CITY OF SANTA MONICA
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
JANUARY 13, 2026
A regular meeting of the Santa Monica City Council was called to order by Mayor Torosis at 5:33 p.m., on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at City Council Chambers, 1685 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA.
Roll Call: Present:
Also Present:
CONVENE/PLEDGE
STATEMENT OF
ACCOUNT ABILITY
(LAND
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT)
LEVINE ACT
DISCLOSURE (GC 84308)
AGENDA
MANAGEMENT
PUBLIC INPUT FOR
GENERAL PUBLIC
COMMENT:
Mayor Caroline Torosis
Mayor Pro Tern Jesse Zwick (arrived at 5:38 p.m. and left at 9:52 p.m.) Councilmember Lana Negrete (joined remotely at 10:58 p.m. & left 1:23 a.m.) Councilmember Dan Hall
Councilmember Ellis Raskin
Councilmember Barry Snell (left at 1: 11 a.m.)
Councilmember Natalya Zernitskaya
City Manager Oliver Chi
Interim City Attorney Heidi von Tongeln
Assistant City Clerk Maria Dacanay-Wisner
On order of the Mayor, the City Council convened at 5:33 p.m., with all members present except Councilmembers Negrete and Mayor Pro Tern Zwick. Councilmember Snell led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The City of Santa Monica Statement of Accountability (Land Acknowledgement) was read into the record by Councilmember Hall.
No Levine Act disclosures were made.
Motion by Councilmember Snell, seconded by Councilmember Hall to hear the Mayor's Highlight after general Public Input (item 1 ); 1 l .A.-11.B. and then 7.A. after the Consent Calendar; and then 11.C. before 10.A. The motion was approved by the following vote:
A YES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Mayor Pro Tern Zwick, Mayor Torosis
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Negrete
Members of the public Dayquan, Jerry Rubin, Ishmael, Gonzalo M, Alan Mont, Miguel B, Elaine Golden-Gealer, Andrew Hoyer, Eli Quinonez, Denise Barton, Jay Johnson, Alix Gucovsky, Giacomo Valentini, Clara January 13, 2026
MAYOR'S HIGHLIGHT
PUBLIC INPUT FOR
CONSENT CALENDAR
AND CLOSED SESSION
ONLY:
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Seneca, Andy Moss, Louis Watanabe, Archie Windsor Minor, Mike Feinstein, Rev. Jim Conn, Harvey Eder, Ashley Oelsen, Stephanie, Wade Kelley, Ann Bowman, Cristina Navarro, Nikki Kolhoff, Johnathan Foster, Mary Stewart, David Stewart, Teri Davis Bernstein, Mindi Shamk, Leanna Einbinder, Vanessa McCarthy, John Cyrus Smith, Dhun May, and Sean Delgaudio commented on various local issues.
Motion by Councilmember SnelL seconded bv Councilmember Raskin to hear late in-person speakers for one minute. The motion was approved by the following vote:
A YES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Mayor Pro Tern Zwick, Mayor Torosis
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Negrete
Members of the public Narween, Cier, Tracey Hom, Apryl B, Mike Montgomery; Steven Price and Esther Chung continued to comment on various local issues.
Proclamations for Human Trafficking Prevention Month were presented.
Members of the public Sam Shapiro-Kline commented on 4.B. and 5.J.
Member of the public Harvey Eder commented on various Consent Calendar and Closed Session items.
Member of the public Pam O'Connor commented on 4.P. and 7.A.
Members of the public Jerry Rubin, Alex Elliot, Commissioner Gordon, Brice Cooper, Eve Lopez, Andrew Gledhill and Jacob Wasserman commented on 7 .A.
Member of the public Eve Lopez commented on 7.A. and 11.C.
All items were considered and approved in one motion unless removed by a Councilmember for discussion.
Councilmember Raskin announced that he will recuse himself from items
4.F.-4.J. due to a conflict of interest.
Motion bv Councilmember Raskin. seconded by Councilmember Snell. to approve the Consent Calendar except for items 4-F.-4.J, reading resolutions by title only and waiving further reading thereof. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
2 January 13, 2026
(Councilmember Raskin left
the dais at 7:06 p.m.)
(Councilmember Raskin
returned to the dais at 7:07
p.m.)
BIKE LANE
ENFORCEMENT
PROGRAM
MITIGATION FEE ACT
HAZARDOUS WASTE
SERVICES
AYES: Councilmembers Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya, Mayor Pro Tern Zwick, Mayor Torosis
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Negrete
Motion by Councilmember Snell. seconded by Mavor Pro Tern Zwick, to approve items 4-F.-4.J, reading resolutions by title only and waiving further reading thereof. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
A YES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Hall,
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick, Mayor Torosis
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Raskin, Negrete,
4.A. Approval of First Modification of Contract with Hayden AI for Launch of Bike Lane Enforcement Program, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15321 (Enforcement Actions by Regulatory Agencies) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and
2. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a first modification to Agreement No. 11617 (CCS) in the amount of $944,000 with Hayden AI, Inc. for bike lane enforcement services for the Department of Transportation. This will result in a new six-year amended agreement in an amount not to exceed $2,452,904, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.
4.B. Development Impact Fees Report 2025, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
l. Adopt a finding that the action below does not constitute a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA);
2. Review and accept the FY 2024-25 Annual Reporting of Development Impact Fees per the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code 66000-66025) and the FY 2024-25 Child Care Linkage Fee Report per SMMC Chapter 9.65.
4.C. Approval of the Fifth Modification to Agreement No. 11051 (CCS) with Clean Earth Environmental Solutions for Hazardous Waste Services, was approved.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
3 January 13, 2026
DIGITAL DISPLAY
DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT (395
SANTA MONICA PLACE)
DIGITAL DISPLAY
DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT (1310
THIRD STREET
PROMENADE)
DIGITAL DISPLAY
DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT (1202
THIRD STREET
PROMENADE)
DIGITAL DISPLAY
DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT (301
ARIZONA A VE/1253
THIRD STREET
PROMENADE)
RECYCLING ROOM
DIMENSIONS
SELF-CERTIFICATION
PILOT PROGRAM
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
4.G. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2840 (CCS) to Approve a Development Agreement for Digital Displays Located at 395 Santa Monica Place, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
4.H. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2841 (CCS) to Approve a Development Agreement for a Digital Display Located at 1310 Third Street Promenade, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
4.1. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2842 (CCS) to Approve a Development Agreement for a Digital Display Located at 1202 Third Street Promenade, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
4.J. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2843 (CCS) to Approve a Development Agreement for a Digital Display Located at 301 Arizona Avenue/1253 Third Street Promenade, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
4.K. Second Reading and Adoption of Interim Zoning Ordinance No. 2844 (CCS) 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, was adopted.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Ordinance.
4.L. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2845 (CCS) 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, was adopted.
5 January 13, 2026
COMPENSATION
STAFF
ADMINISTRATIVE
ITEMS:
TAX ALLOCATION
REFUNDING BONDS
MINUTES
ADJOURNMENT
STUDY SESSION:
BOARDS&
COMMISSIONS REVIEW
compensation for meeting as the Redevelopment Successor Agency.
11.A. Adoption of Resolution No. 49 (SA) Authorizing Issuance of Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds, Series 2026 (refinancing of the 2006 T ABs and the 2011 TABs), was presented.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the Successor Agency:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 49 (SA) Authorizing Issuance of Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds and approving the related documents and other actions in connection with the issuance of Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds (Attachments A, B, C, D and E).
2. 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.
Questions asked and answered of staff included the expected interest rate with the new issuance and if the City could reissue new bonds and refund if interest rates decrease.
Motion by Agency Member Raskin, seconded by Agency Member Hall, to approve items 11.A. and 11.B. The motion was approved by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Agency Members Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya, Chair Pro Tern Zwick, Chair Torosis
None
Agency Member Negrete
11.B. Approval of Minutes for Redevelopment Successor Agency Meeting, were approved with item 11.A.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the Redevelopment Successor Agency approve the minutes of the December 16, 2025 meeting
On order of the Chair, the Redevelopment Successor Agency meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
7.A. Boards & Commissions Comprehensive Review, was presented.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt a finding that the recommended actions herein do not constitute a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA);
7 January 13, 2026
2. Hold a study session to review and provide direction on staff recommendations to restructure Boards, Commissions and Task Forces and update general policies and procedures as part of the City Clerk's Office five-year review.
Questions asked and answered of staff included but were not limited to:
staffing costs, the recommendation to remove residency requirements, and the possibility of including a preference for residents if the residency requirement was removed for the Landmarks Commission; the Boards & Commissions Dinner costs; how the Housing Authority Board functions with the Housing Commission; why consolidation was not recommended for the Architectural Review Board (ARB), Building & Fire-Life Safety Commission and/or Planning Commission, and the Urban Forest Task Force (UFTF) and Commission on Sustainability; clarification that the Planning Commission is currently the appellate body for the ARB, and that appeals would defer to the Council should the ARB be consolidated with another body or dissolved; the recommendation to remove the three certified International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) positions on the UFTF; how consolidating the Disabilities, Housing and Human Services Commissions would strengthen the new consolidated Commission's expertise and lived experience instead of diluting it; and how the City Clerk's Office plans to measure that the recommendations result in better outcomes, clearer recommendations to Council, and reduced administrative strain.
Council requested: Boards & Commissions Dinner costs and recognition event options; consolidation and efficiency options for the ARB; review of the Landmarks Commission's work, such as the Mills Act and Structures of Merit, and efficiency options; a review of the Airport Commission's composition; centralized system of measuring performance for boards & commissions through the City Clerk's Office, such as efficiencies and positive impacts on policy; youth representation options; and that subject matter expertise and lived experience remain a part of the composition of boards and commissions.
Comments ensued on topics included but were not limited to: options for the Housing and Human Services Department's Commissions such as keeping the Disabilities, Housing and Human Services Commissions separate and encouraging joint meetings, consolidating the three bodies and establishing a Housing or Disabilities Subcommittee, and only consolidating the Housing and Human Services Commissions and keeping the Disabilities Commission separate; pros and cons of consolidating some, all or none of the Housing and Human Services Department's Commissions, such as continuing to work in silos and maintain overlapping functions, and aligning with the Department's structure for clearer workplans and stronger staff support; keeping the residency requirements for the Landmarks Commission, or maintaining a preference to appoint local experts if the majority of Council 8 January 13, 2026
approves to remove the requirement; to include "or go to school in Santa Monica" to the revised Composition of the Public Safety Reform Oversight Commission (PSROC) regarding the youth positions, and discussing proposed changes with the Police Officers Association (POA); removing term limits for the Metropolitan Water District and Los Angeles County Vector Control District Boards; reconsidering the ineligibility of Council's relatives to serve on boards and commissions; reviewing the composition of the Airport Commission; a desire to supplement Information Items of Annual Reports & Workplans by scheduling brief presentations at intersperse Council meetings or establishing a more effective feedback loop between Council and boards and commissions; a desire for increased Library Board participation; a desire for more joint boards and commissions meetings or cross-commission collaboration such as with the Commission on Sustainability and proposed Urban Forest Commission; a desire for youth representation, either as a stand-alone Commission or consider seats where appropriate such as the Disabilities, Housing and Human Services Commission(s), Arts Commission, Recreation & Parks Commission, Library Board , if a Mobility or Transportation body is created; a desire to prioritize lived experiences in recruitment and appointments; the importance of periodic reviews and opportunities to reverse decisions should they not achieve anticipated outcomes; and concerns over valuing members, offering valuable experiences and strengthening participation from members and community members.
Motion by Councilmember Hall, seconded by Mayor Torosis to: move forward with the recommendations in the staff report except for consolidating the Disabilities Commission with the newly consolidated Housing & Human Services Commission, and removing the residency requirements for the Landmarks Commission; and remove Section 2.G.
Term Limits for Regional Advisory Boards from Resolution 11510 (CCS).
Direction was also given to meet and confer with the POA regarding the proposal for the PSROC. Additionally, members of the current Housing and Human Services Commissions must re-apply to the new consolidated Commission and priority will not be given to former members.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Raskin. seconded by Councilmember Snell to: move forward with the recommendations in the staff report except for consolidating the Disabilities Commission with the newly consolidated Housing & Human Services Commission, and removing the residency requirements for the Landmarks Commission; and remove Sections l .G (ineligibility of close family relatives of Council) and 2.G. Term Limits for Regional Advisory Boards from Resolution 11510 (CCS). Direction was also given to meet and confer with the POA regarding the proposal for the PSROC. Additionally, members of the current Housing and Human Services Commissions must re-apply to the new consolidated Commission but priority will not be given to former members. The substitute motion was 9 January 13, 2026
CITY MANAGER
REPORT
CLOSED SESSIONS
approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya,
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Councilmember Hall, Mayor Torosis
Councilmember Negrete
The City Manager Report was presented.
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick announced that he will recuse himself from items 5.H - 5.J. and Councilmember Snell will recuse himself from item 5.J. due to conflict of interests.
On order of the Mayor, the City Council recessed at 8:24 p.m., to consider Closed Sessions and returned at 10:50 p.m., with Councilmember Negrete and Mayor Pro Tern Zwick absent, to report the following:
5.A. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(l): John U.N.B. Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 23STCV12746; John Doe 1, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 23STCV15009; Hector Orozco v. John Doe: Does 1-2; LASC # 23SMCV03120; John JPC Doe v. Doe City, et al.; LASC # 23STCV22020; John AD Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 23STCV26548; John CW Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 23STCV29623; John Doe (A.G.) v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al; LASC # 23SMCV06066; John GA DOE, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV06484; John U.L.W. Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV06768; Joseph Garcia v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV01368; John Doe 15, et al. v.
City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV07647; John Doe 18, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV0239; John RR Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV09398; John Doe 33, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV15580; John Doe 48 v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV15420; John Doe 49 v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV19296; John DD Doe v. City, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV04421; Jane EB Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV24146; John Doe (V.D.) v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV05049; John Doe (D.F.) v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV05050; John Doe (D.G.) v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV05051; Jane Doe 13, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV27233; John AM Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV28433; John Doe v. City, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV05527; John Doe 53 v. City, et al.; LASC # 24STCV31763; John Doe (Y.M.) v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al.; LASC # 24SMCV06355; Jane Doe 16, et al. v. a Public Entity, et al.; LASC # 25STCV02235; John Doe 62, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC # 25STCV04414; John Doe 23 v. City, et al.; LASC # 10 January 13, 2026
25STCV05850; John Doe (E.B.) v. Santa Monica Police Activities League, et al.; LASC # 25STCV06354; Jane PB Doe, et al. v. City, et al.; LASC #25
The 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)(l): City v. ICSOP, et al.; OCSC # 30-2022-01261243 The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.C. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code§ 54956.9(d)(l): City of Santa Monica, et al. v. Waymo LLC et al., LASC # 25SMCV06581
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.D. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(l): Santa Monica EV Holdings, LLC et al. v. City, LASC # 25SMCV06681
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.E. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(l): Waymo LLC v. City, LASC # 25SMCV06541
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.F. Conference with real estate negotiator - Gov. Code § 54956.8; property: 930 Pacific Coast Highway, 1200 Pacific Coast Highway, 2400 Ocean Front Walk, and 2600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California; City negotiators: Jennifer Taylor, Economic Development Manager; owner of record: City of Santa Monica; persons to be negotiated with: Richard Chacker, President for Chaos Enterprises, Inc. dba Perry's Cafe and Rentals at the Beach; under negotiation: price and terms of lease
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.G. Conference with real estate negotiator - Gov. Code § 54956.8; 11 January 13, 2026
(Councilmember Zwick left
the meeting at 9:52 p.m.)
(Councilmember Snell
returned to the dais at 10: 19
p.m.)
property: 2640 Main Street, Santa Monica, California; City negotiators:
Jennifer Taylor, Economic Development Manager; owner of record:
City of Santa Monica; persons to be negotiated with: Bruce Phillips, Chief Executive Officer for Ocean Park Restaurant Corporation; under negotiation: price and terms of payment
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with no reportable action taken.
5.H. Conference with real estate negotiator - Gov. Code § 54956.8; property: 419 and 1616 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California; City negotiators: Oliver Chi, City Manager; owner of record: Community Corporation of Santa Monica; persons to be negotiated with: Tara Barauskas, Executive Director, Community Corporation of Santa Monica; under negotiation: price and terms of payment
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard, with Mayor Pro Tern Zwick absent. No reportable action was taken but Council waived privilege to disclose information and Mayor Torosis read a statement on behalf of the Council.
5.1. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(l): Stanford Neighbors Against City Overreach v. City, LASC # 25STCP04108
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard, with Mayor Pro Tern Zwick absent, and no reportable action was taken.
5.J. Conference with legal counsel - significant exposure to litigation - Government Code§ 54956.9(d)(2) -1 case
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard with, Mayor Pro Tern Zwick and Councilmember Snell absent, and no reportable action was taken.
5.K. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(l): Courtney Bruesehoff v. City; LASC # 23TRCV03691 [report out only]
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard at the June 24, 2025 Council meeting and Council unanimously approved a $5,999,999 settlement with all members present.
5.L. Conference with legal counsel - existing litigation - Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(l): Narine Sulahian Keshishianv. City; LASC # 24SMCV02912 [report out only]
12 January 13, 2026
REPORT ON COUNCIL
TRAVEL (AB 1234)
AGENDA
MANAGEMENT
(Councilmember Negrete
Joined the meeting remotely
at 10:58 p.m.)
PUBLIC INPUT ON
REMAINING AGENDA
ITEMS:
STAFF
ADMINISTRATIVE
ITEMS (CONTINUED):
CONSIDERATION OF
PRIOR HOUSINGPRODUCTION RELATED
VOTES
The City Attorney advised this matter was heard at the December 16, 2025 Council meeting and Council approved a $475K settlement, with all members present and Councilmember Negrete voting no.
No travel reports were made.
Motion by Councilmember Hall. seconded by Councilmember Raskin to hear the public comment on item 11.C and 16.A first, and hear comments on 1 0.A. with the item when Councilmember Snell will be recusing himself from the item. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Negrete, Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya, Mayor Torosis
None
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Members of the public Denise Barton, Andrew Hoyer, Brian O'Neill, Ashley Oelsen, Stephanie, Alan Mont, Christina Parra, Nikki Kolhoff, John Cyrus Smith, Heather Thomasom, Alex Ward, Chris Kanjo, Mitch Dorf, Jennifer Polhemus, Ivana, Harlow Sharp II, Jeff Blodgett, Loren Bloch, Ping Ho, Eli Gill, Michael Drandell, Paula Mazur, Richard Milanese, John Reynolds, Joseph Cohen May, Brad Ewing, Eve Lopez and Jacob Wasserman commented on 11.C.
11.C. Consideration of Certain Prior Housing-Production Related Votes and Repeal of Interim Zoning Regulations Related to Projects Utilizing State Law for Small Lot Subdivisions and Duplexes and Lot Splits on Parcels Zoned for Single-Unit Residential, was presented.
Recommended Actions
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt findings of exemption under the California Environmental Qualiy Act as outlined in Environmental Review, below;
2. Adopt Resolution No. 11733 (CCS) Directing the Planning Commission to Initiate the Process of Amending the Zoning Ordinance Related to Projects Utilizing State Law for Small Lot Subdivisions Under IO Units and Projects Consisting of Duplexes and Lot Splits on Parcels Zoned for Single-Unit Residential;
3. Approve Proposed Regulatory Updates to High-Rise Building Definitions and Single Stairway Multi-Family Building Provisions;
4. Ratify Adoption of the 2025 California Building Standards Code and Resolution making Findings of Climatic, Geological and
Topographical Conditions, and
5. Repeal Emergency Interim Zoning Ordinance (IZO) Number 2821 (CCS), Permitting the Establishment of Accessory Dwelling Units 13 January 13, 2026
(AD Us) as Part of Projects Utilizing Senate Bill (SB) 1123 on Vacant Parcels Zoned for Single-Unit Residential, Ensuring Project Feasibility of SB 1123 Projects by Providing for Certain Relaxed Development Standards, and Expanding the Establishment of AD Us to All Projects Utilizing Government Code Sections 65852.28, and 66499.41 Which Includes Parcels Within Multiple-Unit Zoning District as Permitted Pursuant to SB 684.
Questions asked and answered of staff included but was not limited to:
clarification that initial guidance was received from the previous City Attorney and that staff then sought guidance from outside counsel; whether it is necessary to include Senate Bill (SB) 9/450 and SB 1123 the City's code and if having it in the code and State law later changing would cause issues; if the Resolution oflntent (ROI) includes rolling back the expansive version of SB 9 pending the Planning Commission's recommendations; and if there are any SB 1123 projects that have been approved and comply with State standards.
Considerable discussion ensued on topics including, but not limited to:
concerns about hearing and voting on recommendations together vs. voting on the recommendations separately; and pros and cons of abiding by State law vs. exceeding it; refraining from establishing new development standards that would add additional height or density beyond what is allowable by State law; a desire for ordinances addressing other standards for small subdivision to require appropriate contribution to the City's Affordable Housing Production Program (AHPP); the Planning Commission's discussions on SB 1123 and clarification on the direction Council can provide without limiting the Commission's recommendations; clarification that the single-stairway rule is not an amendment to the Building Code but an alternative method requiring extensive vetting from Building Officials and the Fire Department; studying the potential for expanded zoning standards to allow more family housing; a desire to see policies that deliver affordability alongside density; and clarification between affordable housing and deed-restricted affordable housing.
Motion by Councilmember Negrete to: repeal SB 1123 (Emergency IZO); re-ratify the Building Code; not to adopt the ROI and direct staff not to bring forward recommendations beyond State law; and not move forward with administrative procedure allowing single stairways above State law. The motion died for lack of a second.
Motion by Mayor Torosis. seconded by Councilmember Snell to: repeal the IZO; not move forward with SB 1123 and implement State law as written; approve the proposed updates to high-rise buildings definitions and single stairways; and adopt the ROI, not going beyond State law, and require an appropriate contribution to the AHPP.
14 January 13, 2026
Motion to amend by Councilmember Raskin to add: as part of the ROI, staff direction to explore opportunities for amending local subdivision standards so that if there are small lot subdivisions created pursuant to State law, that they can be done without creating Homeowners Associations or other common interest developments. The amendment was friendly to the maker and seconder.
Second motion to amend by Councilmember Zernitskava to add: as part of the ROI, direction to the Planning Commission to return with options:
allowing for larger family-sized homes and equitable home ownership opportunities, and thresholds for AHPP exemption. The amendment was friendly to the maker but not the seconder.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Hall. seconded by Zernitskaya to:
adopt the staff recommendation; provide direction to allow the Planning Commission to explore standards which may exceed State law to facilitate more bedrooms, on-site parking; and a point where participation in AHPP is financially viable. In addition, encourage applicants who want to use such standards to bring designs and renderings showing the difference on what expanded standards may accomplish. The substitute motion failed by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Hall
NOES: Councilmembers Raskin, Negrete, Mayor Torosis
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Councilmember Raskin stated that his "no" vote was due to the lack of direction on affordability requirements.
New substitute motion by Councilmember Hall to: adopt the staff recommendation with direction to the Community Development Department and Planning Commission to provide recommendations on trade-offs, including staying within State law, and what increased development standards mean to produce greater family housing, more affordable housing or increased participation in affordable housing trust fund contributions.
Motion to amend by Councilmember Zernitskaya to include more equitable home ownership opportunities. The amendment was friendly to the maker and substitute motion was seconded by Councilmember Zernitskaya. The substitute motion passed by the following roll call vote:
A YES: Councilmembers Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya
NOES: Councilmember Negrete, Mayor Torosis
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
15 January 13, 2026
AGENDA
MANAGEMENT
(Councilmember Snell left the
dais at 12:55 a.m.)
PUBLIC INPUT ON
REMAINING AGENDA
ITEMS (CONTINUED):
COUNCILMEMBER
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
VOTING AND
ALTERNATE
DELEGATES
(Councilmember Snell
returned to the dais at 1 :04
a.m.)
Motion by Councilmember Zernitskaya. seconded by Mavor Torosis to hear the public comment on item 1 0.A. before hearing and discussing items 16.A. and 1 0.A._ The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Raskin, Hall, Negrete,
Mayor Torosis
None
Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Members of the public John Cyrus Smith, Denise Barton, Joseph Cohen May and Dave Rand commented on 1 0.A.
16.A. Appointments of City Council Voting and Alternate Delegates to Regional Governmental and Membership Organizations, was presented.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends the City Council appoint Councilmembers to serve as the City Council's voting and alternate delegates to the five regional governmental and membership organizations:
1. Westside Cities Council of Governments (WSCCOG): One (1) Voting Delegate and one (1) Alternate Delegate to the WSCCOG Governing Board to participate in regular meetings (2nd Thursday of every even numbered months from Noon to 1: 15pm)
2. Independent Cities Association (ICA): One (1) Voting Delegate and one (1) Alternate Delegate to participate in monthly meetings and .plan to attend Winter (February 20-22, 2026 in Santa Barbara) and Summer (July 9-12, 2026 in Indian Wells) Seminars.
3. League of California Cities (CalCities): One (1) Voting Delegate and one (1) Alternate Delegate to attend the 2026 Cal Cities Annual Conference (September 23-25, 2026 in Anaheim).
4. Los Angeles County Division of CalCities: One ( 1) representative to attend Los Angeles County Division monthly meetings (1st Thursday of each month from 6pm to 8pm).
5. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG): One (1) Voting Delegate and one (1) Alternate Delegate to attend the SCAG General Assembly (May 7-8, 2026 in Indian Wells).
Motion by Mayor Torosis. seconded bv Councilmember Snell, to nominate Councilmember Hall as Delegate and Councilmember Raskin as Alternate to the WSCCOG. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Negrete, Mayor Torosis
None
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
16 January 13, 2026
ORDINANCES:
OFF-SITE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING PILOT
PROGRAM
(Councilmember Snell left the
meeting at 1:11 a.m.)
Motion by Councilmember Negrete. seconded by Councilmember Hall, to nominate Councilmember Negrete as Delegate and Councilmember Snell as Alternate to the ICA. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Negrete, Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya, Mayor Torosis
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Motion bv- Councilmember Hall. seconded by Councilmember Snell, to nominate Mayor Torosis as Delegate and Mayor Pro Tern Zwick as Alternate to CalCities, with the condition to re-agendized this item to nominate Councilmember Negrete should Mayor Pro Tern Zwick be unavailable. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Negrete, Mayor Torosis
None
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Motion bv Councilmember Hall, seconded by Councilmember Negrete, to nominate Councilmember Zernitskaya to the LA County Division of CalCities. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Negrete, Hall, Raskin, Snell, Zernitskaya, Mayor Torosis
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
Motion by Mayor Torosis. seconded by Councilmember Raskin, to nominate Councilmember Raskin as Delegate and Councilmember Hall as Alternate to the SCAG. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Zernitskaya, Snell, Raskin, Hall, Negrete, Mayor Torosis
None
Mayor Pro Tern Zwick
10.A. Introduction of an Ordinance to Extend the Off-Site Affordable Housing Pilot Program, Allowing Additional Applicants of Qualified Market Rate Multi-family Residential Projects to Satisfy the City's Affordable Housing Requirements through Alternative Options, was presented.
17 January 13, 2026