REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
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 arrived at 4:44pm, Behrendt, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Emily Bodkin, Administrative Specialist/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 Liaison Bodkin reported no eComments and no Zoom attendees.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION –
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board Case Number: 20STCP03193
F.2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government
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Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire LLC Bankruptcy C.D. Cal.
Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
F.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
9300 Wilshire, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCP02189
F.4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire, LLC (9300 Wilshire, LLC et al. v. AES-Redondo Beach, LLC) Bankruptcy C.D. Cal.
Case Number: 2:23-ap-01163-ER
F.5. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
Yes in My Back Yard, a California nonprofit corporation; SONJA TRAUSS, an individual v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, and DOES 1 through 25 inclusive
Case Number: 23TRCP00325
F.6. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive Case Number: 23STCV10146
F.7. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government
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Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA, LLC and Leonid Pustilnikov v. City of Redondo Beach and City Council of the City of Redondo Beach
Case Number: B336042
F.8. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, et al.
Case Number: B337897
F.9. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
AES Southland Development, LLC and AES Redondo Beach, LLC v.
California Coastal Commission
Case Number: BS157789
F.10. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege - Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
Mason Thomas v. City of Redondo Beach
WCAB No: ADJ19263797
F.11. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Katherine Buck, Acting Waterfront & Economic Development Director Jon Goetz, Redwood Public Law Brian Campbell, BC Urban
PROPERTY:
100 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
130 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7505-002-932)
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NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Jeff Jones, Quality Seafood, Inc.
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
F.12. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Katherine Buck, Acting Waterfront & Economic Development Director Larry Kosmont, Kosmont Companies
PROPERTY:
123 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7505-002-908)
179 & 181 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7503-033-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Various Prospective Tenants
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
F.13. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Katherine Buck, Acting Waterfront & Economic Development Director Jon Goetz, Redwood Public Law
PROPERTY:
230 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7503-029-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
John Warner, Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles, a non-profit corporation
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Terms
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F.14. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4).
One potential case
Liaison Bodkin read titles to be discussed at 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, Outside Legal Counsel Jon Welner, Human Resources Director Diane Strickfaden, Outside Legal Counsel Carolyn Beliso, Acting W.E.D. Director Katherine Buck, Assistant to the City Attorney’s Office for Real Estate Jon Goetz, Outside Real Estate Advisors Larry Kosmont and Will Soholt, and Public Works Director Andrew Winje.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to recess to Closed Session at 4:36 p.m.
Motion carried 4-0-1 by voice vote. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:02 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
Emily Bodkin, Administrative Specialist/Liaison
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky reported that Community Development Director Marc Wiener joined them in Closed Session for items F.1 through F.9 and, separately, Andrew Perez with Kosmont & Associates under item F.12.; announced they would be returning to Closed Session after Open Session to discuss items F.11, F.13, and F.14 which will become R.11, R.13, and R.14.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
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Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to adjourn to the Open Session at 6:03 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 6:04 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: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Emily Bodkin, Administrative Specialist/Liaison
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited veterans and active-duty military to stand and be recognized for their service.
Brinley, 3rd grader at Jefferson Elementary School, led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
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 MARCH 2026 AS RED CROSS MONTH Mayor Light called up Dan Thomas a Red Cross volunteer; proudly recognized March as the American Red Cross Month; stated that on January 7, 2026, the City, through the RBPD, partnered with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive; noted that for 145 years the American Red Cross has brought relief, comfort, and hope when help cannot wait; stated the City is especially grateful to the dedicated volunteers and staff of the Long Beach and South Bay Chapter who touch lives every day when emergencies strike by providing shelter, food, and comfort to families after disasters and other emergencies; stated that the American Red Cross provided training to the
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community in first aid and CPR; reported they installed 675 smoke alarms, which helped 233 households become safer, educated 603 people on fire safety and prevention, trained 820 people on hands-on CPR, responded to 111 local disasters, collected 45,709 units of blood, and over 45,000 volunteer hours were given in service to others; stated that Redondo Beach is stronger because of the shared commitment to caring for one another; spoke of celebrating the local heroes by honoring American Red Cross Month; proclaimed, on behalf of the City Council and the residents of Redondo Beach, March as American Red Cross Month and thanked the volunteers, the donors, and supporters who make the mission possible.
Dan Thomas said they would love for more people to get involved with blood donations, volunteering, or donations and provided their website: redcross.org; thanked everyone for the support.
D.2. MAYOR’S COMMENDATION TO COMMUNITY LEADERS REGARDING THE
METRO C LINE EXTENSION PROJECT
Mayor Light invited up Niki Negrete-Mitchell, Kevin Mitchell, Chelsea Schreiber, Holly Osborne, Ray Holler (not present), Joshua Purkey, and special guest Lawndale Councilmember Frank Talavera; spoke of the extraordinary community leadership of the six Redondo Beach residents during the alignment of the Metro C Line extension that threatened to go through neighborhoods; noted that they organized their neighbors, engaged with local businesses, brought together community leaders, and made sure their voices were heard for the Hawthorne option; spoke in detail of the years of effort, hard work, dedication and devotion they maintained throughout the uphill battle to get to the decision that was made; on behalf of the City, the City Council, and himself he wanted to thank and congratulate them all for their leadership, courage, and commitment to the South Bay’s future.
Torrance Councilmember Talavera thanked the group for their tenacity and not giving up and giving them the glory; applauded them.
Mayor Light presented commendations to each of them.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell spoke about the experience, noted that it all began in 2021; explained the data they uncovered during the process of putting the City’s Notice of Preparation letter together for the Hawthorne option; spoke about attending the Metro Board of Directors, COG, and City Council meetings and public outreach efforts.
Mayor Light also recognized the City of Lawndale leaders and residents; spoke of the Mayoral Convening by the County Supervisor being one of his first meetings as a Mayor and that this was the issue he brought up; stated that he and Bill Brand are proud of them.
Councilmember Obagi highlighted Joshua Purkey as being a force because he put together a very compelling video regarding the issues with the right-of-way option and really educated everyone to the problems.
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Mayor Light went back to announcements for AB 1234; reported attending as a keynote speaker an Elks’ event for 80 veterans; announced RUHS’s musical called Something Rotten would be running from March 20th through March 28th.
Councilmember Behrendt announced that he and Councilmember Obagi would be having a Pillars of Public Safety part 2 meeting on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the RBPAC at 6:00 p.m. and the RBFD including Deputy Chief Jason May and Chief Butler would be their special guests; noted that everyone is welcome and refreshments would be served.
Councilmember Waller reported attending the Independent Cities Association Winter Seminar; stated that they discussed the California Coastal Act, cyber security, reviewed case studies on strengthening cities’ finances, and SB 346 regarding short-term rental ordinance to improve enforcement; reported presenting at the RUHS Career Day; presented a commendation to World War II veteran and resident John Oliver on his 100th birthday with Councilmembers Castle and Kaluderovic; attended the South Bay Cities Council of Governments Meeting where they heard about LACAHSA and he passed on information to the City Manager regarding the Housing Trust; reported attending an event on Saturday for a grand opening at Mickey’s Deli by Councilmember Obagi; stated that Ragin’ Cajun closed but the same owners would be reopening as Redondo Beach Grill sometime in April; announced the Clean Power Alliance Board of Directors Meeting was that week, Keep the Esplanade Beautiful would be holding their Saturday Sweep at Ave.
I on March 7th at 9:00 a.m., and Redondo Beach Public Safety Open House will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Civic Center on Sunday, March 8th.
Councilmember Obagi announced the North Redondo Beach bikeway extension ribbon cutting on March 5, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the southwest corner of Perkins and Rockefeller Lane; spoke of the success of the grand opening of Mickey’s Deli located at the corner of Artesia Blvd. and Inglewood; reiterated the Pillars of Public Safety part 2 meeting with Councilmember Behrendt would be on April 1, 2026.
Councilmember Castle reported speaking at the California Ranked Choice Voting group dinner about the City’s experience with RCV during the 2025 election; announced the Friends of the South Bay Quick Pitch fundraising event the following evening at the Lighthouse Café at 5:00 p.m. ; announced, in addition to the Public Safety Open House for the Fire and Police, there would be the 52nd Annual Kite Festival down at the Waterfront.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported attending the 100th birthday celebration for John Oliver and the South Bay Aerospace Alliance Meeting; mentioned at the SB Aerospace Alliance Meeting they spoke about issues around the Air Force Base, partnerships with the South Bay WIB, Airforce Base, and Aerospace employers.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
City Manager Witzansky removed item H.10 under the Consent Calendar to bring back
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at a future date.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve the order of the agenda except for item H.10.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. AGENCY RECESS
F.1. REGULAR MEETING OF THE REDONDO BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to recess to the Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach Housing Authority at 6:32 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F.2. REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY FINANCING AUTHORITY CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
Motion by Member Obagi, seconded by Member Waller, to adjourn to the Community Financing Authority at 6:53 p.m.
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
Emily Bodkin, Administrative Specialist/Liaison
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G.1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting City Clerk Manzano reported one Blue Folder item for J.1.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to receive and
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file the Blue Folder item.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 3, 2026
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. FEBRUARY 3, 2026 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
B. FEBRUARY 10, 2026 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30551-30566 IN THE AMOUNT OF $22,689.27, PD. 2/27/26 DIRECT DEPOSIT 308004-308639 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,585,757.13, PD. 2/27/26
EFT/ACH $10,835.18, PD. 2/13/26 (PP2604)
EFT/ACH $475,687.28, PD. 2/23/26 (PP2603)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 123666-123841 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,965,697.90
EFT CALPERS MEDICAL INSURANCE $572,275.92
EFT US DEPT OF HUD $26,033.00
DIRECT DEPOSIT 100010240-100010328 IN THE AMOUNT OF $113,876.85, PD.2/27/26
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 123664-123665
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE AGREEMENTS WITH GRANITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS, LLC
TO PROVIDE STARLINK INTERNET SERVICES ON A MONTH-TO-MONTH BASIS IN AN ESTIMATED ANNUAL EXPENDITURE OF $7,911 EFFECTIVE MARCH 4, 2026 UNTIL TERMINATED
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CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.6. EXCUSED ABSENCES FROM VARIOUS COMMISSION AND COMMITTEE
MEETINGS
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.7. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT FOR TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SERVICES WITH CHEN RYAN ASSOCIATES, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $225,772 FOR DESIGN
OF THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL COMMUNICATION AND NETWORK SYSTEM -
INGLEWOOD AVENUE PROJECT
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE VETERANS PARK
HISTORIC LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY CENTER - EXTERIOR
ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS, JOB NO. 20900, AND AUTHORIZE THE
CITY CLERK TO ADVERTISE THE PROJECT FOR COMPETITIVE BIDS CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.9. APPROVE THE THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE ON-CALL CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH LUCCI AND ASSOCIATES, INC. TO
INCREASE THE NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT BY $100,000, FOR A NEW TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $400,000, AND TO EXTEND THE TERM TO MAY 5, 2028 CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. Pulled by City Manager Witzansky.
H.11. APPROVE THE CONSENT TO THE FIRST AMENDMENT OF THE SUBLEASE BETWEEN MAJESTIC KHM, LLC AND BLUEWATER GRILL REDONDO L.P., FOR THE PREMISES AT 665 NORTH HARBOR DRIVE
CONTACT: KATHERINE BUCK, ACTING WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.12. ADOPT BY 4/5THS VOTE AND TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2603-011,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA AUTHORIZING A FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 BUDGET
MODIFICATION TO APPROPRIATE $27,000 IN ADDITIONAL GRANT YEAR 2023 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY PROGRAM GRANT FUNDS TO THE
INTERGOVERNMENTAL GRANTS FUND AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASE OF
THREE VEHICLE-MOUNTED MOBILE LICENSE PLATE READER CAMERAS
AND ASSOCIATED WARRANTY, DEVICE LICENSE FEE, AND
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INSTALLATION COSTS FROM MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $41,910, THROUGH A COOPERATIVE PURCHASING
AGREEMENT, UTILIZING STATE HOMELAND SECURITY PROGRAM (SHSP)
GRANT FUNDS
CONTACT: STEPHEN SPRENGEL, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.13. RECEIVE AND FILE THE CITY ATTORNEY AUTHORIZATION REPORT FOR SETTLEMENTS IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $25,000
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.14. AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN LETTERS OF SUPPORT FOR FY27
CONGRESSIONAL DIRECTED SPENDING PROJECT APPLICATIONS
CONTACT: JANE CHUNG, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
H.15. Pulled by Mayor Light
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to approve the Consent Calendar with the exception of H.10 and H.15.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and no eComments Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
City Clerk Manzano read title to item H.12, adopt by 4/5 vote and title only Resolution No.
CC-2603-011.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.10. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH 3V SIGNS AND GRAPHICS, LLC FOR THE
PRINTING AND INSTALLATION OF THE REMAINING NORTH REDONDO
BEACH BUSINESS ASSOCIATION STREET BANNERS ALONG ARTESIA BLVD IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $34,612 FOR THE TERM MARCH 3, 2026 TO DECEMBER 31, 2026
CONTACT: KATHERINE BUCK, ACTING WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
City Manager Witzansky explained earlier in the meeting that they will bring this item back at a future meeting to be announced.
H.15. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2603-012 OF THE CITY
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COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, GRANTING
THE APPEAL OF THE DECISION OF THE HEARING OFFICER DESIGNATED BY THE CITY MANAGER, WHICH REVOKED BUSINESS LICENSE #330177
ISSUED TO THE MANHATTAN BEACH SMOKE SHOP DBA REDONDO
SMOKE SHOP AND HOOKAH LOCATED AT 2205 ARTESIA BOULEVARD, UNIT A, REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA 90278 UNDER THE OWNERSHIP
OF FERAS ADAMO, WHICH THEREBY GRANTED A REINSTATEMENT OF BUSINESS LICENSE #330177 BUT ONLY UPON COMPLETION OF CERTAIN
REQUIREMENTS AND SUBJECT TO NEW CONDITIONS
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
Mayor Light stated he pulled this item because he anticipated a split vote and asked if anyone had anything new regarding H.15.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked the City Attorney’s office for quickly preparing the resolution; noted that it captured everything they discussed; recapped that there was no accusation or evidence of sales to minors; reiterated that the specific tobacco ordinance that governed the enforcement on this action mandates, from his perspective, a suspension of 60 days and is consistent with all the state laws that the action was brought under; noted that the smoke shop ordinance was not in effect at the time of the action but that the resolution that was agreed upon at the last meeting is very strong and contains every condition requested by the Councilmembers and the Mayor; reported the investigation cost $40,000; commented that it is possible the City would face an expensive and time-consuming lawsuit if they do not vote in favor of the resolution.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve Resolution No. CC-2603-012.
Councilmember Obagi said he agreed with everything Councilmember Behrendt said; reported that there is a $40,000 restitution that the business owner will have to pay to the City; stated that residents have reached commenting that they do not want smoke shops in the City and he agrees with them and are trying to reduce the number of smoke shops in the City with the new smoke shop ordinance; stated that the new smoke shop ordinance is very strong and eventually there will only be five smoke shops allowed and that the Police understand the new policy directive; reiterated that money would go back into the coffers to continue investigations, prosecutions, and shutting down of bad businesses of all types; thanked City Attorney Ford for putting the resolution together so quickly.
Mayor Light explained to the public that because the hearing on this item has been closed there will be no public comment since there were no substantive changes to the direction of the Council from that hearing; went straight to a vote.
Motion carried 3-2 by voice vote. Councilmembers Kaluderovic and Castle were opposed.
City Clerk Manzano read H.15 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2603-012.
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J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Gil Escontrias, District 1, spoke in length about the meaningful role of volunteerism and how the efforts of volunteers help hold communities together, highlights examples of humanity, reinforces compassion, responsibility, and generosity; noted when residents stay involved it strengthens trust and reinforces a shared community spirit; announced that on March 14th from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. a community dog and cat vaccination clinic will be held at the Redondo Beach Dog Park in Dominguez Park; stated that rabies vaccinations will be provided free of charge and asked that everyone pass the information along to other residents and neighbors; reported sending fliers to the Mayor and Council; stated it promotes animal welfare and protects their health and said they will be offering other types of vaccinations at a reduced rate.
Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, spoke of the influence that Mayor Light had on her regarding the Hawthorne option for the Metro C-line extension; mentioned her neighbor is with the LA Fire Department and said that the fire departments at the Lawndale station and Hawthorne station are stoked over the decision and felt it is the best thing for public safety; noted that a friend in Lawndale checked the docket and there doesn’t appear to be a lawsuit against Metro for their decision so it looks like it will go through.
Quinn Ortadoveci, Emaad Mognoly, and Vaughn Marsalis, Seniors at RUHS, spoke about the enjoyment of playing basketball but, due to their responsibilities and daylight, they don’t often get to play because the courts are not lighted; stated that their goal is to work collaboratively towards extending park lighting hours to 10:00 p.m. as well as installing infrastructure to bring more light to basketball courts; recognized that extending park lighting hours may result in increased electricity and maintenance costs as well as nighttime disruption and asked if they could have time at the next meeting to discuss the issue further to explore a balanced compromise; reported that Redondo Beach only has six public basketball courts and the only one with lighting is at Perry Park so the demand for that court is very high; opined that investing in lighting for more courts in Redondo Beach would mean more places to play and better for physical and mental health for the community.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked which park specifically they would want to focus on of the six courts in Redondo Beach.
Quinn Ortadoveci stated Wilson Park is less residential and offers more space; Emaad Mognoly said that Anderson Park has lights, but they are never turned on at night.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked the students to email her so she could discuss it further with them.
Teresa Mitchell, District 4, provided an update on the North Redondo Beach farmers’
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market; stated that they are still waiting on staff to get it on the Consent Calendar; reported that they set up a nonprofit organization so the revenues from the market would be reinvested into the commercial areas in District 4, they had site evaluations and daytime analysis done in October, and have chosen Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; noted that Green St. between Vanderbilt and Artesia would be closed off for the market; reported speaking with the Mayor, Community Service Director, and the Library Director who gave them guidance for setting up a special event permit and that is currently with the Community Service District and they are waiting for their appointment with all the department heads to get that approved; stated that their target opening date is April 22nd but in order for that to happen they need to get the permit approved so they can move forward with the Department of Agriculture permits, Health Department, getting sponsors, and engaging a Market Manager.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, spoke about the Redondo Beach Ballet event that happened that weekend; stated that they have been in business for 14 years and are a company that hopes to see Redondo Beach subsidize the arts at some point so they can offer more performances and expand into different types of dance and music; noted that they do a lot in the community and read part of their mission statement; asked to submit some information.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file the materials from the speaker.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Georgette Gantner stated the performance was incredible and they had over 40 scenes in two acts; wanted to speak about the smoke shop survey but was stopped since it was on the agenda.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one else 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 ON THE GENERAL PLAN - LAND USE
DESIGNATIONS FOR THREE REDONDO BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL
DISTRICT PROPERTIES USED FOR COMMUNITY, PARK AND RECREATION
PURPOSES INCLUDING THE ALTA VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SITE,
THE FORMER FRANKLIN SCHOOL SITE, AND THE LINCOLN ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL SITE
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MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Planning Manager Scully stated staff is looking for direction from Council on land-use designations for three Redondo Beach Unified School District properties: Alta Vista Elementary School, the former Franklin School site, and Lincoln Elementary School; recalled the previous action of the City Council from the January 20, 2026 meeting and summarized those actions and reported that Council requested some additional information on the three sites before them that evening; noted that the three sites currently have a P designation and all three will be replaced with either a PI or OS designation; stated that the existing P designation is a catchall for anything public and the new PI and OS designations will break it into government facilities designation and a specific parks and open space designation; reported the max FAR for the PI is at 0.75 and for the OS it is 0.20; stated the letters of request from RBUSD were in their package and their request is for all RBUSD properties to have the PI designation; provided slides of aerial photos that showed the current land-use designation in the Land-Use Element for each of the School District sites; stated in June 2024, after the City received input from the School District, the Planning Commission and staff recommended the two properties that are east of Julia Ave. that are owned by the School District be designated PI and the City owned property in the park on the west side of Julia Ave. be OS; showed another aerial photo of a proposed option having the school playground designated PI and the ballfields designated as OS; provided another slide with an aerial view of Franklin School, which is now Friendship Campus, which is designated in the current draft land-use element as OS but after the input from RBUSD, the Planning Commission, and City staff the recommendation is that the Friendship Campus have the PI designation and the adjacent Franklin Park have the OS designation; showed an aerial photo of the current draft landuse element designations of Lincoln Elementary School and Anderson Park, noted that both properties are owned by the School District and the recommendation is for all School District properties to designated PI and Anderson Park would be OS; stated another proposed option could be that the ballfields and park would be OS designated and the blacktop and school property would be PI designated.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if the green portion above Lincoln School is an option for open space.
Planning Manager Scully responded yes.
Councilmember Kaluderovic clarified that that space is fenced in and separate from the public access to Anderson Park and asked if that space is also used by the students during the day.
Planning Manager Scully responded yes, and it is not accessible to the public.
More discussion followed regarding the area being used for after school hours for AYSO, Redondo Beach Little League, and other scheduled activities but it is locked up if not used for scheduled purposes.
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Planning Manager Scully provided a slide on information regarding Consistent Zoning and Environmental Status and provided some explanation on it; spoke about P-SF zoning standards, P-PRO designation, and FAR, height, and setback development standards as determined by Planning Commission design review.
More discussion followed.
Planning Manager Scully stated what they are proposing and discussing that evening is so minor it fits within the purview of the certified program EIR in the Environmental Status, so there are no environmental implications from what was being proposed; noted that any future projects for development on any of the sites they discussed would be subject to CEQA at a later date; stated staff’s recommendations are to take public testimony and for Council to provide direction to staff on the General Plan Land Use Designations for the three properties.
Mayor Light stated he supported staff’s recommendation proposed option version on Alta Vista and felt if the City deviates from what is currently a publicly used park and designate it school PI, they need to revise the open space and conservation element to reflect what is actual park land; supported the current Franklin Park recommendation; deferred to the District 5 Councilmember regarding Anderson Park.
Councilmember Obagi commented that residents would be shocked if a building suddenly appeared in the lower corner near the baseball field at Anderson Park; noted it was mentioned earlier that the City is park poor and if some of the open space is consumed by buildings if would be surprising; suggested before that occurs an environmental analysis or a public debate should be done.
Mayor Light asked for clarification on what Councilmember Obagi was in support of and he confirmed that he preferred it be called open space, which is the option that was shown to them but would also defer to Councilmember Behrendt since it is his district.
Councilmember Waller agreed on Alta Vista and Franklin but voiced concern with making Lincoln open space since the students use it during the day and for after school care; noted it is gated and the gates don’t open until 6:00 p.m. on school days so opined it should be kept PI designated.
Councilmember Behrendt asked staff if they were restricting the school from building new classrooms and other things with the zoning they are proposing.
Planning Manager Scully responded that they are not restricting them from building noneducational buildings, but any other type would be subject to local zoning regulations.
Councilmember Behrendt asked staff if by calling it open space would they be limiting the School District.
City Manager Witzansky said they are not harming the School District’s ability to build
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facilities that educate the community and that the only scenario, if they classify it as OS versus PI and change the FAR caps, would be if a proposed alternative to the site was envisioned and it would have to be beyond the scope of the PI zone which would be subject to different regulations anyway; summarized that there is not much of a limiting factor for the School District by classifying it OS or PI; stated what needs to be decided is what makes the most sense for how it is being used and noted that Anderson is tricky.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if all the sites are mutually exclusive, noted they are all owned by the School District, and used for public institutional but also used as open space; asked for clarification on it.
Community Development Director Marc Wiener stated if the field is limited to use by only the school then it would not fall into the “open space” category but if it is available to the public and is a park or sports field it would fall into the “open space” definition; mentioned they are updating the Land-Use Element and can amend the definitions to make them more clear.
Councilmember Behrendt asked Director Wiener what he would recommend.
Community Development Director Wiener supported the recommendations made by staff and explained his reasons.
Some discussion followed.
City Manager Witzansky clarified that the School District would have the same discretion in the future as they have today.
More discussion followed.
Councilmember Behrendt stated he supports staff’s proposed option and its his preference.
Community Development Director Wiener commented that one key point to know is that it would not impede the School’s ability to use the property, but if the School decided to sell the property or dispose of it, it would have the open space designation and would carry with the property.
Councilmember Kaluderovic spoke about using two different criteria for two different parks and the reasoning being that Anderson Park is heavily used by the community so they think of it as open space; stated, although the City is not limiting the School District’s ability to develop the property that they own with the designation, she opined that they would be discouraging the District to opening up their property for the community because the City will essentially be taking advantage by taking it; commented that they are thankful that the District has so much property that they are open to the community using it but felt they will step into a tricky situation by making the difference between Alta Vista and Anderson.
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Mayor Light asked Councilmember Kaluderovic what her recommendation would be.
Councilmember Kaluderovic stated they should just follow the fence line; agreed staff’s recommended designations for Alta Vista Park and Franklin Park but suggested they follow the fence line that is open to the public at all times of the day which ends between proper Anderson Park and pointed to where the fence line ends.
City Manager Witzansky pointed out that the fence line in this case runs south then goes east and runs into the community center, which in his point of view is a PI zone.
Councilmember Waller agreed with Councilmember Kaluderovic’s three proposals for the three sites; noted that all the fields are heavily used and they are not setting all of them up as open space; commented if they wanted to be consistent they would need to basically say anything that is a field (HS football fields, HS baseball fields) are all open space which they are not doing.
Councilmember Obagi asked Director Wiener if they could come up with new definitions and new zones such as District open space.
Community Development Director Wiener responded that the City could modify the definitions of open space and public institutional, specifically to address the open space at the three school properties that also coincide with being parks.
Councilmember Obagi clarified that they can’t make a modified open space that is applicable just to District.
Community Development Director Wiener stated that they could but it would take some additional effort and time.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented that the City has an elected School Board, they have an approved process for any change to their property and that would go to the voters so she didn’t feel they would be losing any control.
Mayor Light stated except in the case of housing.
Councilmember Behrendt stated his concern about delineating between Alta Vista with no fence and Anderson Park with a fence is they would be signaling to people that putting a fence around a property will mean it is not open space and so the first thing someone could do if they own that property would be to put a fence around it; noted another distinction with the Alta Vista property is that it is not an artificial turf field but an open grass field and designating it as OS does not prevent the School District from doing anything; voiced his support for staff’s recommendation.
Councilmember Castle stated he agreed with Councilmember Kaluderovic’s comments regarding making Anderson Park open space would send the wrong message to close the fence to keep the public out; mentioned the testimony from the public regarding the
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City being park poor and wanted to encourage the School District to keep the gates open; voiced his support for staff’s recommendation.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve the staff proposal for Alta Vista and Franklin Park sites.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve staff’s proposal on Anderson.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Holly Osborne, District 5, requested that the City never turn green space/open space into a parking lot; reported the School District sold the Aviation High School property and its surrounding fields and it was turned into an industrial park except for a part of it that was to be preserved as open space but it was turned into a parking lot; said that when she called the Councilmember at that time he stated that a parking lot is open space and that is when she began her activism; stated that green space fenced or not fenced contributes positively to the environment; urged the Council not to allow the School District to turn their open space into a parking lot.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, asked where the item is coming from, is it to clarify what the area is supposed to be for the General Plan, or does the School District want it for future development purposes; asked if it was coming from the City or from the School District.
Mayor Light stated they could answer her offline since it is not meant to be a question and answer period.
Wayne Craig, District 1, noted that during the Planning Commission meeting regarding this item there was some confusion with the lines, noted that was resolved and felt what was presented that evening by staff accurately reflects what the Planning Commission was thinking; commented that he didn’t think defining the two schools differently would be impossible just more work but it might be better to clarify it; pointed out that most of the schools are not accessible to the public after school is out because they are locked up; voiced his support for staff’s recommendation.
Teresa Mitchell, District 4, recommended that the broadest use of open space be applied to the School District; explained that the School District jurisdiction falls under DSA if they are building for the schools and only falls into another zoning code if it’s either sold or used for non-school use; stated the more open space the City can have in the zoning designations the more protected the City’s limited park spaces would be.
Alexander Cokey, District 5, spoke of the importance of keeping Alta Vista, especially the green area, open to the public in the definition; explained that several groups play sports at that space and it would be a shame if it was taken away from them.
Erica Foster (via Zoom) voiced concern if the public had access to the school’s
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Tuesday, March 3, 2026
playgrounds or school areas during the school day that it would take away the children’s right to privacy and their safety.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one else online and no eComments.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote on the first motion made.
Substitute motion to the second motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve staff’s 2024 recommendation to follow the straight line above the baseball fields and parking lot, May Avenue, as PI.
Motion carried 3-2 by voice vote. Councilmembers Obagi and Behrendt were opposed.
City Manager Witzansky clarified that it is not a resolution but direction to staff as another element of the General Plan update and will come back as memorialized in the updated draft General Plan.
Mayor Light asked Councilmember Behrendt, before he made his decision, what his rationale was for doing Alta Vista differently.
Councilmember Behrendt stated it is a few things: there are baseball fields on the other side of the fence line of Alta Vista, its 90% grass and open space, and the frequency of use at both of the areas; commented that for him it comes down to more open space especially if it is not impacting the School District but recognized Councilmembers can differ and respects the various views they have.
Discussion followed regarding Alta Vista and the uses it offers.
Mayor Light asked what was included in their draft open space element.
City Manager Witzansky requested the slide of the draft be placed on the screen.
Planning Manager Scully said he took a look at their draft before the meeting and it does not include the open space area owned by the District, it only includes the open space to the left west of Julia.
More discussion followed.
Planning Manager Scully stated whatever is in the current draft Land Use Element would be carried over into the open space element and calculated as open space in that element.
City Manager Witzansky confirmed they will adjust the calculations based on Council’s direction; stated currently they do not have consistency between the two documents they have.
Mayor Light stated he would defer to Council’s vote and not veto it; requested that the
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open space element (park land) calculations reflect the Council vote that evening.
Community Development Director Wiener stated staff will bring it back as part of the broader Land Use Element adoption process so Council could have an opportunity to review it again and they will bring the draft open space element back at the same time.
City Manager Witzansky added that they will ensure that the draft Land Use Element and open space element reflect the same designations.
Mayor Light confirmed Councilmember Behrendt was comfortable with that discussion.
Councilmember Behrendt said he was fine with it.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to take a 10-minute break.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote at 8:10 p.m.
RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING FROM RECESS – 8:22 P.M.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Behrendt, Mayor Light, Kaluderovic, Obagi,
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Mike Cook, IT Director
Emily Bodkin, Administrative Specialist/Liaison
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING UPDATES TO
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RELATED CITY ADMINISTRATIVE
POLICIES/PROCEDURES (APPS) INCLUDING POLICIES PERTAINING TO
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS AND THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL
INTELLIGENCE (AI)
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
IT Director Cook explained the reason this item is before Council that evening is because the latest batch of policies being updated pertained to the public interest and would impact the organization longer term so they felt for strategy and transparency they needed to bring it in front of Council to discuss; provided a PowerPoint presentation and the first item to discuss was on video policy updates; stated that IT, the Police Department, City
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Manager’s office, and HR had all been involved with this update and it had not been updated in 11 years; said staff really wanted to look at the process in which new cameras and sites are approved for use within the City and they came up with a process that requires the approval of himself, the Chief of Police, and the City Manager’s office for all new sites; noted that they aligned their process with the best practices of other cities and public agencies; stated the documentation surrounding who gets access on the back end for support and who actually gets access within the Police Department to view the recordings, download the recordings, and other stuff was addressed as part of the update; spoke of the popularity of AI and that he favors the Britannica definition, which he has seen used in several presentations he has been to; stated what sticks out for him, is how it defines that a computer is attempting to think and act and form intellectual processes similar to a human being; added it is learning from the past, learning from mistakes, learning from information on the internet, and learning from the information it is fed; spoke of the progress AI has made and the impact it will have in the future and guessed the doubts that everyone has about it will be gone within three to five years; reported that there are over 5,000 AI startups in the US alone and that it is ripe for experimentation, which staff is encouraging; spoke about the potential issues and dangers of using some of the AI tools, especially free ones, that use the information that is given to them to better themselves and other customers; stated they want to focus on leveraging technologies that aren’t going to share sensitive data of theirs, that will be safe for the City to use, and allow the City to grow with the times; stated at the Citywide Strategic Planning Session, scheduled for the end of the month, he was sure the topic of AI would come up frequently and how they want to address that in the short term; said one of the things that is key to the policy is the City selecting and procuring a generative AI tool for general City staff usage and possibly replacing their Webb bot; stated he is hearing buzz about Building and Planning and Procurement tools and would likely come up with some goals for those areas; mentioned, as they do renewals regarding the back end of their current systems, they will do some review of the agreements and the cybersecurity controls and things that surround the use of technology in the City’s existing tools and stated both AI and cameras would be included in their budget discussion and strategy; provided a slide titled Alignment with Projects and Strategy that listed items that he considered his top things and highlighted in gold those that incorporated AI and reviewed them; gave an example of how AI can generate new employee videos for training purposes and other exciting things to look forward to; said the policy will be reviewed regularly as the world is constantly changing; noted that they did update other policies within it including making terminology updates to the Responsible Use Policy, added verbiage for cybersecurity such as unauthorized tools for City businesses and updated email communication policy including expanding the scope to include Redondo.gov email addresses; reported they retired a dated process that had a group of people on a Citywide scale assess new technology proposals and spoke about the current collaborative process between the department heads and the departments who now select and implement tools; stated staff’s recommendation was to receive and file APP 10.57 Video Security, APP 10.57 Exhibit A Sites, and APP 4.05 AI.
City Manager Witzansky stated, as noted by Director Cook, most of the policies were stale and overdue for updating and it is unique for staff to bring APPs forward for
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conversation; reported that APPs are under his authority and control of their internal operations and the reason they brought it forward that evening were these particular ones have some public impact and would be a matter of public concern; spoke of being careful and judicious on how and where the cameras are installed, they tried to be respectful in developing a policy that understood privacy protection but also recognizes that this technology can also be helpful to the City in certain instances; stated the big change in the policy that has been drafted so far is the decision making including oversight from a security, IT, and cost effectiveness standpoint; pointed out that he has not signed the policies yet and that evening is an opportunity for Council to talk through it, provide input, and make small changes; mentioned a suggestion, he agreed with made by Councilmember Behrendt, to codify any exceptions, which currently are only approved by him; stated he liked that suggestion because it holds the internal team more accountable and posts it online so the public is aware.
Some discussion followed regarding a possible exception for the deployment for a specific Police operation where it might need to be done urgently and they don’t have time to update the exhibit.
IT Director Cook added the policy does make it a clear definition of a temporary camera for Police investigation purposes versus something that is permanent and installed for City purposes.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed with having something in writing so that it is clear when an exception to the policies are made and asked if they would be providing a statement of the reason for the exception.
City Manager Witzansky stated he would provide written documentation when he authorizes an exception so it is clear, otherwise, they would be updating the policy to reflect new criterion, so exceptions should be remain very few.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if staff has a mechanism in mind on how to discuss and inform Council and the Mayor on exceptions.
City Manager Witzansky said they have struggled to come up with scenarios where they would have an exception but, if one existed, they would likely communicate it via email with an attached form for internal use or just an email with a description of what has occurred; noted if an event occurred to do with an investigation where they cannot communicate in writing he may make them aware verbally so it may have to do with the nature of the exception.
Councilmember Behrendt asked they codify the policy once they come up with a mechanism to inform the Council and Mayor of exceptions; asked if they could come back to Council when policy updates are made since it seems to be evolving so they are aware.
City Manager Witzansky stated the APPs are posted through the City’s internal process, SeaNet, which are all available to the Council when they do execute them in final form;
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stated he would make them aware of the finalized executed version of the APP so they could access them via link.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if all the APPs that are subject of that evening’s discussion could be put on the Consent Calendar as a receive and file.
City Manager Witzansky said they could give the Council periodic updates as a receive and file.
More discussion followed regarding exigent circumstances with temporary uses of surveillance cameras.
Councilmember Waller referenced APP 4.05 regarding the use of the term “City data” and requested that staff clarify and define that term so that they are not telling people that they can’t use their own AI to analyze information published onto the City’s website, such as agendas, attachments, etc.
IT Director Cook said he made a good point; stated they have a separate Information Classification Policy that has three tiers in it, which are:
- Level One – Data is effectively the things that are protected by law such as HIPAA data, criminal information, credit card, and social security number. - Level Two – Information not directly protected by law but that the City would consider sensitive to the City such as home address and phone number. - Level Three – Information that are public information that the City would freely post and give out in a Public Records Request.
IT Director Cook stated they would add the word “sensitive” in there or he would just explicitly list out levels one and two.
Councilmember Castle asked the City Manager if he could also include the City Attorney with items that fall into the exceptions category for any legal implications.
City Manager Witzansky stated that there are requirements that still need to be within the comfort of the law with APPs, so in a sense all their installations and uses of the technology are compliant; added that when they procure items through contract processes or service agreements they are all reviewed by the City Attorney’s office and they try not to further burden that workload through APP; noted that any criminal investigations do not apply to what they are discussing and those would go through the judicial process and not subject to this policy.
Councilmember Castle asked if they would need to move some of the City’s current cameras or replace them and noted the City Manager mentioned it may have additional monthly costs.
City Manager Witzansky stated that they would reposition cameras if possible but that technology has changed and overtime, as cameras are replaced, they hope to be able to
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reduce the total number and take advantage of whatever that savings is and deploy it more efficiently; reported that they can’t just move cameras they have today because they are antiquated.
IT Director Cook added there are no current cameras in locations that they would want to relocate at the moment; commented that, with the exception of the Transit Center, the other cameras in the City are effectively located and the Police staff agreed when he discussed that with them.
Mayor Light invited public comments.
Bob Pinzler said he appreciated the City’s focus on privacy and data security; asked if there was something listed regarding facial recognition, recommended the City using one AI platform, and educating City staff on the use of AI; reported that the e-Gov Steering Committee existed because very few people at the time knew what they were talking about but now there is no use for it; recommended a statement regarding facial recognition by the City is needed.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to receive and file.
Councilmember Behrendt stated there is a lot of concern regarding facial recognition in the community and in the Administrative Policy and Procedures it specifically states facial recognition shall not be enabled unless approved by the City Council as a feature of the surveillance system; said what he understands that to mean is even if a surveillance system has facial recognition technology that won’t be turned on without the approval of the City Council and felt that is a balanced approach to the subject; added that there may be exceptions for exigent public safety as approved by the City Manager, Chief of Police, and IT Director and that exigency would come back to Council.
City Manager Witzansky agreed with Councilmember Behrendt’s statement regarding facial recognition, and it is clearly addressed in the draft policy as written.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky announced the ribbon cutting Thursday at 4:00 p.m. for the North Redondo Beach Bike path extension, as covered by Councilmember Obagi earlier and the Regular Meeting scheduled for 4:30 p.m. the following Tuesday; noted that they would have at least two discussion items for that meeting on youth ridership with BCT and review and further discussion on the development standards associated with the AACAP; announced on March 17th they will have the mid-year budget review and they will be discussing the Community Development Department’s service fee assessment and recommendations associated with their Master Fee Schedule update as part of the 26/27 budget; reported no meeting for the 24th and they have the Strategic Planning on the 31st.
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P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Councilmember Behrendt motion a referral to staff to amend the City’s business license appeal process ordinance to be more streamlined and updated to address best practices and ensure that City Council and Mayor have a role in that process; stated it is time sensitive since they are anticipating enforcement actions under the new smoke shop ordinance and it would be prudent to give them an opportunity to get some recommendations from staff and have a discussion and decide on it.
Councilmember Obagi seconded the referral.
Discussion followed to clarify the referral.
City Manager Witzansky stated they have realized the business license appeal process summarized in the code doesn’t flush out some of the various scenarios that they have encountered and this would be a distinct effort as it pertains to business license.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked when they would be engaging Mike Webb as a potential mediator.
City Manager Witzansky stated it would be subject to their Closed Session negotiation strategy; noted they would discuss it there and then decide whether or not they had a need for that service and if so, it would come to Council for a contract consideration.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
R.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
City of Redondo Beach, et al. v. California State Water Resources Control Board
Case Number: 20STCP03193
R.2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
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Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire LLC
Bankruptcy C.D. Cal. Case Number: 2:23-bk-10918-ER
R.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
9300 Wilshire, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCP02189
R.4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In re 9300 Wilshire, LLC (9300 Wilshire, LLC et al. v. AES-Redondo Beach, LLC) Bankruptcy C.D. Cal.
Case Number: 2:23-ap-01163-ER
R.5. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
Yes in My Back Yard, a California nonprofit corporation; SONJA TRAUSS, an individual v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, and DOES 1 through 25 inclusive
Case Number: 23TRCP00325
R.6. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 23STCV10146
R.7. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1). Name of case: New Commune DTLA, LLC and Leonid
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Pustilnikov v. City of Redondo Beach and City Council of the City of Redondo Beach
Case Number: B336042
R.8. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
New Commune DTLA, LLC v. City of Redondo Beach; City Council of the City of Redondo Beach; City of Redondo Beach Department of Community Development, et al.
Case Number: B337897
R.9. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
AES Southland Development, LLC and AES Redondo Beach, LLC v. California Coastal Commission
Case Number: BS157789
R.10. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege - Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
Mason Thomas v. City of Redondo Beach
WCAB No: ADJ19263797
R.11. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Katherine Buck, Acting Waterfront & Economic Development Director Jon Goetz, Redwood Public Law Brian Campbell, BC Urban
PROPERTY:
100 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
130 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7505-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Jeff Jones, Quality Seafood, Inc.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
R.12. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Katherine Buck, Acting Waterfront & Economic Development Director Larry Kosmont, Kosmont Companies
PROPERTY:
123 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7505-002-908)
179 & 181 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7503-033-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Various Prospective Tenants
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
R.13. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Katherine Buck, Acting Waterfront & Economic Development Director Jon Goetz, Redwood Public Law
PROPERTY:
230 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7503-029-903)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
John Warner, Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles, a non-profit corporation
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Terms
R.14. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4).
One potential case
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to recess to Closed Session at 8:58 p.m.
Liaison Bodkin read items R.11, R.13, and R.14 to be discussed 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, Acting W.E.D. Director Katherine Buck, Outside Legal Counsel Jon Goetz, and Public Works Director Andrew Winje.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 10:47 P.M.
• There is no transcript or sound when they return to Open Session on the video or You Tube.
Visually I can see all the Councilmembers present, City Manager Witzansky, Mayor Light, and one person sitting where the liaison or City Clerk Manzano sits.
T. ADJOURNMENT – 10:48 P.M.
There is no transcript or sound so I cannot determine who made the motion, seconded, or voted.
The next meeting of the City Council of the City of Redondo Beach will be an Adjourned Regular meeting to be held at 1:00 p.m. (Open Session) on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chamber, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
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