1 September 9, 2025
CITY OF SANTA MONICA
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 9, 2025
A regular meeting of the Santa Monica City Council was called to order by Mayor Negrete at 5:35 p.m., on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at City Council Chambers, 1685 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA, and at a teleconference site in San Sebastián, 20004 Spain.
Roll Call: Present: Mayor Lana Negrete
Mayor Pro Tem Caroline Torosis (arrived remotely at 5:35 p.m.) Councilmember Jesse Zwick
Councilmember Dan Hall
Councilmember Ellis Raskin
Councilmember Barry Snell
Councilmember Natalya Zernitskaya
Also Present: City Manager Oliver Chi
Acting City Attorney Heidi von Tongeln
City Clerk Nikima S. Newsome
CONVENE/PLEDGE On order of the Mayor, the City Council convened at 5:35 p.m., with all members present. Councilmember Raskin led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.
STATEMENT OF
ACCOUNTABILITY
(LAND
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT)
The City of Santa Monica is located on the land of Tovangaar. With great respect, the City acknowledges the Gabrieleño/Tongva as the First People of this ancestral and unceded territory of Kuruvungna, a village that we know as Santa Monica. We honor their elders, past and present, and the Gabrieleño descendants who are part of the Gabrieleño /Tongva tribes.
We recognize that these peoples are still here, and as settlers and kuyam (guests), we recognize our responsibility and obligation to care for their land in partnership with them. The City of Santa Monica commits to work in partnership with the Gabrieleño/Tongva people to uplift their voices and visibility on their ancestral land.
The City of Santa Monica Statement of Accountability (Land Acknowledgement) was read into the record by Councilmember Raskin.
LEVINE ACT
DISCLOSURE
Pursuant to the Levine Act (Govt Code Section 84308), any party to a permit, license, contract, or other entitlement before the Council is required to disclose on the record any contribution, including Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 2 September 9, 2025
aggregated contributions, of more than $500 made by the party or the party's agents within the preceding 12 months to any City official.
Participants and agents are requested to make this disclosure as well.
The disclosure must include the name of the party, participant, or agent, and any other person making the contribution; the name of the recipient, the amount of the contribution, and the date the contribution was made.
No Councilmembers recused from any items on the agenda pursuant to the Levine Act.
PUBLIC INPUT FOR
GENERAL PUBLIC
COMMENT AND
SPECIAL AGENDA
ITEMS:
Members of the public Milly Garcia, Jonathan Alvarado, Jonathan Granados, Denise Barton, Mary Waldhauser, John Medlin, Daniel Alonzo, Lanie Morales, Bee Barba Padilla, Gina De Baca, Oscar De La Torre, Alex Aldana, Maria Loya, Samantha Mota, Glenn Furuya, Jerry Rubin, Johnathan Foster, Andrew Hoyer, Nikki Kolhoff, Elizabeth Van Denburgh, Lydia Ponce, Karen Croner, John Cyrus Smith, and Denise Neal commented on various local issues.
No members of the public commented on Special Agenda items.
PROCLAMATIONS/
COMMENDATIONS/
SPECIAL AGENDA
ITEMS
2.A. Commendation: SM Little League AllStar Baseball Team, was presented.
2.B. Recognition of Outgoing Board & Commission Members, was presented.
2.C. Proclamation: Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Week and The Week Without Driving, was presented.
2.D. Proclamation: Suicide Prevention Week (Sep 7-13), was presented.
PUBLIC INPUT FOR
CONSENT CALENDAR
AND CLOSED SESSION
ONLY:
Members of the public Daniel Gregory, Denise Barton, Judith Serlin, John Medlin, Nikki Kolhoff, Angela Scott, and Denise Neal commented on consent calendar items.
No members of the public commented on Closed Session items.
CONSENT CALENDAR: All items were considered and approved in one motion unless removed by a Councilmember for discussion.
At the request of Councilmember Hall, Item 4.M. was removed from the Consent Calendar.
At the request of Mayor Negrete, Item 4.S. was removed from the Consent Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 3 September 9, 2025
Calendar.
Motion by Councilmember Raskin, seconded by Councilmember Snell, to approve the Consent Calendar except for Items 4.M. and 4.S., reading resolutions by title only and waiving further reading thereof. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Zwick Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The Interim City Attorney stated there were two typographical errors on consent calendar items. On Item 4.N., Attachment A, page one in the second to last recital, and on item 4.O., page two of Attachment A and the first recital in both instances. It should read the north side of Broadway rather than the east side of Broadway.
MINUTES 4.A. Minutes of the City Council - Special Meeting - Jul 29, 2025 5:35 PM, were approved.
MINUTES 4.B. Minutes of the City Council - Special Meeting - Aug 12, 2025 5:35 PM, were approved.
GROUNDWATER
REMEDIATION
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
4.C. Award RFP #445 and Professional Services Agreement No. 11755 (CCS) to Hazen and Sawyer for On-Call Groundwater Remediation Technical Support, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of categorical exemptions pursuant to Section 15307 (Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources) and Section 15308 (Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Award RFP #445 to Hazen and Sawyer for on-call remediation technical support services for the Public Works Department; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement No. 11755 (CCS) with Hazen and Sawyer in an amount not to exceed $1,500,000 for a five-year period, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
REGIONAL TRAINING
GROUP MANAGEMENT
4.D. Award RFP#451 to Emergency Management Consulting
Solutions, LLC to Manage Regional Training Group on Behalf of Los Angeles Area Fire Chiefs Association, was approved.
Recommended Action
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Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Award RFP# 451 to Emergency Management Consulting Solutions, LLC for a management consultant to assume the Executive Director position of the Regional Training Group on behalf of the Los Angeles Area Fire Chiefs Association; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement No. 11756 (CCS) with Emergency Management Consulting Solutions, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $250,000 for one year, with four additional one-year renewal options, for a total amount not to exceed $1,410,000 over a five-year period (including a $160,000 contingency), with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval and grant fund availability.
AS-NEEDED GENERAL
CONTRACTOR
SERVICES
4.E. Award Contract No. 11757 (CCS) to RAMCO Construction for AsNeeded General Contractor Services, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council
1. Adopt a finding of categorical exemptions pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement No. 11757 (CCS) with RAMCO Corporation for General Contracting Repairs for the Public Landscape Division of the Public Works Department. This recommended award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to Section 2.24.250(c) and is for a total amount not to exceed $350,000 with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
EXPIRATION OF FREE
METERED PARKING
BENEFITS
4.F. Introduction and First Reading of an Ordinance to Amend Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 3.16.120(c) to Clarify That the Expiration of the Free Metered Parking Benefit Applies to All Clean Air Vehicle Decals, was introduced and approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Introduce for first reading the attached ordinance that modifies Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) 3.16.120(c) to clarify that the expiration of the free metered parking benefit for zero emission vehicles applies to all Clean Air Vehicle decals.
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ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT
4.G. Award Professional Services Agreement No. 11758 (CCS) to Dudek for Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the Water Reservoir Upgrades and Improvements Project, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Award RFP# SP2761 to Dudek for preparation of the environmental review and documentation for the Water Reservoir Upgrades and Improvements Project for the Public Works Department; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement No. 11758 (CCS) with Dudek for a total amount not to exceed $1,100,000 over a three-year period, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
ON-CALL TECHNICAL
SERVICES
4.H. Award RFP #444 and Agreement Nos. 11759 – 11761 (CCS) to 4Front, Arcadis U.S. Inc., and Hazen and Sawyer for On-Call Technical Services for Rehabilitation and Replacement of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemptions pursuant to Sections 15301 and 15302, and a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Award RFP #444 to 4Front, Arcadis U.S. Inc., and Hazen and Sawyer for on-call technical support services for the Water Resources Division; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement Nos. 11759 – 11761 (CCS) for on-call technical support services with 4Front, Arcadis U.S., Inc., and Hazen and Sawyer, in an amount not to exceed $750,000 for each agreement over a five-year period, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
UV AOP SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE
4.I. Award Contract No. 11762 (CCS) to Trojan Technologies Corp for Maintenance of Trojan Ultraviolet Advanced Oxidation Process (UV AOP) System, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
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1. Adopt a finding of categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the California Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with Trojan Technologies Corp for maintenance of the Trojan Ultraviolet Advanced Oxidation Process (UV AOP) systems. This recommended award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) Section 2.24.250(b) and is for a total amount not to exceed $1,700,000 over a five-year period, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
FIRE RECORDS
MANAGEMENT
SOFTWARE
4.J. Approval of First Modification to Software as a Service Agreement with Locality Media, LLC (dba First Due) for Fire Records Management Software, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a first modification to Software as a Service Agreement No. 11304 (CCS) in the amount of $90,000 with Locality Media, LLC dba FirstDue, for fire incident pre-plans, fire inspection, inventory management and other Fire-related records management software (RMS) for the Fire Department. This will result in a five-year amended agreement with a new total amount not to exceed $430,000, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
GEOGRAPHIC
INFORMATION SYSTEM
SOFTWARE & SERVICES
4.K. Approval of Agreement No. 11763 (CCS) with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI) for Geographic Information System (GIS) Software and Services, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement No. 11763 (CCS) with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (Esri) for ArcGIS software and services, for the Information Services Department. This recommended award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to Section 2.24.250 (b) and is for an amount not to exceed $198,990 (including a $18,090 contingency) for an initial three-year term, with one additional threeDocusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 7 September 9, 2025
year renewal option on the same terms and conditions for a total amount not to exceed $397,980 over a six-year period (including a $36,180 contingency), with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
TECH STREET SANTA
MONICA
4.L. Approval of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) No. 11764 (CCS) with Syndicate to Co-Produce Tech Street Santa Monica, a OneDay Event Including Street Closure for LA Tech Week, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt findings of Categorical Exemptions pursuant to Section 15301 and Section 15323 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Memorandum of Understanding No. 11764 (CCS) with Syndicate to co-produce a one-day street closure event called Tech Street Santa Monica – Celebrating 150 Years of Innovation in Santa Monica on Monday, October 13, 2025.
INTERIM ZONING
ORDINANCE
4.N. Second Reading and Adoption of Interim Zoning Ordinance No. 2825 (CCS) Amending Interim Zoning Regulations Established to Promote Economic Recovery by Increasing Land Use Flexibility in the City’s Downtown Area and Establishing a Pilot Program to Allow for Exclusively Commercial Outdoor Uses in the Office Campus District, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
LAND USE FLEXIBILITY 4.O. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2826 (CCS) Amending the Text of Santa Monica Municipal Code Article 9 Planning and Zoning to Promote Economic Recovery and Increase Land Use Flexibility in the City’s Downtown Area, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
REGIONAL FIRES
EMERGENCY
PROCLAMATION
4.P. Adoption of Resolution No. 11696 (CCS) Ratifying Regional Fires Emergency Proclamation and Supplements, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption). 15268
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(Ministerial Projects), and 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Adopt the proposed resolution ratifying the Executive Order issued by the Director of Emergency Services declaring the existence of a local emergency in the City of Santa Monica and the Supplements to that Order.
INTERIM CITY
ATTORNEY
4.Q. Approval of Agreement No. 11766 (CCS) for Service as Interim City Attorney – Heidi von Tongeln, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15601(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Appoint Heidi von Tongeln as Interim City Attorney commencing September 9, 2025; and,
3. Authorize the Mayor to negotiate and execute Employment Agreement No. 11766 (CCS) with Ms. von Tongeln for her service as Interim City Attorney.
HOMELESSNESS
EMERGENCY
PROCLAMATION
4.R. Adoption of Resolution No. 11697 (CCS) Ratifying Homelessness Emergency Proclamation, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Adopt proposed Resolution No. 11697 (CCS) ratifying the 2025 Proclamation of the City Council of the City of Santa Monica Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness.
MICROSOFT
ENTERPRISE LICENSES
(Councilmember Hall
excused at 7:13 p.m.)
(Councilmember Hall
returned at 7:13 P.M.)
4.M. Approval of Agreement No. 11765 (CCS) with Insight Public Sector, Inc. for the Purchase of Microsoft Enterprise Licenses, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement No. 11765 (CCS) with Insight Public Sector, Inc. for the purchase of Microsoft enterprise software licenses, including software license upgrades and license planning services, for the Information Services Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 9 September 9, 2025
Department. This recommended award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to Section 2.24.250 (c) and is for an amount not to exceed $1,234,824 (including a $161,064 contingency) for one year, with two additional one-year renewal options on the same terms and conditions for a total amount not to exceed $4,462,624 over a three-year period (including a $582,082 contingency), with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
Councilmember Hall stated that he was recusing himself from this item because Microsoft is a client of the firm he is employed by.
Motion by Councilmember Raskin, seconded by Councilmember Zwick, to approve the staff recommendation. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zwick, Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Hall
FISCAL DISTRESS 4.S. Adoption of Resolution No. 11698 (CCS) Outlining the City's Current Fiscal Distress, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Adopt attached Resolution No. 116989 (CCS) of the City Council of the City of Santa Monica Identifying Local Fiscal Distress Based on Decreased Revenue and Increased Liabilities.
Questions asked and answered of staff included can the language in the resolution referring to a financial emergency be removed; will this affect the city’s bond rating; how will this resolution help with regulatory relief; what would be the negative consequences if this resolution wasn’t adopted; is this financial distress due in large part to the Uller case; and are staff layoffs anticipated.
Considerable discussion ensued on topics including, but not limited to the purpose of the resolution; concerns from the public; and ensuring the city’s financial future.
Motion by Councilmember Raskin, seconded by Councilmember Zwick, to approve the staff recommendation. The motion was approved by the Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 10 September 9, 2025
following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zwick, Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
CLOSED SESSIONS On order of the Mayor, the City Council recessed at 7:15 p.m., to consider Closed Sessions and returned at 9:30 p.m., with all members present, to report the following:
5.A. Conference with legal counsel - anticipated litigation - Gov’t.
Code § 54956.9- litigation claims of Constance White and Milana Davis against City of Santa Monica pertaining to condemnation of property located at 1811 Ocean Avenue. One case.
The Interim City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.B. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(1): Izumi Streller v. City, et al; LASC # 23SMCV03137 [report out only]
The Interim City Attorney reported that at its June 24, 2025 meeting, the City Council approved a settlement in this personal injury case involving a claim that the individual was injured while a passenger on a Big Blue Bus. The city denies liability and does not admit fault, but agreed to settle the case in the amount of $3.5 million and in exchange, the individual agreed to release all claims against the city. The settlement was approved by a vote of 7-0 with all Councilmembers present.
5.C. Conference with real estate negotiator - Gov. Code § 54956.8; property: 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, California; City negotiators: Oliver Chi, City Manager and Heidi von Tongeln, Acting City Attorney; persons to be negotiated with: Chris Neilson, Trigild IVL, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, solely in its capacity as receiver for the specific assets of Macerich SMP LP; under negotiation:
price and terms of payment
The Interim City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
CITY MANAGER
REPORT
The City Manager Report was presented.
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REPORT ON COUNCIL
TRAVEL
There was nothing to report on Council travel.
PUBLIC INPUT ON
REMAINING AGENDA
ITEMS:
Members of the public Denise Barton, Jerry Rubin, and Eve Lopez commented on Item 11.A.
Members of the public Brad Ewing, Denny Zane, Joe Cohen, Heather Thomason, Eve Lopez, Zennon Ulgate-Crow, and Matias Fuchs-Lynch commented on Item 11.C.
Member of the public Denise Barton commented on Item 16.A.
Member of the public Dylan Moore commented on Item 16.H.
Members of the public Heather Thomason commented on Item 16.J.
ORDINANCES:
CARBON EMISSIONS
REDUCTIONS
10.A. Introduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Adopting Building Performance Standards to Support Carbon Emissions Reductions from Existing Buildings, was pulled at the request of staff.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15308 (Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Introduce for first reading the attached ordinance that amends the Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) by adding chapter 8.39, entitled Building Energy Benchmarking and Building Performance Standards to support carbon emissions reductions from existing buildings.
STAFF
ADMINISTRATIVE
ITEMS:
AGING & DISABILITY
ACTION PLAN
11.A. Approval of Santa Monica Aging and Disability Action Plan, was presented.
Recommended Action
Staff recommend that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
2. Approve and Receive the Santa Monica Aging and Disability Action Plan (Attachment A).
Questions asked and answered of staff included communication strategies for those who don’t have internet access; is an ADA assessment of the website and other digital communications being done; is there a plan to work with the Office of Emergency Management to allow residents to indicate if Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 12 September 9, 2025
they need help to evacuate during emergencies; what is the relationship between the emergency alert system and the Community Connect Program; are cooling measures being evaluated in older housing stock; what are the strategies to help older adults and people with disabilities put together emergency kits beyond just providing information; what cross-departmental collaboration is being done and what are the implementation details for the plan; what have the city’s efforts been to enable older residents to access resources such as grocery stores, hospitals, etc. without needing to drive; and have there been discussions about providing citywide transportation for older adutlts and those with disabilities.
Direction to staff was provided to prioritize supporting programs and services available in the city for seniors who require special help, especially those in licensed care facilities, memory care, and similar settings.
Motion by Councilmember Raskin, seconded by Councilmember Snell, to adopt the staff recommendation. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Zwick Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
SELF-CERTIFICATION
PILOT PROGRAM &
MATERIAL RECYCLING
COMPLIANCE PROCESS
11.B. Establishment of a Self-Certification Pilot Program and Introduction and First Reading of Ordinances to (1) Amend Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 8.108 to revise the Construction and Demolition Material Recycling Compliance Process and to transition from a deposit-based system to a fine-based enforcement approach, and (2) Establish Interim Zoning Regulations Updating Applicability Thresholds and Standards for Resource and Recycling Room Dimensions to; and Adopt a Resolution of Intention to Amend the Text Section 9.21.130 of the Zoning Ordinance Related to Resource Recovery and Recycling Standards, was pulled at the request of staff.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of Statutory Exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Government Code Section 15061(b)(3).
2. Introduce for First Reading an Ordinance amending Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 8.108, Subpart B, to amend the construction and demolition material recycling compliance process and to transition from a deposit-based system to a fine-based enforcement approach.
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3. Introduce for First Reading an Interim Zoning Ordinance updating applicability thresholds and standards for resource and recycling room dimensions set forth in Santa Monica Municipal Code Section
9.21.130 in order to further economic recovery efforts by facilitating a self-certification building permit program.
4. Adopt a Resolution of Intention directing the Planning Commission to initiate amendments to the text of Section 9.21.130 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance to update applicability thresholds and resource and recycling room dimensions in order to further economic recovery efforts by facilitating a self-certification building permit program.
HIGH-RISE BUILDING
DEFINITIONS & MULTIFAMILY BUILDING
PROVISIONS
11.C. Approval of Proposed Regulatory Updates to High-Rise Building Definitions and Single Stairway Multi-Family Building Provisions, was presented.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Direct that as part of the City’s next regular building and fire code update process, staff align the City’s building and fire code definitions for high-rise buildings to be consistent with the Statewide high-rise definition as set forth in Health & Safety Code 13210(b).
2. Authorize staff to implement an updated Alternate Materials and Methods Request (AMMR) process for single-exit stairway multifamily residential buildings of up to six stories in height pursuant to the attached Information Bulletin (Attachment A).
Questions asked and answered of staff included if the proposed ordinance allows for external stairways to be used for single stairs, as in the Los Angeles city ordinance, instead of requiring pressurized stairs; why is the city proceeding with the alternative means and methods (AMMR) process for single stair buildings rather than including it directly in the building code; clarification on AB 130 and whether it still has a carve-out for single stair provisions; can a home builder include an external emergency escape staircase as a secondary means of egress, and whether that would be permitted or required; are the elevator access requirements for buildings taller than one or two stories; would ADA access requirements apply; what is the reasoning for prohibiting occupied roofs above the highest floor in single stair buildings; what is the meaning of the requirement that “any occupancies other than R2 occupancies must not communicate with the R2 occupancy stairwell.”; is the 4,000 square foot limit for the maximum floor area, including all ingress/egress; have other places used AMMR for single stair buildings and how effective has it been at producing new homes; what is the certainty of the AMMR process: if an architect meets all the standards in the bulletin, will their project be approved, or is it still at the discretion of staff and peer review; what is the legal basis for local amendments to the building code, specifically whether factors like dense development, compact Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 14 September 9, 2025
streets, or local fire capacity qualify as valid reasons for amendments; what is the effectiveness of sprinklers in reducing fire deaths and when multifamily buildings were first required to implement sprinklers; what is the width of city alleyways and do most alleys qualify for the required 20- foot width for egress; would requiring emergency escape and rescue openings trigger additional setback requirements, as has been an issue in Los Angeles; what is the peer review process: who selects the peer, what discretion do they have, and how does it work; what is the impact of the proposed changes on affordable housing projects and would affordable housing developers have the same access to the streamlined AMMR process; what is the city’s ability to monitor outcomes over time, such as peer review and post-occupancy safety audits; what are the groups involved in the state task force (e.g., YIMBY) and are they lobbyist groups; what is the impact of the changes on fire department equipment and staffing, including when new equipment or staffing would be triggered by increased density; what is the difference between external stairways and traditional fire escapes and what are the maintenance issues for external stairways in a coastal environment; what are the side yard requirements and would additional windows and egress requirements impact density or design; would it be prudent to make these changes now, given recent fires and public safety concerns; and could the city make it mandatory for developers to provide open spaces or courtyards when utilizing the single stair provision, and would this result in more family-sized units.
Considerable discussion ensued on topics including, but not limited to the importance of rigorous safety standards; that the proposals have been thoroughly vetted by safety professionals and will provide more flexibility for housing, potentially enabling more family-sized units; that the four-unit cap might not lead to much more density; interest in seeing how state building code reforms would develop; appreciation for the effort to achieve multiple city goals (safety, affordability, sustainability); noting that amendments to the building code must be based on specific legal findings and that Santa Monica’s previous stricter requirements were not common in other cities; the AMMR process being a practical way to move forward while state standards are still being developed; concerns about aligning the local high-rise definition with the state’s; potential impacts on livability, safety, and affordability; concerns about the city’s fire department having the equipment and staffing to handle taller buildings and denser development; skepticism that the changes will guarantee affordability or larger family units; concerns about the impact of tall buildings on the urban environment (e.g., shadows, wind tunnels); the desire that more analysis be done to ensure the adjustments serve the community and not just developers; the goal for more flexibility in building new homes, incentivize family-sized units, and make construction more affordable; acknowledgment that the plan is not a complete solution but a useful tool to address the housing shortage; the importance of newer homes with modern amenities (like air conditioning) Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 15 September 9, 2025
for residents, especially as it applies to climate change; ensuring that affordable housing developers have the same access to the streamlined AMMR process; the importance of monitoring outcomes over time, including post-occupancy safety audits and regular reporting; and the need to produce more affordable housing at lower costs.
Motion by Councilmember Raskin, seconded by Councilmember Zernitskaya, to adopt the staff recommendation. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Zwick Mayor Pro Tem Torosis
NOES: Mayor Negrete
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
COMMERCIAL
CANNABIS & CANNABIS
EQUITY PROGRAM
12.A. Introduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Article 6 of the Santa Monica Municipal Code to Establish a Permitting Process and Operational Conditions for Commercial Cannabis Uses; Introduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Article 9 of the Santa Monica Municipal Code to Authorize Commercial Cannabis Uses within Certain Zoning Districts; Authorization for City Manager to Execute All Necessary Associated Documents to Accept the Cannabis Equity Assessment; Adoption of a Resolution Establishing a Cannabis Equity Program; and Adoption of a Fee Resolution Establishing a NonCity-Based Cannabis Delivery Permit Fee and Cannabis Retailer Permit Fees, was presented.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
2. Adopt the attached Ordinance amending the text of Article 6 of the Municipal Code to establish a permitting process and operational conditions for commercial cannabis uses.
3. Adopt the attached Ordinance amending the text of Article 9 of the Municipal Code to authorize commercial cannabis uses within certain zoning districts.
4. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to accept the Cannabis Equity Assessment.
5. Adopt attached Resolution No. 11699 (CCS) establishing a cannabis equity program.
6. Adopt attached Resolution No. 11700 (CCS) establishing Cannabis Retailer Permit fees and a Non-City-Based Cannabis Delivery Permit fee.
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Member of the public Justin Palmore spoke to the recommended action.
Questions asked and answered of staff included what is the rationale for removing the 300-foot buffer and one-per-block restriction for cannabis retailers; won’t allowing multiple cannabis businesses on the same block create excessive competition and harm smaller operators; how will the equity program provide real support for equity applicants beyond fee waivers; will there be transparency for business owners to see where other cannabis permit applications are in progress, so applicants can make informed decisions about location and competition; will the equity program include mentorship or technical assistance for equity applicants, and if not, will the city partner with nonprofits or outside organizations to provide such support; has the requirement for equity applicants to have majority ownership, combined with the other eligibility criteria (such as conviction history and low income) worked in other jurisdictions, and are there examples of success or challenges with this approach; will the equity program’s eligibility requirements confer any preference in awarding permits, or will they only provide access to program elements like fee waivers and priority processing; has the city considered working with nonprofits or external partners to provide mentorship for equity applicants, and is there grant funding available for such programs; has there ever been a discussion about setting a maximum number of cannabis stores in the city; has the council previously considered a citywide cap on cannabis businesses; can the city provide transparency for business owners to see not only where approved cannabis permits are located, but also where proposed permits are in process, to help applicants make informed decisions about location.
Considerable discussion ensued on topics including, but not limited to concern that removing the one-per-block restriction could harm small or equity-focused cannabis businesses by allowing larger, well-funded operators to quickly saturate certain areas, making it harder for lessresourced applicants to succeed; the need for genuine support for equity applicants, not just fee waivers, but also mentorship and operational guidance to ensure their success; revisiting the issue if problems arise after the first several applicants; the ability for clustering leading to synergy; equity issues related to access to capital and resources and not necessarily the number of stores per block; the current state of the cannabis industry being in an economic downturn; the need for the city to focus on providing resources and support to equity applicants, rather than limiting competition; transparency for applicants about where other permits are in process, so business owners can make informed decisions; giving business owners the flexibility to choose their location market forces determining the best outcomes; direction to staff to liaise with the County’s Office of Cannabis Management, which is developing an entrepreneurship boot camp and other resources for social equity applicants; the importance of mentorship, Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 17 September 9, 2025
technical assistance, and cohort-based support for equity applicants; encouraging staff to connect applicants with these resources; concerns about the lack of a citywide cap and the potential for over-saturation; and that the city should consider a more structured approach to limiting the number of cannabis businesses in the future, if necessary.
Motion by Councilmember Raskin, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, to adopt the staff recommendation. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Zwick Mayor Pro Tem Torosis
NOES: Mayor Negrete
ABSENT: None
Mayor Negrete stated that she voted no on the item due to concerns that the item needed some more consideration and that she wants to ensure the equity support system will be genuinely effective.
COUNCILMEMBER
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
In accordance with Council Rule 6(y), all Councilmember Discussion items were considered and approved in one motion unless removed by a Councilmember for discussion.
Items 16.A., 16.B., 16.C., 16.D., 16.I., and 16.L were removed and considered separately in accordance with Council Rule 6(y).
Motion by Councilmember Hall, seconded by Councilmember Raskin, to approve the Councilmember Discussion Items except for Items 16.A., 16.B.,
16.C., 16.D., 16.I., and 16.L. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Zwick Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
DOWNTOWN SANTA
MONICA, INC.
16.A. Appointment to three unscheduled vacancies for terms ending on June 30, 2026, and three unscheduled vacancies for terms ending on June 30, 2028 on the Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. Board, was heard.
On order of the Mayor, the floor was opened for nominations for the three terms expiring in June 2026.
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis nominated Sean Besser, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Jonathan Gregory, Judy Kruger, Hodge Patterson, IV, and Elaine Polacheck.
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Mayor Negrete nominated Albin Gielicz.
Councilmember Hall nominated Jeff Jarrow.
The rank choice votes were as follows:
Round 1
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Sean Besser, Jeff Jarrow, Elaine Polachek, Judy Kruger, Hodge Patterson, Alexander Brown, Thomas Sullivan, Albin Gielicz, Jonathan Gregory, Adam Badawy Councilmember Snell: Hodge Patterson, Elaine Polachek, Sean Besser, Jonathan Gregory, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom
Councilmember Hall: Hodge Patterson, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Judy Kruger, Jeff Jarrow
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Hodge Patterson, Sean Besser, Judy Kruger, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow
Councilmember Raskin: Judy Kruger, Elaine Polachek, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Jeff Jarrow
Councilmember Zwick: Judy Kruger, Hodge Patterson, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz
Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Judy Kruger, Jeff Jarrow, Sean Besser, Hodge Patterson, Elaine Polachek, Jonathan Gregory, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis Result: Hodge Patterson was selected to one seat.
Round 2
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Sean Besser, Jeff Jarrow, Elaine Polachek, Judy Kruger, Alexander Brown, Thomas Sullivan, Albin Gielicz, Jonathan Gregory, Adam Badawy
Councilmember Snell: Elaine Polachek, Sean Besser, Jonathan Gregory, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Hall: Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Judy Kruger, Jeff Jarrow, Hodge Patterson
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Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Sean Besser, Judy Kruger, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Raskin: Judy Kruger, Elaine Polachek, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Jeff Jarrow
Councilmember Zwick: Judy Kruger, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Judy Kruger, Jeff Jarrow, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jonathan Gregory, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis
Result: Judy Kruger was selected to one seat.
Round 3
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Sean Besser, Jeff Jarrow, Elaine Polachek, Alexander Brown, Thomas Sullivan, Albin Gielicz, Jonathan Gregory, Adam Badawy
Councilmember Snell: Elaine Polachek, Sean Besser, Jonathan Gregory, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Hall: Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Hodge Patterson
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Raskin: Elaine Polachek, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Jeff Jarrow, Judy Kruger
Councilmember Zwick: Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz, Judy Kruger Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Jeff Jarrow, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Jonathan Gregory, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis
Result: Gleam Davis was eliminated.
Round 4
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Albin Gielicz
Councilmember Snell: Elaine Polachek, Sean Besser, Richard Bloom, Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 20 September 9, 2025
Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Hall: Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Hodge Patterson Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Hodge Patterson Councilmember Raskin: Elaine Polachek, Richard Bloom, Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Judy Kruger
Councilmember Zwick: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Albin Gielicz, Judy Kruger, Gleam Davis
Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Elaine Polachek, Richard Bloom
Result: Elaine Polachek was eliminated.
Round 5
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser, Albin Gielicz Councilmember Snell: Sean Besser, Richard Bloom, Hodge Patterson, Elaine Polachek
Councilmember Hall: Sean Besser, Hodge Patterson
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Sean Besser, Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Raskin: Richard Bloom, Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Judy Kruger, Elaine Polachek
Councilmember Zwick: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser, Albin Gielicz, Judy Kruger, Gleam Davis,
Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Sean Besser, Richard Bloom Result: Albin Gielicz was eliminated.
Round 6
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser
Councilmember Snell: Sean Besser, Richard Bloom, Hodge Patterson, Elaine Polachek,
Councilmember Hall: Sean Besser, Hodge Patterson
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Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Sean Besser, Hodge Patterson
Councilmember Raskin: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser, Judy Kruger, Elaine Polachek
Councilmember Zwick: Richard Bloom, Sean Besser, Judy Kruger, Gleam Davis
Mayor Negrete: Sean Besser, Richard Bloom, Albin Gielicz Result: Result: Sean Besser was selected to one seat.
On order of the Mayor, the floor was opened for nominations for the three terms expiring in June 2028.
Councilmember Snell nominated Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Jonathan Gregory.
Mayor Negrete nominated Albin Gielicz and Jeff Jarrow.
Councilmember Hall nominated Elaine Polachek.
Round 1
Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Jeff Jarrow, Elaine Polachek Councilmember Raskin: Albin Gielicz, Elaine Polachek, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jeff Jarrow
Councilmember Snell: Gleam Davis, Jonathan Gregory, Richard Bloom Councilmember Hall: Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow
Councilmember Zwick: Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz, Jonathan Gregory
Result: Gleam Davis was selected to one seat.
Round 2
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Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Jeff Jarrow, Elaine Polachek Councilmember Raskin: Albin Gielicz, Elaine Polachek, Richard Bloom, Jeff Jarrow
Councilmember Snell: Jonathan Gregory, Richard Bloom, Gleam Davis Councilmember Hall: Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Gleam Davis
Councilmember Zwick: Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz, Gleam Davis
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Richard Bloom, Jonathan Gregory, Gleam Davis Councilmember Zernitskaya: Richard Bloom, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz, Jonathan Gregory
Result: Richard Bloom was selected to one seat.
Round 3
Mayor Negrete: Albin Gielicz, Jeff Jarrow, Elaine Polachek Councilmember Raskin: Albin Gielicz, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow Councilmember Snell: Jonathan Gregory, Gleam Davis
Councilmember Hall: Jonathan Gregory, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom
Councilmember Zwick: Jonathan Gregory, Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Jonathan Gregory, Gleam Davis, Richard Bloom Councilmember Zernitskaya: Elaine Polachek, Jeff Jarrow, Albin Gielicz, Jonathan Gregory, Richard Bloom
Result: Albin Gielicz was selected to one seat.
ARTS COMMISSION 16.B. Appointment to one unscheduled vacancy for a term ending on June 30, 2026 on the Arts Commission, was heard.
On order of the Mayor, the floor was opened for nominations.
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Councilmember Zernitskaya nominated Julius Carlson.
Councilmember Hall nominated Phyllis Miller, Thomas Sullivan, Julia Carnahan.
Councilmember Hall: Julia Carnahan, Thomas Sullivan, Phyllis Miller, Julius Carlson
Councilmember Zwick: Julia Carnahan, Phyllis Miller, Thomas Sullivan, Julius Carlson
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Julia Carnahan, Phyllis Miller, Thomas Sulivan Councilmember Zernitskaya: Julia Carnahan, Phyllis Miller, Julius Carlson, Thomas Sullivan
Mayor Negrete: Julia Carnahan, Julius Carlson, Thomas Sullivan, Phyllis Miller
Councilmember Raskin: Julia Carnahan
Councilmember Snell: Julius Carlson, Sullivan Thomas, Phyllis Miller Result: Julia Carnahan was selected.
MEASURE GS RESIDENT
OVERSIGHT
COMMITTEE
16.C. Appointments to five scheduled vacancies on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee for terms ending on June 30, 2029, was heard.
On order of the Mayor, the floor was opened for nominations for a seat reserved for a resident determined to be low income.
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis nominated Milan Ramsey.
Milan Ramsey was voted by acclamation – unanimous roll call vote in her favor.
On order of the Mayor, the floor was opened for nominations for a seat reserved for a resident of any income.
Councilmember Hall nominated Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler, David Goltsman and Dave Waterfall.
Round 1
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Councilmember Raskin: Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler, Dave Waterfall, David Goltsman
Councilmember Hall: Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall
Councilmember Zwick: Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall
Councilmember Snell: Sam Shapiro-Kline
Mayor Negrete: Mark Bertler, Sam Shapiro-Kline, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall
Result: Sam Shapiro-Klein was selected to a seat.
Round 2
Councilmember Raskin: Mark Bertler, Dave Waterfall, David Goltsman, Sam Shapiro-Kline
Councilmember Hall: Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam Shapiro-Kline
Councilmember Zwick: Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam Shapiro-Kline
Councilmember Zernitskaya: Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam Shapiro-Kline
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam Shapiro-Kline
Councilmember Snell: Sam Shapiro-Kline
Mayor Negrete: Mark Bertler, David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall Result: Mark Bertler was selected to a seat.
Round 2
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Councilmember Raskin: Dave Waterfall, David Goltsman, Sam ShapiroKline, Mark Bertler Councilmember Hall: David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler
Councilmember Zwick: David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam ShapiroKline, Mark Bertler Councilmember Zernitskaya: David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam Shapiro-Kline, Mark Bertler
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis: David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Sam ShapiroKline, Mark Bertler Councilmember Snell: Sam Shapiro-Kline
Mayor Negrete: David Goltsman, Dave Waterfall, Mark Bertler Result: David Goltsman was selected to a seat.
DISABILITIES
COMMISSION
16.D. Appointment to one unscheduled vacancy on the Disabilities Commission for a term ending on June 30, 2028, was heard.
On order of the Mayor, the floor was opened for nominations.
Councilmember Halll nominated Nicole Nguyen.
Nicole Nguyen was voted by acclamation – unanimous roll call vote in her favor.
HOUSING COMMISSION 16.E. Recommendation to accept Analise Wells's resignation from the Housing Commission and authorize the City Clerk to publish the vacancy, was accepted.
ARTS COMMISSION 16.F. Recommendation to accept Federico Galavis's resignation from the Arts Commission and authorize the City Clerk to publish the vacancy, was accepted.
ARTS COMMISSION 16.G. Recommendation to accept Staci Griesbach's resignation from the Arts Commission and authorize the City Clerk to publish the vacancy, was accepted.
WAYMO OPERATIONS
INVESTIGATION
16.H. Request of Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Hall and Mayor Pro Tem Torosis that the City Council consider directing the City Manager to investigate alleged violations of the Santa Monica Municipal Code Docusign Envelope ID: 71E36EA0-F02D-4C37-9E61-0E4129FD295B 26 September 9, 2025
related to Waymo’s operation at the Lots on Euclid and Broadway and develop a report that includes a of summary complaints, how the City is taking action, and what additional action(s) are under consideration to resolve resident complaints and alleged municipal code violations. A community meeting between impacted residents and other parties as needed to provide the community with updates on how the City is addressing their concerns and a forum to share experiences shall be held within 30 days, was approved.
PILOT MICROGRANT
PROGRAM
16.I. Request of Mayor Negrete that the City Council direct the City Manager to create a pilot microgrant program to address the habitability of Rent-Controlled/Deed Restricted Units, was heard.
Motion by Mayor Negrete, seconded by Councilmember Zernitskaya, to adopt the approve the item with direction for staff to work with the Rent Control Board in creating the program. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Zwick Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
PILOT INCENTIVE
PROGRAM ONLINE
PORTAL
16.J. Request of Mayor Negrete that the City Council direct the City Manager to create an online portal and mapping feature to track the application status and progress of all Development Entities taking advantage of the new Off-Site Affordable Housing Pilot Incentive Program, was approved.
DISCONTINUE WORK
EFFORTS
16.K. Request of Councilmember Raskin that the City Council consider directing the City Manager to discontinue work efforts related to four previously requested Council Direction 16 Items, was approved.
WAIVING OF FEES 16.L. Request of Councilmember Snell that the City Council consider waving of fees for the GREENwell event organized by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Sigma Lambda Omega Chapter on Sunday, September 21, 2025, that will celebrate their participation in the Coastal Clean Up Day 2025 , by directing the City Manager to waive the City’s portion of fees, including application, administrative, neighborhood notification, container fees, parking, and zero waste plan fees associated with the use of Cresent Bay Park in an amount up to $2,150 in waived fees, was heard.
Motion by Councilmember Hall, seconded by Councilmember Snell, to approve the item. The motion was approved by the following vote:
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AYES: Councilmembers Zwick, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya
Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Mayor Negrete
NOES: Councilmember Hall
ABSENT: None
Councilmember Hall stated that he voted no on the item not because he doesn’t support the event but because a framework has not yet been brought forth to Council to provide guidance on these fee waiver requests.
ADJOURNMENT On order of the Mayor, the City Council meeting adjourned at 1:03 a.m. in memory of Matthew Sussman.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Nikima S. Newsome Lana Negrete
City Clerk Mayor
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