REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, May 5, 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, 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 for non-agenda items and no Zoom attendees; reported one eComment for item F.5 on the agenda.
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:
Warlie Corteza v. City of Redondo Beach, Quality Seafood, Inc., BC Urban, LLC and DOES 1 to 25
Case Number: 25TRCV00066
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
F.2. 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:
Marcia St. Laurent v. City of Redondo Beach, Howard E. Wood, Susan C.
Wood, The HS Wood Family Trust and DOES 1-100, Inclusive Case Number: 25TRCV01441
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:
Phillip Mack v. City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1-20, inclusive Case No: 24TRCV03382
F.4. 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:
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.
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
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:
Feras Adamo, an individual; Manhattan Beach Smoke Shop Inc., a California Corporation v. City of Redondo Beach; Jim Light, an individual; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 26STCP01367
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
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 Joshua Dale, Acting W.E.D. Director Katherine Buck, Outside Legal Counsel John Goetz, and Internal Legal Counsel Aleena Hashmi.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to recess to Closed Session at 4:33 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:06 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 stated there were no reportable actions.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to adjourn to the Open Session at 6:06 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 6:06 p.m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
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.
Caden, 5th grader at Washington 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 Mayor Light reported an incident from that weekend’s BeachLife event; thanked the RBPD for their response in handling the situation and acknowledged the BeachLife organizers and the City for adapting to the incident; announced that he would be doing a public State of the City on May 20, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Library; reported as his first act as the representative for the SBBCOG he would be attending the General Assembly in Palm Springs on Thursday.
Councilmember Behrendt reported that Part 3 of the Pillars of Public Safety Joint Meeting with special guest City Attorney Joy Ford was a successful event; announced that the final Pillars of Public Safety with Councilmember Obagi will be held on Monday, June 4th at 6:00 p.m. at the RBPAC with special guest LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
Councilmember Obagi echoed the appreciation to Joy Ford and her staff for speaking at their joint meeting; thanked the RBPD and RBFD for all their efforts keeping everyone safe during the events over the weekend; congratulated Allen Sanford and the BeachLife Festival for another great event; announced the North Redondo Farmers Market ribbon cutting scheduled for Wednesday, May 6th at 2:30 p.m.; encouraged everyone to fill out their ballots and vote in Redondo Beach, noted that the ballot can be overwhelming but that the most important offices to vote for would be their State Assembly and State Senate offices; urged everyone to do their diligence and mark their ballots in those fields.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported participating in the Arbor Day tree planting at
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Ensenada Parkette; noted that they planted five crape myrtle trees which will provide more shade as requested by the residents; thanked the Public Works team of Mark Garlock, Milton, and Juan for their assistance; attended Redondo Beach’s 134th birthday celebration at Dominguez Park and acknowledged the Historical Society for bringing cake, the NRB Farmers Market in attendance, RBPD provided popcorn, and the RBFD provided a flag presentation; reported attending the first South Bay Housing Trust meeting where they went over bylaws, the structure of LACAHSA, and how the sustained revenue would be implemented through their region; attended an Affordable Housing 101 meeting on Monday and noted that the City needs to understand what their affordable housing stock is in the City so they can maintain it; announced two upcoming community meetings that she is hosting, one on May 13th at 6:00 p.m. at Fulton Playfield and the second one will be at Jefferson Elementary School on May 20th at 6:30 at the cafeteria.
Councilmember Castle spoke about the BeachLife Festival held in District 2 and stated it was a smooth and successful event; mentioned, when the threat was made on Sunday morning, it was evident that all the training the Police and Fire go through came into play and all the planning for the event made the effort between the response from RBPD, RBFD, and the BeachLife security team go smoothly; stated that it was incredible to watch RBPD and RBFD in action and insuring all were safe and gave them a big thank you.
Councilmember Waller echoed the comments regarding BeachLife and the First Responders; reported taking the Beach Cities Transit to the Farmers Market and recounted his trip, noted that finding out which stops to get off at and back on at would be helpful; reported attending the Clean Power Alliance Solar Celebration in Carson, stated that Carson City Hall will be saving about $75,000 a year in electricity costs from having the project; attended the Water Replenishment District’s Groundwater Festival on Saturday and met Regional Director Rob Katherman; announced that he will not be at next week’s City Council meeting since he will be in Sacramento at the Cal CCA Conference as part of his duty as Director of Clean Power Alliance; announced the ribbon cutting for the North Redondo Beach Farmers Market for Wednesday at 2:30 p.m., the South Bay Artist Studio ribbon cutting on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m., and the Graze Craze ribbon cutting on Thursday at 3:30 p.m.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to approve the order of agenda as published.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. AGENCY RECESS
F.1. REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY FINANCING AUTHORITY CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to recess to the Regular Meeting of the Community Financing Authority at 6:24 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING FROM AGENCY MEETING – 6:27 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 Blue Folder items for H.6, H.10, H.17, H.18, J.1, L.1, and N.1.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to receive and file the Blue Folder items.
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 MAY 5, 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:
NONE
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30601-30606 IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,895.88, PD. 4/24/26 DIRECT DEPOSIT 310559-311202 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,401,668.18, PD. 4/24/26
EFT/ACH $11,120.18, PD. 3/27/26 (PP2607)
EFT/ACH $488,813.56, PD. 4/6/26 (PP2606)
EFT/ACH $11,120.18, PD. 4/10/26 (PP2608)
EFT/ACH $1,653.70, PD. 4/20/26 (PP2606-2)
EFT/ACH $484,752.67, PD. 4/20/26 (PP2607)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 124512-124682 IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,729,706.32
EFT CALPERS MEDICAL INSURANCE $579,817.96
DIRECT DEPOSIT 100010417-100010502 IN THE AMOUNT OF $106,446.67, PD.5/1/26
REPLACEMENT DEMAND 124510
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE A VOTE CENTER FACILITY USE AGREEMENT AND THE SAFE ELECTION PLAN WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRARRECORDER/COUNTY CLERK FOR USE OF THE ALTA VISTA PARK
COMMUNITY CENTER FOR THE STATEWIDE DIRECT PRIMARY ELECTION TO BE HELD ON JUNE 2, 2026 AT NO COST TO THE CITY FOR THE TERM MAY 5, 2026 TO SEPTEMBER 1, 2026
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH DOCUSIGN, INC. FOR ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT OF $14,274.00 FOR UP TO 1,500 ESIGNATURE ENVELOPES AND $8.80 PER EACH ADDITIONAL ESIGNATURE ENVELOPE FOR THE TERM MAY 10, 2026 TO MAY 9, 2029 CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.6. APPROVE A CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH GOLD COAST PARTNERS, INC. FOR UTILITY USERS TAX ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR AN ANNUAL FEE OF $10,000 AND A THREE-YEAR TERM
CONTACT: EUGENE SOLOMON, CITY TREASURER
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
H.7. APPROVE THE SIXTH AMENDMENT TO THE CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH PACIFIC ADVANCED CIVIL ENGINEERING, INC. FOR
THE YACHT CLUB WAY SANITARY SEWER PUMP STATION PROJECT, JOB NO. 50260, FOR AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $66,000, FOR A NEW TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $943,512, AND TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT TO MAY 6, 2029
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE A CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DUDEK FOR
LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT ASSISTANCE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500,000, PAID BY CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION GRANT FUNDS, FOR THE TERM MAY 5, 2026 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2028 CONTACT: KATHERINE BUCK, ACTING WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.9. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2605-023, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AWARDING A PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACT TO CALMEX ENGINEERING, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,477,163.25 FOR THE RESIDENTIAL STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT CYCLE 2 PHASE 5, JOB NO. 40190
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE THE CITY ENGINEER’S REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026- 2027 STREET LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2605-024, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO ORDER THE MAINTENANCE AND
IMPROVEMENTS OF CERTAIN STREET LIGHTING FIXTURES,
APPURTENANCES, AND LANDSCAPED AREAS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2026 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2027, AND SETTING A
TIME AND PLACE FOR THE PUBLIC PROTEST HEARING
SET JUNE 2, 2026, AS THE DATE TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 STREET
LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING DISTRICT ASSESSMENT
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.11. Pulled by Mayor Light based on requests from two Councilmembers H.12. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH EPAX SYSTEMS, INC. FOR THE
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
PURCHASE OF AN ORGANIC WASTE COMPACTOR FOR THE CITY’S
PIER/HARBOR AREA AND TO PROVIDE MAINTENANCE SERVICES FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $83,290
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.13. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2605-025, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL BOOK OF CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE
POSITION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.14. EXCUSED ABSENCES FROM VARIOUS COMMISSION AND COMMITTEE
MEETINGS
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.15. APPROVE THE CITY’S CONSENT TO RDR’S TWELFTH SUBLEASE
AMENDMENT WITH PEGGY HIRAIZUMI, DBA KOBE PEARL, FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 100 “D” FISHERMAN’S WHARF
CONTACT: KATHERINE BUCK, ACTING WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
H.16. APPROVE THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE LEGAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH MANNING & KASS, RAMIREZ, TRESTER LLP
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.17. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
WITH HOUSING, EMPOWERMENT, RECOVERY AND OUTREACH (HERO)
COMMUNITY SERVICES TO ADD GRANT SUPPORT SERVICES AND
RELATED DUTIES FOR AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $6,000
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.18. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2605-026 OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA DIRECTING
STAFF TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE CALIFORNIA
COMMISSION FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH FOR THE INNOVATION
PARTNERSHIP FUND TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE
USE DISORDER SERVICES AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR
DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ALL AGREEMENTS AND RELATED DOCUMENTS,
AND AMENDMENTS NECESSARY TO IMPLEMENT THE GRANT
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to approve items H.1 through H.18 with the exception of H.11.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
City Clerk Manzano reported one hand raised on Zoom for item H.11 and no other hands raised.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
City Clerk Manzano reported one eComment for H.9, one eComment opposed for H.10, and one eComment opposed for H.18
City Clerk Manzano read titles to items H.9 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2605- 023, H.10 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2605-024, H.13 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2605-025, and H.18 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2605-026.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.11. APPROVE REMOVAL OF THE NORTHBOUND STOP SIGN ON S IRENA
AVENUE AT OPAL STREET
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
Councilmember Waller reported that he spoke to almost every resident along Opal and suggested they open the floor up to anyone from the public that wants to speak on the item so the Traffic Engineer could address the questions; stated that the residents are not opposed to the measures being proposed but they object to the stop sign being removed; noted that he spoke to the Traffic Engineer and understands his reasoning for removing the stop sign but wanted to give the residents an opportunity to have a discussion with the Traffic Engineer.
Councilmember Obagi asked to have Traffic Engineer Ryan Liu give his presentation first then take comments and questions from the public.
Councilmember Waller responded favorably to that suggestion.
City Traffic Engineer Liu explained that the item before them that evening is to remove the northbound Irena stop sign at Opal St. and provided a slide of the area showing which stop sign; reported that the issue was brought to the City’s attention from a traffic calming request by a member of the public, staff brought the item forward to the Commission with recommendations to remove the stop sign and implement traffic calming treatments, and the Commission was in support of the measures; explained that, in 1973, the Council voted to affirm that Opal and Irena should remain a two-way stop where the stop signs
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
are on Irena, but that it is unusual because that means there is only a stop sign on the northbound direction and not the southbound direction; showed a slide of what the street looked like back in 1916 and explained that the entire alignment of Torrance Blvd. was named Opal St. and that the street was as wide as Torrance Blvd. back then; reported that in 1986-1987, Torrance Blvd. was widened, curbs were removed, and the City vacated the land at the southwest corner of Irena and Torrance, which is most likely when the southbound stop sign was removed but the northbound stop sign was not addressed; stated that the street conditions are very different from the early 1900’s to the 1980’s and in 1988, the City Council approved the westbound Opal St. stop sign and did not address anything else on Irena; showed a slide of the area and explained that currently there is a cross gutter on Opal St. where drivers need to slow to about 15 MPH or less, then about 150 ft. away to the north is the stop sign, and then, after the stop sign at Opal, about 95 ft. away, there is a stop sign at Torrance Blvd.; explained that there are multiple slow downs in a row starting with the cross gutter dip and that the northbound stop sign is unusual to keep; explained how a conventional T-intersection normally flows and why the current situation causes dangers traffic conditions; provided staff’s proposed recommendations to the City Council which were: a center line hardening to prevent drivers from cutting across the center line and make them slow down into the turns, additional bumps on the Opal approach so drivers make the turns at appropriate speeds, and the removal of the stop sign so drivers would have to yield to the northbound traffic.
Mayor Light invited the public to address the item.
Tracy McClain (via Zoom) stated there were nine comments regarding this item; commented that she felt the spirit of the original request made by a neighbor was missed; stated that the original request was to make Opal a dead-end or a cul de sac but the response from the City proposed two things: hardening measures and the removal of the stop sign; reported that all the neighbors came forward in March to support the hardening measure but did not support the removal of the stop sign, noted that the City went ahead and voted for it anyway, which upset the residents of that neighborhood; provided reasons why the stop sign should remain and said Torrance is terrifying to cross.
Christopher Bothwell (via Zoom) supported what Tracy McClain stated and found it disappointing that they don’t read the comments out loud that people have submitted; agreed with Traffic Engineer Liu that it is a unique intersection but that is why it should not be treated as other intersections; stated that they can’t expect people to do what is normal or right when experience has shown that people speed through the area all the time; noted that the area has many people, kids, and dogs walking around; opined if the stop sign is removed the situation will get more complicated and stated people cross at that stop sign all the time; noted that he has lived in the area over 10 years and fortunately there has not been an accident on that corner but felt that would change if they remove the stop sign.
City Clerk Manzano reported no more hands raised on Zoom and eight eComments opposed and one was a duplicate.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Greg McClain (via Zoom) reported that he submitted a comment hoping it would be read; proposed that if the Council is leaning toward removing the stop sign that the decision not be made that evening and felt more public comment was needed; said logically there should be more burden of proof that removing the stop sign would result in calming the traffic, couldn’t understand how that would make the situation better for pedestrians, and the default should be to keep the stop sign there; requested that a study be done on removing the stop sign.
City Traffic Engineer Liu responded that a study was conducted at that intersection; stated that the burden of proof is that it is very unusual for a T-intersection, where the street that is continuing only has a stop sign in one direction; stated that the City is just trying to make the intersection more consistent with other intersections; noted that his job as a traffic engineer is to make streets consistent for the travelling public and this scenario is highly unique and should have been addressed in the 80’s when Torrance Blvd. was realigned; reported that the original conditions that justified the stop sign being there are no longer the same and they are now trying to address the current condition of the area.
Mayor Light asked for the slide of the area to be put back up; asked Traffic Engineer Liu to address the comment about crossing from Opal to Irena for pedestrians.
City Traffic Engineer Liu noted that crossing at Opal to Irena is shorter and less busy than crossing at Torrance Blvd. but that there is enough visibility at the intersection along with an existing crosswalk; said whether they keep the stop sign or not there is still free flowing traffic coming south on Irena and what matters more is making the intersection more consistent.
Councilmember Behrendt stated that he shared and understood the concerns of the residents that called in and those that left comments; noted that Ryan Liu is the City’s Traffic Engineer, has thoroughly studied the intersection and based his proposal on data, science, and engineering, and safety is his top priority so supported his recommendations; mentioned that it does seem counter-intuitive to remove the stop sign but given the details in the presentation it makes sense to remove it; said that if the District 1 and 2 Councilmembers want to keep the stop sign there, and there is no safety issue to leave it, then he is fine with doing that as well.
Councilmember Obagi echoed Councilmember Behrendt’s comments; asked Traffic Engineer Liu if it was possible to do the traffic calming measures without the removal of the stop sign.
City Traffic Engineer Liu replied yes, it is possible and stated that the removal of the stop sign is a minor part of the traffic calming; explained that one reason for the proposed removal of the stop sign is because currently drivers take the southbound left turn from Irena to Opal at high speeds because they know everyone else has to stop for them but at a conventional intersection the left turns have to yield to opposing traffic first.
Councilmember Obagi stated that he is not inclined to vote against residents who would
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
like to keep their stop sign even if it will make traffic move in a more conventional manner; supported people feeling more comfortable keeping their stop sign.
Councilmember Castle reported that he walks the intersection at least twice a day; voiced concern that the study only focused on driving north on Irena but not from turning from Torrance Blvd. onto Irena, then onto Opal, and commented that it is a blind turn; stated that vans and cars park on the corner lot so you can’t see cars coming and it is dangerous if there is no stop sign there so he supported keeping the stop sign; thanked Traffic Engineer Liu for the history regarding the area because that explained a lot but still felt given the nature of the area that keeping the stop sign there would be best; asked about the low-profile speed bumps and if the purpose was for the cars turning left on Opal onto South Irena.
City Traffic Engineer Liu stated that the whole point of the treatment would be to slow down the speed of vehicles turning from Torrance Blvd. and to properly yield to the opposing through traffic, pedestrians, and crosswalks; spoke of the faster turns, faster environment of Torrance Blvd. being mitigated by the traffic calming treatments proposed and the removal of the northbound stop sign as more of a cleanup.
Councilmember Castle asked about the short speed bump.
City Traffic Engineer Liu responded that it is to force drivers to actually make the turn around the speed bump and into the receiving lane of Opal St. and if the driver chooses to take that turn at a higher speed the speed bump will also slow them down; reported that they would test out the area with a couple of cones first.
Councilmember Castle supported the traffic calming measures but wanted to keep the stop sign in place.
Councilmember Waller wanted to clarify to the public that they read all the eComments, they just don’t read them aloud into the record, but they are part of the record; asked what the negatives are to keeping the stop sign.
City Traffic Engineer Liu replied that a negative is that people who are making that southbound left turn still don’t have to yield to northbound traffic, which runs counter to almost every other T-intersection in the City and it is not consistent to what they have throughout the City; stated that it is a through street with one side having a stop and not the other and said he can’t name another intersection in the City or region that has a setup like that.
Councilmember Waller asked if there was any way to determine if not removing the stop sign was impeding the traffic calming improvement of the area; asked what the criteria in the future would be to remove the stop sign.
City Traffic Engineer Liu said if they see any collisions between left turn conflicting drivers with the northbound through; noted that no collisions are reported in the records.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Councilmember Waller said there is no east/west crosswalk at the intersection; asked if it would be reasonable to do a curb cut on the other side at Opal and Irena so there is a designated crosswalk there to make it safer for pedestrians.
City Traffic Engineer Liu stated it was possible but the City would need to build out the sidewalk there and they would need to rebuild the ramp.
Councilmember Waller asked Traffic Engineer Liu in his professional opinion if there are any negative effects of keeping the stop sign.
City Traffic Engineer Liu replied that the crash risk of the intersection will not go up dramatically by keeping the stop sign there but it is habit as a Traffic Engineer to want consistency.
Councilmember Waller noted that there will be signage alerting people to the new traffic pattern.
City Traffic Engineer Liu said signage alerting people of a change is typical.
Discussion followed.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented that the intersection is unusual and confusing for her; asked if the City is trying to design the street to a standard that people are expecting or is the City designing and planning the street to what people are used to.
Some discussion followed regarding the different perceptions of people that live in the area and those that don’t.
Mayor Light agreed with the rationale to remove the stop sign but stated he is concerned about the high speeds of people coming off Torrance and staying south on Irena; asked if there was a way to install a perpendicular speed hump to slow down the vehicles coming off Torrance.
City Traffic Engineer Liu responded it would not give people enough warning to put a speed bump that close to the intersection and they may lose control of their vehicle; stated that he is confident that hardening the center line will control most of the speed of drivers turning from Torrance Blvd.
Councilmember Behrendt agreed with both the Mayor and Councilmember Kaluderovic’s comments and understood why Traffic Engineer Liu made his recommendations regarding the need for consistency but noted it is not his district and would defer to the Councilmember of that district; noted that the intersection is physically in District 1 but immediately adjacent to District 2, hoped that the two Councilmembers were in agreement but if not, he would support the decision of the District 1 Councilmember.
Councilmember Castle stated he would also defer to the District 1 Councilmember but
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
stated as someone who lives in the neighborhood, he would feel better if the stop sign remained.
City Manager Witzansky provided his insight on the discussion, noted that what residents want and what professionals suggest do not always align; suggested that they remove the stop sign, commit to observing the traffic movements, and come back with a status report; argued that it would be easier to make this movement change now in its entirety, based on Traffic Engineer Liu’s recommendations, and report back with any final modifications, including potentially restoring the stop sign.
More discussion followed.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to accept all the traffic hardening measures but do not remove the stop sign.
Councilmember Behrendt asked if there was any way to monitor it or have studies done.
City Manager Witzansky responded that it would be challenging to remove it later and now is the opportunity to correct the intersection and create a more consistent condition.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Mitchell Gee, sophomore at RUHS, reported that he works for Redondo Union TV, a news broadcasting program; reported that, in December 2025, he came up with an idea to do a news package on Keep the Esplanade Beautiful (KEB) and later decided in January 2026 to submit the news package to Student Television Network for their Broadcast Excellence challenge; reported that in March 2026 they were awarded an Honorable Mention Award; noted that the video could be viewed on the KEB Facebook page and Instagram page.
Jim Mueller, District 5, provided background on his vision for the North Redondo Beach Farmers Market; reported that five other citizens led by Teresa Mitchell stepped up and met every requirement, got every permit and approval, bought or rented every traffic sign and cone, recruited vendors, and set up the signs and barriers as required by ordinance to establish the Farmers Market; noted that the crowds showed up and are spending, the South Bay Credit Union became a founding sponsor, NRBBA became a founding sponsor, and many people contributed through GoFundMe; acknowledged the Change.org petition with over 1,500 signatures in support of the Farmers Market; commented that the crowds affirmed the vision he presented to the City Council last year; stressed that residents will spend money locally if given the right opportunity and it doesn’t have to be a place with fancy rooftop dining; commented that surveys have shown that North Redondo residents want a walkable Artesia Blvd. where they can gather with
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
neighbors, shop, and enjoy community events; urged Council to accelerate implementation of the AACAP that was approved in 2019 and suggested they start by closing off Green Ln. between Vanderbilt and Artesia temporarily and then permanently.
Steve Hage, 35-year resident, reported that he was at a car show in Torrance last week and noted that there were about six officers doing community engagement and commented that he wished Redondo Beach would do the same; stated that he was given a flier for Cruising at the Lagoon starting every Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. starting May 22nd through September 11th; spoke about positive community engagement and the impact on the consumers, noted that he has engaged with the public at the car shows, has donated and volunteered, and hoped it would not die out; stated that he has sent the Councilmembers emails against the LGBTQ+ statue scheduled for Artesia; said that a high percentage of the public is against the concept and urged the City Council not to change the identity of the City.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file materials.
Jimmy Erickson, District 1, stated that he spoke at the Public Works Safety & Sustainability Commission meeting last week and wanted to bring the topic before the City Council as well; noted that there is a lack of EV charging infrastructure in Redondo Beach, he drives an EV, and relies on the public charging stations; reported that Redondo Beach only has 41 public chargers, Hermosa Beach has 57, Manhattan has 119, and Torrance has over 250; commented that Redondo Beach is way behind on chargers and he found some resources for the City to pursue, notably a federal grant through the California Energy Commission that has up to $79 million available; stated that the list he submitted has all the options he found; spoke about potential partnerships with ChargePoint, Blink, and EVGO; asked the Council to include EV infrastructure as an explicit objective for N.3.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one else on Zoom and two eComments for J.1.
Mark Nelson (via Zoom) spoke about the safety and sound wall on Prospect and noted that the residents of that area would like to get that item into the capital budget; requested speed tables be placed on big Prospect between Beryl and Diamond or Beryl and Del Amo; stated that he wrote an executive summary about recovering costs of false alarm calls and recalled an incident from December of last year regarding a call from someone that mistook spray-on-snow for smoke.
City Clerk Manzano reported no other hands raised on Zoom.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Light reported speaking to the City Manager, the Community Development Department, all the Councilmembers, and with a couple of the Planning Commissioners for L.1.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Councilmember Waller reported speaking with the Mayor and the City Manager.
Councilmember Castle reported speaking with the Mayor, the City Manager, and City staff.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported speaking to the Mayor, the City Manager, City Attorney, and City staff.
Councilmember Obagi reported speaking with the Mayor, City staff, and Councilmember Behrendt.
Councilmember Behrendt reported speaking with the Mayor, Councilmember Obagi, City staff, and members of the public.
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
L.1. A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY’S CERTIFIED 2021-2029 (6TH CYCLE) HOUSING ELEMENT AND ASSOCIATED AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY’S ZONING AND SUBDIVISION ORDINANCES
REQUIRED FOR IMPLEMENTATION AND CONSISTENCY REPLACING 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)
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2605-027, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING, PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, AN ADDENDUM TO THE CERTIFIED “REDONDO BEACH FOCUSED
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE, ZONING ORDINANCE UPDATE AND LOCAL
COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT PROGRAM EIR” AND AMENDING THE CITY’S CERTIFIED 6TH CYCLE 2021-2029 HOUSING ELEMENT TO 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).
INTRODUCE 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 HIGHDENSITY RESIDENTIAL (65 DU/AC) AND MIXED-USE ZONING DISTRICTS (65 TO 80 DU/AC). FOR INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING
INTRODUCE BY TITLE ONLY ORDINANCE NO. 3312-26, AN ORDINANCE OF
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
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 HIGHDENSITY RESIDENTIAL (65 DU/AC) AND MIXED-USE ZONING DISTRICTS (65 TO 80 DU/AC). FOR INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING
PROCEDURES:
1. Open the public hearing and receive all testimony and written materials regarding the proposed amendments from staff and the public, and deliberate on the proposed amendments;
2. Close the public hearing; and
3. Adopt Resolution No. CC-2605-027, approving the Addendum to the certified General Plan Update Final Program EIR and amending the City’s Certified 6th Cycle 2021-2029 Housing Element;
4. Introduce for first reading Ordinance No. 3311-26, amending Title 10 Planning and Zoning, Chapter 2 Zoning and Land Use of the Redondo Beach Municipal Code; and,
5. Introduce for first reading Ordinance No. 3312-26, amending Title 10 Planning and Zoning, Chapter 1 Subdivisions of the Redondo Beach Municipal Code.
CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to open the public hearing.
Community Development Director Wiener provided some background on the item; stated that in recent years the state has taken away local control as it pertains to land use and housing; noted that having a compliant and certified Housing Element is important to retaining some level of local control; stated the draft amendments before them that evening would ensure that the City’s Housing Element does remain compliant so they have that local control; thanked Veronica Tam (consultant), Diana Varat (City Attorney’s office), and Planning Manager Scully for their help in putting the item together in a short time frame.
Planning Manager Scully stated that the public hearing is to consider amendments to the 6 th cycle Housing Element; provided a slide with a brief overview of the topics he would be covering; reported that the updates are needed to further the City’s strategies for meeting RHNA and to respond to a recent court decision; provided a slide with the summary of updates, noted that the big item is the amendment to the housing sites and went into further detail on the changes; highlighted that future new development will have a requirement for 50% of the floor area to be residential; reported that they are removing one of the housing sites (the North Tech Housing site) which will reduce the number from
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
six to five, they are increasing the maximum density on four of the sites from 55 dwelling units per acre to 65 unites per acre for capacity, and on the fifth site (the CR Housing Element site) they are increasing the density from 55 to 80 dwelling units per acre; stated staff has commensurate changes to the zoning ordinance to reflect the changes to the Housing Element but that they development standards associated with the housing sites are almost identical to what they had before; noted that the City needs to make the land use element designations, the zoning, and the Housing Element designations all consistent; provided a series of slides on each of the housing sites (North Tech site, Kingsdale Housing site, South of the Transit Center Housing site, 190th Street sites, and South Bay Marketplace site) which provided views of both the existing zoning (on the left) and then the proposed zoning (on the right) and provided the changes that are before the Council that evening; provided a slide on additional updates that were also done and explained that most of it was updating statistics, updating tables since they adopted the Housing Element in 2021-2022, technical edits, and clarification on programs in the Housing Element; provided a slide showing the HCD coordination and public review process which reported: the draft Housing Element Update was initially released for a seven-day public review period from January 6, 2026 to January 13, 2026, City received comments from HCD, revised HEU was again released for public comment from February 13, 2026 to February 20, 2026 and it was reviewed by the Planning Commission; stated that the Planning Commission’s recommendation was approval of the updates; reported that HCD reviewed the proposed amendments and issued their “Substantial Compliance” letter on March 13th which means the Housing Element is in substantial compliance with State Housing Law; provided details on the Environmental Review, stated that the City’s environmental consultant did an addendum to the certified Final Program EIR for the General Plan Update; reported that after their analysis it was determined that the changes would not result in physical impacts that differ from what was analyzed in the approved PEIR; stated that staff’s recommendation is to adopt the resolution approving the addendum to the Certified General Plan Update and introduce for first reading Ordinance No. CC-3311-26 and the first reading of Ordinance No. CC-3312-26.
Community Development Director Wiener wanted to add some clarification; stated that, currently, the six sites are zoned with overlay zones that were adopted by the City Council in November 2024, and the proposed changes that are before the City Council that evening would make the sites no longer an overlay zone and instead they would be zoned mixed-use; noted that future development would require 50% of the floor area to be residential and reported that they also increased the density in the development standards to offset the loss of the North Tech site.
Some discussion followed.
Mayor Light summarized for the public some details; explained that the City gets assigned housing allowance that they have to build into the City’s zoning and into the Housing Element, which was approved in 2022; spoke about a lawsuit where the judge found that HCD’s assessment on housing overlays didn’t follow legislative intent so the City is responsible in correcting it, which is what they are doing that evening to keep the City’s Housing Element certified; noted that they want to avoid Builder’s Remedy; thanked City
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
staff, the consultants, and HCD for their responsiveness; reported that they have four things to rule on that evening: changes to the Housing Element, the update to the EIR, and two zoning ordinance changes to implement the changes to the Housing Element.
Councilmember Obagi thanked the Community Development Department, especially Planning Manager Scully, for all their hard work; wanted the public to understand that the City is not building anything but they are creating the conditions for housing to come into existence and to ensure that the City does not impose any impediments for developments; added that the plan has not changed drastically from the one submitted in 2022 and they continue to put future housing near transit and freeways on the east and north parts of the City for easier access and to reduce carbon footprint; commented that Redondo Beach does not have many sites they can put these zones down; asked staff the effects of a builder coming in that would prefer to build smaller, more affordable units, and not build to the maximum stated.
Planning Manager Scully responded that the City is required to maintain capacity so if that happens, they need to figure out if they have the capacity in the various income categories with the other sites to meet the RHNA allocation they are required to show capacity for or they need to look for another site.
Councilmember Obagi asked if they could get the South Bay Housing Trust involved to provide more expertise to the developer or more financial assistance to the developer so they can build more capacity into the sites.
Community Development Director Wiener stated that the City has a buffer in their Housing Element that accommodates sites not constructed to their maximum capacity; noted that, if for some reason the City is still under production on their sites, they have the ability to identify additional sites where housing could be provided to make up the difference; stated the City has quite a few sites right now with various housing laws that allow housing regardless of the Housing Element.
Councilmember Obagi also acknowledged HCD for their letter of Substantial Compliance and thanked them for working with the City on this endeavor.
Mayor Light commented that this is just accommodating the housing allocation but there are other bills that will tie the City’s hands in other cases such as the PCH development, which doesn’t fall under the Housing Element.
City Manager Witzansky added that there are bills that supersede the City’s local zoning and planning and allow for housing in locations that the City is not even accounting for in their unit calculation; stated in the event someone builds fewer units or affordable units that are part of the City’s Housing Element, the City can point to those sites to say capacity remains in the community due to a particular bill; used the projects in the corridors, which are mainly commercial corridors, as an example.
Mayor Light pointed out that it will impact the City fiscally because only 15% of the City’s
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
private land is zoned commercial or industrial but that the City is being forced by the state so it is important how people vote.
Mayor Light asked if there are minimums to the number of units a developer could build.
Planning Manager Scully responded that the minimum is 20 dwelling units per acre for all the housing sites.
Councilmember Waller presented a scenario that if an industrial building had a fire would they be able to rebuild or would they have to follow the housing requirements.
Planning Manager Scully replied that they could rebuild since legal non-conforming privileges are still intact.
Councilmember Waller voiced his disappointment that they might lose the industrial section because of this item, but it is not their choice.
City Manager Witzansky commented that their fear is dealing with the seventh cycle, which is right around the corner, and they will hope to help people understand the impact of it.
Councilmember Kaluderovic stated that the majority of the City’s RHNA numbers are for affordable units and the projects that are happening have just a few affordable units with market rate units; voiced concern that the sites identified for affordable housing aren’t being used for it and the system that is in place is not providing what it’s intended for.
Mayor Light stated that the City can’t demand more affordable because that’s an impediment to construction.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Holly Osborne, District 5, reported that she turned in two items for the Blue Folder; referenced that Senator Glazier called for an audit of the RHNA in 2021 and the result was that the allocations released in March 2022 by the State Auditor found that HCD did not ensure its new assessments were adequate, which confirmed flaws in the process; reported that even though the audit found it flawed they did not redo the numbers; asked if the state should redo the allocations since they are way too high; asked that the City Council and the audience do their diligence and find out which senators and assembly people are going to support updating the RHNA allocations.
Mayor Light reported that they did receive a letter via email from COG asking the City to sign on to a letter related to RHNA and the flawed process.
City Manager Witzansky added that they will be working with SCAG, which is the regional agency that administers RHNA; stated that he and the Mayor have personally met with SCAG officials to begin dialog and express their concerns over how the state accounts
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
for units.
Mayor Light reported he would be attending SCAG on Thursday at the regional representative.
Alex Fineman, District 3, spoke about the housing crisis being a statewide issue and that is why there are statewide laws requiring certain housing production and RHNA in California; stated that there are reasons for the statewide laws and voiced frustration when he sees City leadership go to Sacramento and lobby politicians and support bills that would remove the enforcement mechanisms, such as Builders Remedy; said he doesn’t want to see Builders Remedy but it is an enforcement mechanism to make sure that cities comply with their housing obligations; stressed the importance of each city following housing requirements; stated that California is losing congressional seats and electoral votes because we are losing population to states like Florida and Texas; stated that it bothers him to see the City fighting solutions statewide and the City needs to do better; noted that it is a statewide solution and local approaches need to recognize that everyone has a statewide obligation to support housing in the state.
Mayor Light asked Alex Fineman to send him an email so they could continue the discussion.
Mark Nelson (via Zoom) thanked Sean Scully and Marc Wiener and staff for all the hours they put into this item; noted that he has spent most of his career dealing with the State, Feds, and other agencies and understands how difficult it can be; supported doing the minimum required to be compliant and did not agree with Alex Fineman’s comments; stated that the State does not play fair so the City needs to hold its ground without getting sued or wasting money on lawyers.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one else online and no eComments.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to close the public hearing.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Councilmember Obagi commented that the State is requiring zoning without being in touch with the market conditions for each area and knowing what makes financial sense for developers; supported Councilmember Kaluderovic’s comment that the State could achieve its goals through other tools, but the blanket mandate is not working.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2605-027, introduced by title only Ordinance No. 3311-26, and introduced by title only Ordinance No.3312-26.
City Manager Witzansky stated that this item has been a long standing issue for the City and City staff has worked incredibly hard throughout the effort; spoke of Redondo Beach
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
being housing diverse, with more than 11,000 residents per square mile, and the City provides a portfolio of housing at all levels; stated that they lobby in Sacramento for fairness and an equitable standard that should be appropriate for a community as dense as Redondo Beach; stated that Redondo Beach has been the model for housing in the state and has been nothing but supportive for housing.
Mayor Light added that Redondo Beach is the only beach city with more multi-family than single family units and the City’s multi-family percentage exceeds the average across all of Southern California.
More discussion followed regarding all the housing diversity the City has including Section 8, live-a-board boaters, assisted living facilities, etc.
Mayor Light stated the bill that they put forward was not opposing the housing mandates, it was giving cities who followed HCD’s guidance the opportunity to correct before Builder’s Remedy applied to them.
Mayor Light did a roll call vote for the motion on the floor.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried 5-0 by roll call vote.
City Clerk Manzano read by title only Resolution No. CC-2605-027, for introduction by title only Ordinance No. 3311-26, and introduction by title only Ordinance No. 3312-26.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to take an 8- minute break at 8:14 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
RECONVENE FROM RECESS – 8:24 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
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO THE CITY’S CROSSING GUARD PROGRAM
CONTACT: JANE CHUNG, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Jane Chung, Assistant to the City Manager, stated that she would be joined by City Traffic Engineer Ryan Liu, Police Captain Brian Long, and Chief Sprengel; introduced the item and provided an outline for the presentation; stated that the Crossing Guard Program has a total of 27 locations, 22 are staffed by City-employed part-time guards, and 5 are staffed by ACMS; reported that the current fiscal year budget allocates $552,600 of which is a mis of ongoing funding from the Police Department’s operating budget, one-time appropriation for additional part-time guards and for contract services; reported that a City employed guard cost approximately $18,954 per year vs the contracted crossing guard at $27,631; stated that one of the biggest challenges for the Crossing Guard Program is the hiring and retention, the City employs 24 part-time guards but between August 2025 and April 2026 the City has had 675 call-outs; stated that due to call-outs the RBPD frequently ends up reassigning MSOs, code enforcement officers, and other sworn officers from their primary duties; noted that contract costs have also risen and they have experienced disputed terms with the contractor; stated, due to the challenges the City has experienced, they need a more sustainable and reliable program structure; stated that the Crossing Guard Subcommittee, comprised of Councilmember Behrendt, Councilmember Kaluderovic, herself, Police Captain Long, and Traffic Engineer Liu, met to focus on developing an equitable, data driven, sustainably staffed program that ensured an equitable allocation of resources and prioritized high need, high traffic, high risk intersections; noted that they also looked for opportunities to improve safety through traffic calming and visibility enhancements for locations where a guard may no longer be assigned; provided a slide with the Subcommittee’s proposed modifications which were as follows:
• Reduce total locations from 27 to 18
• Maintain guards at highest need intersections
• Relocate guards where appropriate
• Remove guards where data shows lower need
• Implement tactical safety measures at removal sites
Jane Chung listed the safety measures that would be implemented at the removal sites which included: striped curb extensions, flexible bollards, cone based school time curb extensions, and targeted visibility enforcement such as hedge height compliance; provided a slide with a table that showed a summary of the proposed modifications; reported that the annual cost of the Crossing Guard Program would reduce from $552,600 down to $378,000 with the proposed modifications; noted that the decrease is primarily due to eliminating contracted guards and using only City staffed guards; announced that if City Council approved the proposed modifications they would take effect at the
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
beginning of the next school year and the City staff would begin implementing tactical safety measures by increased enforcement of visibility codes at the removal locations; stated that staff would monitor the effectiveness of the changes and evaluate if adjustments are needed; stated that staff will consider permanent curb extensions as part of the process, which would be funded through a Metro Measure M grant; noted that staff will continue to work with the School District to develop a joint communications plan to inform families of the changes before the start of the school year; concluded with the Subcommittee’s recommendations to the City Council as:
1) Approve the proposed modifications to the Crossing Guard Program 2) Support development of a joint communications plan with RBUSD City Manager Witzansky thanked all the members of the Subcommittee; noted that the crossing guard issue has grown over two budget cycles and has gotten to a point where it is no longer sustainable; stated that the changes are being made out of necessity, to save money, and create a program that the City can staff in perpetuity; highlighted points that Jane Chung covered in her presentation, notably the difficulty when they have callouts in maintaining the 22 locations staffed by the 24 part-time City employees because it pulls full-time personnel from their normal duties; stated the recommendations made focused on what they think the City can sustain through part-time personnel and with 18 locations $165,000 will still need to be added to the core budget to keep the program going.
Mayor Light thanked the Subcommittee members for their work; confirmed that the changes would take effect next school year and that they also get another shot during the next budget process.
City Manager Witzansky stated the direction they are looking for that evening is a target funding number so when he proposed the budget for the City Council in a couple of weeks he can factor that into the proposal.
Mayor Light asked if there was any way to prioritize the locations and shift crossing guards to higher priority locations if someone calls out instead of using Police staff to cover the position.
City Manager Witzansky responded that they want to commit to guarding locations and are uncomfortable leaving a location unguarded; stated that is why they are focused on identifying a sustainable number, which they have decided is 18.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked Jane Chung for the Administrative Report, the presentation, and for supervising the process; spoke about the data the Subcommittee reviewed, the importance of focusing on the safety and high volume areas where children need to cross, and equity in providing each school with at least one crossing guard; noted that City Traffic Engineer Liu worked and continues to work with the school principals to accommodate their preferences on where to locate the guards; reported that the Subcommittee met with all nine school principals at District HQ to discuss the item; stated
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
that the locations where they are removing a crossing guard is not being abandoned but instead being replaced with appropriate traffic calming measures and noted that is where they received the largest approval from the principals; mentioned that the approval and review by the Police Department, primarily Captain Long, was another important factor for the School District and the community; stressed that the City will still have a robust Crossing Guard Program, they will provide community outreach and proper noticing, and that the locations themselves are in the agenda packet; supported the product that the Subcommittee came up with.
Councilmember Kaluderovic explained that locations were added by the direction of the City Council over decades but once added they were never reassessed; noted this was the first time, that they are aware of, that all 27 locations had been systematically evaluated; stated that the community has changed, traffic patterns have changed, and resources need to be used effectively; emphasized it is not a cost issue but it is a staffing issue and opined it is irresponsible to deploy sworn officers to crossing guard posts when the community has other public safety needs; noted prior efforts to address the problem through social media recruitment campaigns, volunteer programs, pay increases to $20 per hour, and School District partnership had not solved the shortfall; explained all the work the Subcommittee has put into assessing the Crossing Guard Program, locations, and how to execute the removal and relocations of the crossing guards; spoke about getting staff information on grant funding for infrastructure for safe streets or safe routes to school; announced she would be hosting a community meeting on May 20th at Jefferson Elementary to receive public feedback; asked that the Council receive the recommendations but proposed that they be flexible with the 18 or possibly 19 locations for the crossing guards between now and budget; hoped to address some of the concerns they still need solutions for before the upcoming school year.
Councilmember Obagi noted that this is a difficult issue to tackle and thanked the Subcommittee members for all their hard work; provided the data on the screen so the public could view what staff is working from to form their recommendations on the best utilization of the crossing guards; reported that he and Councilmember Waller both put the data into their different AI programs and the results were in agreement with what the Subcommittee recommended; stated that he does have some disagreements that are not based on data but based on biases and also mentioned he did not realize they would cut the crossing guard number from 28 to 18; suggested that they have 19 or 20 crossing guards and if a person calls out then that location will just be unguarded and opined that they should not pull RBPD personnel from their normal duties; noted that he spoke to Dr.
Wesley and she asked that both crossing guard locations near Parras Middle School be retained and stated he looked at the data and both locations seem to have a significant amount of people crossing at them; mentioned he imagines a lot of people will have a strong reaction to the removal of the crossing guard at Harness and Carlson that serves the Jefferson kindergartners and first graders; stated that he did speak with the City Manager before that evening’s meeting and understood why 18 is a firm number and he would be willing to let go of the crossing guard at Jefferson; supported the work from the Subcommittee and said he would vote in favor of the 18 and recommended solutions but would prefer as an alternative to add back in the crossing guard at Parras and Harness
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
and Carlson.
Councilmember Waller stated that he supports all the work the Subcommittee did and would vote in favor of the recommendations; noted for the public that most of the crossing guard removals are only one or two blocks from another crossing guard, so students aren’t being abandoned and can choose to walk the extra distance to cross with a guard; stated his only argument would be half the students that go to Parras come from the north, and if the crossing guard at Vincent and Lucia is taken, then there will be no crossing guard for them to use; noted that the map showing the proposed crossing guard locations in the presentation had a very good representation of walking paths and suggested that the public take a look at the map; stated in reading some of the comments that the public had no idea that the City had to pay for the crossing guards and are not aware of the actual cost per year for each crossing guard; voiced support for the recommendations and said, if during budget, they can find a way to have 19 or 20 he would like that better.
Councilmember Castle voiced his preference to retain the crossing guard at Vincent due to the simultaneous pedestrian flow from both Parras Middle School and RUHS; added that it is not a controlled intersection and a crossing guard could ensure the proper flow of cars and pedestrians; commented to City Manager Witzansky that it is an issue for him that sworn officers are pulled to cover for crossing guard call-outs; asked if there was a way to have a substitute pool of crossing guards for that situation.
City Manager Witzansky responded that when they say they would staff 18 reliably that actually means they have a roster of 20-22 people for their part-time staffing pool; reported that they have had challenges with that pool due to illness, parenting conflicts, vacations, etc. so recruiting and retaining continues to be an issue for the program.
Councilmember Behrendt stated all the points that the other Councilmembers made were valid and they were points that the Subcommittee discussed over the last several months; noted that he also had a location that he wanted to retain but the data showed it had to be moved and that 18 is the number they need to meet; stated that he had a similar reaction to wanting to retain the crossing guard at Vincent and Lucia, but that Traffic Engineer Liu had already spoken to the principal and the principal preferred a crossing guard at Emerald and Lucia and opted for traffic calming and tactical safety measures at Vincent; opined that if the City says they will staff a location they need to be able to fill it or it creates inadequate expectations of residents and possible legal issues.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt to support staff’s recommendations for the 18 crossing guard locations shown on the map, support the outreach efforts with the School District, and to make the change effective as of the next school year.
Councilmember Obagi asked to discuss further the locations of MacKay/Nelson/Madison and Vincent/Lucia; spoke about the data points for each location and felt that some moves may be warranted; spoke out to the public and asked parents to form walking groups for each day of the school week so that their children’s route would feel more safe, urged the community to find solutions so that they don’t only rely on the crossing guards.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Councilmember Behrendt noted that there are more crossing guards in North Redondo because there are 50% more school sites in North Redondo; stated that the crossing guard placed at Madison Elementary was decided because they agreed that each school should have at least one crossing guard.
Councilmember Obagi seconded the motion to accept the Subcommittee’s recommendations.
More discussion followed.
Mayor Light reiterated that it is more of a staffing sustainability issue for the Crossing Guard Program and not necessarily a budget issue; agreed with Councilmember Obagi and supported the idea of parents forming walking groups to school.
City Manager Witzansky said they have discussed a pedestrian safety concept to be tailored similar to the e-Bike program and they will commit to working on programming something for it.
Alex Fineman, District 3, stated he has a kindergartener at Beryl Heights and noted that they will be losing their crossing guard at Beryl and Prospect according to the list shown; stated that five of the locations losing guards, including four along Prospect, met state guidance thresholds from the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) for crossing guard use; reported that the leading cause of death for children in LA County is traffic accidents and argued the City should implement meaningful traffic calming at those sites before removing guards; voiced concern that the City is cutting $175,000 by removing crossing guards but cautioned that the City may pay that in liability settlements if a parent loses a child at one of those sites; stressed that the City should follow state guidelines for crossing guards.
Councilmember Behrendt addressed the comments and clarified that the MUTCD is not a requirement for a crossing guard, it is addressing whether a child could be put there as a crossing guard.
Traffic Engineer Liu confirmed that the California MUTCD has recommendations for when an adult crossing guard should be considered but they give a lot of deference to local agencies for each unique and local circumstance; noted that the section Alex Fineman is referring to speaks about the threshold of whether an adult guard versus a child volunteer should be used.
Julie Young (via Zoom), District 4, stated taking away crossing guards will cause parents to start driving their kids to school and will put more vehicles on the road; reported she is on her 11th year of walking her kids to school and they have never had the privilege of crossing with a crossing guard due to the route they have to walk to get to the schools her kids attend.
Councilmember Behrendt reiterated that they are not taking away the Crossing Guard
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Program.
City Clerk Manzano reported 19 eComments opposed and 1 in support.
Todd Loewenstein (via Zoom), former District 2 Councilmember and former School Board President, stated what is missing in this situation is a discussion about the School District’s partial responsibility to support the program; noted that what the City is covering puts them in a position of structural deficit; stated that the City just passed a school bond of $278 million and that school bonds are only supposed to be met for capital expenditures; explained that the School District has money in the School District budget to help pay for the crossing guards; voiced his support for what the Council is doing and reiterated that the School District should take some responsibility and help fund the replacement of some of the crossing guards.
Councilmember Behrendt reported that the School District has been very supportive and understanding of the changes and offered to help with all the communications of the changes.
Erin Al-Awar, District 4, reported that she lives in the neighborhood closest to Aviation and Ford and her children attend Jefferson Elementary School; voiced her concern about the reduction of crossing guards around the Jefferson area; stated that she supported the crossing guard at Aviation and Ford when the students petitioned for it but she was under the impression that they were adding a guard and not taking one away; read the data from the study aloud and it showed zero student pedestrians were observed crossing at that intersection during the morning peak period; argued the guard placed at Aviation and Ford isn’t supported by the data so that guard should be returned to Jefferson.
Danielle Wagner voiced opposition to the reductions of the crossing guards; suggested looking into new staffing strategies since they said it is not a budget issue but a recruitment issue; noted that she is not supportive of leaning on the PTA or the parents to help with the crossing guard situation because they are too busy; commented that they did not put any traffic calming procedures where they moved the crossing guard from to place that guard at Aviation and Ford; agreed with the previous caller that the Aviation and Ford crossing guard should not count towards Jefferson and stated Jefferson needs two crossing guards.
Courtney Hughes, District 4, reported that she is a parent of a Washington Elementary student; spoke about the budget element of the issue and said children’s safety should not be where the community is trying to save money; voiced concern about the objectivity of data if gathered by City employees and argued that August 2026 does not allow sufficient time to install traffic calming measures and communicate changes to families; suggested, as part of any future steps, the City shows the community what measures are going to be implemented at each specific crosswalk and the expected timeline for those to be put in place before the 26-27 school year to help the parents feel comfortable.
City Clerk Manzano reported no more hands raised on Zoom.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Councilmember Behrendt reported poling residents throughout the City and finding them supportive of the changes; stated that he is comfortable with the recommendations.
Councilmember Obagi addressed Erin Al-Awar point regarding Aviation and Ford and acknowledged the data from the report but highlighted the fact that all the kids came to the City Council meeting asking for a crossing guard at Aviation and Ford and then coming back to thank the Council for the crossing guard; noted that in the environment they are currently in parents need to step up and assist.
City Manager Witzansky added that the City has done a lot of BRRs on this issue and needed to note that Redondo Beach has a program that currently outpaces the neighboring cities by a significant per guard per site basis across the board; stated that even at 18 they exceed the neighboring cities in the region.
Mayor Light commented that in most cities he has lived in the schools took care of the crossing guards and noted that Redondo Beach has always overachieved in that respect and set community expectations.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH ARAKELIAN ENTERPRISES, INC.
DBA ATHENS SERVICES APPROVE THE DRAFT TERMS OF THE
AGREEMENT AND DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE THE CONTRACT FOR
FINAL APPROVAL AND EXECUTION FOLLOWING CONCLUSION OF THE MAY 19, 2026 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REFUSE RATE
ADJUSTMENTS
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
Public Works Director Winje reviewed the item, recalled that they discussed pricing structure for the customer rates earlier in the year, and they were moving forward with Prop 218 process; stated that evening they are bringing an update on the additional terms that the City has been negotiating with Athens with the goal to have final approval of an amendment in two weeks; turned the floor over to Andrea Delap.
Andrea Delap stated that they are there that evening in consideration of the Athens Services second amendment in advance of the May 19th public hearing and formal consideration and approval of the Athens second amendment; announced in two weeks they will be back to open the public hearing, consider the rates, and formally review and consider the second amendment; stated that staff has been before Council at various stages of the process to provide updates and to solicit input from Council; reported that Athens has been the City’s exclusive franchise hauler since 2011, their agreement is set to expire on June 30, 2028, and they are the largest service contract for the City and provide service to nearly every resident and business in the City; reminded everyone that there have been a number of external industry drivers that initially caused changes to the
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
agreement and reviewed some of those drivers; stated that Athens first approached the City in March 2024 with the need to amend the contract based on the closure of the waste energy facility in Long Beach, and then in March 2025 Athens approached the City in response to changes and clarifications to State mandated regulations and additional changes to the terms; noted that the proposal is in their packet that evening in the Second Amendment Draft and the Appendices; said in May 2025 staff received additional feedback from the Council and have been working with Athens to finalize the additional terms which they are bringing forward that evening; noted that, in advance of next week’s meeting, Council gave staff direction to initiate the Prop 218 process, which they have done, notices have been mailed to all customers, and they have done all of the necessary public noticing; stated, in January 2026, the City Council tackled the rate structure and gave staff direction to move forward with the rates as noted with: the reclassification of multi-family five plus units as commercial, bundling of customer services, and singlefamily residential and muti-family (up to 4 units) rates would not be impacted; reported that Council gave staff direction to continue negotiations with Athens on the changes to the remaining terms and provided those changes:
• Term of the Agreement to be extended to June 30, 2036 • Transformation target removed
• Diversion requirement adjusted
• Roll-off exclusivity (after 5-year noticing period)
• Scout service fee
• SB1383 program changes
Andrea Delap reviewed the reasons staff fully recommends the proposed changes for the City which included the continuity of high value service from Athens, the value added services Athens provides to customers, the solid record Athens has for all their programs, free bulky waste and e-Waste pickups, HHW and document shredding events, street sweeping, and the partnership that they provide for many community events; stated that the contract will keep the City in good standing to address State regulatory changes with the implementation of the amendment; mentioned other positives to the contract for the City included the four annual compost giveaways and that Athens has agreed to support 100% the City’s SB1383 recycling product purchase targets; stated that the amendment provides stability for the future and helps mitigate some of the impacts of rising costs in solid waste, it provides rate structure certainty for residents and businesses, it delivers mandated services efficiently, and it supports City administration of solid waste programs; noted that the City’s HF&H consultants reported that Redondo Beach exceeds service levels in all reviewed areas and with competitive rates for residents and commercial customers; concluded the presentation with staff’s recommendation for City Council to provide input regarding the proposed second amendment and then direct staff to return to City Council on May 19th for the public hearing.
Mayor Light stated he had missed a meeting and asked Councilmembers Behrendt and Obagi if they were satisfied with what they heard during the discussions they had earlier that day.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Councilmember Behrendt responded that he was satisfied with the answers they received from staff but had a few questions about the document.
Mayor Light asked a representative from Athens to come to the podium; asked if Athens would be converting their vehicles to electric since he read an article that said by 2042 all trash vehicles in California would need to convert to electric.
Christian Warner, Senior Vice President of Athens Services, responded that Athens is always looking ahead in regards to truck laws in California; noted that the electric vehicle industry is not quite there for large trash vehicles, testing is being done in other cities but there are still a lot of things for the industry to resolve; stated as soon as those laws come to fruition and the vehicle is available and it’s efficient Athens will move in that direction; noted that the contract does require Athens to be in compliance with State laws.
Mayor Light said he wanted to make sure they were not committing a future Council to a big rate increase due to the State mandate they know is on the books today.
Public Works Director Winje stated that the potential extension for Athens goes until 2036 and a couple of years before that the City can reconsider; commented, as a point of reference, that the bus industry had been mandated to have all electric buses by 2028 but that has been unofficially deemed to be almost impossible.
Councilmember Obagi said regarding rate changes year after year, as part of the appendix includes an index for the cost of trucks; asked if the truck becomes too expensive then will it be part of the City’s rate change.
Public Works Director Winje thought those provisions are available to Athens if it gets to that point in the 10-year period but that would be something the future Council would have discretion over.
Mayor Light asked if Athens tried to transition early and charge the City for the electric trucks, would the future Council have a way out.
Public Works Director Winje stated that the current contract doesn’t include any provision for them to change the trucks without the City’s consent.
City Manager Witzansky added that the vehicles have an eight-to-10-year replacement cycle, there isn’t likely to be a transition to electric within the City’s 10-year term, and the next transition to new vehicles would be on the next prospective amendment or extension.
Christian Warner stated when truck laws are passed, they are typically giving industries time to allow their vehicles to fully depreciate before purchasing new updated vehicles Councilmember Waller referenced 5.3.1 in the contract and said it states that residential dwellings of three units or less shall receive cart service; asked how the cart service and rates are affected by that.
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Public Works Director Winje responded that they have three categories of service and traditionally residential was single-family up to three units but now it is multi-family with four units; stated that it is its own category, but it is considered residential units and will have cart service as opposed to bin service.
Councilmember Waller reported that the biggest comment he receives from residents is they would like the street sweepers to use more water due to the dust Gary Clifford, Athens Senior Executive Vice President, responded that all trucks have GPS-monitored water flow, noted that the City provides plenty of water for Athens, and Athens can take care of it if City staff could contact Athens when they receive that complaint.
Councilmember Waller highlighted that commercial customers will actually save money since Athens has promised to work with commercial customers to optimize the size of their bins; spoke of offices mainly having paper to dispose and restaurants mainly needing to dispose of green waste and paper so they can cut down on the use of the other streams of service.
Councilmember Behrendt reported that he and Councilmember Obagi had participated in an in-depth review meeting with Director Winje and Andrea Dunlap earlier that day, covering all major contract terms in detail and finding the agreement to be fair and balanced across the three primary interests: Athens, the City, and residents; acknowledged the agreement as a good bargain given the rising cost environment and noted that the primary adjustment is on the multi-family commercial category, which by nature has a more commercial character; asked Athens when they felt the electric vehicle requirement would take place.
Christian Warner replied that, as City Manager Witzansky noted, it will most likely be addressed when the current term coming up is over.
More discussion followed on anticipating and planning for the electric vehicles during this term and pilot testing the electric vehicles. Councilmember Behrendt stated he felt confident that they would not have a big bump under the “Extraordinary Adjustment” heading.
Councilmember Kaluderovic acknowledged Athens’ high level of service and attention to detail.
Councilmember Obagi commented that no one does garbage better than Athens and acknowledged the great customer service that Sharon Shapiro provides to the City; thanked Councilmember Behrendt, Director Winje, and Andrea Delap for the meeting earlier that day and noted all the questions were answered and the responses were very detailed; commented that, based on the poll he took with residents, everybody is happy with the excellent service Athens provides to the City.
Mayor Light commented that every step has been described throughout the whole
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
process and the extraordinary services Athens provides in comparison to other cities makes it a very good deal; voiced his support for the item but deferred to Councilmember Behrendt since he did more of the due diligence on the document.
Councilmember Behrendt stated no agreement is perfect but felt under all circumstances it is a good contract for the City and Athens’ track record justifies it.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve the draft terms of the agreement and direct staff to prepare the contract for final approval and execution following conclusion of the May 19, 2026, public hearing to consider refuse rate adjustments.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
City Clerk Manzano reported no eComments and no one online.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
N.3. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING APPROVAL OF THE CITY’S UPDATED STRATEGIC PLAN INCLUDING THE THREE-YEAR
PRIORITY AREAS, GOALS, AND TWELVE-MONTH OBJECTIVES
CONTACT: LUKE SMUDE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Luke Smude, Assistant to the City Manager, provided a brief outline of what he would be discussing which included the strategic planning process, March 31, 2026 highlights, three-year priority areas and 12-month goals, and next steps and recommendations; reviewed the background on the Strategic Planning process and noted that this year, with Council’s approval, they facilitated the meeting internally with the City Manager as the moderator; highlighted that the City had 125 accomplishments that year and using an abbreviated SWOT analysis established that they have 70 objectives; stated that Priority Areas have not changed and listed them as: 1) Economic Vitality, 2) Public Safety and Community Well-Being, 3) Infrastructure and Public Spaces, 4) Customer Centered Service Delivery, and 5) Community Stewardship; reported that under Economic Vitality they added Goal 1.4: Enhance the City’s Fiscal Sustainability, Future Goal 1.6: Identify Efforts to Enhance Business Retention, and Future Goal 1.7: Identify programs that have shown success on Artesia Blvd. and report on steps to implement them on PCH; noted that under Priority Area 2: Public Safety and Community Well-Being most of the focus was on Measure FP and enhancing facilities and Goal 2.4 was changed to add Community Resilience to it; stated under Priority Areas Goal 3.1 added Infrastructure but the rest remained the same; stated that Priority Areas 4 and 5 were unchanged and continue to focus on the City’s climate resilience, historic resources, and preserving the neighborhood character; reiterated that the City has 70 objectives and under each objective they have another level of the hierarchy under the goals and they hope they are measurable and achievable in the 12-month period; stated that staff’s recommendation is that Council review the proposed matrix, confirm priority areas, goals, and objectives,
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
and approve the Strategic Planning Matrix; added that staff will provide updates at the last Council meeting of each month on progress made towards the objectives.
City Manager Witzansky noted the twelve-month period of the plan would cover May 2026 through April 2027; commented that 70 objectives is a lot and would caution them to add any more to that list, unless it is wordsmithing and fine tuning; noted that most of the objectives are actionable items and they are reportable back to the Council.
Mayor Light commented that he liked the streamlined process they used this year and stated he felt that the Council’s comments were captured in the process; voiced concern regarding the discussion on how they manage the Harbor and asked that follow up be done regarding what other harbors do with their organizations and updates be shared with the Council.
City Manager Witzansky replied that they understood and would follow up.
Mayor Light referenced and agreed with the item regarding the lack of EV charging stations in the City.
City Manager Witzansky responded that staff has been trying to get them installed; reported that staff has applied for multiple grants and that Luke Smude has been in charge of at least two or three of them; stated they have a CIP set aside to fund additional EV charging stations in the facility; reported that they are having trouble with the underlying infrastructure that needs to be provided by Edison; stated that Edison can’t support the requests that they have made and reported that Edison officials said they can’t provide power to the Harbor area; stated that they will continue to have EV charging stations in the CIP and they are currently working on electric infrastructure at the Yard, which will be a carryover project for 26-27.
More discussion followed.
Councilmember Obagi reported that Tesla put a supercharging station on 190th near Starbucks and asked if it is available there, why can’t they provide it in other parts of Redondo Beach.
City Manager Witzansky responded that it depends on the service area and that the areas they have asked about the providers are not ready to deliver service there yet.
Councilmember Obagi asked about charging stations on the empty parcels SCE has on the right-of-way along 190th.
City Manager Witzansky stated that SCE won’t put them under their transmission corridor.
Mayor Light added that he called SCE and SCE said all that land is leased.
Luke Smude mentioned that staff had an established list of sites that Council was interested in a couple of years ago but for various issues none of the programs or grants
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
they have explored have worked out but they will continue to explore ways to bring more charging stations to the City.
Councilmember Behrendt reported that he and Councilmember Obagi have been working on private investment regarding charging stations and said they have had some development but nothing concrete to report yet.
Councilmember Obagi asked for Strategic Plan item #20 to be pulled up on the screen; commented on the numerous properties that are vacant on Artesia Blvd. and stated that the City should be reaching out to restaurant owners and hoteliers in the South Bay to ask them to consider opening up restaurants on Artesia Blvd.; noted that the land would be cheaper than other areas, they would benefit from the robust consumers attending the Farmers Market, the entitlement changes haven’t been priced into the land yet, and the City eliminated parking regulations; asked how they can proactively reach out to owners in the South Bay to try to get them interested in doing something on Artesia and Aviation.
City Manager Witzansky said that they could try to put it into the work that AREAS is already doing and see if they can’t identify and recruit local purveyors to invest in Artesia Blvd.; added that staff can try to do some self-initiating along with Council.
Councilmember Castle commented that, in regard to the Strategic Planning Session, he felt the process they followed this year worked well and as they decide how they move forward next year they may want to consider if they are capable of doing it on their own and without the consultant.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to adopt the proposed changes provided, approve the Strategic Planning Matrix and Objectives, and have staff finalize the document for a June meeting where staff will give their first update.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Alex Fineman noted that housing is not mentioned in the Strategic Plan in the Priority Areas or the goals and felt that is an oversight; stated that housing ties into a lot of the Priority Areas and goals that are mentioned: Environmental Stewardship, Public Safety, and Economic Vitality; said that it was stated earlier that residential development is a net negative in the budget but argued if the City cannot encourage more businesses to open then the reality should be more housing or cutting services; commented that the City has been resistant to housing for a while and they are beginning to see service cuts and used the $300 EMS fee and cutting crossing guards as examples; spoke of all the reasons the City should consider more housing and asked that when they revisit the Strategic Plan in the future to consider where housing fits into it.
Councilmember Obagi pointed out that Goal 2.3, 35, and 37 all have housing elements in them.
Jimmy Erikson said he found it hard to believe that all the City’s avenues have been
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
looked at in regards to charging stations because Torrance, Hermosa, and Manhattan all have ongoing programs that are currently working; noted that Southern Edison has a program to work with municipalities and all of the vendors have programs to work with cities and private companies to make it work.
Councilmember Waller responded that he has referred private companies to places such as the Riviera Village Association and other businesses there and wanted the speaker to know they are working the private side as well.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one else online and no eComments.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky wanted to acknowledge the work the Public Safety Team did over the weekend, especially Brian Regan with the RBFD and Brian Long with the RBPD; thanked Chief Sprengel and Chief Butler for their proactive response to the crisis that happened on Sunday morning and was pleased with their communication with IT Director Cook, who was also involved in the situation; thanked the FBI for their assistance throughout the day.
Mayor Light stated that he fully supported the way the First Responders reacted and noted that the First Responders need to be focused on public safety and not on what is being texted out to the public; mentioned that detailed text is also not helpful since it may help the bad actor instead.
City Manager Witzansky added that people do need to understand that a lot of thought is put into what is communicated, how it is communicated, and what is said and what isn’t said because they do not want to reward the bad actors for their bad behavior through recognition.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Mayor Light requested a BRR for the ADA lift for the Teen Center and a BRR for a ADA electric wheelchair to be used on the terrain at Wilderness Park.
Councilmember Waller requested a BRR for estimated costs of either closing southbound Irena at Torrance Blvd. or the cost of making it a full Cul de sac for the concerns of the residents on Opal.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked to amend the BRR she had for Ensenada Parkette; noted her original request asked for climbing items, shades, and trees; reported that trees have already been planted so she would just like to see the cost of adding a shade
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
structure; requested a BRR to replace the Vapor Wake dog they recently retired and asked for the cost of the dog, the training, and other ongoing costs associated for it; noted that there may be grants or funding available to assist.
Councilmember Obagi requested a BRR on the cost to rewrap a tile that still has the old Redondo Beach logo at the PAC in the lobby.
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:
Warlie Corteza v. City of Redondo Beach, Quality Seafood, Inc., BC Urban, LLC and DOES 1 to 25
Case Number: 25TRCV00066
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).
Name of case:
Marcia St. Laurent v. City of Redondo Beach, Howard E. Wood, Susan C.
Wood, The HS Wood Family Trust and DOES 1-100, Inclusive Case Number: 25TRCV01441
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:
Phillip Mack v. City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1-20, inclusive Case No: 24TRCV03382
R.4. 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:
100 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
130 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
(a portion of APN: 7505-002-932)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Jeff Jones, Quality Seafood, Inc.
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
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:
Feras Adamo, an individual; Manhattan Beach Smoke Shop Inc., a California Corporation v. City of Redondo Beach; Jim Light, an individual; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive
Case Number: 26STCP01367
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – None
T. ADJOURNMENT – 10:43 P.M.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to adjourn the meeting at 10:43 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
The next meeting of the City Council of the City of Redondo Beach will be an Adjourned Regular meeting to be held at 4:30 p.m. (Closed Session) and a Regular meeting to be held at 6:00 p.m. (Open Session) on Tuesday, May 12, 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