Agenda packet, first session — Seal Beach City Council, October 12, 2026

A G E N D A

MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, October 12, 2026 ~ 7:00 PM
City Council Chambers
211 Eighth Street
Seal Beach, California

LISA LANDAU
MAYOR
Third District

BEN WONG
MAYOR PRO TEM
Second District

JOE KALMICK
COUNCIL MEMBER
First District

PATTY SENECAL
COUNCIL MEMBER
Fourth District

NATHAN STEELE
COUNCIL MEMBER
Fifth District
This Agenda contains a brief general description of each item to be considered. No action or discussion shall be taken on any item not appearing on the agenda, except as otherwise provided by law. Supporting documents, including agenda staff reports, and any public writings distributed by the City to at least a majority of the Council Members regarding any item on this agenda are available on the City’s website at www.sealbeachca.gov. The City Council meetings are presented in a hybrid format, both in-person at City Hall and virtually via Microsoft Teams at the following link https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/296958473476160? p=KXZXp8fqj7Ep3tCZWp.

City Council meetings are broadcast live on Seal Beach TV-3 and on the City's website (www.sealbeachca.gov). Check SBTV-3 schedule for the rebroadcast of meetings. The meetings are also available on demand on the City’s website (starting 2012).

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, if you require disability related modifications or accommodations, including auxiliary aids or services to attend or participate in the City Council meeting, please call the City Clerk's office at (562) 431-2527 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

CALL TO ORDER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

COUNCIL ROLL CALL

PRESENTATIONS / RECOGNITIONS
• Lifesaving Efforts of Jerome and Anthony Guzzetta Proclamation • Seal Beach Service Club Recognition

ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
At this time members of the public may address the Council regarding any items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the Council cannot discuss or take action on any items not on the agenda unless authorized by law. Matters not on the agenda may, at the Council's discretion, be referred to the City Manager and placed on a future agenda.

Those members of the public wishing to speak are asked to come forward to the microphone and state their name for the record. All speakers will be limited to a period of five (5) minutes. Speakers must address their comments only to the Mayor and entire City Council, and not to any individual, member of the staff or audience. Any documents for review should be presented to the City Clerk for distribution. Speaker cards will be available at the Clerk’s desk for those wishing to sign up to address the Council, although the submission of a speaker card is not required in order to address the Council.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA & WAIVER OF FULL READING OF RESOLUTIONS

ORDINANCES
By motion of the City Council this is the time to notify the public of any changes to the agenda and /or rearrange the order of the agenda.

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT Nicholas Ghirelli, City Attorney
CITY MANAGER REPORT Patrick Gallegos, City Manager

COUNCIL COMMENTS
General Council Member comments and reporting pursuant to AB 1234.

COUNCIL ITEMS – None
A. City Council Appointment to the Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Committee - It is the request of Mayor Pro Tem Wong that the City Council appoint Alexandria Van Voris to the Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Committee.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Items on the consent calendar are considered to be routine and are enacted by a single motion with the exception of items removed by Council Members.

B. Approval of the City Council Minutes - That the City Council approve the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting held on September 28, 2026.

C. Demand on City Treasury (Fiscal Year 2027) - Ratification.

D. Report of City Manager and Department Heads Authorized Contracts - That the City Council receive and file the report.

E. Approving Cooperative Agreement No. C265221 with Orange County Transportation Authority in Relation to the I-405 Improvement Project - That the City Council adopt Resolution 7824: 1. Approving Cooperative (COOP) Agreement No. C265221 between the City of Seal Beach and the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) for the I-405 Freeway Improvement Project for reimbursement to the City by OCTA for close-out activities and administrative services; and, 2. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement with OCTA on behalf of the City and any amendments or extensions thereafter; and, 3. Approving Budget Amendment BA #27-04-01in the amount of $90,000.

ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
PUBLIC HEARING – None
UNFINISHED / CONTINUED BUSINESS – None

NEW BUSINESS
F. An Ordinance of the City of Seal Beach Approving a CEQA Exemption Determination and Amending Chapter 9.37 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code to Establish Regulations for Nonfunctional Turf Irrigation in Accordance with Assembly Bill 1572 - That the City Council introduce, waive full reading, and read by title only, Ordinance 1731, amending portions of Chapter 9.37 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code pertaining to regulations for nonfunctional turf irrigation in accordance with Assembly Bill (AB) 1572.

ADJOURNMENT
Adjourn the City Council to Monday, October 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. to meet in closed session, if deemed necessary.

CITY COUNCIL NORMS:

Adopted on June 12, 2023
• Maintain a citywide perspective, while being mindful of our districts. • Move from I to we, and from campaigning to governing. • Work together as a body, modeling teamwork and civility for our community. • Assume good intent.
• Disagree agreeably and professionally.
• Utilize long range plans to provide big picture context that is realistic and achievable. • Stay focused on the topic at hand. Ensure each member of Council has an opportunity to speak.
• Demonstrate respect, consideration, and courtesy to all. • Share information and avoid surprises.
• Keep confidential things confidential.
• Respect the Council/Manager form of government and the roles of each party. • Communicate concerns about staff to the City Manager; do not criticize staff in public.

CIVILITY PRINCIPLES:

Treat everyone courteously;
Listen to others respectfully;
Exercise self-control;
Give open-minded consideration to all viewpoints;
Focus on the issues and avoid personalizing debate; and, Embrace respectful disagreement and dissent as democratic rights, inherent components of an inclusive public process, and tools for forging sound decisions.

TWITTER/X
@CITYOFSEALBEACH @CITYOFSEALBEACHCA @SEALBEACHCITYCA @SEALBEACHRECREATION&COMMUNITYSERVICES @SEALBEACH_LIFEGUARD @SEALBEACHPOLICEDEPARTMENT @SEALBEACHPOLICE @SEALBEACHPUBLICWORKS
@K9YOSA
@K9.SAURUS

Agenda Item A

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: October 12, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
THRU: Patrick Gallegos, City Manager
FROM: Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
SUBJECT: City Council Appointment to the Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Committee
_______________________________________________________________ SUMMARY OF REQUEST:

It is the request of Mayor Pro Tem Wong that the City Council appoint Alexandria Van Voris to the Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Committee.

BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS:

Pursuant to Government Code Section 54974(a), whenever an unscheduled vacancy occurs on any board, commission, or committee for which the legislative body has the appointing power, an unscheduled vacancy notice shall be posted and appointment to the board, commission, or committee shall not be made by the legislative body for at least ten (10) working days after the posting of the notice.

The Clerk’s Office received Rick Lee’s resignation from the Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Committee on September 10, 2026; and the required Notice of Vacancy was posted on September 10, 2026. Since that time, only one (1) application was received for consideration.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

There is no environmental impact related to this item.

LEGAL ANALYSIS:

No legal analysis is required for this item.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

There is no financial impact for this item.

Page 2 ends

RECOMMENDATION:

It is the request of Mayor Pro Tem Wong that the City Council appoint Alexandria Van Voris to the Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Committee.

SUBMITTED BY: NOTED AND APPROVED:

Gloria D. Harper Patrick Gallegos
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk Patrick Gallegos, City Manager ATTACHMENTS:

A. Alexandria Van Voris Application (Redacted)

Agenda Item B

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: October 12, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
THRU: Patrick Gallegos, City Manager
FROM: Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Approval of the City Council Minutes
________________________________________________________________ SUMMARY OF REQUEST:

That the City Council approve the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting held on September 28, 2026.

BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS:

This section does not apply.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

There is no environmental impact related to this item.

LEGAL ANALYSIS:

No legal analysis is required for this item.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

There is no financial impact for this item.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the City Council approve the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting held on September 28, 2026.

Page 2 ends

SUBMITTED BY: NOTED AND APPROVED:

Gloria D. Harper Patrick Gallegos
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk Patrick Gallegos, City Manager Prepared by: Brandon DeCriscio, Deputy City Clerk
ATTACHMENTS:

A. Minutes - Regular Session, September 28, 2026
Seal Beach, California
September 28, 2026
The City Council met in Regular Session at 7:03 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.

Council Member Senecal led the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL

Present: Mayor Landau
Council Members: Kalmick, Wong, Senecal, Steele

Absent: None
City Staff: Nicholas R. Ghirelli, City Attorney
Patrick Gallegos, City Manager
Michael Henderson, Police Chief
Iris Lee, Director of Public Works
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
Joe Bailey, Marine Safety Chief
Jason Fairchild, Orange County Fire Authority Division 1 Chief Mike Ezroj, Police Captain
Nick Nicholas, Police Captain
Tim Kelsey, Deputy Director of Community Services
Brandon DeCriscio, Deputy City Clerk
Michael Peterman, Human Resources Manager
Kathryne Cho, Deputy Director of Public Works/City Engineer Jennifer Robles, Management Analyst
Lauren Barich, Management Analyst
Sara Holm, Executive Assistant to the City Manager

PRESENTATIONS / RECOGNITIONS
• San Gabriel River Trash Mitigation Update/ Recognition of Assembly Member Dixon
• Citizen-Council Olympic Advisory Ad Hoc Committee Update • Fire Prevention Week Presentation

ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Landau opened oral communications. Speakers: Scott Newton, Daren DeLeon, Kay MacDonald, Bruce Bennett, Perla Mendoza, Matthew Terry, and Ken Seiff addressed the City Council. Mayor Landau closed oral communications.

Two (2) Supplemental Communications were received after posting the agenda; they were distributed to the City Council and made available to the public.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA & WAIVER OF FULL READING OF RESOLUTIONS AND

ORDINANCES
Council Member Steele pulled Item D for separate consideration.

Council Member Steele moved, second by Council Member Senecal, to approve the agenda.

AYES: Kalmick, Senecal, Steele, Wong, Landau
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
City Attorney Ghirelli had nothing to report.

CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager Gallegos reported his attendance at the League of California Cities Annual Conference.

Additionally, City Manager Gallegos urged the public to prepare for the upcoming El Nino season by signing up for AlertOC and Nixle alert, creating an emergency kit, and getting to know their neighbors. He noted that sandbags are available at Fire Station 44 and Fire Station 48 and that additional information is available on the Seal Beach Police Department website.

COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mayor Pro Tem Wong reported his attendance at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) San Diego Conference, the Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) Water Inspection Trip, District 1 Candidate Forum, and the League of California Cities Annual Conference. He thanked Police Captain Ezroj for meeting with College Park West residents to discuss parking.

Council Member Senecal provided an overview of the League of California Cities 2026 General Assembly Resolution related to restoring and strengthening local authority over housing and land use matters.

Additionally, Council Member Senecal announced that the Seal Goes Pink Pier Memory Walk will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. at Eisenhower Park.

Finally, Council Memebr Senecal announced that on October 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. she will be providing an update to College Park East Residents regarding activities within the City.

Council Member Kalmick reported his attendance at the Watershed Conservation Authority meeting, the San Gabirel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy meeting, and District 1 Candidate Forum.

Council Member Steele reported his attendance at the Lague of California Cities Annual Conference.

Mayor Landau announced that Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) is currently interviewing for a new Fire Chief.

Additionally, Mayor Landau noted that Orange County Sanitation District has been preparing for the upcoming El Nino season.

Finally, she reported her attendance at Orange County Around the Table in Fountain Valley.

COUNCIL ITEMS
There were no Council Items.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Kalmick moved, second by Council Member Senecal, to approve the recommended actions on the consent calendar with the exception of Item D.

A. Approval of the City Council Minutes – That the City Council approve the minutes of the Closed Session and Regular City Council Meetings held on September 14, 2026.

B. Demand on City Treasury (Fiscal Year 2027) – Ratification.

C. Monthly Investment Report (August 31, 2026) – Receive and file.

D. Awarding and Authorizing Execution of a Public Works Agreement with MDJ Management, LLC for the North Seal Beach Community Center Phase 2, CIP BG2505 – That the City Council adopt Resolution 7820: 1. Approving the scope of work for North Seal Beach Community Center Phase 2, CIP BG2505 (Project); and,

2. Approving and awarding a Public Works Agreement to MDJ Management, LLC in the not-to-exceed amount of $368,667.53 for the Project, utilizing the pricing of the Sourcewell Cooperative Agreement (ezIQC Contract CA-R8-GB-101723-MDJ); and, 3. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Public Works Agreement with MDJ Management, LLC for the Project; and, 4. Authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to approve up to $98,753.47 as allowance for contingency and inspection services for the renovation project and to fulfill the matching fund.

E. Approving and Awarding a Professional Services Agreement with BKF Engineers for Design and Construction Support Services for the 5th Street at Electric Avenue Stormwater Treatment Project, CIP SD2602 – That the City Council adopt Resolution 7821: 1. Approving and awarding a Professional Services Agreement to BKF Engineers for Professional Design and Construction Support Services for the 5th Street at Electric Avenue Stormwater Treatment Project, CIP SD2602 (Project) for a not-to-exceed amount of $74,922, and rejecting all other proposals; and, 2. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement with BKF Engineers on behalf of the City; and, 3. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to approve additional work requests for professional design and construction support services up to $15,000 (approximately 20%).

F. Approving and Awarding Agreement for Professional Services Agreement to Local Agency Engineering Associates, Inc. for Interagency Support Services – That the City Council adopt Resolution 7822: 1. Approving and awarding a Professional Services Agreement to Local Agency Engineering Associates, Inc. (LAE Associates, Inc.) for Interagency Support Services pursuant to the exemption from competitive bidding requirements set forth in Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Section 3.20.025(C) for professional services, for a oneyear term in the not-to-exceed amount of $30,000 pursuant to the Proposal submitted by LAE Associates, Inc. dated August 6, 2026; and, 2. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to extend the original term by up to three one-year extensions for the not-to-exceed amount of $30,000 for each extension; and, 3.

Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement with LAE Associates, Inc. on behalf of the City and any amendments or extensions thereafter; and, 4. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to approve additional work requests for interagency support services up to $10,000 up to the cumulative not-to-exceed amount of $40,000 for original term and each of the three one-year extensions thereafter.

The vote below is for the Consent Calendar Items.

AYES: Kalmick, Senecal, Steele, Wong, Landau
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried

ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
D. Awarding and Authorizing Execution of a Public Works Agreement with MDJ Management, LLC for the North Seal Beach Community Center Phase 2, CIP BG2505 – That the City Council adopt Resolution 7820: 1. Approving the scope of work for North Seal Beach Community Center Phase 2, CIP BG2505 (Project); and,

Mayor Landau called upon Director of Public Works Lee to provide an overview of the staff report.

Council Member Steele’s questions and concerns were addressed by Director of Public Works Lee.

Council Member Senecal moved, second by Council Member Steele to adopt Resolution 7820: 1. Approving the scope of work for North Seal Beach Community Center Phase 2, CIP BG2505 (Project); and, 2. Approving and awarding a Public Works Agreement to MDJ Management, LLC in the not-to-exceed amount of $368,667.53 for the Project, utilizing the pricing of the Sourcewell Cooperative Agreement (ezIQC Contract CA-R8- GB-101723-MDJ); and, 3. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Public Works Agreement with MDJ Management, LLC for the Project; and, 4. Authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to approve up to $98,753.47 as allowance for contingency and inspection services for the renovation project and to fulfill the matching fund.

AYES: Kalmick, Senecal, Steele, Wong, Landau
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried

PUBLIC HEARING
There was no public hearing item.

UNFINISHED/CONTINUED BUSINESS
There was no unfinished/continued business.

NEW BUSINESS
G. Ratification of Proclamation of Local Emergency for Developing 2026-2027 El Niño Event - That the City Council adopt Resolution 7823: 1. Ratifying the Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency issued by the City Manager/Director of Emergency Services on September 22, 2026, relating to the developing 2026-2027 El Niño event; and, 2. Confirming that the local emergency applies throughout the City of Seal Beach; and, 3. Authorizing the City Manager/Director of Emergency Services to take actions reasonably necessary to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the emergency, including resource staging, interagency coordination, mutual aid, and emergency procurement and contracting as authorized by law; and, 4. Directing staff to document emergencyrelated costs and damages, pursue available reimbursement or assistance as appropriate, and return to the City Council at least every 60 days for review of the need to continue the local emergency.

Mayor Landau called upon City Manager Gallegos to provide an overview of the staff report.

A discussion ensued between Council Member Senecal, City Manager Gallegos, and Council Member Kalmick.

Council Member Steele moved, second by Council Member Senecal to adopt Resolution 7823: 1. Ratifying the Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency issued by the City Manager/Director of Emergency Services on September 22, 2026, relating to the developing 2026-2027 El Niño event; and, 2. Confirming that the local emergency applies throughout the City of Seal Beach; and, 3. Authorizing the City Manager/Director of Emergency Services to take actions reasonably necessary to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the emergency, including resource staging, interagency coordination, mutual aid, and emergency procurement and contracting as authorized by law; and, 4.

Directing staff to document emergency-related costs and damages, pursue available reimbursement or assistance as appropriate, and return to the City Council at least every 60 days for review of the need to continue the local emergency.

AYES: Kalmick, Senecal, Steele, Wong, Landau
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried

ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Landau adjourned the City Council at 9:06 p.m. to Monday, October 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. to meet in closed session, if deemed necessary. __________________________
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
City of Seal Beach
Approved:___________________________
Lisa Landau, Mayor
Attested:____________________________
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk

Agenda Item D

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: October 12, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
THRU: Patrick Gallegos, City Manager
FROM: Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Report of City Manager and Department Heads Authorized Contracts
_______________________________________________________________ SUMMARY OF REQUEST:

That the City Council receive and file the report.

BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS:

In an effort to further increase transparency, the City Manager provides a quarterly report to the City Council that identifies all contracts executed by the City Manager.

The City Manager has the authority to approve and execute contracts up to the amount of $42,982.

Seal Beach Municipal Code Section 3.20.005 authorizes the City Manager to delegate spending authority to Department Heads. For departments other than the Director of Public Works and the Director of Finance/City Treasurer, this authority shall not exceed $15,000 per purchase or contract. For the Director of Public Works, the limit is established per the City’s Charter Section 1010. For the Director of Finance/City Treasurer, other than for Finance Department expenditures which are set at $15,000, there is additional authority to authorize purchases for City Departments up to the City Manager’s established contract signing authority.

Below is a list of contracts executed by the City Manager and Department Heads for the period of July 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026:

AGREEMENT
DATE

DEPARTMENT VENDOR AMOUNT PURPOSE EXPIRATION
DATE
7/1/2026 Public Works Local Agency
Engineering
Associates, Inc.
$30,000 Amendment 2
Interagency
Support &
Program
Management
Services
6/30/2027
8/7/2026 Public Works Duthie Electric
Services Cop
dba Duthie
Power Services
$41,683.13 Preventative
Maintenance for
Emergency
Power
Generators
Amendment 1
3/15/2027
8/10/2026 Public Works Castlerock
Environmental,
Inc
$34,850.00 Marina
Community
Center Roof
Replacement -
Removal of
Mold and
Asbestos
Abatement
Amendment 1
NOC
8/25/2026 Police Wetlands &
Wildlife
$12,000 Amendment 2
Extension of
term of
agreement by
one (1) year
06/30/2027
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

There is no environmental impact related to this item.

LEGAL ANALYSIS:

No legal analysis is required for this item.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

There was sufficient funding available in the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget.

However, as with all City Council approved contracts, all contracts executed under staff’s contracting authority are processed internally with review and approval by the City Attorney, Director of Finance, City Clerk and City Manager.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the City Council receive and file the report.

SUBMITTED BY: NOTED AND APPROVED:

Gloria D. Harper Patrick Gallegos
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk Patrick Gallegos, City Manager Prepared by: Brandon DeCriscio, Deputy City Clerk
Agenda Item E

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: October 12, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
THRU: Patrick Gallegos, City Manager
FROM: Iris Lee, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Approving Cooperative Agreement No. C265221 with Orange County Transportation Authority in Relation to the I-405 Improvement Project
________________________________________________________________ SUMMARY OF REQUEST:

That the City Council adopt Resolution 7824:

1. Approving Cooperative (COOP) Agreement No. C265221 between the City of Seal Beach and the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) for the I-405 Freeway Improvement Project for reimbursement to the City by OCTA for close-out activities and administrative services; and,

2. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement with OCTA on behalf of the City and any amendments or extensions thereafter; and,

3. Approving Budget Amendment BA #27-04-01in the amount of $90,000.

BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS:

On July 29, 2016, the City Council approved Cooperative Agreement No. C-6-1126 (Agreement) between Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) and the City of Seal Beach (City) for the I-405 Improvement Project (Project). The Project provided one (1) additional general-purpose lane and two (2) toll lanes in each direction between the westerly Orange County limits and the City of Costa Mesa.

The Agreement outlined the responsibilities of both the City and OCTA throughout the course of the Project and provided the financial mechanism for the City to receive reimbursement funds for staff time, consultant assistance, and pavement restoration upon completion. The Agreement further provided $120,600 in reimbursement funds for the City and consulting services for the duration of the Project with amendment options, as necessary.

Page 2 ends

The City executed seven (7) amendments to the Agreement, each amendment providing more term and more compensation to the Agreement. The most recent Amendment, Amendment No. 7, brought the total compensation to $958,600, with the term to expire on December 31, 2025.

OCTA had anticipated Amendment No. 7 would provide sufficient compensation and term to close out the Project; therefore, no further amendments were executed prior to the Agreement expiration date of December 31, 2025. While all construction-related activities have concluded, final construction improvement acceptance and Freeway Agreement approvals remain outstanding.

Completion of these remaining close-out activities will require continued staff and consultant time to complete. OCTA has requested the City enter into a new Cooperative Agreement (New Agreement) to reimburse for staff, legal consultation and consultant support costs in relation to these final Project close-out items.

The term of the New Agreement will be in full force and effect through December 31, 2027. Total compensation for reimbursement for the New Agreement will be in the amount of $90,000.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

This project complies with all requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is categorically exempt under section 15301 Class 1, Subsection (b) of the CEQA Guidelines because it can be seen with certainty that approval of a Cooperative Agreement with OCTA will not have a significant effect on the environment.

LEGAL ANALYSIS:

The City Attorney has reviewed and approved the resolution and agreement as to form.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

Under the New Agreement, OCTA will reimburse the City for Project-related expenditures up to a maximum of $90,000. Budget Amendment BA #27-04-01 will allocate $90,000 for this agreement:

Description Project Account Revised/Adopted
Budget
Proposed
Budget
Budget (diff)
Amendment
Capital
projects
ST1809 271-500-
0366-
55000
$228,276.00 $318,276.00 $90,000.00

Page 3 ends

RECOMMENDATION:

That the City Council adopt Resolution 7824:

2. Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement with OCTA on behalf of the City and any amendments or extensions thereafter; and,

3. Approving Budget Amendment BA #27-04-01 in the amount of $90,000.

SUBMITTED BY: NOTED AND APPROVED:

Iris Lee Patrick Gallegos
Iris Lee, Director of Public Works Patrick Gallegos, City Manager Prepared by: David Spitz, P.E. Senior Engineer
ATTACHMENTS:

A. Resolution 7824
B. Cooperative Agreement No. C265221 with Orange County Transportation Authority
RESOLUTION 7824

A RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH CITY COUNCIL
APPROVING A COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT NO. C265221

WITH ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY IN
RELATION TO THE I-405 IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), in cooperation and partnership with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), proposed to reduce congestion and improve lane continuity through the I-405 corridor with improvements to mainline and interchanges on I-405 between State Route 73 and Interstate 605; and,
WHEREAS, OCTA, in cooperation and partnership with the Caltrans, entered into Cooperative Agreement No. C-6-1126 (Agreement), dated July 29, 2016, with the City of Seal Beach (City), defining the specific terms, conditions, and funding responsibilities of the I-405 Improvement Project (Project) between OCTA and the City for a total not-to-exceed amount of $120,600; and, WHEREAS, the City and OCTA entered into Amendments No. 1 through No. 7, which increased the compensation to a total of $958,600 and extended the term of the Agreement with an expiration date of December 31, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the construction of the Project and City facilities related to the Project is complete; and,
WHEREAS, there are various other Project close-out items to be completed; and, WHEREAS, OCTA agrees to reimburse the City for Project close-out activities and other administrative services.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Seal Beach City Council does resolve, declare, determine, and order as follows:

Section 1. The City Council finds that all recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporates them herein by this reference.

Section 2. Approves Cooperative Agreement No. C265221 with Orange County Transportation Authority for the I-405 Improvement Project for reimbursement to the City by OCTA for close-out activities and administrative services.

Section 3. Authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement with OCTA on behalf of the City and any
amendments or extensions thereafter.

Section 4. The City Council hereby approves Budget Amendment BA #27- 04-01 allocating $90,000.00 to 217-500-0366-55000, as follows:

Description Project Account Revised/Adopted
Budget
Proposed
Budget
Budget (diff)
Amendment
Capital
projects
ST1809 271-500-
0366-
55000
$228,276.00 $318,276.00 $90,000.00
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the Seal Beach City Council at a regular meeting held on the 12th day of October 2026 by the following vote:

AYES: Council Members
NOES: Council Members
ABSENT: Council Members
ABSTAIN: Council Members

Lisa Landau, Mayor
ATTEST:

Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }
COUNTY OF ORANGE } SS
CITY OF SEAL BEACH }
I, Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk of the City of Seal Beach, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is the original copy of Resolution 7824 on file in the office of the City Clerk, passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council at a regular meeting held on the 12th day of October 2026.

Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk

Agenda Item F

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: October 12, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
THRU: Patrick Gallegos, City Manager
FROM: Iris Lee, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: An Ordinance of the City of Seal Beach Approving a CEQA Exemption Determination and Amending Chapter 9.37 of
the Seal Beach Municipal Code to Establish Regulations for Nonfunctional Turf Irrigation in Accordance with Assembly Bill 1572
________________________________________________________________ SUMMARY OF REQUEST:

That the City Council introduce, waive full reading, and read by title only, Ordinance 1731, amending portions of Chapter 9.37 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code pertaining to regulations for nonfunctional turf irrigation in accordance with Assembly Bill (AB) 1572.

BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS:

Water conservation is, and has been, a priority in California, especially for the past few decades. Droughts, increasing population, and climate change have forced California to change many water use regulations and introduce new policies in efforts to reduce water consumption and ensure long term drinking water sustainability. “Making Conservation a California Way of Life” is the long-term water use framework the State has adopted. Water conservation regulations under Senate Bill 606 and Assembly Bill 1668 in 2018 were some of the first state regulations on how Californians are allowed to use potable, drinking water.

Recently, AB 1572 was signed into law, which continues the State’s push for increased water conservation.

AB 1572 addresses the use of potable water for the irrigation of Non-Functional Turf (NFT) on governmental property, commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, as well as common areas of homeowner associations (HOA), common interest developments, and community service organizations. NFT refers to grassy areas that are ornamental in nature, areas that do not provide a recreational or community purpose and grass irrigated solely for aesthetics such as street medians, parkways, business and industrial parks, and parking lots. AB 1572 regulates and disallows the watering of these NFTs with potable water (recycled water is allowed for turf watering).

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The regulation of AB 1572 is to be phased in over the next couple of years as follows:
• January 1, 2027 — Applies to all properties owned by state and local governments, local or regional public agencies, and public water systems. • January 1, 2028 — Applies to all commercial, industrial, and other institutional properties (CII).
• January 1, 2029 — Applies to common areas of homeowners' associations, common interest developments, and community service organizations or similar.
• January 1, 2031 — Applies to only public property in disadvantaged communities, contingent on the availability of state funding for turf conversion, under special circumstances. This will generally not apply to areas in Seal Beach.
• January 1, 2030/2031 – Property owners with over 5,000 square feet of functional, irrigated turf grass will be required to certify with the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), depending on property type.

The new regulations under AB 1572 include many exemptions for the following:
• Residential Properties. It is an important distinction to make that single family homes and other small residential properties like duplexes and small apartment buildings without HOAs are not included under this state law.
• Potable water may still be used to protect the health of trees and perennial plantings or to address immediate health and safety concerns for those trees and plantings.
• Cemeteries are not subject to these restrictions.
• The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) also has the authority to extend compliance deadlines by up to three (3) years in cases of economic hardship, critical business needs, or public health and safety concerns.

In addition, AB 1572 requires all public water systems to update their local ordinances, regulations, or policies by January 1, 2027, and communicate these requirements to their customers.

Section 9.35 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code pertains to Water Conservation and includes permanent water conservation requirement measures that are currently in effect. Staff recommends amending Section 9.35 to include all requirements of AB 1572 including related definitions, as noted in the proposed ordinance. The proposed ordinance will ensure City compliance with State law, allow for the City to determine appropriate enforcement measures, and avoid potential penalties from the State.

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Adopting this ordinance helps the City remain compliant with state regulations while aligning with state and regional water conservation goals and helping to protect the sustainability for the region’s declining water supply.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City has determined that the proposed Ordinance is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, (CEQA) pursuant to the State CEQA Guidelines including Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15307 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.

LEGAL ANALYSIS:

This City Attorney has reviewed and approved the ordinance as to form.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

There is no direct financial impact for the approval of Ordinance1731. Compliance under the ordinance will require funding for landscaping conversions, public notification and enforcement. On-going funding for these activities will be included in the City’s annual budget accordingly.

RECOMMENDATION:

SUBMITTED BY: NOTED AND APPROVED:

Iris Lee Patrick Gallegos
Iris Lee, Director of Public Works Patrick Gallegos, City Manager Prepared by: David Spitz, P.E. Senior Engineer
ATTACHMENTS:

A. Ordinance 1731

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ORDINANCE 1731

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH

APPROVING A CEQA EXEMPTION DETERMINATION
AND AMENDING CHAPTER 9.37 OF THE SEAL BEACH

MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS FOR

NONFUNCTIONAL TURF IRRIGATION IN ACCORDANCE
WITH ASSEMBLY BILL 1572
WHEREAS, the State of California has determined that the use of potable water for the irrigation of nonfunctional turf (NFT) contributes to inefficient water use and conflicts with long-term water sustainability goals; and,
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill (AB) 1572 (2023) phases in a prohibition on the use of potable water to irrigate NFT on specified properties; and,
WHEREAS, AB 1572 mandates that public water suppliers shall update their NFT irrigation ordinances, regulations, and policies to include the requirements of Water Code Section 10608.14(a), (b) by January 1, 2027, and shall communicate these changes to customers; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Seal Beach (City) seeks to update its water use policies to comply with AB 1572 and support efficient water use; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council adopts this Ordinance pursuant to its police power under California Constitution Article XI, Section 7 and pursuant to state law including California Constitution Article X, Section 2 and Water Code Section 375 et seq.

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Section 9.37.005 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
“SECTION 9.37.005. Definitions.

A. For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases shall mean:

Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment:
a determination of the near-term outlook for supplies and demands and how a perceived shortage may relate to the shortage level response actions as defined in the water shortage contingency plan in the current calendar year.

City:
the City of Seal Beach.

Common Area:
that portion of a common interest development or of a property owned or managed by a homeowners’ association or a community service organization or similar entity that is not assigned or allocated to the exclusive use of the occupants of an individual dwelling unit within the property.

Common Interest Development:
any of the following:

1. A community apartment project.

2. A condominium project.

3. A planned development.

4. A stock cooperative.

Community Service Organization or Similar Entity:
a nonprofit entity, other than an association, that is organized to provide services to residents of the common interest development or to the public in addition to the residents, to the extent community common area or facilities are available to the -2-
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public. Community service organizations or similar entities do not include an entity that has been organized solely to raise money and contribute to other nonprofit organizations that are qualified as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and that provide housing or housing assistance.

Community Space:
an area designated by a property owner or a governmental agency to accommodate human foot traffic for civic, ceremonial, or other community events or social gatherings.

Demand Reduction Actions:
education, incentives or regulatory actions taken by the city to reduce water demand in its service area during times of shortage. Demand reduction actions preplanned to prepare for a water shortage as presented in the City's water shortage contingency plan.

Director:
director of public works or the designee thereof.

Disadvantaged Community:
a community with an annual median household income that is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median household income.

DWR:

California Department of Water Resources.

Functional Turf:
a ground cover surface of turf located in a recreational use area or community space.

Turf enclosed by fencing or other barriers to permanently preclude human access for recreation or assembly is not functional turf.

Homeowners’ Association:
a nonprofit corporation or unincorporated association created for the purpose of managing a common interest development.

Local Health Agency:

Orange County Health Care Agency.

MWDOC:
the Municipal Water District of Orange County.

Nonfunctional Turf:

Ornamental grass areas that do not serve a recreational or civic and/or community purpose. This includes, but is not limited to, turf irrigated for aesthetics, such as turf in street medians, rights-of-way, business parks, parking lots or office landscapes.

Pet exercise area:

An area specifically designated and maintained for the exercise, play, or recreation of pets and their handlers, such as a designated dog park or similar dedicated facility, such as a dog run. An area shall not constitute a pet exercise area solely because pets are permitted to walk upon or relieve themselves in that area.

Potable Water:
water that is suitable for human consumption.

Recreational use area:
an area designated by a property owner or a governmental agency to accommodate human foot traffic for recreation, including, but not limited to, sports fields, golf courses, playgrounds, picnic grounds, or pet exercise areas. Recreation may be either formal or informal.

Water Conservation Measure:
restrictions enforceable to address progressive levels of water shortage, including, but not limited to, permanent water conservation measures, water shortage level -3-
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mandatory water conservation measures and demand reduction actions as defined in this chapter or the city's water shortage contingency plan.

Water User:
a person who obtains water from the city water system.

B. Any word or phrase used in this chapter that is defined in Health and Safety Code Section 116275, Water Code Section 10608.12, or California Code of Regulations Title 17, Section 7583 and not defined in subsection A above shall have the meaning set forth in such state law or regulation.”
Section 2. A new Subsection K and a new Subsection L are hereby added to Section 9.37.015 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
“K. The use of potable water for the irrigation of nonfunctional turf located on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, other than a cemetery, and on properties of homeowners’ associations, common interest developments, and community service organizations or similar entities is prohibited as of the following dates:

1. All properties owned by the Department of General Services, beginning January 1, 2027

2. All properties owned by local governments, local or regional public agencies, and public water systems, except those specified in item five (5) below, beginning January 1, 2027.

3. All other institutional properties and all commercial and industrial properties, beginning January 1, 2028.

4. All common areas of properties of homeowners’ associations, common interest developments, and community service organizations or similar entities, beginning January 1, 2029.

5. All properties owned by local governments, local public agencies, and public water systems in a disadvantaged community, beginning January 1, 2031, or the date upon which a state funding source is made available to fund conversion of nonfunctional turf on these properties to climate-appropriate landscapes, whichever is later.

L. Notwithstanding subsection (K), the use of potable water is not prohibited by this section to the extent necessary to ensure the health of trees and other perennial non-turf plantings, or to the extent necessary to address an immediate health and safety need.”
Section 3. CEQA. The City Council determines that the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to the State CEQA Guidelines including Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15307 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.

Section 4. Severability.

If any provision or clause of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held to be unconstitutional or to be otherwise invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect other section provisions, or clauses, or applications, and to this end the provisions, sections, and clauses of this ordinance are declared to be severable.

Section 5. Effective Date.

This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days following its adoption by the City Council.
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Section 6. Certification.

The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance, and the City Clerk shall cause this Ordinance or a summary thereof to be published as required by law. The City Manager is directed to widely publicize the adoption of this Ordinance.

INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Seal Beach held on the 12th day of October 2026.

Lisa Landau, Mayor
ATTEST:

Gloria D. Harper
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Nicholas Ghierlli
City Attorney

Seal Beach City CouncilOctober 12, 2026

Seal Beach City Council
October 12, 2026