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Minutes
x Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Closed Session — Adjourned Regular Meeting 4: 30 p. m.
TEDAPR 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: Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light Councilmembers Absent: Waller (in Sacramento for a meeting) Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
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 NON -
AGENDA ITEMS
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
F. 1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956. 8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Elizabeth Hause, Community Services Director
PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon portions of APN # s: 7503- 029- 900 and 7503- 029- 903) Portions of Harbor Drive, Pacific Avenue, Catalina Avenue, Torrance Boulevard, Knob Hill Avenue, Vista Del Mar, Camino de la Costa, Gertruda
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Avenue, Herondo Street, and Esplanade
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Kellie Hawkins, Englander Knabe & Allen on Behalf of Nike, Inc.
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
F. 2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956. 8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Elizabeth Hause, Community Services Director
PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot
portions of APN # s: 7503- 029- 900 and 7503- 029- 903) Portions of King Harbor turn basin and hand launch
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Adam Brzyski, Game On Live Studio, Water Polo Program Coordinator UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
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, and Community Services Director Elizabeth Hause.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to recess to Closed Session at 4: 35 p. m.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6. 07 p. m.
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Councilmembers Present: Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light Councilmembers Absent: Waller
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Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky stated there was no reportable action that evening.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to adjourn to the Regular Meeting at 6: 08 p. m.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent. 6: 00 PM — OPEN SESSION — REGULAR MEETING
A. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order at 6: 08 p. m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: Waller
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited veterans and active -duty military to stand and be recognized for their service.
Councilmember Kaluderovic led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mayor Light asked all to remain standing for a moment of silent invocation.
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D. PRESENTATIONS/ PROCLAMATIONS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS/ AB 1234 TRAVEL D. 1. MAYOR' S PROCLAMATION OF MAY 17 - 23, 2026 AS NATIONAL PUBLIC
WORKS WEEK
Mayor Light invited Public Works Director Andy Winje, Senior Mechanic Fernando Casimiro, and Senior Administrative Specialist Christine Gillette to the podium; acknowledged that Public Works is involved in all aspects of daily life in Redondo Beach; reported that the department has 114 full- time and 3 part- time employees who maintain 127 miles of roadways, 6. 7 million sq. ft. of sidewalk, more than 11, 600 street signs, 35 miles of storm drains, 116 miles of sewer lines, 16 sewer pump stations, over 130 acres of parks and landscaped green space, over 11, 800 City owned trees, the Pier, three parking structures, Marina basins, seawalls, Harbor docks, vessel moorings, more than 250 City vehicles, 23 generators, and over 433, 000 sq. ft. of City building space; stated the department is supported through an operating budget of approximately $ 36 million per year and a capital budget of approximately $ 94 million which reflects the City' s investment in maintaining and improving the City' s infrastructure; stated that National Public Works week is an opportunity to recognize the individuals whose work happens behind the scenes; presented the proclamation on behalf of the City Council and the community.
Public Works Director Winje introduced Christine Gillette and Fernando Casimiro., explained the critical roles that each of them plays in the department; thanked all the Public Works employees for their hard work, dedications, and expertise in keeping the City moving forward.
Mayor Light reported attending the Fire Service Day on Saturday, the Southern California Association of Governments General Assembly on Thursday ( no cost associated for elected officials and representatives of cities), and the ribbon cutting for the North Redondo Farmers Market; announced, on May 20, 2026, he would be doing a State of the City for the residents from 5. 00 p. m. to 7. 00 p. m. in the conference room at the Library.
Councilmember Kaluderovic recognized Mike Klein, the Public Works team, and IT Director Mike Cook for their response to the situation during the BeachLife festival; reported attending the Internet Safety Event hosted by the Redondo Beach PTA along with the RBPD; announced her Community Meeting for May 13, 2026, at 6: 00 p. m. at Fulton Playfield, her joint community event at the cafeteria at Jefferson Elementary School on May 20, 2026, at 6: 30 p. m. with Councilmember Behrendt to discuss the Citywide Crossing Guard Program.
Councilmember Castle reported attending the Fire Service Day at Station 1 over the weekend, the Farmers Market ribbon cutting on Wednesday, Graze Craze ribbon cutting in the King Plaza, and the ribbon cutting for The Glass House event space for the South Bay Artists Studio on Francisca and Catalina.
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Councilmember Obagi thanked Public Works for bringing out the truck that clears out clogs in the sewer drains and for their around the clock service; explained to everyone not to put oils and fats down the drain because it hardens up and clogs drains; thanked IT Director Mike Cook for fixing the internet problem down at the Pier.
Councilmember Behrendt announced part 4 of the Pillars of Public Safety event at the RBPAC on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 6: 00 p. m. featuring LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman and refreshments will be served.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve the order of the agenda as published.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
F. AGENCY RECESS - None
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G. 1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting City Clerk Manzano reported Blue Folder items for H. 10, N. 1, and N. 2.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to receive and file the Blue Folder items.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H. 1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 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. MARCH 31, 2026 ADJOURNED AND STRATEGIC PLANNING MEETING B. APRIL 14, 2026 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
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C. APRIL 21, 2026 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
HA. ADOPT BY 4/ 5THS VOTE AND BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC- 2605- 028 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING A 2025- 2026 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET MODIFICATION APPROPRIATING $ 25, 000 IN GRANT FUNDS FROM THE
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION OF
BOATING AND WATERWAYS TO THE CITY' S WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT BUDGET FOR THE DISPOSAL OF
ABANDONED OR SURRENDERED VESSELS IN KING HARBOR
CONTACT: KATHERINE BUCK, ACTING WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H. 5. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH FEHR & PEERS, INC. FOR A MARINA
PARKING REQUIREMENT ADJUSTMENT STUDY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $ 35, 000 FOR THE TERM MAY 12, 2026 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2026 CONTACT: KATHERINE BUCK, ACTING WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H. 6. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY, RESOLUTION NO. CC- 2605- 029, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA
APPROVING THE SUSPENSION OF PREFERENTIAL PARKING HOURS IN THE VINCENT AND VINCENT 2 PREFERENTIAL PARKING DISTRICTS FOR LIMITED HOURS ON JUNE 11 AND JUNE 12, 2026, FOR THE REDONDO
BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT' S MIDDLE SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT
AND HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION CEREMONIES
CONTACT: STEPHEN SPRENGEL, CHIEF OF POLICE
H. 7. APPROVE THE THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH MELAD AND ASSOCIATES, INC. TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHECK
SERVICES AND INSPECTION AND PERMIT TECHNICIAN STAFFING
SUPPORT AS NEEDED, ADDING $ 500, 000 TO THE AGREEMENT, FOR A NEW NOT TO EXCEED TOTAL OF $ 1, 000, 000 FULLY OFFSET BY FEES
APPROVE THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH
BOWMAN INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERS LTD. TO PROVIDE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHECK SERVICES AND INSPECTION AND PERMIT TECHNICIAN STAFFING SUPPORT AS NEEDED, ADDING $ 500, 000 TO THE AGREEMENT, FOR A NEW NOT TO EXCEED TOTAL OF $ 970, 000 FULLY
OFFSET BY FEES
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APPROVE THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH
TRANSTECH ENGINEERS, INC TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
CHECK SERVICES AND INSPECTION AND PERMIT TECHNICIAN STAFFING SUPPORT AS NEEDED, ADDING $ 500, 000 TO THE AGREEMENT, FOR A NEW NOT TO EXCEED TOTAL OF $ 700, 000 FULLY OFFSET BY FEES
APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH TRUE NORTH
COMPLIANCE SERVICES, INC. TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
CHECK SERVICES AND INSPECTION AND PERMIT TECHNICIAN STAFFING SUPPORT AS NEEDED, ADDING $ 500, 000 TO THE AGREEMENT, FOR A NEW NOT TO EXCEED TOTAL OF $ 600, 000 FULLY OFFSET BY FEES CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H. 8. ADOPT BY 4/ 5THS VOTE AND TITLE ONLY, RESOLUTION NO CC- 2605- 030
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING A 2025- 2026 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET MODIFICATION APPROPRIATING $ 60, 000 IN GRANT FUNDS FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION TO THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL
GRANTS FUND
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
H. 9. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY ORDINANCE NO. 3311- 26, AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING TITLE 10 PLANNING AND ZONING, CHAPTER 2 ZONING AND
LAND USE OF THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE TO IMPLEMENT AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY' S CERTIFIED 6TH CYCLE 2021- 2029 HOUSING
ELEMENT THAT REPLACE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OVERLAY
DISTRICTS ON THE CITY' S IDENTIFIED " HOUSING SITES" WITH HIGH - DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ( 65 DU/ AC) AND MIXED - USE ZONING DISTRICTS ( 65 TO 80 DU/ AC). FOR SECOND READING AND ADOPTION
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY ORDINANCE NO. 3312- 26, AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING TITLE 10 PLANNING AND ZONING, CHAPTER 1 SUBDIVISIONS
OF THE REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE TO IMPLEMENT
AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY' S CERTIFIED 6TH CYCLE 2021- 2029 HOUSING
ELEMENT THAT REPLACE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING OVERLAY
DISTRICTS ON THE CITY' S IDENTIFIED " HOUSING SITES" WITH HIGH - DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ( 65 DU/ AC) AND MIXEDUSE ZONING DISTRICTS ( 65 TO 80 DU/ AC). FOR SECOND READING AND ADOPTION
CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H. 10. AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN A LETTER TO THE LOS ANGELES
COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS TO OPPOSE A BOARD MOTION
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REGARDING A MORE ACCOUNTABLE HOMELESSNESS GOVERNANCE
STRUCTURE FOR LOS ANGELES COUNTY INTRODUCED BY SUPERVISOR
LINDSEY HORVATH
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve the Consent Calendar in its entirety.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Nancy Skiba ( via Zoom) asked if the Mayor and Council could explain why they would be opposed to the governance structure for item H. 10.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one else online and no eComments.
Councilmember Kaluderovic offered to address Nancy Skiba' s question; stated that it seems the intention is to address the JPA that is with LAHSA and the City of Los Angeles but it doesn' t seem to have a clear understanding of who is doing what in the system; commented that the Responsive Regional Plan seems to be more of an inventory and not a plan of the programs in the entire system and it is incomplete; explained that the City has collaborated on a letter to advocate for changes to the motion so that cities can be represented, maintain flexibility with the spending, and advocate that they complete the Regional Plan Inventory before making any decisions.
Councilmember Obagi agreed with the comments made by Councilmember Kaluderovic; added that they discussed it at the COG and the impression they got from the motion is that homeless money intended for Redondo Beach and for the South Bay COG would be taken and used for administration; noted that would go against what they have been learning from the City's functional zero homelessness and what has been advocated because it would deprive local agencies from being able to retain Housing Navigators and resources; commented that they would disempower the local agencies and go back to the centralized theme that has failed with LAHSA.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
City Clerk Manzano read HA adopt by 4/ 5ths vote by title only Resolution No. CC- 2605- 028, H. 6 adopt by title only Resolution No CC- 2605- 029, H. 8 adopt by 4/ 5ths vote and by title only Resolution No. CC- 2605- 030, H. 9 adopt by title only Ordinance No. 3311- 26 and adopt by title only Ordinance No. 3312- 26.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS - None
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON -AGENDA ITEMS
J. 1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
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Pam Absho reported she spoke in December about construction issues and this week the issue has to do with an air conditioning unit being installed on the side setback by a neighbor; stated that the other issue has not been resolved, Director Wiener went out to their home and promised to take care of it but nothing has been done in five months so they have had to retain counsel to try to resolve the construction issues with her neighbor at 1019; reported that this week her neighbor at 1011 is installing an a/ c unit that is 62 decibels and in April 2023 a new code stated that no unit can be put into a side setback at a level greater than 55 decibels.
William Nevarez, husband of Pam Absho, spoke about the noisy environment of their area and when a/ c is put in the units it generates sound pressure and noise; stated they have lived there since 1988 and have the right to quiet enjoyment of their home; said they don' t like to do litigation but that the City has forced them in that direction; explained all the measures they have taken with the City but they are not getting the support from the City; reported that a seller of one of the properties lied about the a/ c unit being pre- existing on the plans and threatened them with litigation if they said anything to jeopardize the sale of the home; stated that they obtained a permit report which showed there have been 15 permits issued for air conditioning and only one on this side of the City; reiterated that they have asked for help from the City and they are dissatisfied.
Councilmember Obagi asked if they have contacted Code Enforcement or Quality of Life Unit.
William Nevarez responded that they have and Code Enforcement has been involved; noted that the inspector said they don' t have sound equipment to measure noise, but the a/ c unit is 65 decibels.
Wayne Craig, District 1, referenced the Pearl St. mixed -use housing controversy in South Redondo and explained that the developer stated that adding another subterranean parking level would make the project financially infeasible; stated it mattered to residents because it eliminated approx. 40 parking spaces while increasing impacts on surrounding neighborhoods; reported that the Planning Commission rejected the project due to concerns over the parking shortage and public safety concerns regarding the proximity of the project to the Fire Station and the impact it would have on emergency vehicles trying to negotiate the crowded intersection at Pearl and PCH; stated due to the threat of litigation the City Council approved the project and granted entitlements; reported now the property is on the market for $ 14 million and it reinforces that from the beginning the project was not about providing affordable housing, it was to maximize land use and profit; reported that the same developer has proposed a 79 unit project on the corner of 190tn St. and Inglewood Ave. and will bypass a Planning Commission review due to State Housing Laws; recommended that the City pursue every legal option before the project goes through final approval through the Planning Commission; highlighted that the broader issue extends to local governments surrendering authority to Sacramento mandates which may increase large scale developments with inadequate parking that will impact neighborhoods and quality of life; stated that affordable housing should benefit
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working families and not just create opportunities for developers to obtain entitlements, inflate property values, and not build anything at all.
Mayor Light commented that it is beyond the control of the City but they receive letters from the State, HCD, and the Coastal Commission; reported that the developer did remedy the parking shortages with the commercial development; stressed that until people vote for the right people in Sacramento or support Our Neighborhood Voices the future may continue to see more State mandates.
Jeff Jones, Quality Seafood & President of the King Harbor Business Association, stated that his business relied on a strong collaboration with Public Works and was happy to be there on a night they were being honored; spoke of running for the role of president because he wanted to change the way the Association was being led; reported that, over the past year, they have staged some great events at the Waterfront, worked on beautification projects and safety projects, and brought in several new members into the Association; stated that they amended the bylaws of the King Harbor Association, namely they expanded the area of the Association that encompasses and brings in more voices and more people; noted that the Association' s voice has been absent and with the changed hoped that they could help Council with decisions as they relate to the Waterfront; announced that the Association will be more present and they will provide monthly updates to the Council going forward.
Councilmember Obagi referenced the approved $ 11 million plan for the Seaside Lagoon and asked Jeff Jones if he felt that the Association was left out of the decision or that their voice was reflected in the plan.
Jeff Jones replied that they did not feel their perspective was related to the Council and they intend to do better in making a collaborative effort with the Council.
Councilmember Obagi said he would follow up with Jeff Jones.
Mayor Light asked if there was a chance they would include the Pier as they expand their role.
Jeff Jones replied that they intend to make that opportunity available to everybody on the Pier and it is included in the map they drew out for their area.
Discussion followed that it would be ideal for the Pier Association and the King Harbor Association to work together as one big group to run events.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, spoke about the expansion of the LA County Art Museum and the changes they have made being controversial; said Michael Govan, the curator, justified the changes were needed to attract the best art in the country and it will make more money for the City; stated she is still advocating and hoping that the AES Plant might be a place for art or be a satellite location for LACMA, the Geffen, the Broad, or the Hammer; asked that they visit the footprint when they have a chance.
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City Clerk Manzano reported no eComments and no hands raised on Zoom.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Light reported speaking with multiple members of the Council and the City Manager.
Councilmember Castle reported speaking with the City Manager.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported speaking with staff for L. 1.
Councilmember Obagi reported none.
Councilmember Behrendt reported speaking with the Mayor and City staff.
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
L. 1. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO SOLICIT FEEDBACK ON PUBLIC
SERVICES GRANT RECOMMENDATIONS AND TO ADOPT THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ( CDBG) FY 2026- 27 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN PROCEDURES:
1. Reconvene the Public Hearing and take testimony
2. Close the Public Hearing;
3. Consider the public services grant recommendations; and
4. Adopt the FY 2026- 27 Annual Action Plan.
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to reconvene the public hearing.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
Community Services Director Hause introduced Deputy Director of Community Services Kelly Orta; explained that Kelly Orta manages the City' s CDBG Program and will present the item; reported that Redondo Beach is a recipient of the CDBG funds and due to that they need to memorialize what they will do with the funds in the form of the Annual Action Plan; turned the floor over to Kelly Orta.
Deputy Director Orta reminded the Mayor and Council that this is the second series of public hearing on the item and a lot of the information would be the same; noted that staff did update the number and they received their final allocation from HUD since the last meeting; reported that they are at $ 296, 580, which is a slight increase from their estimation; provided a visual history slide of the City' s CDBG funding and stated that they are still in good standing with HUD; stated for the proposed budget the breakdown is
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about $ 152, 777 for public facilities, $ 40, 000 would go towards the MA/ER Program, 44,487 would go to the City' s public service agencies, and $ 59, 316 for administration and Fair Housing; provided a slide of the proposed public service agencies funding and noted that they did proportionately reallocate the funding based on the new amount given but they were the same agencies that were presented at the last meeting; noted that they need to submit the City' s Annual Action Plan by May 15th so staff hoped for approval that evening; stated staff's recommendations for that evening were to: 1) Open the public hearing, 2) Close the public hearing, 3) Consider the public service grant recommendations, and 4) Adopt the FY 2026- 27 Annual Action Plan.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and no eComments.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to close the public hearing.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to adopt the 2026- 27 Annual Action Plan.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N. 1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CULTURAL ARTS
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TO INCLUDE AN LGBTQ-THEMED ART
SCULPTURE IN THE ARTESIA BOULEVARD STRATEGIC ART PLAN
PROVIDE DIRECTION TO STAFF ON THE PROPOSED SCOPE OF THE
LGBTQ-THEMED ART PROJECT
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Community Services Director Hause recalled that in December 2025 staff presented to the City Council the Artesia Strategic Art Plan, the Council provided direction, selected some modalities and types of art, and locations for the art; noted that the Council spoke to the consultant and also considered the Cultural Arts Commission' s recommendation to include an LGBTQ themed sculpture at the North Branch Library; stated that the Cultural Arts Commission wanted Council to consider including the sculpture as part of the Artesia Project and allocate funding for it and at the December meeting the City Council did approve and allocate funding for the sculpture; reported that as part of the motion the Council wanted public outreach done specific to the sculpture itself; stated staff' s first step for outreach was to do a community survey, which was launch on March 161h, but within
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days they noticed unusual activity with the survey, discovered bots and automatic replies were responding, and they shut down the survey; reported that once the survey was launched, they received feedback from the community and Council for more information on what the City was trying to accomplish and that is why the item is back that evening; stated that staff is looking for additional direction from the Council on these items:
1) Does Council wish to proceed with the CAC' s recommendation to include an LGBTQ themed artwork as part of the Artesia Blvd. Art Plan? 2) If so, what specific type of artwork, topics, elements would the Council like the scope of the project to address?
3) Does the City Council want staff to seek any follow- up community feedback regarding the project?
City Manager Witzansky reported that he worked with IT Director Cook to see if they could determine responses from the data given by the survey; stated of the 500 responses mentioned, 160 of those or more were likely invalid due to repetition; said the question that would probably give them the best sense of feeling from the community was: How supportive are you on a scale of 1 to 5 of the proposed project?; reported that the results showed more people opposed to the project than supported it; noted that the data was not overwhelming due to the inaccuracies of the responses.
Mayor Light asked the public to be respectful, noted that the topic could get heated on either side.
Councilmember Behrendt recalled that on December 16, 2025 the City Council' s motion was for an inclusive art installation at the North Branch Library and not an exclusively LGBTQ statue or exclusively anyone else statue; added it was supposed to be an artwork that serves as a tribute to the inclusive nature of the City as a whole and to recognize the many diverse individuals and groups in the community plus obtain resident feedback through community outreach and input; reported that the resident feedback he has received has been overwhelmingly no for a variety of reasons; spoke of the online comments being misguided and inappropriate and out of line, but stated it is not reflective of who they are as a City or community; noted that even if he personally is in favor of the LGBTQ+ statue, he does not feel comfortable overriding and ignoring the sentiments of the residents; added that it is also part of a bigger project and he would not want to cause issues for the Artesia Artwork Project; said they have two realistic options: 1) pause on this potential component of the Artesia Art Project and instead execute and implement the Artesia Project elements that the Council has unanimously agreed to and approved; suggested they take a holistic approach to the North Branch Library location by waiting to see what the other art projects look like and then see what would work for that location, or 2) propose to the community the original direction by the City Council of an inclusive artwork at the North Branch Library that recognizes and honors the diverse elements of the City's community and not exclusively one group or identity and along with that do a proper community outreach and uncorruptible poll on what type of inclusive art work
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residents would like to see; stated that regardless of the outcome of that evening, it is clear that the City supports the LGBTQ+ community and noted that they raise the flag every year and they are happy to stand with all types of communities.
Councilmember Obagi reported that it was his screen with the motion on December 16, 2025 and it said inclusive; clarified that the City was funding a project that the CAC had sent to the City Council or recommended to them, which was for an LGBTQ installation plus installation and he intended it to be inclusive; noted that by inclusive he meant subjectively family friendly and not offensive to anyone; said he looked back at the video and realized he left it ambiguous; explained his thoughts on community outreach for the project, clarifying what he had hoped was for staff to get proposals on various works of art, narrow them down, then present them to the community for feedback before the City commissions the artwork for hundreds of thousands of dollars; added that he doesn' t want another situation similar to the skatepark at Perry Park where they spent lots of money and had to remove it due to unhappy residents; reported that he did his own poll, which gets sent out to only registered voters on his list, and has been consistent over the past with results done by paid consultants; noted that he may have a more progressive district since it is made up of younger families; asked to share his screen, showed the poll he sent out to 8, 873 people, in which 67% opened it; stated the question he asked was: Do you support an art installation that recognizes the LGBTQ+ community?; reported that 189 responded ( 58% of the respondents) said yes and added that his poll was only done via email and not social media and the poll only allows one-time use; stated his next question was: What type of LGBTQ+ art would you support, if any? Options: Rainbow Sealife/ Beachy art, Statue of People, Flag -like Installation, I do not support; reported 58% voted for the Rainbow Sealife/Beachy art and showed examples of images he presented on his email that he generated from Al; noted that he Brown Acted with Councilmember Kaluderovic on the topic and they discussed various types of art pieces and said she preferred that it be only for the LGBTQ+ community and he wanted to be more inclusive of all groups; spoke about the progressive flag and whether it had staying power since the artwork would be in the community for a long time; returned to the Direction Requested slide from the presentation and read through the questions provided by staff and answered questions 1 through 3 as follows: 1) yes, 2) Sculptures, mural tile installations and options they can fit within budget, and 3) wanted the staff to present options and then get feedback from the community on those 1 to 2 options.
Councilmember Kaluderovic provided some background on the discussions they have had about the Pride flag and regarding an installation recognizing the LGBTQ community; noted that the referral was sent to the CAC with direction and intention from the Council; spoke about the whole of the community and that the LGBTQ is part of the whole and went into further detail about the various groups the City has recognized, such as the Ito Family open space and Native Americans at Wilderness Park; referred back to the CAC and asked if they were adamant about a sculpture or if they would be open to other art installations.
Community Services Director Hause reported that there were CAC members in the audience, that the Pride flag was raised in 2022, and that is when the CAC formed a
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subcommittee for the LGBTQ art work; recalled that they did community outreach and connected with the South Bay as well, they went over several types of art and modalities, and after some meetings they settled on a sculpture because of the location and space; mentioned if other locations are explored on Artesia Blvd. that may change the type of art that is chosen.
Councilmember Kaluderovic said she preferred that they keep the options open and explore different locations across Artesia Blvd. and add crosswalks as an option for the artwork again.
Councilmember Castle suggested that they put out an RFI to artists with the budget and capture some options so that the residents can provide feedback on what the artwork may look like; opined that the art on Artesia Blvd. should be something that garners broad community support.
Mayor Light reported that he spoke to Councilmember Waller in Sacramento and he had specific thoughts he wanted to interject; noted that Councilmember Waller has not heard the debate that evening; stated that Councilmember Waller prefers it to be LGBTQ+ specific but is open to any form of art; speaking on his own behalf, Mayor Light noted that the motion was ambiguous and the vote may have been different if it was more narrowly defined; mentioned that he rewatched the video and read the minutes from the December meeting and his interpretation was that the art was for broader consideration of inclusivity; said personally he has no problem with it being LGBTQ+ and mentioned the other pieces they have throughout the City such as the Tongva at Wilderness Park and the Martin Luther King Little Plaza at the Police Station; opined that the pieces can proliferate over time, it gets diluted if they say it is for everybody, and felt it should be bolder; stated that polling people on art is difficult since people can like or dislike based on a number of reasons so it is too unclear; hoped that they could send options back to the CAC based on what they receive from the RFP or RFQ and then the public could comment on it during that public meeting, which would then go back to the Council and then the public can comment during that meeting; stated that he supports an LGBTQ art for this item, prefers a wide range of options, and supported the process of it going through the CAC and back to the City Council with the ability for the public to comment at both meetings.
Councilmember Castle asked for clarification on how the public weighs in at the CAC meeting.
City Manager Witzansky replied that they would provide their input at the actual meeting itself.
Councilmember Obagi suggested that whatever results they receive from the RFI' s go to the CAC, they narrow it down, host a workshop that invites the public, they narrow down the opinions, and then make recommendations to the Council on their finalists for each art project along with a runner up option; mentioned that they had received feedback from someone that crosswalks would be difficult to maintain for Public Works and they were glad they didn' t support it and asked the City Manager for his thoughts.
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City Manager Witzansky recalled in the 1990s the City had a renovation effort but noted that light colored paint shows tire markings; stated that now they are able to do thermoplastic types of installation that avoid some of that but warned that the crosswalk art will fade over time; stated they can be installed and last for a reasonable amount of time.
More discussion followed on keeping the options open to any type of installation, assistance from LeBasse, and considerations on maintenance for whatever art they choose.
Deputy Director Orta clarified that staff has already issued the RFQ and they are actually at step four in the process; provided a slide of the process which showed that after the RFQ an RFP would follow and the steps in the process where the Council and the Commission are included; reported that there is a community panel consisting of two community members, two CAC members, and one City staff from Public Works along with herself, Jack Meyer, and LeBasse to filter down all the submissions; stated that they received something around 180 responses from the RFQ, LeBasse filtered that down to about 20 to 30 artists, and those recommendations will be taken to the community panel to be narrowed down further, and the Commission will review those and bring it to the Council for approval; reported that for the RFP process a stipend needs to be provided to the artists because they would be producing a mock up of their design; explained that staff has already gone through steps 1 through 4 and the RFQ has already been issued prior to the survey for the LGBTQ statue, so they do have a pool of artists interested in doing that piece if they choose to move forward with it.
Discussion followed. Deputy Director Orta noted that they have pools of artists for various types of pieces and could pull from the different pools depending on what type of art piece they want at each location.
Mayor Light stressed that he did not want to hold up the rest of the Strategic Plan execution based on what they decide that evening; asked if they do go a different direction if a separate RFQ or addendum to the RFQ need to be issued.
Deputy Director Orta responded that she would need to look back to see what staff submitted in the RFQ but stated based on the number of submissions they received they may already have a pool of artists they can pull from regardless of the type of installation the City decides on.
More discussion followed and Mayor Light asked if they are able to do a workshop as Councilmember Obagi suggested.
City Manager Witzansky replied that any steps can be added to the process if desired; noted that they have no intention of slowing down the overall Artesia Strategic Planning process just for this item.
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Councilmember Obagi asked if the community panel received drawings from artists at step 4.
Deputy Director Orta clarified that they only received qualifications and past work that is related to the type of material the artists envision but not specific work for Artesia.
Mayor Light asked to hear from the public before a motion is made.
Betty Lecinen, Board member of the South Bay LGBTQ Center, spoke in support of including an LGBTQIA+ art installation in the Artesia Blvd. Strategic Art Plan; explained that the project should not be abstract or controversial because it is rooted in documented local history; noted that the Artesia corridor has served as a gathering space for the LGBTQ+ community in the South Bay and was the original location of the South Bay LGBTQ Center and sits between multiple gathering spaces that the LGBTQIA community have frequented for over 50 years; spoke of public art telling a story and acknowledging history and not promoting politics; noted that LGBTQIA+ people are members of the past, present, and future and have historically had to remain invisible and argued that recognizing the group is not exclusion but inclusion and does not take anything away from anyone else; noted that Redondo Beach already has public art that reflects the community and urged that the City provide visible recognition for the LGBTQ+ community; to address the Library location and the concerns regarding children, spoke of growing up surrounded by people who were gay or transgender and it did not influence her identity (reported that she is straight and cisgender) but that it helped her respect and include others; stated that the project does not divide us but shows that everybody deserves to be seen.
Ellie Navarro reported that her pronouns are she/ her and that she has lived in Redondo Beach all 23 years of her life; spoke in support of the creation of an LGBTQ artwork for the Artesia Blvd. project; spoke of growing up as a transgender teen and the lack of visibility for the Redondo Beach LGBT community was very isolating for her; stated that the plans for an LGBTQ themed art installation on Artesia Blvd. would show that Redondo Beach doesn' t just tolerate people like her, it would show LGBTQ citizens that they are loved, accepted, and included in the City; added that it would show the naysayers that hate has no home in Redondo Beach.
Isabel Schwartz, Torrance resident, spoke in support of those who spoke in favor of the LGBTQ+ art installation; stated she is excited to see this art in the community and wanted to thank the City for being forward thinking and inclusive and setting the standard for the South Bay.
Rev. Lisa Telomen, Redondo Beach resident, spoke in favor of the art installation being LGBTQ+ specific and supports the LGBTQIA community and leadership; felt that the inclusion of the history of the group being made public is important and applauded the City in moving forward with a specific sculpture to recognize the history and the community' s contributions; reported that her church is an inclusive, reconciling congregation and they sponsor the Shared Bread Ministry Outreach; hoped that the City would move forward with the project.
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Scott Houston, Vice President of the West Bay Municipal Water District Board, speaking on his own behalf, spoke in support for the concept of an LGBTQ themed art installation; spoke of growing up in the area, living in the closet, being a void, and not being able to find other members of the LGBTQ community in the region; stated that the Artesia corridor was a place that they knew was welcoming and had safety; reported that the first South Bay LGBTQ Center was located on Artesia and then moved to Torrance; noted that he served on the Board and was really proud to be a part of that group; commended the City for having this conversation, commended them for potentially having a permanent installation for the LGBTQ+ community, and said it would be truly meaningful to a lot of people in the region to have an LGBTQ+ installation in the City; urged the Council to consider it being LGBTQ themed for this location.
Eddie Aldonna, Redondo Beach resident, reported that she has lived in the City for 20 years with her husband and two children; voiced her opposition for the LGBTQ themed art; noted that she is a Hispanic woman and is not asking for a sombrero to be placed in front of the Library; said she doesn' t mind an art structure placed at the North Redondo Beach Library area but she doesn' t see the LGBTQ+ statue as inclusive; commented that she knows and works with people from the LGBTQ community but would prefer money spent on art to represent the beach lifestyle of the City; stated that she strongly believes it doesn' t include everyone and that there are many cultures in Redondo Beach.
Mayor Light wanted to clarify that the money being spent on the art installation comes from the John Parson' s Art Fund so it cannot be spent on anything else except for art for the City.
Steve Hay, Redondo Beach resident, commented that this topic has been discussed for a year now and that a decision should just be made and it can move forward; stated that his thought regarding Artesia was to bring people in and not if you lived in the community here is your vote; said he gave them all numbers and 90% of the people are against it.
Georgette Gantner, former Public Arts Commissioner, said she found it interesting that they were getting the public' s opinion and said when she was on the Commission the greater majority of the art projects were passed and successful without public feedback; in response to people' s opinion that it is not family friendly, commented that gays and lesbian' s have families too and it' s humanity and diversity; opined that the art piece may become the most inspirational artwork in the City; asked, with the World Cup and Olympics coming, how does the City want to project themselves to the world; commented that different people should be represented and this is a good way to do it.
Kristina Christian -Kelly, Cultural Arts Commission, spoke on behalf of the Commission to clarify the background on the item; reported that the directive came from the City and the Council to work with the LGBTQ community and have a permanent established art installation; stated that the Commission did their due diligence to represent the community and created a subcommittee that worked a lot of hours and with a lot of community members; stated that the subcommittee did a lot of research into the longevity of the
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artwork, the established area, and what type of art would work well and came to the conclusion a sculpture would have longevity and be at the appropriate cost; commented that she feels there has been a lot of miscommunication and that things are being translated incorrectly; noted that the proposal was for a sculpture for the North Branch Library and it was voted on but now it feels that they are treading backwards; stated they have been working on this since 2023 and she would like it to move forward as proposed.
April Pritchard, Redondo Beach resident, spoke in favor of the LGBTQ art installation; stated that if you try to include everyone then it becomes very generic and ends up including no one; spoke about parents and kids and that LGBTQ is not only about sex but it is about love; commented on the double standard of society and not wanting to see anything other than straight couples; asked that the City take a stand and support the LGBTQ art installation.
Alex Fineman, District 3, stated that the intersection of Artesia and Green has long been a cultural center for the City's LGBTQ community and that it deserves the public acknowledgement that the art installation would provide; recalled an incident that happened about 10 years ago, where a small group of about five or six people from the Westboro Baptist Church came to protest at RUHS with hateful signs and rhetoric and about 300 people, including students, outnumbered them; commented that is the community of Redondo Beach and the Redondo Beach community support and defend their queer neighbors; opined recognizing their contribution and their history is important; noted that the location is culturally significant, the funding is identified, and supported moving forward with the art installation.
Marie Puterbaugh ( via Zoom) spoke in favor of the project and applauded those who spoke in favor of the project that evening; said she posted a positive comment online and people came back with a lot of awful comments so hearing people come forward that evening and speak in favor of it made her day; explained that in the 1980' s she witnessed two gay guys at her high school be bullied when she lived in New Jersey; noted that people still have views opposing the project but it just takes courage to do it; commented that the picture Councilmember Obagi posted that day was misleading since it wasn' t of the project but people thought it was; opined that Councilmembers Obagi and Behrendt do not support the project but they can solicit what they want and people can either support it or not; urged the Council to be courageous and move forward with the project.
Daniel Lynch ( via Zoom) stated that Manhattan Beach has their cool sidewalk, Hermosa has their cool lifeguard tower, and Redondo Beach should have the statue; opined that the statue should be something like a dolphin riding a rainbow wave or something like that; noted that he often stops at the Artesia Bar and the people are very nice and friendly and the bathrooms are the cleanest of any bar; stated that he fully supports the project and he is excited to see artwork along Artesia; spoke of the history of his family in Redondo Beach and felt no one should oppose the project.
Anna Mavromati- Duncan ( via Zoom), North Redondo Beach resident, spoke in support of the LGBTQIA artwork; stated that she has two children and wants them to live in a city
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that has art like what is being proposed and to know no matter who they grow up to be they will be loved and accepted and included; said she wants to honor the LGBT community that is in the City; noted that she heard the comments opposed to the art project due to children but said she wants her children to see the art and know and acknowledge and respect communities that are different; stated that she is strongly in favor of being bold and making sure the City has artwork that honors the LGBTQIA family.
Nancy Skiba ( via Zoom) stated a different theme, a more universal theme, would have a broader appeal for the general population and more appreciated if all groups and communities were acknowledged for inclusivity rather than just one interest group.
Mariam Butler ( via Zoom), District 4, said she counted 37 eComments in support and 15 eComments opposed to the LGBTQIA+ art installation and based on what she heard that evening the majority are for the project; said that she appreciated Professor Leinen for her eComment and coming in person to educate everyone on why the location for the art installation is important for the LGBTQ community by explaining that it was the location of the LGBTQ Center in the 1980' s; commented that the location is very important and a way of honoring the LGBTQ community and its history; stressed that the art is important and that parents should educate their children that not everyone is the same and that is fine.
Melissa DeChandt ( via Zoom) referenced the Pride Flag raising by the City and commented that it was a long time coming and was met with some negativity; opined that inclusion and recognizing specific communities doesn' t mean that they are neglecting other groups, it means that they are recognizing the groups that have been marginalized; spoke on behalf of the LGBTQIA youth, stated data shows they have the highest self - harm and suicide rates and efforts to support inclusion positively impacts those statistics; gave kudos to the Cultural Arts Commission for putting forth the project and hoped it would be moved forward quickly.
Mark Hansen ( via Zoom) stated that the City of Redondo Beach has a proud history of demonstrating inclusivity and hoped the City Council would continue to lead in that direction; referred to comments made that the LGBTQ artwork would somehow be exclusive and disagreed with those comments; stated that there is nothing about artworks that support different marginalized communities that somehow exclude the majority; commented that if they try to make gray artwork that is supposed to represent everyone then they are representing no one; agreed with Councilmember Kaluderovic' s comments about artwork being intentional and purposeful; commented that all the art pieces throughout the City are inclusive and hoped the Council would continue to lead the community in a manner to demonstrate to marginalized communities that the City welcomes them.
Pablo Orozco- Castro ( via Zoom), District 4, stated that he works at the Venice Family Clinic close to the proposed location for the art installation; said that he and his coworkers are excited about the proposed mural; spoke in support of the art piece and said the clinic serves a lot of the LGBTQ youth and parents in collaboration with the BCHD and they
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have expressed more visibility would be welcomed and events; questioned what it meant for those that commented that they wanted a more inclusive art piece and felt that was something to reflect on.
City Clerk Manzano reported a total of 52 eComments: 37 in support and 15 opposed.
Woman speaker, she is a mother of two kids in Redondo and said she thought the discussion was a false narrative; commented that teaching children that they are born in the wrong body is brainwashing and going to backfire in many ways down the road and statistics show it is; stated it is sexualization of minor children in front of a public library where many children visit; asked how they are supposed to explain LGBTQ+ with a child without discussing sex and said it is forcing a conversation; noted that the City took a great step forward with the farmers market and questioned their decision to blast Artesia with a gay dolphin and gay sea life; suggested using the money for an art piece for the 250t" anniversary of our country; commented that what people do in their bedrooms should stay in the bedrooms; stated she does not want to see a sexual art piece in front of the library where children visit; asked where the boundaries would be drawn with LGBTQ; explained that on the first day of school her daughter was asked what her pronoun was and said it is forcing her hand to explain all of this to her daughter; stated it is not inclusive, it is exclusive.
Josh Conlon, District 5, stated he has a trans youth in high school that has lots of friends in the LGBTQ community; spoke in support of the art installation and agreed with Mayor Light that it is a bold move; noted that the LGBTQ community battle every day and the support is needed to show strength.
Mayor Light closed public comment; stated that he and the Council respect the testimony and feelings of both sides of the argument; said there are valid concerns from people about the location and there is fear of what the art will look like; assured everyone that the art will not be explicit or sexual in nature and it would not get through the process that it will be put through; spoke of a post he made that received negative comments and stated there is an underlying current that LGBTQ people face regardless of how accepting the City is and opined it is not a bad thing to affirm the City's commitment to inclusivity; stated that he doesn' t mind taking the extra step to show that they are welcome; said he doesn' t disrespect those that spoke respectfully against the action of the Council but doesn' t tolerate the hatred.
Councilmember Obagi asked Ms. Puterbaugh to stop bullying him on social media, said he supported the resident who talked about the sombrero and would be in favor of honoring the Mexican American past in North Redondo; stated that the LGBTQ art installation is overdue and they have been talking about it for many years; asked City staff, if Council directs the CAC and staff, to host a workshop would it only be on this item or could it be for all the stuff on Artesia Blvd.
City Manager Witzansky responded that they have a good approach laid out for the work associated with Artesia Blvd. and it was a deliberative part of the City' s Strategic Plan
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discussion, but they could have a workshop for this project and add other items if needed.
Councilmember Obagi withdrew the workshop idea based on a comment made by a resident who said no other art had ever required a workshop; stated he would just go with staff's normal process; apologized for the ambiguity in his prior motion.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi to direct staff to proceed with the Cultural Arts Commission' s recommendation to include an LGBTQ themed artwork as part of the Artesia Blvd. Plan, noted that Council is open to all art mediums, including specifically an LGBTQ art installation implemented as a crosswalk, the location should be at Green St. and Artesia, crossing Artesia Blvd., or around the North Branch Library, along or visible from Artesia Blvd., Council is open to any permanent artwork with staying power within budget that will not put significant recurring maintenance cost on the John Parsons Art Fund, overall size and scale should be dictated by the budget of $35,000.
Councilmember Kaluderovic wanted to clarify that the location at Green St. and Artesia is because of the history of that space and if so, can that be articulated in the motion.
City Manager Witzansky added that the $ 35, 000 budget included the fee for LeBasse.
Councilmember Kaluderovic seconded the motion.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Behrendt to issue an RFP for an inclusive artwork, either at the North Branch Library or elsewhere on Artesia Blvd., open to all art mediums that recognizes and honors diverse elements of the City' s community, including LGBTQ+ but not exclusively one group or identity and for the Cultural Arts Commission to obtain and review the RFP responses and provide recommendations to the City Council to consider for final decision.
Councilmember Castle said he is not seconding the motion because he felt the process the City has in place already covered a lot of the steps that Councilmember Behrendt listed in terms of going to the community and getting feedback; noted that the public would have an opportunity to comment on the pieces through the CAC; stated what is causing concern is the ambiguity around what the actual art will be but once they have some clarity on that then the public will be able to weigh in.
Councilmember Behrendt clarified that it would be reviewed by the CAC and not independent public review or polling; noted that an RFQ went out for an exclusively LGBTQ+ artwork and his motion was for an RFP for an inclusive artwork that includes LGBTQ+ as a component, and the CAC would review, and send the Council recommendations, and the City Council will make a final decision.
Discussion followed that City Council has not approved an RFP for any art yet and that an RFQ would be seeking qualified artists, then an RFP would be the next step, and then a specific proposal with pay would be after that for the artists to come up with concepts; confirmed that an RFQ went out and artists responded for various artwork on Artesia Blvd.
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including for the LGBTQ piece.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if the artists could modify their proposals to include LGBTQ + as a component but not exclusively that one group.
Community Services Director Hause replied that they could have that done.
Councilmember Castle stated there is art of all types up and down the Blvd. and this one location has been chosen for the LGBTQ+ art installation; commented that other locations will be chosen for other installations and will represent other groups or the community.
The substitute motion died for lack of a second.
Councilmember Obagi stated he didn' t want people to be confused but the image of the dolphins were not the actual proposal but an Al generated image just to give people an example of what might come back; said the main goal of his post was to make people aware of the discussion that evening; reiterated that 71 % of the eComments were in support of the project and that whether parents like it or not there are people that identify as LGBTQ+ and they need to feel loved and at home in Redondo Beach.
Motion carried 3- 1- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Behrendt was opposed and Councilmember Waller was absent.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to take a break to allow the students in attendance to be signed off at 8. 41 p. m.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1. Councilmember Waller was absent.
RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING FROM BREAK — 8: 54 P. M.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light Councilmembers Absent: Waller
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
N. 2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING DRAFT RESOLUTION
REAFFIRMING THE IMPORTANCE OF LOCAL CONTROL OF REDONDO
BEACH WATERFRONT AND COASTAL RESOURCES IN RESPONSE TO THE
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE' S REQUEST FOR CITY INPUT AS PART OF THE
LOS ANGELES COASTAL SPECIAL RESOURCES STUDY
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CONTACT: JANE CHUNG, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Jane Chung, Assistant to the City Manager, stated that the discussion that evening would be about the study itself; provided an outline of the items she would be presenting which included: background, City participation and response, next steps, and recommendation; reported that in 2019 Congressman Ted Lieu authored a bill which was passed and it directed the National Park Service ( NPS) to study whether the Santa Monica Bay watershed should be added to that area or become a new recreation area; described the study area for the 2019 legislation and stated in 2023, Congress expanded the scope through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, which created the Los Angeles County Special Resources Study and was the topic of that evening' s discussion; stated the evaluation was expanded to include the larger segments of the L. A. County coastline and whether it meets criteria for inclusion in the National Park System; stated that the study looks to gather information on coastal resources, recreation, environmental conditions and cultural assets; noted that the study does not change local land use authority or impose new regulations, does not transfer a city property or automatically create a national park; reported that the NPS will present their final studies to Congress and Congress will make the action as to what they will do with the findings of that study; stated that the NPS reached out to City staff and asked the City to provide input on a series of questions that are included in the Staff Report; said the overall themes were related to the ownership and management of coastal properties, current use, interest in participating in historical significance analysis or a future national park unit analysis, concerns about historical interpretation or maintaining the physical appearance, and the willingness to donate or sell property ( voluntary only); noted that Redondo Beach Waterfront is one of the City's most important public resources and participating in the study ensures that the City's values are represented in the federal study; stated that staff had attached a draft resolution that reaffirms the City's values, as well as the importance of municipal management and control of waterfront and coastal resources, highlights the public value of the waterfront, the City' s responsibility for operations, maintenance, and long term planning, expresses the City' s willingness to collaborate with regional, state, and federal partners, and clarifies that local management and control must remain intact; stated that staff is asking for direction and feedback as it relates to the draft resolution from City Council; announced the final resolution would be presented to City Council for approval at the next Council meeting on May 19t", then staff will submit it for final resolution during the National Park Service public comment period, which is May 23rd; stated staff' s recommendation for that evening is for the City Council to provide direction on the draft resolution.
Mayor Light wanted to confirm that the study group called the City and asked staff to participate.
City Manager Witzansky confirmed that the study group reached out and staff scheduled a meeting to get a better understanding of the genesis of the study and what its implications might be; reported that they had a good group discussion and provided more explanation; said staff thought it was important for City Council to provide input and then
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staff would bring it back as a Consent Calendar item on the 19t"; noted that Councilmember Behrendt provided some suggested modifications which were in the Blue Folder.
Mayor Light asked if the list of topics for discussion could be put up on the screen.
Discussion took place regarding the topics, the opportunity to provide more information to the study group, and what to provide in the resolution.
Mayor Light wondered how they could give accurate input to the group so it could be reflected in the decision making.
City Manager Witzansky stated if follow-up directions are given to staff to provide a list of resources or historic features, they could do that and noted that is part of the reason they are there that evening.
More discussion followed.
Mayor Light supported the resolution as written with Councilmember Behrendt' s red lines included.
Councilmember Castle agreed with Mayor Light regarding the resolution as written with Councilmember Behrendt' s modifications; spoke of the input in the coastal zone from various state level agencies that have some decision making power over the waterfront and opined that adding another layer at the federal level would only complicate things further; felt that they understand the waterfront needs and maintaining that over time is critical to the City's future.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to direct staff to bring the resolution back for formal approval on May 19t" with the modifications from Councilmember Behrendt.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Wayne Craig, District 1, wondered if the item was in preparation for a land grab and voiced concern that a Congress person proposed it; spoke about national parks in the U. S. that are being taken away by the federal government; felt it was important that the City put their position out that they are the stewards and should be maintaining it; stressed that they should be concerned about getting an administration that is unfavorable to California and didn' t like the idea of giving up control of something the City has historically been in control of for the last 100 years; stated the City has done a good job and they need to do what they can to try to keep control of it and be prepared to legally defend it.
City Clerk Manzano reported no hands raised online and no eComments.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
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O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky recognized the entire IT Department for receiving one of eight national awards in the Tyler Excellence category known as Digital Services and Cloud Technologies; reported that IT Director Cook brought home the award, and they would see if they could display it somewhere.
Mayor Light noted that it was mentioned earlier about the quick reaction to the school' s debacle with their testing and that Board Members from the school were very appreciative.
City Manager Witzansky thanked IT, Mike Klein' s team, and Director Vinke with Library for their response to the situation.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF - None
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
R. 1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGO IATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGO IATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Elizabeth Hause, Community Services Director
PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon portions of APN # s: 7503- 029- 900 and 7503- 029- 903) Portions of Harbor Drive, Pacific Avenue, Catalina Avenue, Torrance Boulevard, Knob Hill Avenue, Vista Del Mar, Camino de la Costa, Gertruda Avenue, Herondo Street, and Esplanade
NHGO IATING PARTIES:
Kellie Hawkins, Englander Knabe & Allen on Behalf of Nike, Inc.
UNDER VEGO IATION:
Price and Terms
R. 2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGO IATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGO IATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Elizabeth Hause, Community Services Director
PROPERTY:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot
portions of APN # s: 7503- 029- 900 and 7503- 029- 903) Portions of King Harbor turn basin and hand launch
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Adam Brzyski, Game On Live Studio, Water Polo Program Coordinator UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION — None
T. ADJOURNMENT — 9: 11 P. M.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to adjourn the meeting at 9: 11 p. m.
Motion carried 4- 0- 1 by voice vote. Councilmember Waller was absent.
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, May 19, 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:
n
D,ocuSigned by:
1 72F2AC716C214CF...
Eleanor Manzano, CMC
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 12, 2026