read what is written.
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More discussion followed.
Councilmember Obagi asked Councilmember Kaluderovic or City Attorney Ford to explain why Project Home Key is so important to the City.
City Manager Witzansky clarified that Project Home Key is meant to be linked to funding to support those efforts and not to build those projects and mentioned they will tighten up the language to clarify the intent.
More discussion followed regarding the intention and how to phrase it better in the document.
Mayor Light summarized the discussion as there is a general consensus for support for a legislative action platform such as the one proposed and to alter the process to reflect when there is time or if controversial items will be brought to Council for discussion and the next step is for staff to bring it back with the changes for Council for discussion and possible action.
More discussion followed.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON THE CITY’S PREFERENTIAL
PARKING PERMIT ORDINANCE REVIEW AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON POSSIBLE CHANGES TO THE ORDINANCE TO 1) ALLOW SEASONAL AND EVENT BASED PARKING PERMITS, 2) ADDRESS OUTDATED LANGUAGE IN THE ORDINANCE, AND 3) IMPROVE THE USEFULNESS AND
ENFORCEABILITY OF THE CITY’S PREFERENTIAL PARKING PERMIT
PROGRAM
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
Public Works Director Winje and City Traffic Engineer Liu presented the item, noted it was based on a referral from the Public Works and Sustainability Commission (PWSC) and inspired by the holiday parking in the south part of District 1; spoke of the City’s various parking payment options including permits; explained where the preferential parking permits (PPP) have room for improvements which included events, special times, enforcement, code modifications, and new technology; provided suggestions for potential ordinance changes and mentioned they are also in the Staff Report they received; stated that staff is looking for Council direction on how to move forward and which items are more important to address; noted that one of the biggest drivers of the item are the complaints they receive from Ave H residents during the holiday season and residents feel PPP are needed; urged the Council to address this prior to the 2025 holiday period.
City Manager Witzansky suggested to break off the PPP for the 2025 holiday period specific to Ave H as a separate item if the item as a whole would take too long to tackle; explained that staff is not proposing to handle all parking issues in all Districts and they are not proposing to create a structure that would bypass Council discretion but that as
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the ordinance is currently written it is too restrictive to allow Council to act quickly; stated ideally the City would have an ordinance that outlines the framework for the program and the policies of that framework would be established through resolution or some type of minute action and more comprehensively.
Mayor Light questioned if the PWSC provided any recommendations on the item.
Director Winje stated they affirmed that the City should modify their ordinances to modernize them and agreed to most of what was presented but mainly focused on the issues at Avenue H.
Mayor Light agreed to bifurcating the effort during the holidays for the residents that live in that area and mentioned Torrance contacted the City as well; supported focusing on Avenue H and modernizing the language in the ordinances but not trying to tackle all of what was presented; noted at very least the Councilmember of that district needs to weigh in on decisions; spoke of situations he does not support for the City, such as confusing signage or complete preferential treatment of residential streets.
Councilmember Waller stated the issue has been long term and needs to be addressed; voiced support for the item; noted he receives numerous complaints regarding parking in his district continuously but mainly from Thanksgiving to New Year’s and felt it is urgent they get something done for Avenue H and Massena before Thanksgiving.
City Manager Witzansky stated if Council provides general direction that evening for that zone, they can come back with the proposed ordinance to create the holiday permit, have it ready for first introduction and first reading in October, and ideally have adoption by the third meeting; noted while they are waiting for that they can start the process of administering the permit and could solicit the permits for purchase to the residents.
Discussion followed regarding the price of the temporary permits, the visitor permits becoming a commodity instead of what it was intended to provide, and the drafting of the ordinance.
Councilmember Castle spoke of problems it creates for other areas when parking is restricted in one area and wondered how the City will combat that situation.
City Manager Witzansky noted that will happen and they will monitor where the dispersion feeds into but that it will most likely feed into areas that have public parking available or better situations to handle more traffic.
City Traffic Engineer Liu commented that Avenue H and Massena are cul-de-sac neighborhoods and people get stuck and create gridlocks.
Councilmember Castle spoke of the negative impact to businesses and employees of that area that don’t qualify for residential parking permits; stated he is not in support of overly permitted parking areas.
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City Traffic Engineer Liu said that is part of the purpose of the discussion tonight because the municipal code as it is codified greatly restricts the City’s ability to modify, add, or remove codes.
More discussion followed regarding the purpose of the ordinance, the challenges with zones with the current codes, and the need to figure out solutions.
Councilmember Castle asked to see how businesses are incorporated into the ordinance and not just residents.
City Traffic Engineer Liu stated if they move to a more Council adopted policy, then the City can have the policy that talks about potential other effects to geographical areas.
Public Works Director Winje and City Manager Witzansky provided more detail and information regarding the intent of the new ordinance.
Councilmember Kaluderovic supported bifurcating the item and move forward with the seasonal parking permit as soon as possible; voiced concern regarding the abuse of the visitor permit parking.
Councilmember Behrendt asked staff to show what they would be proposing using a map of the area.
Public Works Director Winje provided an explanation using a City map; mentioned the past solutions created unintended consequences of people getting stuck trying to find ways to exit and felt with bollards and added signage they could prevent the gridlock.
City Manager Witzansky spoke of other requests and solutions the City of Torrance has proposed to them; suggested possibly running a pilot program on egress only.
More discussion followed.
Councilmember Obagi asked how the public is notified that parking is prohibited during the holiday season in the areas mentioned.
Public Works Director Winje stated they would do it with outreach to the residents and with appropriate signage.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked if the signage would be seasonal and staff responded that they would be temporary signage and taken down after the holidays are over.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Mary-Claire Scanlon, resident on Massena Ave., stated she is not convinced a parking permit is the answer; noted that the streets in that neighborhood are very narrow and dark and there is not much room to turn and it just causes congestion; added when people
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park and get out of their cars they hold up other cars because they are in the roadway and many times are unpacking strollers or other gear to walk around the neighborhood; emphasized it is not a parking issue but a traffic issue.
Councilmember Obagi suggested the City make a video and post it on the City’s page to show the issues of going down to that area and to avoid it.
More discussion followed on what has been done, what has been considered, what is allowable, and other thoughts for the area.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked if they could make the neighborhood “No Parking” during the season.
Mary Claire Scanlon responded that it was considered but that too many residents rely on their street parking.
More discussion followed on possible partial “No Parking” zones, Councilmember Waller having a community meeting with the Massena and Avenue H residents, and staff providing other options to consider.
Councilmember Behrendt mentioned forgeries in the Administrative Report with PPP.
Traffic Engineer Liu stated that would be a police matter, but he has not heard of that happening; Director Winje mentioned hearing about paper visitor parking permits being forged but would need to confirm that information.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky noted there is a break in Council meetings but there are events occupying the space and noted the various events and activities.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Councilmember Castle had a referral to staff for a report showing if any money is owed to the City for events or services the City has provided and if that could be collected to help their cash flow.
City Manager Witzansky stated he can work with Finance Director Meyer to get him that report and it does not need to be an item and can be done offline.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION - None
R.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL AND LABOR NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Sec. 54957.6.
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AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Diane Strickfaden, Director of Human Resources
EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATIONS:
Redondo Beach Police Officers’ Association, Redondo Beach Police Management Unit; Redondo Beach Firefighters’ Association and Management and Confidential Employee Group
R.2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Sec. 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATORS:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Luke Smude, Assistant to the City Manager
PROPERTY:
3007 Vail Ave., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(a portion of APN: 415-001-7931)
Parking Lot at the Corner of Felton Ln. and 182nd St., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(APN: 415-803-3900)
715 Julia Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(portion of parcels APN: 750-702-0900 and APN: 750-702-1900) 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(APN: 404-900-8903)
807 Inglewood Ave., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(a Portion of APN: 408-302-4900)
200 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 750-500-9902)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Dr. Nicole Wesley, Superintendent
Redondo Beach Unified School District
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Both Price and Terms
R.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2).
One potential case
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
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T. ADJOURNMENT – 8:53 P.M.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to adjourn to the meeting at 8:53 p.m.
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, October 7, 2025, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chamber, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Respectfully submitted:
Eleanor Manzano, CMC
City Clerk