REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Closed Session – Adjourned Regular Meeting 4:00 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 4:00 p.m. by Mayor Light in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light Castle (arrived at 4:10 p.m.)
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
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 Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no one on Zoom and no eComments.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Elizabeth Hause, Waterfront and Community Services Director David Biggs, Project Manager
Jon Goetz, Redwood Public Law
PROPERTY:
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123 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(a portion of APN: 7505-002-908)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Raman Walia, Multiverse Platforms - Level Up Bowl & Bistro UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Lease Status, Price, and Terms
F.2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Elizabeth Hause, Waterfront and Community Services Director Katherine Buck, Waterfront & Economic Development Manager 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.3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54956.8.
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR:
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Elizabeth Hause, Waterfront and Community Services Director Katherine Buck, Waterfront & Economic Development Manager PROPERTY:
Fisherman's Wharf: 200-250 Fisherman's Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (a portion of APN: 7505-002-934)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Various Tenants
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price
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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
Luke Smude, Assistant to the City Manager
PROPERTY:
2500 Marine Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(a portion of APN: 4149-005-042)
NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Scott King, Del Amo Motorsports
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
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).
JAMS Arbitration Case Reference No. 5220006179 [Hon. Candace Cooper [Ret.]] Harry Stuver, et. al v. Redondo Beach Police Department and City of Redondo Beach
Assistant City Clerk Kalish read titles to be discussed in Closed Session.
City Manager Witzansky announced the following would be participating in Closed Session: City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Joy Ford, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, W.E.D. Director Elizabeth Hause, Outside Legal Counsel Jon Goetz, Project Manager David Biggs, W.E.D. Manager Katherine Buck, and Assistant to the City Manager Luke Smude.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to recess to Closed Session at 4:03 p.m.
Motion carried 4-0-1 by voice vote. Councilmember Castle was absent.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:09 p.m.
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor
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Light
Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
Emily Bodkin, Administrative Specialist/Liaison
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky reported that Joshua Dale joined Closed Session for item F.5.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to adjourn to the Regular Meeting at 6:10 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 6:10 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
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
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.
Mayor Light led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Mayor Light asked all to remain standing for a moment of silent invocation.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/AB 1234 TRAVEL Mayor Light announced that Councilmember Obagi would need to leave the meeting at 7:15 p.m.; stated that SB707 from the Brown Act allows him to leave, no vote is necessary, and he is allowed to participate remotely; noted the reason is childcare; reported opening up the 62nd year of the Greek Festival over the weekend; attended the soft opening of the water polo in the Harbor.
Councilmember Waller reported attending the South Bay Cities COG legislative briefing on Thursday morning and the ICA Summer Seminar later that day; attended the Woman’s Club of Redondo Beach Ice Cream Social on Monday; announced the RBPD Battle of the Badges Blood Drive on Wednesday at the Library, Cruzin’ the Lagoon on Fridays from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Harbor, and live music at the Pier on Thursdays and Saturdays through the summer.
Councilmember Castle reported attending the Independent Cities Association Conference in San Diego over the weekend; announced his community meeting on July 23rd at the Library starting at 5:30 p.m. and his guest speaker would be Councilmember Behrendt.
Councilmember Obagi reported attending the Independent Cities Association Conference, noted that the expenses were on file with their executive assistant and Clerk; stated he moderated a panel on commercial development and reported that other councilmembers were irate about the State’s housing mandates; spoke about some of the conversations that were had at the conference.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Mayor Light recommended moving items O and Q to after J, so staff could go home while the Mayor and Councilmembers interview Commissioners.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to move items O and Q to after J in the order of the agenda.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. AGENCY RECESS - None
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G.1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting
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Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported three Blue Folder items: H.8, J.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 JULY 14, 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
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE A SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH
PETDATA, INC. FOR DOG LICENSING SERVICES TO EXTEND THE TERM THROUGH AUGUST 18, 2026 FOR A MINIMUM MONTHLY SERVICE FEE OF $500 (ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE FOR THE TERM IS $1,000) TO ALLOW
TIME TO COMPLETE THE EVALUATION AND CONTRACTING PROCESS RELATED TO RFP#2526-007 FOR NEW DOG LICENSING SERVICES
CONTACT: STEPHEN SPRENGEL, CHIEF OF POLICE
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH FORVIS MAZARS, LLP TO PREPARE AND FILE REQUIRED REPORTS WITH THE CA STATE CONTROLLER’S OFFICE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $5,413 FOR THE TERM ENDING
UPON COMPLETION OF THE CURRENT YEAR FILING
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF LOS
ANGELES FOR BASIC ACADEMY PEACE OFFICER RECRUIT TRAINING, EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 UNTIL TERMINATED BY EITHER PARTY
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CONTACT: STEPHEN SPRENGEL, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.6. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2607-052, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL BOOK OF CLASS SPECIFICATIONS TO UPDATE
THE POSITION OF FIRE CHIEF
CONTACT: DIANE STRICKFADEN, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES H.7. APPROVE THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE PALOS VERDES
BOULEVARD PROTECTED BIKE LANE PROJECT APPROVE CHANGE
ORDER NO. 1 TO THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT WITH ALL AMERICAN ASPHALT SOUTH, INC. FOR THE SLURRY AND BICYCLE LANE ADDITIONS
ON PALOS VERDES BOULEVARD FROM PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY TO
IRENA AVENUE AND ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC CALMING AND SAFETY
IMPROVEMENTS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS FOR A COST OF $577,450 INCREASING THE TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT TO $1,175,381 AND RESET
THE CITY ENGINEERS CHANGE ORDER AUTHORITY
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2607-053, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, NAMING THE
HERONDO OPEN SPACE PARK AREA, LOCATED AT HERONDO STREET
AND CATALINA AVE, AS BILL BRAND GATEWAY PARK
CONTACT: JANE CHUNG, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
Councilmember Behrendt commented that Traffic Engineer Liu did a great job throughout the City regarding H.7; voiced his appreciation to Assistant to the City Manager Chung for her precision and accuracy in preparing the report for H.8.
Councilmember Waller seconded the comment made regarding H.7.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to approve the Consent Calendar items H.1 through H.8.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Ron Maroko, District 3, suggested naming the Herondo open space park area the Bill Brand Wetlands; stated he had conversations with Councilmember Behrendt when he was on the Charter Committee about “slow walking things” and referenced the policy for park naming; noted that the last major park naming change took place in 1973; reported that on August 5, 2025 he suggested that a parkette be named after Joe Dawidziak, a motion was made by Councilmember Obagi and seconded by Councilmember Waller to refer to staff, and commented that is part of the “slow walking things” that he notices in
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the City; questioned why Mr. Dawidziak would not have the same status as Bill Brand; encouraged Council to move the naming of the parkette for Joe Dawidziak forward sooner and not wait until the fall.
Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no hands raised online.
Joan Irvine, District 1, voiced her opposition on naming the park at Catalina and Herondo as Bill Brand Gateway Park and recommended it be called The Gateway Park; stated she did not want it named after a political figure whose legacy remains divisive in their community; opined that Bill Brand’s policy decisions harmed Redondo Beach’s economy and provided examples to support her statement; stated that the City Council was the most divided and contentious during his tenure; questioned how the City would maintain the park with staff resources stretched thin and felt answers were needed before item H.8 is moved forward; commented that if the City can afford maintenance and enforcement for the park that they should be able to afford the crossing guards needed; urged the City Council not to name the park after Bill Brand.
Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no hands raised online and an eComment in support of H.7.
Kathy McLeod, 50-year resident, voiced full support in naming the new park on Herondo after former Mayor Bill Brand; noted that he created the South Bay Parkland Conservancy in 2004 and after he was elected advocated for more open spaces, parks, cleaner air, and water; spoke of Bill Brand’s efforts to protect the City’s King Harbor from outside corporate interests and worked to handle small and large matters with residents until resolutions were made; stated that the park is the perfect way to honor his legacy and fitting since his last public appearance was made at that site; noted it also represents his last major feat, the closure of the AES Power Plant; stated that naming it after Bill Brand would pose the question to future generations and tourists to look up who he was and understand how he fought to preserve Redondo Beach; stated he was an inspiration to her.
Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no participants on Zoom.
Councilmember Obagi stated that he met Bill Brand in 2012 and commented that he was the fiercest fighter for no power plant in Redondo Beach; reported that when Bill Brand became Mayor he did not have a majority on Council so when they were considering putting a new power plant to replace the old one, Bill Brand had to really work hard to get a majority; reported that Bill Brand did get a majority on Council in 2021 when Councilmember Obagi was elected; noted that leadership started to change in the City, Mike Witzansky was hired as City Manager, and since then Redondo began experiencing a Golden Age; stressed that Bill Brand fought for the piece of land in order to turn it into open space and was proud to name the park the Bill Brand Gateway Park.
Mayor Light echoed the comments made by Councilmember Obagi and Kathy McLeod; reported that it is the first edition of parkland in the City since he’s been there and it is due
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to Bill Brand; stated it is befitting that the City name it after him.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS - None
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Miles Burkart, 14-year resident, stated his background is in systems design and process improvement for Fortune 500 companies, he has run tree climbing schools, and done hundreds of aerial rescues; reported he is a Wilderness First Responder and he loves trees; hoped that he could be an ally to the City and not its adversary; noted that they all agree that the City’s density is increasing, quoted the Mayor saying “We don’t have the staff to enforce all codes all the time across the whole City.”, and that he agreed with the statement; stated that pressure could be reduced on a system by doing a bit of work up front; reported speaking to Councilmember Obagi, a few weeks ago, about using a simple mailer (showed an example of a mailer he created) that the City could send twice a year to remind residents to trim their hedges and clear their sidewalks; opined that it could resolve 90% of the hedge and sightline complaints that the City is receiving; noted that he emailed the electronic files to Councilmember Obagi of the samples; stated it would be better to receive the mailer than a legal threat as their first experience from the City; asked the Council to consider it and requested permission to receive and file his sample.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Mile Burkart voiced his opposition to any pause in code enforcement for hedges and sightlines since they are safety issues; commented that the loudest people are the ones that got caught trading their community safety for personal privacy; said that code changes might not be necessary, that people are experiencing systemic problems, and the code enforcement process feels like a black hole; looked forward to coming back to the Council to show them real issues and real examples so they can fix what is broken.
Assistant City Clerk Kalish read item H.6 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2607-052 and item H.8 adopt by title only Resolution No. CC-2607-053.
Darryl Boyd (via Zoom), District 3, recalled that at last Tuesday’s Council meeting he spoke about the lack of honesty, transparency, proper disclosure, possible legal and ethical conduct problems, and lack of respect for the voices of residents by the Mayor and Council; stated that his point was proven when during item N.2 last week the Mayor interrupted a speaker twice while she was speaking because it seemed he did not like the direction she was going; mentioned that the District 4 Councilmember made it worse by
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asking her a clarifying question, which upset her even more; commented that it was totally wrong; opined that the Mayor and District 4 Councilmember were showing their allegiance to BCHD and not to a Redondo Beach resident; voiced his concerns of BCHD CEO Tom Bakaly using teens from Allcove to speak in support of the 1.25 FAR when they have no adult experience or responsibilities to speak from; stated that BCHD disrupts surrounding neighborhoods daily and nightly; spoke about Mayor Light admonishing him for speaking up during the meeting; stated that the Mayor and Council will not be able to shut down the growing dissenting voices against them.
Holly Osborne, District 5, thanked the Mayor and City Council for de-bundling the BCHD FAR from the Housing Element and General Plan at the July 7th meeting; asked Council that going forward the residents do not want a tower-like structure next to a residential neighborhood; stated that BCHD is supposed to be a healthy living area and for over 18 years it has housed the elderly suffering from dementia; reported that Silverado and the agency running the facility were doing an outstanding job but now BCHD has issued eviction notices to the 100 residents living there and are terminating Silverado’s lease; reported that BCHD did that in order to contract with another agency, Sunrise; urged the Council and BCHD to educate themselves about Sunrise; noted that Sunrise is first and foremost a real estate acquisition model and that is why they want to up zone the FAR; stated that Sunrise has plans for independent living and assisted living patients, adds extra fees to the dementia patients based on a computer model of care required, and when the fees reach a certain level their model is to evict the patient to save on staffing; spoke of recent lawsuits filed against Sunrise and their reputation in serving involuntary 30-day evictions; submitted materials.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to receive and file.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Mark Nelson (via Zoom) stated that last week’s City Council meeting had discussion regarding the rest of the P-CF zoning; noted that the limit is 0.75 and except for BCHD’s threat of litigation against the City, there is no reason to spot up zone to Beach Cities parcel to 1.25; said that Redondo Beach is just as likely to need revenue in the future as BCHD does; stated that all P-CF should be the same FAR and there is no reason to spot up zone BCHD; spoke in regards to the P-SF Annex site being spot up zoned and stated all the P-SF should be 1.25 as well or back to 0.75; commented that, as a taxpayer, he wants his city and his school district on 100% even footing with Beach Cities; noted that BCHD is an agency that serves a majority of non-Redondo residents, which includes Allcove where they are taking out loans against only residents to finish the building; suggested that the Council needs to spend more time on FAR equity.
Cher Roberts, District 4, reported that she lives in a four-unit HOA building and one of the units decided to convert their garage to and ADU; noted that the other owners did not give permission, they were provided letters that they were getting a meter panel upgrade but the person actually relocated the meters, and now the meters are exposed; reported
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that an exterior step was added to the ADU unit which impedes the driveway to enter and exit and reported other issues they have experienced; stated that the person did not get approval from the HOA to do any of the work; reported reaching out to the City building inspectors, Josimar Lopez and Peter Tucker, but they were not helpful and would not listen to her; hoped that the Mayor and Council would reach out to the building inspectors to have the modifications reverted back to the original state along with the common areas; reported that she sent emails to the Mayor and Councilmember but did not get a reply; stated that she did bring pictures of the meter panels.
Councilmember Obagi asked her when she sent her email, she stated 20 days ago, and asked her to resend to [email protected].
Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported Vanessa Cabello was online but she did not respond.
Joshua Gillins, 2305 Rockefeller Ln., stated he is part of the four-unit condominium building and the construction of the ADU; reported that they submitted a public records request for the permits and materials applications for the project and received nothing; stated that the permit applications fraudulently stated that all members of the HOA provided authorization for the ADU; reported that the owner that built the ADU also told the HOA that the common area modifications made were requirements of the City of Redondo Beach; requested that the Council help them with the building inspectors, with obtaining the public records from the City Clerk, and provide any support so the HOA can fulfill their roles.
Councilmember Obagi asked Joshua Gillins to email him.
Vanessa Cabello (via Zoom), District 4, reported that she has lived in Redondo Beach for 11 years and in that time her rent has almost tripled; reported that according to the most recent census data 46% of the City’s households are renters; stated that renters feel invisible in conversations about the future of the City; reported that the median rent in the City is $3,400 per month and that across California 40% of households spend more than 30% of their income on housing; asked the Council to use local controls to address housing affordability in Redondo Beach; asked the Council, when they come to making referrals to staff that evening, that they direct staff to prepare a report evaluating tenant protections in Redondo Beach; stated that the report should examine what comparable California cities have done and identify option that Council will consider in a future meeting.
Jim Mueller, District 5, spoke of the hiring freeze that was instituted to balance the City’s budget and, in his view, they are doing it because enhancing the revenue side has proven difficult; spoke of the failed developments in the City such as the Galleria South Bay and the GrubHaus property; stated that voters seem to abhor large multi-unit developments that would provide more consumers paying sales tax; asked how the City can preserve Redondo’s roomy and beachy environment, while still having the City services the community has come to expect.
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Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no one online and no eComments for J.
Mark Hansen spoke as a member of the committee that ran the 34th Annual Cure Cancer Cup hosted by the King Harbor Yacht Club; reported that $85,000 was raised for cancer research and the cumulative total is now at $935,000; provided details of the race, noted that the winner was a 15-foot sailboat sailed by their coach and a junior girl, and they had an awards party following the race; noted that the perpetual trophy was designed by Wyland; thanked Tracey McMartin for her role as Chairman; announced that the King Harbor Yacht Club and the Youth Foundation are offering sailing lessons and have a promotion that discounts memberships at the Club.
Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no one online.
Councilmember Obagi left the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Light concluded item J and moved to item O.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL INTERVIEWS OF COMMISSIONER
APPLICANTS FOR APPOINTMENTS TO CITY COMMISSIONS
Procedures:
A. Conduct applicant interviews; followed by
B. Councilmembers submitting recommendations for appointments to the Mayor by Thursday, August 6, 2026;
C. The Mayor proposing Commission appointments at the regular City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026; and
D. The City Clerk administering the Oath of Office to new and reappointed Commissioners at the City Council Meeting of September 1, 2026, or before each Commissioner begins their term at the October Commission Meetings.
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
Mayor Light asked the Council for a motion to suspend the rules so they can run it interview style, which is not accommodated in the City’s new Code of Conduct; explained the rules would be to allow each potential Commissioner three minutes to speak, then the Mayor and Council can have a Q&A session and then allow for public comment.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to suspend
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the rules just to the extent described by Mayor Light.
Motion carried 4-0-1 by voice vote. Councilmember Obagi was absent.
Mayor Light explained that he would call people up alphabetically; noted that it is the first time the City has had written, detailed Rules of Conduct and that everyone should keep that in mind; reminded the potential Commissioners that the Commissions are not oversight committees and they are intended to advise the Council; reported that the City also has codified Rules of Courtesy, Decorum, and Personal Conduct for the City Council and for all appointees to the Commissions.
Councilmember Obagi returned to the dais around 7:04 p.m.
Hudson Brann asked to submit materials.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to receive and file.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Hudson Hawk Brann stated that he is a lifelong resident and lives in District 1; noted that planning and zoning are things he cares deeply about; reported that he is a mechanical engineer but in his spare time he is trying to recreate Redondo Beach in a city modeler; hoped to get the opportunity to serve on the Commission and provide his perspective on where the City could improve; opined he could give a Gen Z view of things if he was able to serve as a Zoning Commissioner.
Councilmember Behrendt reminded everyone who applied that, as part of the City’s ordinance, Commissioners are not allowed to miss more than three meetings in a 12- month period and remote participation is not allowed; reiterated what the Mayor said about the rules for Commissioners including they do not make policy, they do not direct staff, and they do not demand documents; noted that the rules and municipal code would be circulated; reminded the applicants that they would be representatives of the City and should act accordingly.
Mayor Light clarified that Commissioners are not allowed to miss three or more meetings.
Councilmember Obagi referenced the Pearl Street and PCH development and that Mr.
Brann had spoken in favor of it; provided more background on the project, noted that it was appealed from the Planning Commission’s denial, subsequent parking was added, and ultimately the Council passed it; asked if he thought entitling that property still helps affordable housing when it just goes up for sale.
Hudson Hawk Brann responded that, when they put it up for sale, they were hoping someone would pick up the plan attached to the property in order to get an easy cash out; noted that if nobody buys it there is a possibility that they will just build it; stated he
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is not there to push an agenda but to look at the facts, look at what is available, and figure out if the project makes sense for the citizens; pointed out that most of the City’s tax base is from property taxes and they need to be able to bring people into Redondo Beach or the City won’t get any of those taxes; commented that they do need to be respectful of the community when they place the buildings but also be aware that the City needs to be able to balance its budget.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked Mr. Brann to explain how Gen Z will add to what the City is missing and how it could be applied on the Planning Commission or otherwise.
Hudson Hawk Brann stated that Gen Z is underrepresented in politics; hoped to be able to represent the younger generation that grew up in the City regarding affordability in housing so they could continue to build their lives there; noted that his constituents would not come and speak to the Council but he is comfortable doing so.
Councilmember Waller reported that he was able to see the presentation prior to that evening since Mr. Brann is in his District and asked him to review it; commented that Mr.
Brann is very data focused; stated that it is said that California does not need as much parking, asked Mr. Brann if he thought that applies to Redondo Beach or to the Bay Area.
Hudson Hawk Brann responded that the setup of Riviera Village is the goal with a centralized parking area surrounded by commercial area; noted that situations are different and it would be up to the Zoning Commission to figure that out; stated his goal is to apply an objective, data driven process through each situation.
Mayor Light asked Mr. Brann if he would be opposed to any other Commissions if the Planning Commission was not available.
Hudson Hawk Brann responded that his first time serving the City was working at Seaside Lagoon, where he biked to work every day, and that gave him a sense of pride in the infrastructure around him.
Mayor Light applauded him for wanting to get involved at his age; clarified that even though they get a lot of revenue from property taxes, the high density properties end up with a net loss to the City because of the services and infrastructure they demand but don’t pay for; explained in more detail what would be better for the commercial properties and that the City is doing a Nexus study related to high density development versus the revenues.
Hudson Hawk Brann stated he understood and reported that the State is trying to allow different types of housing so changing zoning standards and adopting those practices would be one way to lower the cost of those buildings; stressed that he would take the job seriously and wanted to help Redondo Beach.
Councilmember Obagi left the dais at 7:19 p.m. and jointed remotely at 7:28 p.m.
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Benjamin de France asked to submit some material.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to receive and file.
Benjamin de France commended the King Harbor Yacht Club for the money they have raised for cancer; reported that his mother is a two-time breast cancer survivor; provided background and details on his work experience and education; reported that he is a U.S.
Navy Veteran and is expected to receive his master’s in Public Administration in October; stated he is interested in the Budget & Finance Commission, Public Works and Sustainability, and Suspension Appeals Board; noted that he has done a lot of research and reports on Public Support Housing, affordable housing, and homelessness in LA County; noted that he lives in District 4 and appreciates the way Councilmember Obagi responds; felt his experience could help the City and help him learn a lot as well.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked which Commission he preferred to serve on.
Benjamin de France responded that he just wants to do his part to help the City and also learn.
Mayor Light reported that they haven’t had a Suspension Appeals Board in decades so he will not be appointing anyone to that at this time; noted that they will have more openings than applicants due to absences from some Commissions.
Councilmember Castle asked if Mr. de France would be able to attend the meetings once a month.
Benjamin de France assured them that he could make the meetings.
Desiree Galassi stated she was there to ask for re-appointment to the Public Amenities Commission; reported that she has served three years on the Preservation Commission and two years on the Public Amenities Commission; hoped to continue the work she started with the outreach for the City’s Historic Preservation Program; spoke about working with staff and Councilmember Kaluderovic on various projects and programs and hoped they would consider extending her time on the Commission.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented that she is a huge asset to the City and she does amazing work.
Councilmember Waller thanked Ms. Galassi for asking to return.
Councilmember Obagi echoed what Councilmember Kaluderovic stated.
Thomas Gamble, lifelong resident of the South Bay, provided details on his background, education, and work experience; reported working at LAX for 14 years, that he speaks several languages, was educated in Germany and Mexico, was a YMCA camp counselor,
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was a teacher, and has a wide variety of talents.
Mayor Light noted that he put down Planning, Cultural Arts, and Budget & Finance as Commissions he would want to be on; asked if he would consider Public Amenities as well.
Thomas Gamble stated he would consider it and could make all the meetings since he is retired.
Councilmember Castle asked what district he lived in.
Thomas Gamble responded that he lives in Councilmember Castle’s district, District 2.
Councilmember Waller asked what he taught when he was a teacher.
Thomas Gamble reported that he taught languages, auto shop, ROTC, kindergarten; noted he bounced around a lot.
Mara Lang stated that she would like to serve on the Planning Commission because she cared about the direction the City is going and that development can do a lot to support a city’s identity, values, and shape where it wants to go; reported that she has lived in Redondo Beach for about 20 years and has served on the Recreation and Parks Commission and more recently on the Public Amenities Commission; noted that he background in design and construction gives her a practical understanding of how projects come together and her advocacy for trees, parks, and community spaces gives her a strong appreciation for long-term impact of planning decisions; said she believes the Planning Commission would allow her to bring what she has learned to help support thoughtful development and bring the best possible future for the City; stated she is very civic minded, has volunteered a significant amount of time, and believes a strong city needs residents who are willing to be involved and do their part.
Mayor Light noted that she has a strong attendance record.
Mara Lang said it is an honor to be on the Commissions and committing to them has always been important to her.
Mayor Light pointed out that the Public Amenities Commission would be losing Commissioners due to absences and asked if she would be opposed to remaining on that Commission.
Mara Lang responded that she is not opposed but the Planning Commission has always been in the back of her mind; stated that she saw the opening become available and wanted to throw her name in.
Mayor Light noted that her passion would be in Planning; stated that she and her husband were both in development and asked if they have any developments in Redondo since she would have to recuse herself often if she is on the Planning Commission.
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Mara Lang said they do not work on large projects, so she does not foresee having to recuse herself from many of the discussions and is not a big concern of hers.
Councilmember Behrendt clarified that the Planning Commission does advise the Council and Mayor on all matters related to planning, zoning, and the development of the City, so it could pose an issue.
Councilmember Waller asked if she was hired to do the development or if she buys the properties, develops it, and sells them.
Mara Lang responded that she has done both: bought and sold for herself and worked for an individual to develop.
Ryan Malcolm, District 2, said he is a 15-year resident and property owner; stated he is interested in the Planning Commission and, secondly, the Budget & Finance Commission; reported that he graduated from USC with a degree in accounting from the Leventhal School of Accounting, worked at Price Waterhouse Coopers for eight years, transitioned into the private sector and is currently a corporate controller for a firm in El Segundo; stated that he originally applied for the Planning Commission since it was an area that interested him but, since the Mayor stated the roles of Commissioners is in an advisory capacity, realized that he would better serve the City on the Budget & Finance Commission where his background is strong; reported that he has watched several of the meetings and felt he could participate in that environment.
Mayor Light confirmed he could commit to one meeting a month and stated there were three openings coming up for the Budget & Finance Commission; clarified that the Planning Commission and Public Amenities Commissions do have some decisionmaking authority but they are very prescribed; reported that the ordinances for each describes what they do over and above the advisory role.
Jacob Mark (aka Captain Jake) stated he is a lifelong South Bay resident and lives in District 3; reported that he has managed, owned, and grown businesses within the Harbor over the last 10 years, he is a member of the King Harbor Association, and has a background in safety; said one of his main goals is to spread awareness, public insight, and public perception of King Harbor; noted that he has worked with many of them on projects and advised them on matters; stated he joined the KHA about a year ago and has not missed their monthly meetings and planned to do the same for the Harbor Commission.
Mayor Light pointed out that Jacob Mark runs the Glass Bottom Boat in the Harbor and takes groups out every Sunday to fish out garbage from the water; reported that Mr. Mark also built a ramp for the baby marine mammals to get up on the Sea Lion Barge and was recently awarded by Marine Mammal Care Center for his service; stated that the Harbor Commission has not had a business supported Harbor Commissioner in decades and it would weigh heavily on his recommendation to the Council.
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Councilmember Waller commented that Mr. Mark has support from KHA, Commissioner Roger Carlson, and the experience so opined he is quite qualified.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked what took him so long to apply.
Jacob Mark responded that he finds as he’s gotten older, he seems to want to be more involved in the City.
Councilmember Castle noted that he has worked with Mr. Mark on various things and that having his perspective from the land side, from the business side, and from the sea side will be a great addition to the Harbor Commission.
Ron Maroko reported that he is currently serving as the Chair for the Public Amenities Commission and is looking for re-appointment; noted that there are a number of projects that have been started and he would like to see them through; reviewed the list of projects he’s involved in and hoped to continue working on; reported that he has only missed one meeting due to his son’s wedding; noted he served on the Charter Committee and the Library Commission with no absences and had only one absence when he served on the Historical Commission; stated he has a passion for Redondo history, has taken at least 10 classes, and said he provided the list of classes; said there is a lot more that can be done in regards to preserving the City’s history and making the public aware of it; stated the Public Amenities Commission is the best Commission he has been on and that everyone brings a good skill set; hoped they would get a hard copy of the Rules of Conduct and Brown Act training.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented that they are lucky to have him and that he has a good way of nudging them in a direction about history and preservation that are not on their radar; stated that it is helpful that he brings things about history to their attention.
Teresa Mitchell, District 4, stated she is a homeowner and grew up in District 4; reported she applied for the Public Works Safety and Sustainability Commission because she believes the public spaces are the framework for how people engage with their neighbors and the neighborhood; noted that she has a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley in Development Studies and City and Regional Planning and a master’s degree in Urban Planning with a concentration in Environmental Sustainability and Policy; spoke of having 30 years of professional experience in infrastructure development and what that involved; noted that she was one of the founders of the OurNRB and the North Redondo Beach Farmers Market; spoke of the AACAP and the changes happening in District 4 and wanting to be a part of that from a resident perspective.
Mayor Light reported asking Ms. Mitchell to apply for the Planning Commission but she felt there might be a conflict of interest there; stated that she impressed him on the way she handled and started up the North Redondo Beach Farmers Market.
Councilmember Kaluderovic stated that Ms. Mitchell’s unique combination of the love for
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the City and its history along with her skill set would be applicable for the Commission she is applying for, and they would be lucky to have her.
Councilmember Obagi (via Zoom) noted that Ms. Mitchell helped open his eyes to the possibilities on Aviation Blvd. and how re-striping the parking spaces would make it safer with a left turn lane; stated that it helped initiate the BRR that was put into the last budget season; thanked Ms. Mitchell for all that she does.
Debbie Price stated that she has been a Redondo Beach resident for 20 years and is currently serving on the Housing Commission; provided details on her professional background which included: teaching at Community Baptist and other places and opening up a home daycare where she taught special needs children in Redondo; reported that she moved about four times and lived in most of their districts but remained in Redondo; stated that her passion used to be about children and as she has gotten older her passion has changed to housing and the older people; spoke about her desire to help educate older people and that she has experience with housing; asked that she be reconsidered for the Redondo Beach Housing Authority Commission; spoke of all she has learned and how that has helped her to educate others on various resources they have available.
Mayor Light thanked her for her service and enjoyed hearing her speak.
Councilmember Waller echoed the Mayor and asked that she speak more during the RBHA meetings because of her real-life experiences that most people don’t have.
Councilmember Kaluderovic thanked her for participating and highlighting, noted that the City has Section 8 and they are proud of that.
It was noted that her attendance has been good.
Mayor Light reported that Jeffrey Rowe sent a video but could not attend that evening.
Nancy Skiba, District 4, stated she applied for Planning, Public Works Safety and Sustainability, and Budget and Finance Commissions; noted that she has experience in a lot of industries; highlighted that she worked in the film industry for over 25 years, owned her own private investigator company, subcontracted for LA Unified School District handling workers’ compensation cases, studied Labor Law, and took a two-year program in Labor Studies; noted other jobs she had throughout the years; reported that she served on the Public Safety Commission and explained the reasons she liked working on the Commission; noted that she has been an active participant in the Commission meetings and District meetings and would like to be involved where she can contribute, create, and come to conclusions that are successful for all involved.
Mayor Light asked about Juan Melendez, but Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported he was not online.
Mayor Light asked about Ara Weiss but he was unable to attend.
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Councilmember Castle reported that he met with that Ara Weiss before he went out of town; noted that he is interested in the Budget and Finance Commission, has a background in corporate finance, graduated from USC, and indicated he would be able to attend the meetings.
Mayor Light reported that he is also interested in the Public Works Safety and Sustainability and Planning Commissions.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Mark Hansen stated that he supported Jake Marks as a candidate for the Harbor Commission; noted that the KHA also supported Jake Marks; provided more reasons why Jake Marks would be good to have on the Commission and why they would be lucky to have him serve; noted that another person put in an application for the Harbor Commission, he is a paddler so he would also be useful and that he would make an effort to locate and speak to him.
Councilmember Obagi reported that Juan Melendez did not receive a link, so he sent him one.
Juan Melendez reported that he would like to be re-appointed to the Cultural Arts Commission; noted that he filled in for two years and is currently finishing up his first year; stated that he feels he has made a positive impact being on the Commission and that they have accomplished a lot since he has been on it; noted that he played a part in getting the mural at the skatepark done and that there are many other projects in progress he has a vested interest in making sure they succeed; noted that he understands the process for applying for things that involve the public since he has a utility wrap down by the Strand; stated it has been a fulfilling position for him to volunteer his time and give back to the community.
Councilmember Waller referenced the utility wrap Mr. Melendez mentioned and stated it would be great if he could help others with that.
Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no one online.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky announced the blood drive hosted by the RBPD on July 15th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Main Library; reported that they have three substantive items for the July 21st meeting which are: 1) discussion on the ballot measure for the City’s Land Use Element update and the City’s Zoning Ordinance changes scheduled for November consideration, 2) discussion and review of the City’s Hedge Ordinance, and 3) a proposed procedural model for Council consideration and discussion regarding the City’s Crossing Guard Program along with staff’s recommendations; stated that he would be postponing the discussion regarding the Gateway Project since the artist can’t get it
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done and will move the discussion on how to repurpose the project at the August 4th meeting.
Mayor Light moved onto item Q.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS - None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF – None
Mayor Light moved back to item N.1.
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:
Mehta Mechanical Company v. City of Redondo Beach, and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive Case Number: 25TRCV00677
R.2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2).
One potential case (Letter received from the Law Firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP dated September 24, 2018, attached as part of the Agenda packet).
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:
David Conroy v. City of Redondo Beach; County of Los Angeles; City of Los Angeles; and DOES 1 through 50, inclusive.
Case Number: 26TRCV01630
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – None
T. ADJOURNMENT – 8:14 P.M.
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to adjourn the meeting.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote. Councilmember Obagi participated via Zoom.
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The next meeting of the City Council of the City of Redondo Beach will be an Adjourned Regular meeting to be held at 4:00 p.m. (Closed Session) and a Regular meeting to be held at 6:00 p.m. (Open Session) on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chamber, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
Mayor Light thanked everyone who applied and interviewed; explained that the Council will provide him with their recommendations, he will consider the interviews and their recommendations, make his final recommendation back to them, and hopefully the list is approved; stated that they will also announce the positions that are open due to absences in each of the Commissions, so more positions may be opening.
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