REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Closed Session – Adjourned Regular Meeting 4:00 p.m.
Open Session – Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
4:00 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 4:01 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
C. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS - None D. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS Assistant City Clerk Kalish reported no one on Zoom and no eComments.
E. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
E.1. 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:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon (portions of APN #s: 7503-029-900 and 7503-029-903)
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NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford, BeachLife Festival
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
E.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:
Californians for Homeownership, Inc. v. City of Redondo Beach Case Number: 26STCP02197
E.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:
Galaxy Holding, LLC and Californians for Homeownership, Inc. v. City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1-10, inclusive
Case Number: 26STCP02642
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, Assistant to the City Manager Luke Smude, Community Development Director Marc Wiener, and Outside Legal Counsel Kiana Amiri-Davani.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to recess to Closed Session at 4:03 p.m.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Light reconvened to Open Session at 6:06 p.m.
G. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Waller, Castle, Kaluderovic, Obagi, Behrendt, Mayor Light
Councilmembers Absent: None
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Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Joy Ford, City Attorney
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
H. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Witzansky stated there were no reportable actions.
I. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Castle, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to adjourn to the Regular Meeting 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.
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
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
Mayor Light invited veterans and active-duty military to stand and be recognized for their service.
Kendrick, 8
th grader at Parras Middle 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
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Mayor Light reported attending the Chamber mixer last week at Seaside Lagoon.
Councilmember Obagi thanked the Public Works Department, specifically Lauren Sablan and Ryan Liu for their efforts in getting the City ready for the school year.
Councilmember Waller reported attending the Clean Power Alliance Legislative Regulatory Commission and Dine-Around-Artesia; presented a certificate for the 50th anniversary of Captain Kidd’s to John Mills, the son of the founder; observed the first day of school for Alta Vista, Tulita, and St. Lawrence; noted improvements for St. Lawrence and spoke to staff about his observations; attended the Chamber of Commerce regional mixer, the South Bay Cities of Governments Board Meeting last week, and the first home game for the RUHS football team; reported the highlight at the COG was the report on the homelessness prevention programs and that the COG voted to support Prop 1 in 37 and oppose 39, 43, and 45; reported he had a Community Meeting on Saturday and would be announcing his next one soon; announced he would be attending the Redondo Beach Round Table and Clean Power Alliance Board Meeting; reminded everyone that Cruzin’ the Lagoon has two shows left from 3 pm to 6 pm at the Harbor.
Councilmember Castle reported attending Dine-Around-Artesia and the End-of-Summer Beach Party at Seaside Lagoon; acknowledged the RBPD and RBFD for their great service regarding an incident involving an e-Bike.
Councilmember Kaluderovic reported attending the LACHSA Board Meeting on August 19th where they spoke about a program called Renters’ Aid, which is a program that prevents housed people from being unhoused; announced her Community Meeting would be on September 7th (Labor Day) at 4 pm at the North Branch Library and City Attorney Ford would be joining to discuss functional zero.
Mayor Light reported that little turtles on top of street signs and wayfinding signs are being placed throughout the City to promote the City’s low-speed travel network or micromobility network.
Councilmember Waller added that it is part of the 243-mile network across the South Bay.
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to approve the order of the agenda.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F. AGENCY RECESS
F.1. REGULAR MEETING OF THE REDONDO BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to recess
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to the Redondo Beach Housing Authority at 6:17 pm.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
F.2. COMMUNITY FINANCING AUTHORITY - REGULAR MEETING – CANCELLED CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING FROM AGENCY RECESS – 6:21 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
Derek Kalish, Assistant City Clerk
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
G.1. For Blue Folder Documents Approved at the City Council Meeting City Clerk Manzano reported five Blue Folder items for: H.8, H.14, J.1, N.1, and P.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 SEPTEMBER 1, 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
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H.3. APPROVE THE FOLLOWING CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES: A. AUGUST 4, 2026
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 30744-30755 IN THE AMOUNT OF $11,115.06, PD. 8/28/26 DIRECT DEPOSIT 316422-317096 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,540,485.09, PD. 8/28/26
EFT/ACH $11,091.01, PD. 8/14/26 (PP2617)
EFT/ACH $486,101.17, PD. 8/24/26 (PP2616)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 126144-126323 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,427,090.78
EFT CALPERS MEDICAL INSURANCE $569,506.14
DIRECT DEPOSIT 100010762-100010845 IN THE AMOUNT OF $102,519.07, PD.9/1/26
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 126142-126143
CONTACT: STEPHANIE MEYER, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE A SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH
DISABILITY ACCESS CONSULTANTS, LLC TO UPDATE THE CITY’S ADA
SELF-EVALUATION AND TRANSITION PLAN FOR AN ADDITIONAL
AMOUNT OF $34,700 AND TO EXTEND THE TERM TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2027 CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH TSC LLC FOR DIGITAL IMAGING SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $25,000 FOR THE TERM SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 TO AUGUST 31, 2027
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.6. APPROVE THE AGREEMENT FOR LEGAL SERVICES WITH REDWOOD
PUBLIC LAW, LLP
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.7. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF
TRAFFIC SAFETY (OTS) FOR THE PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM GRANT AWARD IN AN AMOUNT OF $35,000 FOR THE TERM OCTOBER 1, 2026 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2027, TO SUPPORT POLICE
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DEPARTMENT INITIATIVES FOR PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY
EDUCATION
APPROVE BY 4/5THS VOTE AND TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2609- 072 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING A FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 BUDGET MODIFICATION TO APPROPRIATE $35,000 IN PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM
GRANT FUNDS FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF TRAFFIC
SAFETY TO THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL GRANTS FUND
CONTACT: STEPHEN SPRENGEL, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.8. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF
TRAFFIC SAFETY (OTS) FOR THE SELECTIVE TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM GRANT AWARD IN AN AMOUNT OF $157,500 FOR THE TERM OCTOBER 1, 2026 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2027, TO SUPPORT POLICE
DEPARTMENT INITIATIVES FOR ENFORCEMENT OF DISTRACTED AND
IMPAIRED DRIVING
APPROVE BY 4/5THS VOTE AND TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2609- 073 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING A FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 BUDGET MODIFICATION TO APPROPRIATE $157,500 IN SELECTIVE TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT
PROGRAM GRANT FUNDS FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF
TRAFFIC SAFETY TO THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL GRANTS FUND
CONTACT: STEPHEN SPRENGEL, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.9. APPROVE A USE AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH LOS ANGELES
COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT FOR THE COUNTY DETENTION
BASIN TO BE MODIFIED BY THE FULTON PLAYFIELD INFILTRATION
PROJECT
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A 2026 FORD MAVERICK FROM OLATHE FORD SALES, INC. FOR USE BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FOR A TOTAL COST OF $39,826
CONTACT: ANDREW WINJE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING WITH CLEAR RECOVERY CENTER, LLC FOR AN
ALTERNATIVE CRISIS RESPONSE TEAM TO RESPOND TO PROFESSIONAL
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES TO EXTEND THE TERM FROM SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 TO DECEMBER 31, 2026
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CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
H.12. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH BRIGHTLY SOFTWARE INC. (A SIEMENS
COMPANY) FOR THE PURCHASE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF BRIGHTLY
ASSET ESSENTIALS (AN ASSET MANAGEMENT PLATFORM) FOR AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $58,477.28 AND THE TERM SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 TO JULY 31, 2027
CONTACT: MIKE COOK, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
H.13. APPROVE AN ARTIST AGREEMENT WITH DEBORAH COLLETTE AND
PATRICE LINNETT, AKA DP MOSAICS, FOR FABRICATION AND
INSTALLATION OF MOSAIC PANELS ON EXISTING BOLLARDS ALONG THE ESPLANADE FOR A TOTAL COST OF $15,400
CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, WATERFRONT AND COMMUNITY
SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.14. DECLARE THE FOLLOWING COMMISSION POSITION VACANT BASED ON ABSENCES FROM 3 OR MORE MEETINGS SINCE OCTOBER 1, 2025, PURSUANT TO REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2-9.107(7) AND;
AUTHORIZE THE CITY CLERK TO POST A NOTICE OF VACANCY FOR THE
PLANNING COMMISSION POSITION
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
Councilmember Waller spoke on item H.12 noted having an asset management company to help the City understand the maintenance needed for aging properties would be a big help and thanked all involved with that item; voiced support for the completion of item H.13.
Councilmember Obagi spoke in support of the Cultural Arts Commission’s recommendation for the additional bollards for item H.13.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve items H.1 through H.14.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Joan Irvine, District 1, stated she was there on behalf of Keep the Esplanade Beautiful (KEB); thanked the Cultural Arts Commission for the completion of item H.13; provided some background history regarding the Esplanade, spoke of the project needing to be completed by February 2027, and that there will be $85,000 left over for other projects for
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the Esplanade.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and no eComments.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
City Clerk Manzano read item H.7 approve by 4/5ths vote and title only Resolution No.
CC-2609-072 and item H.8 approve by 4/5ths vote and title only Resolution No. CC-2609- 073.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS – None
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
J.1. For eComments and Emails Received from the Public
Joan Irvine, District 1, stated she was representing KEB; announced the First Saturday Sweep on Saturday at 9 am at Avenue I; reported that KEB is 13 years old that month; announced their Annual Community Mixer is being rescheduled from October 2026 to April 2027; stated that they have an anonymous donor that is willing to match up to $10,000 for any scholarship money KEB raises.
Mark Nelson (via Zoom) reported that he was contacted by Manhattan Beach Blvd. residents, who live near the area the City is planning on putting liquified gas tanks, that asked him to review the project since he is familiar with the substance; stated he looked through the reports, went to the Planning Commission, and noted that staff had already figured out the reports had to be redone; said RBFD told him LA County would conduct the hazard analysis, but LA County told him they would only do it for First Responders; stated he did research on tank explosions and said they could view one on YouTube if they searched Redondo Beach tank explosions; described what the video showed; stressed that someone needs to do an analysis because the situation is “highconsequence/ low-frequency” for the residents in the area.
Kevin Wyrauch, 509 N. Juanita Ave., referenced Councilmember Castle’s comment about the e-Bike incident; asked if speed bumps or some type of speed control could be done on Juanita because people travel at high speeds down that street; urged for speed protections for the area around Juanita, Diamond, and Del Amo; voiced concern for the safety of riders and pedestrians; commented that RUHS students tend to take up residential parking, wondered if something could be done for that.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Jim Mueller, District 5, noted that elections for City offices in Redondo Beach aren’t at the same time as national, state, and county elections; commented that North Redondo Beach Districts 4 and 5 have candidates that tend to run unopposed; reported that Councilmember Behrendt, from District 5, sent a flyer around last week declaring his
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candidacy and claimed all the elected endorse him; spoke about the timing and justification of the endorsements; commented that anyone that runs against Councilmember Behrendt would be at a disadvantage; questioned that lack of statements accompanying the endorsements and questioned why the elected endorsed him before the filing deadline; recommended that each of the elected officials publish statements justifying their endorsement of Mr. Behrendt to give voters some information.
Leslie Campeggi, District 2, stated she attended the Harbor Commission meeting last week and referenced an item on their agenda regarding approving phase 1 of the King Harbor Amenities Plan and the submission of a Coastal Development Permit application to the California Coastal Commission for the proposed Seaside Lagoon Project; noted that the Commissioners had a lot of questions that staff could not answer or that staff could not articulate well enough for the Commissioners to understand; commented that, from the audience standpoint, it felt disjointed and that staff needed to do a better job; reported that several speakers talked about a wave pool but it was not on the agenda and the Chair did not stop the discussion; stated that the Harbor Commission voted to send the referral back to the public; noted that the public had already been involved over a four to five year process; reported that the Commission planned to put it back on the agenda for their next meeting and opined that would be premature to look at a wave pool from a sole source provider without City Council direction; urged the City Council not to allow it to happen.
Darryl Boyd (via Zoom), District 3, provided negative feedback about Councilmember Waller’s Community Meeting; voiced opposition to Councilmember Kaluderovic having her Community Meeting on Labor Day; spoke about Councilmember Kaluderovic missing important meetings that affect her constituents, paying more attention to the homelessness program, and not finding any budget money for the 500-600 block of North Prospect median; spoke negatively on how Measure M funds are being used in the City; reiterated the issues at North Prospect; stated he is putting District 1,2, and 3 Councilmembers on notice under Redondo Beach Municipal Code, Chapter 10.
Georgette Gantner reported she also attended the Harbor Commission meeting regarding the $30 million renovation for Seaside Lagoon; agreed with Leslie Campeggi that it was confusing but thought that they voted to move forward; spoke in support of the Seaside Lagoon project, noted that it is in dire need of the renovation, but did not want the wave pool item to distract from the main renovation; hoped that the renovation would attract others from outside the City.
Mayor Light clarified that the Harbor Commission voted to request the Council to delay the submission and voted to agendized hearing from the proponent of the wave pool.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Wayne Craig, District 1, referenced item H.11 that was pulled from the City Council Meeting on August 18, 2026, regarding an amendment to the agreement with Peregrine Technologies; provided a list of reasons why the City Council should take a closer look at
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the agreement; voiced concern over Peregrine’s ability to share information with external users.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Steve Hague, District 4, referenced the May 12th approval of the LGBTQ+ sculpture by City Council; stated there was no public participation and staff is aware of that; commented that Redondo Beach cannot seem to accomplish a simple survey in 2026; requested that a Bible verse be added to the area in concert with replacing the sculpture.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and one eComment.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS - None
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND FIRST READING OF AMENDMENTS TO REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 10-2.1524, 10-5.402 AND 1-2.01(b)
PERTAINING TO HEDGE-RELATED ORDINANCES
CONTACT: JOY A. FORD, CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Joy Ford stated that the item would only be discussed, there would be no first reading, and staff would come back next week based on that evening’s discussion with the first reading and amendments; turned the floor over to Quality-of-Life Prosecutor Stephanie Johnson.
Quality-of-Life Prosecutor Stephanie Johnson noted that they received a lot of feedback from the public; provided some background on the item, noted City Council provided direction to staff on July 21, 2026 to pursue a revised hedge ordinance; reported that Councilmember Behrendt submitted a proposed revised ordinance on July 22, 2026, which was distributed to City departments for review; stated that the City Council Subcommittee identified six key areas that the hedge ordinance should address; provided staff’s recommendations which had six items that were based on the direction given by the City Council Subcommittee; reviewed the definitions of “height” and “hedge” being recommended for the new ordinance; stated that a violation of the height/hedge code may be charged by the City Attorney as either a misdemeanor or an infraction; noted that a bona fide complainant in the proposed ordinance would mean an owner or occupant of record that shares a property line or is located within 100 feet of the lot allegedly in violation; showed a slide with the 100 foot radius buffer zones for three different areas in the City that are proposed to be the areas of bona fide complainants; stated that there is also a section in the ordinance that includes a good faith requirement for the complainant;
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stated that the Subcommittee also proposed to allow for City enforcement discretion, without a complaint, if the violation is critical and/or urgent in the new ordinance; explained the City-wide maintenance requirement; stated that the Subcommittee also requested a Purpose Section be added to explain the goal and purpose of the ordinance; reported that the Staff Report included the proposed new ordinance that was reviewed by the City Council Subcommittee and if there were no substantive changes that evening it would be presented for first reading on Consent at next week’s meeting.
Mayor Light referenced the Bona Fide Complainant section regarding the 100 ft radius; asked why the City would need to specify that the property is adjacent to the alleged violation.
City Attorney Ford agreed it could be removed from the wording.
Mayor Light clarified with the City Attorney that a complaint could be filed by anyone reporting a visual or obstructive safety issue and staff would investigate.
City Attorney Ford confirmed any critical safety concerns can be reported.
Mayor Light asked why the site triangles were removed from the ordinance.
City Attorney Ford responded that it was not recommended by staff because of the numerous properties it would affect and it would be impossible to enforce.
Councilmember Behrendt wanted to confirm the proposed new ordinance is consistent with the direction given by Council and asked if the proposed new ordinance would be easy to apply and be enforceable within the community.
Quality-of-Life Prosecutor Johnson reported that she worked with a number of departments within the City in order to come up with an ordinance that passes legal muster and is practical enough for Code Enforcement to conduct their investigations and pursue enforcement; noted that the City Attorney’s Office and Code Enforcement are working concurrently in passing the ordinance so staff can draft and implement an internal policy and procedure manual.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve the ordinance as recommended and provide any other direction staff need to move the item forward to the next step.
Councilmember Waller asked for clarification regarding the height definition in relation to different grades with properties.
City Attorney Ford responded that it is measured from the higher grade and the exception is measured from the finished higher grade.
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Quality-of-Life Prosecutor Johnson added that the definition came from Community Development and welcomed any further input from staff on the definition.
Community Development Director Marc Wiener provided the background on how the definition was formed; noted that the definition states it is measured from the highest grade.
Councilmember Waller clarified that he is asking about the exception where the finished grade is lower than the existing grade.
City Manager Witzansky responded that the finished grade on the downward sloping lots would be above the retaining wall and would give the higher of the two sides.
Councilmember Waller pointed out the Blue Folder had some refinements suggested by Laura MacMorran and wondered if staff had feedback on them.
Quality-of-Life Prosecutor Johnson stated that she did not have time to review them yet.
Councilmember Obagi spoke about all the work Councilmember Behrendt put into the hedge ordinance; reported that a resident reached out to him via email asking how the City would be handling pending complaints that were paused.
City Attorney Ford noted that that would be an enforcement question, but they would advise staff to proceed based on the new amended ordinance.
Mayor Light commented that there are other code elements that people may weaponize and hoped the City could expand the solution to other complaint driven areas of the City’s code to avoid having to revisit it again.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Vicki Callahan, District 1, asked about the hedge height and commented that she did not see any numbers.
Councilmember Obagi responded that the numbers don’t change on the new ordinance; stated it is 42 inches on the front and six feet on the side, as long as it is not in the triangle.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Laura MacMorran, District 1, spoke of making some additions to a part of the code that wasn’t being modified in order to add clarity: 1) that the part under maintenance is put under all residential zones so that it is clear that the site triangle is supposed to be 36 inches high, and 2) the same provision mentions trees, which she commented should not be there, but she added a cap on ground and a lower limit on branches so there would be a bigger window to see through; voiced concern about the Bona Fide Complainant provision and felt Code Enforcement should enforce on a proactive basis when safety is
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a concern.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online and one eComment.
City Manager Witzansky stated that staff could add more specificity to the height definition and they would bring back that version at the next City Council meeting.
Discussion followed regarding hedge height and various scenarios.
Mayor Light asked the City Clerk to bring up the definition slide on the screen and discussion followed regarding the definition for height.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON DRAFT ZONING AMENDMENTS RELATED TO ARTICLE 8 (NONCONFORMING USES AND STRUCTURES) CONTACT: MARC WIENER, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Community Development Director Wiener provided some background on the item and reviewed the zoning changes that were made with the intent to allow for more commercial uses along the commercial corridors; reported that the changes created consistency issues with the neighborhoods, so there would be legal non-conforming properties; this was highlighted at a discussion with City Council in October 2024; explained the discussion in more detail and the intent of the rezone; reported that staff discussed the option of not rezoning the properties with City Council or an alternative option to address it through the non-conforming uses and structures section of the City’s municipal code; said that staff discussed with Council the option of not rezoning the properties but staff also suggested that they look at the “nonconforming uses and structures” section of the City’s municipal code and Council directed staff to makes amendments and return for their review; stated that Council gave staff direction to allow for greater ability to repair, maintain, and reconstruct the residential buildings within the zone through the draft amendments; spoke about another issue related to RHNA that was uncovered during the General Plan update and Housing Element implementation and Council gave staff direction to amend the nonconforming uses and building and structure chapter, which is what they were presenting for that evening:
High-level overview of the amendments made by staff:
- The modifications would allow the sites greater flexibility, repair, maintenance, structural alterations, and the ability to add up to 15% to the structures of the existing floor area; Reported amending the purpose section.
- Added provisions to allow the residential properties along PCH and Torrance Blvd. to be maintained or rebuilt at the same density;
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- Updated the commercial and industrial properties for the Housing Element; - Amended to allow all nonconforming structures and uses more flexibility for structure alterations and minor additions through Administrative Design Review, - All the reconstruction of destroyed structures if they are destroyed 50% or beyond; - Updated the City’s standards for the discontinuation of a nonconforming use so the abandonment would occur when the property is replaced with a conforming use or demolished.
Community Development Director Wiener provided staff’s recommendations as: receive and file the reports and for Council’s feedback on policy direction to staff prior to staff preparing a final draft ordinance for their consideration.
Mayor Light provided some feedback and insights regarding businesses in the past that faced the issues with the nonconforming use; noted that losing the mom-and-pop shops was a concern of the GPAC; supported the amendments made by staff.
Councilmember Waller asked how staff decided on 15% expansion for remodel and 50% or more on properties destroyed for reconstruction.
Community Development Director Wiener clarified that there were two sites being discussed that evening related to the General Plan; stated that the 15% additional allowance is specific to the housing sites that were previously overlay zones that have industrial and commercial and provided the explanation for the decision to make it 15%; stated that the 50% rule with demolition was based on the City’s current code and staff could add language to make the intent clearer.
Councilmember Waller commented that he thought it could be higher than 15% for remodels.
More discussion followed regarding expansion allowances.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Hamza Kusmann reported that he had a petition signed by all the neighbors he spoke with regarding the rezoning; spoke of the complications the change would create for the property owners of that area; noted that the change to Article 8 nonconforming use and structures is to provide greater flexibility for properties but questioned why those established residential properties were rezoned in the first place; requested that the City Council reconsider the zoning and allow their opportunities to remain residential.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
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Janusz Haka stated he did not want to live by businesses and that there are a lot of empty businesses on PCH, so the City does not need more.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Junko Hall spoke of PCH being a thoroughway for travelers; voiced concern that it would impede First Responders from their ability to respond if more congestion is created.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Mary-Ellen Martin, 510 South PCH, spoke in opposition to the changes and asked for the area to remain residential.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
George Kang, 307 S. Juanita Ave., agreed with Councilmember Waller about increasing the 15% and suggested it be 25%; asked for clarification regarding the 50% rebuild; asked if the nonconforming only applies to the current owner or to anyone else that purchases the property; requested that Council consider keeping it as an R-3 zone and provided reasons for his request; questioned the need for rezoning and whether the benefits to the City warrant the imposition on the residents.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Robert Banks, 506 S. PCH, reported that he owns multiple units at that location and this would be the third time the City has rezoned his block; spoke in opposition of the rezoning.
City Clerk Manzano reported no one online.
Vicki Callahan provided some history of the zoning changes that have been made to the area; stressed that it is a residential area and not a commercial area; stated that the proposed changes would affect the property owners’ property values, ability to obtain insurance, or refinance; pointed out that many businesses no longer need brick and mortar buildings so there is no reason for more commercial; asked that the City not take the housing away but to make it high density to allow more housing.
Motion by Councilmember Waller, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to receive and file Hamza Kusmann’s materials.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Mayor Light cautioned the Council that the zoning was not on the agenda that evening and to focus on the ordinance change in Article 8.
Councilmember Castle directed comments to Mr. Kang regarding his block and that he had a discussion with Director Wiener but could not speak further since zoning was not on the agenda; voiced support for the proposed changes to the nonconforming.
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Councilmember Waller asked the City Manager to address some of the concerns members of the public raised.
City Manager Witzansky noted that the issue was more complicated and that there are other factors involved which may not be clear; spoke about state housing law and mandates; stated that the language Director Wiener was proposing addressed most of the concerns about future reconstruction and should be enough to continue to be insured; said that staff was trying to make changes to allow more flexibility for property owners and to also execute the City’s proposed corridor; stated that staff would look into the question regarding insurance coverage; stated that staff could provide the homeowners there that evening a more specific review of their property to help them understand what is available to them.
Community Development Director Wiener stated he would focus only on the properties concerning the people who spoke that evening; explained that it is split zoning for their properties and they would be allowed to maintain, repair, and rebuild subject to prior zoning standards.
City Manager Witzansky clarified that “prior zoning standards” meant the standards that exist that day, which were standards that existed since 1992; stated if the item gets codified in a subsequent municipal code change, the property owners would still have pre-commercial zoning change access, effectively dual zoning.
Community Development Director Wiener stated that the maps he presented would be included in the zoning code for reference since they are specific to the locations; clarified that the intent for the rezoning is to make it more of a commercial corridor, which may not happen for decades, but they wanted to give the properties the flexibility to develop with commercial because that is the City’s long-term goal for the corridor.
Councilmember Waller asked if the rights stay with the property and have nothing to do with the owner.
Community Development Director Wiener responded that the rights stay with the property; stated that staff also addressed concerns regarding insurance and have made changes to allow for rebuilding of non-conforming structures Citywide.
City Manager Witzansky added that it did not mean property owners were limited to rebuilding what was there previously; stated that property owner is subject to prior zoning standards and also eligible to build against the new standards.
Community Development Director Wiener pointed out that the rebuild would not have to be due to the property being destroyed, it could be the property owner’s choice; noted that there is a separate section on destruction of buildings and has the provisions that are Citywide; stated that the particular properties they are discussing are being uniquely treated and are being allowed to continue applying prior residential zoning standard.
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City Manager Witzansky added that if the changes are adopted those properties will be the most flexibly zoned properties in the entire City.
Councilmember Kaluderovic commented that the additional 15% seemed to be irrelevant.
Community Development Director Wiener responded that it is irrelevant to those properties, and it applied to the overlay zone sites in North Redondo Beach.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Waller, to direct staff to proceed with the construction and preparation of the final ordinance amendment and bring it back for first reading and introduction.
City Clerk Manzano reported a speaker online, but Mayor Light reported that they were beyond public comment.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Councilmember Waller and City Manager Witzansky both offered to answer questions for anyone that had questions after that evening’s meeting.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky announced that the City would have a commemorative moment for the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 on Friday at 8:46 a.m. in front of City Hall; recognized the Public Safety and Transportation Engineering team for all their hard work throughout the summer, notably Captain Long and Senior Transportation Manager Liu; noted that there would be a City Council meeting the following Tuesday and also on September 15th to address the Seaside Lagoon project and consider submittal to California Coastal Commission for the City’s coastal development permit application; stated there would not be a City Council meeting on September 22nd; noted that Commission orientation would be on September 29th ; stated that the Local Travel Network Project, i.e.. the turtles, the signs, was a work in progress and staff would continue to monitor and evaluate it; reported that the City is not putting up the turtles and signs and that they are being installed by a regional contractor as part of the Local Travel Network Project.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
P.1. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF MAYOR APPOINTMENTS TO
VARIOUS BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Mayor Light noted that they had a lot of highly qualified applicants, thanked Councilmember Behrendt for recruiting several of them, and noted that all the Councilmembers got some of their choices; reported that 44% of the Commissions are being replaced or extended this time; provided a slide titled the Mayor’s Recommended Commission Appointments and noted that there were two columns: Annual and
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Immediate; stated that the people with Immediate behind their names would be asked to attend the next Commission meeting; reported that there was not a full distribution of Districts on every Commission.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to confirm the Mayor’s appointments to the Commissions as indicated in the Blue Folder, item P.1 as was displayed on the screen.
Mayor Light invited public comment.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, for a future discussion by Council to provide a communication reimbursement or stipend to members of the Council and the Mayor in order to pay for messages they send out.
Councilmember Behrendt seconded the referral for discussion.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded Councilmember Waller, to send a discussion to the Cultural Arts Commission and the Public Amenities Commission regarding whether to have a Little Brazil in Redondo Beach.
Councilmember Behrendt offered a friendly amendment to include exploring other recognitions.
Councilmember Obagi accepted the friendly amendment.
Motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION - None
R.1. 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:
Portions of the Redondo Beach Marina Parking Lot and Seaside Lagoon (portions of APN #s: 7503-029-900 and 7503-029-903)
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NEGOTIATING PARTIES:
Allen Sanford, BeachLife Festival
UNDER NEGOTIATION:
Price and Terms
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:
Californians for Homeownership, Inc. v. City of Redondo Beach Case Number: 26STCP02197
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:
Galaxy Holding, LLC and Californians for Homeownership, Inc. v. City of Redondo Beach; and DOES 1-10, inclusive
Case Number: 26STCP02642
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – None
T. ROLL CALL – None
U. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS - None
V. ADJOURNMENT – 8:20 P.M.
Motion by Councilmember Kaluderovic, seconded by Councilmember Castle, to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 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, September 8, 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.
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Respectfully submitted:
Eleanor Manzano, CMC
City Clerk