BLUE FOLDER ITEM
Blue folder items are additional back up material to administrative reports and/or public comments received after the printing and distribution of the agenda packet for receive and file.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 31, 2026
M.1 DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON THE CITY'S STRATEGIC PLAN, PRIORITY
AREAS, GOALS, AND OBJECTIVES
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
• Letter from the Cultural Arts Commission
March 26, 2026
To the Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
City of Redondo Beach
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
On behalf of the Redondo Beach Cultural Arts Commission, we respectfully submit the following recommendations for consideration in the City’s 2026 Strategic Plan.
Over the past several months, the Commission has convened monthly to identify key priorities for advancing arts and culture within our community. At our most recent meeting on March 25, 2026, we held a final discussion that included participation from younger members of the community, whose perspectives helped shape the recommendations outlined below.
First, we recognize that the upcoming series of global events—including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 Super Bowl, and the 2028 Olympic Games—presents a once-in-alifetime opportunity for Redondo Beach and the greater region. These events will serve as a powerful catalyst to showcase our city’s cultural identity on a global stage. We strongly recommend that arts and culture be prioritized at the forefront of all related planning, programming, events, and promotions. By doing so, the City can attract international visitors, stimulate the local economy, and elevate Redondo Beach’s reputation as a premier arts and cultural destination. The Commission stands ready to play an active role in shaping and supporting these initiatives.
Second, we propose the identification and development of a city-owned property to serve as a dedicated Art Center. This facility would act as a central hub for artists, residents, and visitors, supporting a wide range of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, digital media, photography, sculpture, and ceramics. Complementing the existing Performing Arts Center, this space could include studios, instructional classrooms, exhibition galleries, and a café. Locations comparable in size and prominence to the current Police Department Annex on Pacific Coast Highway or the Historic Library in Veterans Park would be well-suited for this purpose.
Third, we recommend the development of a Redondo Beach Cultural Arts mobile application. This digital platform would feature an interactive “Art Map” highlighting public art installations, cultural events, facilities, organizations, and activities throughout the city.
Accessible to both residents and visitors, the application would enhance engagement and promote cultural discovery.
Finally, we strongly encourage the City to initiate discussion regarding the creation of a world-class Redondo Beach Art Museum. A potential site for such a project is the former AES Power Plant. Drawing inspiration from internationally recognized institutions established in repurposed industrial spaces, this concept could transform the site into a landmark destination dedicated to arts and culture. Incorporating a museum into the site’s redevelopment would provide a year-round cultural resource while reducing the need for extensive residential development. As an alternative, the South Bay Galleria site could also be considered, though the power plant location offers a uniquely compelling opportunity.
We acknowledge that these initiatives represent a significant undertaking; however, Redondo Beach already benefits from a strong cultural foundation, including the Performing Arts Center, local classes and programs, galleries, festivals, and nonprofit organizations. Expanding upon this infrastructure will not only enrich community life but also create new opportunities for artists, educators, and residents.
The Cultural Arts Commission is committed to supporting the City in realizing these goals and positioning Redondo Beach as a leading cultural hub within the South Bay, Los Angeles County, and the State of California.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We welcome the opportunity to discuss these recommendations further and to assist in their implementation.
Respectfully submitted,
Cultural Arts Commission
City of Redondo Beach