INDEX
TORRANCE CIry COU NCIL - APRTL 12,2022
SUBJECT
9H
9t.
9J.
9K
91. PAGE
1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
64. 68.
6C
7. 8.
84. 88.
8C
8D.
8E.
L
94. 98.
9C.
9D.
9E.
9F.
9G
OPENING C REMONIES
Callto Order/Roll Call
Flag Salute/lnvocation
Affidavit of PostingAffaive Further Reading
Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental ltems
Council Committee Meetings and Announcements
COMMUNITY MATTERS
Proclamation on Earth Day 2
Proclamation on NationalAnimal Care and ControlWeek 2
Proclamation on DMViDonate Life Month 2
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 2
CONSENT CALENDAR
Approve City Council Minutes 2
Authorize Membership Contribution to California Transit lndemnity Pool (CalTlP) 2
Appropriate/Allocate 2020 Citizens Options for Public Safety Grant Funds 3 Approve First Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement for Beach Cities Green Streets Project, S-194
Authorize Purchase Order for the Cooperative Purchase of Nineteen (19) Ford Police lnterceptors
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Appropriate Funds, Award Consulting Services Agreement to Provide lnterim Housing Services for Torrance Temporary Housing Program, and Authorize the City Manager to Sign Agreement
Accept and File Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, Report on lnternal Control over Financial Reporting, and Report on Communication with Those Charged with Governance for FY 2020-21 Budget Overview Session Two of Two for FY 2022-23 Operating Budget and Capital lmprovement Plan
Accept and File Fiscal Year 2021-22Mid-Year Budget Review Report and Approve Program Modifications
Approve First Amendment to 208th Street Reimbursement Agreement and Appropriate Funds to Crenshaw Boulevard lntersection lmprovements and 208th Street Extension, T-157
Approve Categorical Exemption Under CEQA and Award Public Works Agreement for Sidewalk Repair for Disabled Accessibility (CDBG #60235Q-21 ), t-1 35
Adopt Resolution to Renew General Services Agreement with County of Los Angeles
Determine City Council Dark Nights
Approve Torrance's Salute to United States Military Program Concur with Adoption of Mitigated Negative Declaration Under CEQA and Award Agreements for Van Ness Avenue Water Wells and Transmission Main, l-145
Appointment of Deputy City Attorney ll
Adopt Resolutions to Deny Conditional Use Permit and Precise Plan of Development to Allow Construction and Operation of an Automatic Carwash on Property Located in the C3-PP Zone at 2880 Sepulveda Boulevard
1 1
1 1
2 3
3-4
5-9
9-10
10-12
13 Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
13 14
14 15
15 16
4 16-17
City Council
April12,2O22
9M
9N
90 Appropriate Funds and Award Consulting Services Agreement to Provide Design Services for Citywide Storm Drain Replacement and lnstallation (Regina Alley), l-192
Adopt Resolution Setting Pay Ranges for All Job Classes Approve Side Letter Agreement Between Engineers/Torrance Fiscal Employees Association (TFEA) and Management for Lead Senior Planning Associate
Approve Side Letter Agreement Between Torrance Municipal Employees/AFSCME Local 1 117 and Management
Approve Side Letter Agreement between Engineers/Torrance Fiscal Employees Association (TFEA) and Management for senior Fire Prevention Specialist and Fire Prevention Specialist
HEARINGS
Conduct Public Hearing and Adopt Resolution Approving Allocation Plan for HOME lnvestment Partnerships Program - American Rescue Plan ("HOME-ARP") Funds and Appropriate Funds
AGENCY AGENDAS
SEGOND READING ORDINANCES
COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CLOSED SESSION
17 17-18
18 18
18 19
19 19
19 1,20
20 9P.
9Q.
10. 104.
11. 12.
13. 14.
15.ADJOURNMENT
Al i2:52 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, April 26,2022, at 5:30 p.m- for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April12,2Q22
April 12,2Q22
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNC¡L
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on April 12, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber and via teleconference.
ROLL CALL
Present:Councilmembers Ashcraft, Chen, Griffiths, Kalani, Mattucci, Walser, and Mayor Furey
None
City Manager Chaparyan, City Attorney Sullivan,
City Clerk Rebecca Poirier and
other staff representatives
2 Absent:
Present:
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
Agenda item 14 was considered out of order at this time. 14, GLOSED SESSION
The City Council immediately recessed to closed session to confer with the City Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 14A) Conference with Labor Negotiator, 148) Conference with Real Property Negotiator, and 14C) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation - Litigation pursuant to California Government Code 554957.6, California Government Code $54956.8, and California Government Code 554956.9(dX1).
The City Council reconvened in public session at 6:30 p.m. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Ashcraft.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Chen
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA/ MOTION TO
WAIVE FURTHER READING
City Clerk Rebecca Poirier reported that the agenda was posted on the Public Notice Board at 3031 Torrance Boulevard and on the City's website on Monday, April 4,2022, with the revised agenda posted Thursday, April 7, 2022.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved that after the City Clerk has read aloud the number and title of any resolution or ordinance on the meeting agenda, the further reading thereof shall be waived, reserving and guaranteeing to each Councilmember the right to demand the reading of any such resolution or ordinance in regular order. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Ashcraft and passed by 7-A.
4.WITHDRAWN. DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Supplemental materialwas available for items 94, 9D, 91, 9N and Oral Communications 1 City Council
April12,2022
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETI NGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Griffiths reminded the public about the Sixth Cycle Housing Element update in the General Plan. He also reminded the public about the Japanese cultural festival coming soon.
Councilmember Ashcraft updated the public about the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation Annual South Bay Festival of the Arts.
Councilmember Walser announced that the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee approved the conceptual float design for the 2023 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade.
Mayor Furey reminded the public about the National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. He continued to remind the public of the importance of conservation and some of the efforts going on to spur involvement in the community. He also reiterated the renaming of the multi-use sports complex to the LA Galaxy Sports Complex.
City Clerk Poirier alerted the public of tools for citizens to learn more about election information
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 22, 2022 AS EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF
TORRANCE
PROGLAMATION DEGLARING APRIL 10.16, 2022 AS NATIONAL ANIMAL CARE
AND CONTROL WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 2022 AS DMV/DONATE LIFE MONTH IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke
8. CONSENT GALENDAR
APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of March 15,2022.
AUTHORIZE MEMBERSHIP CONTRIBUTION TO CALIFORNIA TRANSIT INDEMNITY
POOL (CALTIP)
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council authorize membership contribution to California Transit lndemnity Pool (CalTlP) for an amount not-to-exceed $712,690 for a one-year period beginning May 1 ,2022 and ending May 1 ,2023.
64. 68.
6C.
84. 88.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
2 City Council
April12,2022
8C APPROPRIATE AND ALLOCATE 2O2O CITIZENS OPT¡ONS FOR PUBLIC SAFETY
GRANT FUNDS
Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council appropriate and allocate $286,585.04 of 2020 Citizens Options for Public Safety (COPS) grant funds, and any additional interest, to support Police Department programs.
Councilmember Chen asked for clarification that these funds can only be used for certain items. He also inquired if these funds were use it or lose it, and if so, if the funds are all used up by a certain point, could Torrance request another grant.
Senior Business Manager Jane Chung responded that the fund has broad use of eligibility with most going towards front-line law enforcement operations, jails, etc. and it is funded via state revenue sources. She continued that the only requirement of grant funding is that it is incurred by June of 2Q22 of which the funds are allocated to the department for uses that are outlined in the staff report. For the use of the funding of this cycle of the grant, staff implemented a new system to evaluate each proposal based on specific grading criteria with the goal of advancing the department's mission. She added that the grant cycle is a year so it is limited, as it cannot be used for continuity of services. She said they are mostly used for one-time goods.
City Manager Chaparyan interjected that Torrance must use the funding as it will not roll over to the next year.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to approve item 8C. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried in a vote of 7-0. 8D.APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR BEACH CITIES GREEN STREETS PROJECT, S-I94
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council approve a first amendment to the existing consulting services agreement with CWE of Fullerton, CA (C2020-11 1) in the amount of $62,137,Tor a new not-to-exceed amount of $961,826, to perform additional design services for the Beach Cities Green Streets Project, S-194 and to extend the agreement term by one-year to September 14,2023. 8E AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR THE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE OF NTNETEEN (19) FORD pOLtCE TNTERCEPTORS
Recommendation of the General Services Director and Chief of Police that City Council authorize a purchase order with National Auto Fleet Group of Watsonville, CA in the amount of $960,542.32 (including sales tax) for nineteen (19) 2022 Ford Police lnterceptor Utility AWD vehicles as a cooperative purchase with Sourcewell.
Councilmember Walser asked, with the budget as constrained as it is, how feasible it would be to do all of them, part of them or simply to wait some time.
Police Chief Jeremiah Hart responded that there have been issues in trying to acquire new vehicles. He said some ventures such as hybrid vehicles fell through, and Ford is stating that they are ceasing purchase of these vehicles. He said the vehicles are pivotal for patrol and when they start wearing down it significantly affects public safety. Vehicles go through checks and repairs and replacement vehicles are needed otherwise there will not be patrols.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
3 City Council
April12,2022
Councilmember Walser asked if this was the best price the city can get for these vehicles given the all-time high prices or if there was a contractual obligation.
City Manager Chaparyan interjected that if they wait on purchasing the prices will increase given the supply issues. He said the vehicles are going through a lot of wear.
Police Chief Hart said that these vehicles are in high demand and will get sold quickly if Torrance does not purchase them.
City Manager Chaparyan emphasized the time sensitivity of the availability of these vehicles.
Finance Director Sheila Poisson added that this is going through a cooperative purchase, so this is the best price available. She continued that vehicle price has increased only about $2K since 2020 given inflation. She said that the budget for this is already included and funded in fleet services replacement fund and is not coming out of the current year's revenues.
Councilmember Mattucci asked if some of the vehicles that are deigned to get replaced could instead be kept and used as decoys to slow down traffic is certain areas.
Fleet Services Manager Jasun Botiller said that the vehicles could be retained for other purposes such as second life use or reserve. He added that vehicles that are proposed to be surplus or obsolete would be stripped of useful materials and remove decals. One issue is that often equipment stripped off old vehicles would get placed onto new vehicles to reduce cost.
City Manager Chaparyan said they would investigate but to be mindful of the false sense of presence of law enforcement.
MOTION: Councilmember Walser moved to authorize the purchase order for the cooperative purchase of 19 Ford Police lnterceptors. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Ashcraft moved to accept the Consent Calendar except for items 8E and 8C. Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9. ADMINISTRAT¡VE MATTERS
9K was taken out of order at this time
9K.APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY II
Recommendation of the City Attorney that City Council appoint Brandon Gonzaque to the position of Deputy City Attorney ll.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Attorney to appoint Brandon Gonzaque to the position of Deputy City Attorney ll. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
4 City Council
April12,2Q22
9A.APPROPRIATE FUNDS, AWARD CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT TO
PROVIDE INTERIM HOUSING SERVICES FOR TORRANCE TEMPORARY HOUSING
PROGRAM, AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN AGREEMENT Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Appropriate $1,555,998 from the Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Grant to a grant project; and
2) Award a consulting services agreement to Harbor lnterfaith Services, lnc., of San Pedro, CA (RFP B,2022-09) in the amount of $1,555,998 to provide interim housing services for the Torrance Temporary Housing Program at 3290 Civic Center Drive from April 12,2022 to June 30, 2023; and
3) Authorize the City Manager as the City's signatory for this agreement and to act on the City's behalf with respect to the agreement and all decisions in connection with the agreement.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked how the Venice Family Clinic and how it operates.
SPA I CES Director Shari Weaver responded that their staff provides transportation to the clinic. She expanded that the goal is that they unhoused are getting baseline health services and to avoid the use of paramedics or having people go to emergency rooms only. She said they want to set them up as their primary care physician, health care benefits and health assessments.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked what they have learned from the Redondo Beach program that Torrance would benefit from.
SPA I CES Director Weaver said that their group does not give up, even in impossible seeming situations, and that has led to permanent housing placements.
Deputy City Manager Viet Hoang elaborated that Providence Healthcare System had provided a grant to Venice Family Clinic and that Venice Family Clinic reached out to staff to alert them of their building presence in South Bay. He continued that staff is working to create more dialogue between Venice Family Clinic and Harbor lnterfaith.
Councilmember Walser asked if this was a lump-sum contract.
Deputy City Manager Hoang said that it was a lump-sum contract. He added that the contract has language of a ramp-up period of at least 30 days when the plan would be developed.
Councilmember Walser asked if there were openings for the client to request more funding from Torrance should they require it.
Deputy City Manager Hoang said that Torrance will not use the entire allocation of PLHA so he estimated there would be a cushion of approximately $100K. He said the numbers shared at the meeting were up to the budget. He said there was about $100K available in the PLHA from 2021 that is still available to Torrance.
Councilmember Walser asked about liability insurance.
Deputy City Manager Hoang replied that all vendors are required to have the requisite insurance.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
5 City Council
April12,2022
Councilmember Griffiths reiterated his skepticism about the program and location but stipulated that he is fine with the vendor. He asked once the facility beds are filled, what the ability to enforce anti-camping ordinance will be.
Police Chief Hart said that it would only be identifying people who are homeless and offering them services but no enforcement of the anti-camping ordinance if there are no available beds. lf a bed opens up, then enforcement can become an option for the Police Department once again.
Councilmember Griffiths stated his concern about the small amount of shelter versus how many homeless there are and then there will not be enforcement. He said the location is not ideal and the fact the shelter residents can roam as they please and the programs are not mandatory could cause issues for surrounding residents. He had concerns about the money being allocated for services when they do not know what or how the services would be. He added that homeless individuals may refuse to go into the pallet shelters. He commended Harbor lnterfaith but stated his opposition to this currently. He asked if their plan would be provided to City Council for review before it is put into place.
City Manager Chaparyan said they could bring it back.
Councilmember Griffiths voiced concern about drug addicts roaming around the area if they are allowed to go as they please and he said the programs being non-mandatory was also a concern.
Mayor Furey clarified that this should be considered as transitional housing, not as a shelter.
Councilmember Kalani asked if the $1 .6M funds being allocated were funds that Torrance was awarded and not city funds.
Deputy City Manager Hoang said they are not city funds. He added that they have only been able to apply for approximately $1 .135M and been approved for that amount but are waiting for the contract from the state. He said the remaining approximately $400K would be able to be applied for in May he estimated, which would also be the 2021allocation.
Councilmember Kalani asked when they would start negotiating for the next year.
Deputy City Manager Hoang said that staffs goal was an extension from the City Council beyond 12 months. He said there would be reports to the City Council and if desirable, then there would be talks about extensions. He said all vendors have been asked about two one-year extensions.
Councilmember Kalani said that staff would be negotiating services past the 12-month initial review period once the moment occurs where they start moving fonvard with this.
Deputy City Manager Hoang said that was true should the City Council decide that is the path to take.
Councilmember Kalani asked how often there would be reports on the success of this.
Deputy City Manager Hoang replied that it would be a monthly report back to City Council as both staff and Harbor lnterfaith agreed on that frequency.
Councilmember Kalani asked if staff knew the number of those completely unhoused sans the ones living in their car.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
6 City Council
April 12,2022
Deputy City Manager Hoang said that number would not be in before July and that is from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. He said staff is estimating those experiencing homeless on the streets would increase.
Councilmember Kalani said that the 40 pallet homes were a step in the right direction.
Councilmember Chen asked for more information, particularly about the location, of the security fencing.
Assistant City Manager Danny Santana said there was a white K-rail that ends at the landscaping and continues north towards the civic center. The existing fencing stops near the K- railing termination on the existing curb and gutter line. He continued that there was an 8-foot-tall fencing installed by General Services to start the first phase of securing the site and that there were ongoing discussions with LA County superior court staff on where and how a potential extension would proceed south to connect to some existing structure that surrounds the back end of the courthouse where staff access. He added that where placement would be, and materials would have been suggested to the County team and they are reviewing it. He said they are also reviewing alternatives from when they were at the location.
Councilmember Chen asked if there was a way to connect the fencing all the way so there is no wandering into the courthouse.
Assistant City Manager Santana said staff has identified a way to achieve that and it is under consideration.
Councilmember Chen asked if the walk path from the bottom parking lot to the current back parking lot of the courthouse would be sealed off.
Assistant City Manager Santana said that it would be
Councilmember Chen asked about the two different types of arresting with service- resistant people.
Police Chief Hart clarified that an enforcement of the anti-camping ordinance would be an arrest and then after it is connected, the person is released in the field of citation or are taken into a booking facility to be processed.
Councilmember Chen asked how it would play out if a citation to appear in court is given and the service-resistant person does not show up and later an officer encounters them once again.
Police Chief Hart said that an officer could give another citation after 60 days if the service- resistant person does not show to court. He said it would be determined by the situation such as telling the person that it would be up to the court.
Councilmember Chen asked if there was an unlimited number of times officers could do that as opposed to having a warrant for arrest.
Police Chief Hart replied that a judge would issue a warrant after 60 days if that person does not show up to court. He continued that officer would decide based on spirit of the law, the circumstances with the individual and the location that they are at.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
7 City Council
April 12,2022
Councilmember Chen said he had concerns but that they had to do something. He asked if housing vouchers being made available allow the Police to enforce anti-camping for those that are service resistant.
Deputy City Manager Hoang said the vouchers are ideal because that would mean someone is moving from interim to permanent housing.
Councilmember Chen asked for more clarification
Deputy City Manager Hoang elaborated that about 70K were provided by HUD across the U.S. Torrance received 33. He said if someone is willing to move to another community and that community has a voucher, then Torrance could move that person to that community.
City Manager Chaparyan interjected that the voucher gives access to a unit but assumes there is a unit available. He said that could free up a bed at the housing location. He said having vouchers does not entail having available units. He said there have been issues getting these available.
Councilmember Chen asked if all 40 pallets are occupied, would there be a way to increase throughput.
City Manager Chaparyan said they cannot force individuals to leave the location. He said the goal with this was to find those who are not service-resistant and move them to permanent housing eventually.
Councilmember Chen asked if Torrance Police Department could enforce the ordinance if there were an available apartment with the voucher.
City Manager Chaparyan said that once the person is moved from the location and there was an empty bed then they could enforce.
Councilmember Chen asked if the city could go after those who are service-resistant and tell them that there are 4O beds.
City Manager Chaparyan said they are already advertising to the unhoused Mayor Furey said that it is up to the court how to they want to proceed with those who do not show up to court. He added that this is for those that are not service-resistant. He said there are few Section I housing units and that there were approximately 10K waitlist for those waiting for vouchers. He asked how many vouchers there were.
City Manager Chaparyan said that it was close to 700 vouchers that were being used by Torrance residents.
Assistant City Manager Santana concurred and added that technically there were about 700 vouchers but because of rents in the area there are only able to be close to 600 in use.
Mayor Furey reviewed the Boise case and explained to the public why they cannot always enforce. He also explained that this is the best place out of city owned property to have the location.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
I City Council
April12,2022
Councilmember Mattucci said that the city must do something to stem the homelessness.
He reiterated that the City Council is working on solutions, and it will come down to enforcement.
He said the best way is to get them off the street and into programs. He said the location is not perfect but that it is the best spot out of all the options. He said incentivizing landlords to take vouchers it something that should be investigated. He said it was important to prioritize those that live on the street as there is limited space available. He mentioned overflow being important to the plan. He said that the City Council needs to protect Torrance and clean up the streets.
Councilmember Griffiths asked if an officer asks a homeless individual if they would like to stay in a bed, and they answer yes, the officer would not be allowed to take them in and put them into one of the units in that moment.
Police Chief Hart said that is currently being put in place is structured with the services provider to get people into the beds. He added that is something they are trying to work out but that there are logistical hurdles they are trying to overcome. He mentioned that housing in the City of Los Angeles designated for those using drugs is usually 40% unoccupied annually. He said they are investigating methods of reaching out to them to see if they would support taking in those under narcotics have another option.
Councilmember Kalani asked if staff has stopped looking for alternative sites.
Assistant City Manager Santana said they have never stopped looking and would continue to search in those industrial and commercial sectors.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Griffiths voting no.
The City Council took a recess at g:33 p.m. The City Council returned to the chambers at 9:50 p.m.
98. ACCEPT AND FILE ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT, REPORT ON
INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING, AND REPORT ON
COMMUNICATION WITH THOSE CHARGED WITH GOVERNANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020-21
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council accept and file the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), Report on lnternal Control over Financial Reporting, and Report on Communication with Those Charged with Governance for the City of Torrance for fiscal year 2020-21.
Councilmember Chen asked if it was correct that this audit was for a financial act that was ending June 30, 2021.
Vazquez and Company LLP CPA Cristy Canieda said that was correct.
Councilmember Chen asked if a pass would summarize this report.
Ms. Canieda concurred.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
I City Council
April 12,2022
Councilmember Chen asked it was correct that what Torrance has for how many months of reserve is one of the components for the rating that Torrance received.
Finance Director Poisson confirmed that it was one of the categories.
Councilmember Chen asked if this report was done for the first time this year.
Finance Director Poisson said that it was done every year as required and provided to City Council every year.
City Manager Chaparyan said that this is the first year brought to City Council for review but that it is always Public.
Finance Director Poisson added that this report is provided to City Council every year but that this is the first year it has been brought to public session as a separate item.
Councilmember Chen asked if about the $581K in the unassigned category for FY2020 and the $26.4M.
Finance Director poisson said that the $26.4M includes both assigned and unassigned and the $581K is unassigned onlY.
Councilmember Chen asked if there was an equivalent of the $581,449 to what it was at the end of June.
Finance Director Poisson said the equivalent was about $3.5M.
Ms. Canieda mentioned that page 155 of the report shows the historical balance from the last 10 fiscal years. She said the $581K is corresponded to the same category for the FY2021 for $22.6M. She continued that lhe 202Q column has the unassigned fund balance at $581K and for FY2O21the fund balance was at $22.6M.
A member of the Public sPoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to accept and file Annual Comprehensive Financiãt Report, Report on lnternal Control Over Financial Reporting, and Report on Communication with Those Charged with Governance for Fiscal Year 2020-21. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9C. BUDGET OVERVIEW SESSION TWO OF TWO FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022'23
OPERATING BUDGET AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Recommendation of the City Manager and Finance Director that City Council receive department updates and provide feedback on the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Operating Budget and Capital lmProvement Plan.
Councilmember Chen asked if the next time they see the forecast it would not be showing a deficit.
Finance Director Poisson stated that was correct. She said the proposed reductions from the Fire Departmentwere not included in the presentation. She added that including the $1.8M reductions then that would put Torrance in a balanced position.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April 12,2022
10 Councilmember Chen asked if it was correct that there is an assumption that all departments are fully staffed.
Finance Director Poisson said that was correct.
Councilmember Chen asked if there was a roughly 2% increase in salary and that there would still be a balanced budget with that included.
Finance Director Poisson concurred
Councilmember Chen asked for clarification on the Committee formation plan 2024 Summer Olympics complementary programs.
Community Services Director John La Rock stated that it was about having a halo footprint on most of the programming across Community Services that addresses the Summer Olympics in Paris in2024. This is to generate interest in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and to hopefully generate collaborations involving Torrance and Torrance residents.
Councilmember Chen asked about an international youth summer gãmes competition program being able to fit into the item.
Community Services Director La Rock said that would likely require a third-party arrangement staff would need to explore.
Councilmember Chen asked for more information regarding identifying underwriting sponsorship for signature programs special events.
Community Services Director La Rock said it was about offsetting general fund burdens which are low-cost items. He added that there is thought that some corporate entities in Torrance that could withstand some fundraising to the city.
Councilmember Chen asked if the non-departmental major items on page 70 from sister city to youth government seaside rancho holiday lights would fit into the category being discussed.
Community Services Director La Rock clarified that he was mentioning events that Community Services was directly involved with. He said the modeling could apply to those events and that they were currently working with Rose Float Association and Sister City program to get more aggressive fundraising and underwriting opportunities.
Councilmember Chen said investigating the heads of those non-departmental programs on activities designed to spur donations, sponsorships, or funds in their bank accounts. He asked if Community Development was operating at about 56 out of the 68-maximum staffing.
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez said that was correct.
Councilmember Chen asked if there were about 100 permit visits per day at the permit center even with the 56 staff.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that was correct and noted that they are in the process of filling those positions.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
11 City Council
April12,2022
Councilmember Chen asked why the numbers for FY2O22-23 were $-5K on the maintenance of the parking lot near Skypark and Madison. He asked if the fees for the lot could be adjusted so that they break even.
Community Development Director Ramirez stated that not all of the parking spaces are allocated at the lot. She said to take the total number of parking spaces and divide by the total expenses that were done that year and then it becomes the per space amount. lt is divided among 8 property owners each with their own different number of spaces and they each pay their share.
She said there were still a remaining amount that belonged to the city that are not occupied by any property owner.
Finance Director Poisson interjected that as they continue to formulate, they will likely adjust the professional contract services line to balance that out.
Councilmember Chen asked for more information regarding item 7 Transit Director Kim Turner elaborated that it is the enhancement of the Torrance Community Transit Program which is the senior and disabled program. She said they were working on putting an RFP our for new taxis but also investigating TNCs and how they compare to what is currently in use.
Members of the public spoke
Finance Director Poisson, addressing the budget for non-departmentalfor Armed Forces Day Parade, stated that there is the materials and contract services piece, the overtime piece of it from the Police Department and other departments. She said the difference between the $81K and the $200K was budgeted for in the salaries line items in the respective departments. ln response to the red car trolley project question, she said that it would be grant funded.
Transit Director Kim Turner clarified that the red car trolley project was an extension of the electrification of vehicles in Torrance. lt would provide service within neighborhood areas to different areas such as hotels or Old Town. She said funding is there currently and the goal was to finish the MOUs to get the funds. She added that red car is a nostalgic look, and it was more of a city circulator.
Transit Administration Manager James Lee said funding was applied for and would be receiving up to $5M for this project. lt would be completely grant funded and the operation of the service would also be completely grant funded. None would be out of the general fund.
Finance Director Poisson stated the cost of the Animal Control Services was net $220K.
She said revenues expected to be at $274K and expenses, which has salaries and contract services, expected to be at $494K. She said this included 2 animal control officers.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to accept and file item 9C. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
12 City Council
April 12,2022
9D ACCEPT AND FILE FISCAL YEAR 2021.22 MID.YEAR BUDGET REVIEW REPORT
AND APPROVE PROGRAM MODIFICATIONS
Recommendation of the Finance and Governmental Operations Committee that City Council:
1) Accept and file the FiscalYear 2021-22Mid-Year Budget Review Report; and 2) Approve increase of Water Fund expenditure budget by $2,775,000; and 3) Approve increase of General Fund Operating Fund revenue budget by $145,388; and 4) Approve increase of General Fund Operating Fund expenditure budget by $145,388; and 5) Approve increase of Self-lnsurance Fund expenditure budget by $10,254; and 6) Approve reorganization of the City Manager's Office, Communications and lnformation Technology Department, Finance Department, and Human Resources Division for an increase of $155,642; and
7) Approve addition of 7.0 Ambulance Operators, Staff Assistant position upgrade to Business Manager, and EMS Coordinator Salary Grid modifications in the Fire Department for a reduction of $4,571; and
8) Approve deletion of 1.0 Staff Assistant and Salary Grid modifications in the Finance Department for a reduction of $652.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file Fiscal Year 2Q21-22 mid-year budget review report and approve program modifications except for number 7. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve addition of 7.0 Ambulance Operators, Staff Assistant position upgrade to Business Manager, and EMS Coordinator Salary Grid modifications in the Fire Department for a reduction of $4,571. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Griffiths voting no. 9E. APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO 2O8TH STREET REIMBURSEMENT
AGREEMENT AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO CRENSHAW BOULEVARD
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS AND 2O8TH STREET EXTENSION, T.157 Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Approve first amendment to the 208th Street Reimbursement Agreement (C2018-073) between the City of Torrance and Crenshaw Del Amo Partners ll LLC that increases the monetary contribution obligation for each entity for constructing the Crenshaw Boulevard lntersection lmprovements and 208th Street Extension, T-157; and 2) Appropriate a $369,872.09 contribution from Crenshaw Del Amo Partners ll LLC to Crenshaw Boulevard lntersection lmprovements and 208th Street Extension, f -157, thereby increasing the project budget from $5,454,265 to 95,824,137.09.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
13 City Council
April 12,2022
9F.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
APPROVE CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND AWARD PUBLIC WORKS AGREEMENT FOR SIDEWALK REPATR FOR DISABLED ACCESSIBILITY (CDBG #602350-21), l-135 Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Determine that the approval of Sidewalk Repair for Disabled Accessibility (CDBG #602350-21), l-135 is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15301(c) of the Guidelines implementing California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"); and
2) Approve the specifications for the Sidewalk Repair for Disabled Accessibility (CDBG #602350-21), l-135 (82022-01); and
3) Award a public works agreement to Kalban, lnc. ("Kalban") of Santa Clarita, CA (P,2022-01) in the amount of $1,293,780 and authorize a 5% contingency of $64,689 for construction of the Sidewalk Repair for Disabled Accessibility (CDBG #60235Q-21), l-135, for a two-year period beginning April 12, 2022 and ending April 1 1, 2024.
Councilmember Griffiths said that more trees than the 123 that are replacing the 122 trees should be planted, especially considering the maturity of the trees being replaced.
Public Works Engineering Manager John Dettle said that he would inquire with each resident from each house to see if any of them would want two trees.
Councilmember Griffiths suggested utilizing some of the extra money left over from this project or supervisory services towards more trees.
Public Works Director Craig Bilezerian noted that the funding for this is community development block grant funds and TDA article 3 funds so that makes them ineligible funding sources for trees. He said they are looking at an adopt-a-tree program for the streetscape side of the department and other things to fill in the empty areas. He noted that municipal code restricts to about 1 tree every 50 feet.
MOTION: Councilmember Ashcraft moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. ïhe motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9G ADOPT RESOLUTION TO RENEW GENERAL SERV¡CES AGREEMENT WITH
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council adopt a RESOLUTION to renew a General Services Agreement with the County of Los Angeles for a five-year period beginning July 1 ,2022 and ending June 30, 2027.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-30 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA AUTHORIZING THE
EXECUTION OF A FIVE-YEAR GENERAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-30. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 14 City Council
April12,2Q22
9H.DETERMINE CITY COUNCIL DARK NIGHTS
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Amend the following Tuesdays in June 2022 as Council Dark Nights: Tuesday, June 7 and June 21; and
2) Declare previously determined dark nights, June 14 and June 28, be reestablished as Council meeting dates; and
3) Declare the following Tuesdays as Council Dark Nights from July 1 through December 31 , 2022: July 5, July 19, August 2, August 16, August 30, September 6, September 20, October 4, October 18, November 1, November 22, November 29, December 13, and December 27.
A member of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Ashcraft moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9I. APPROVE TORRANCE'S SALUTE TO UNITED STATES MILITARY PROGRAM Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve Torrance's Salute to the United States Military program and events, for an amount not-to-exceed $12,000.
Councilmember Griffiths asked if the concert in the park was going to be the PV Symphony Assistant to the City Manager Jamie Le answered that there would be two performances and that one would be the symphony and the other would be the chorale.
Councilmember Walser stated his opposition to spending $8K on a flyover that would only last a few moments.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to approve Torrance's salute to United States military program. Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-2 with Councilmembers Chen and Walser voting no.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
15 City Council
April12,2022
9J CONCUR WITH ADOPTION OF MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION UNDER
GALIFORNTA ENVTRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEOA) AND AWARD
AGREEMENTS FOR VAN NESS AVENUE WATER WELLS AND TRANSMISSION MAIN, l-145
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Concur with Planning Commission's adoption of mitigated negative declaration under CEQA, for the Van Ness Water Wells and Transmission Main, l-145; and 2) Approve the plans and specifications for the construction of Van Ness Water Wells and Transmission Main, l-145; and
3) Award a public works agreement to Vido Artukovich & Son, lnc. / Vidmar, lnc. a JV of South El Monte, CA (82021-51) in the amount of $14,125,857 and authorize a 5o/o contingency of $706,292.85 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $14,832,149.85 to construct the Van Ness Water Wells and Transmission Main, l-145 for a two-year period beginning April 12,2022 and ending April 1 1,2Q24; and 4) Approve a consulting services agreement with Z &K Consultants, lnc. of Orange, CA (RFP 82021-31) in the amount of $312,248 to provide construction inspection services for the Van Ness Water Wells and Transmission Main, l-145 for a two-year period beginning April 12,2022 and ending April 1 1,2024; and
5) Approve a consulting services agreement with Hamilton & Associates, lnc. of Torrance, CA (RFP 8,2021-32) in the amount of $103,630 to provide materials testing services for the Van Ness Water Wells and Transmission Main, l-145 for a two-year period beginning April 12,2022 and ending April '1 1,2024.
Councilmember Griffiths inquired on how much water this would provide Torrance.
Public Works Engineering Manager Steve Finton said that it was about 10% water use that Torrance is pumping per year. He said when all the wells are online then it will be 43% of the water consumption. He said this would include all 6 wells.
A member of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. ïhe motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9L.ADOPT RESOLUTIONS TO DENY CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND PRECISE PLAN
OF DEVELOPMENT TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF AN AUTOMATIC CARWASH ON PROPERW LOCATED IN THE C3.PP ZONE AT 2880 SEPULVEDA BOULEVARD. CUP21-00008, PRE21-00006: PM DESIGN GROUP (PEGAH FAZELT)
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council adopt RESOLUTIONS reflecting their decision to uphold an appeal and deny a Conditional Use Permit and Precise Plan of Development to allow the construction and operation of an automatic caruvash on property located in the C3-PP Zone at 2880 Sepulveda Boulevard.
Councilmember Mattucci asked if it would be possible to have a resolution ready that night giving the option to deny the project.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
16 City Council
April 12,2022
Community Development Director Ramirez said usually if a project is being brought forth then there must be conditions if it is going to be denied. She said they do not know what those conditions are going to be when the recommendation is brought fonruard.
City Attorney Sullivan concurred. He said staff does not know how to form conditions if the City Council is going to do a rejection. For it to stand up in court, it must include the facts that the City Council finds.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-31A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, UPHOLDING AN APPEAL AND DENYING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9, CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE 1 OF ÏHE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF AN AUTOMATIC CARWASH ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE C3-PP ZONE AT 2880 SEPULVEDA BOULEVARD.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-32 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, UPHOLDING AN APPEAL AND DENYING A PRECISE PLAN OF DEVELOPMENT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9, CHAPTER 6, ARTICLE 2 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW THE
CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF AN AUTOMATIC CARWASH ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE C3-PP ZONE AT 2880 SEPULVEDA BOULEVARD.
MOTION: CouncilmemberWalser moved to adopt Resolution No.2022-31 and Resolution No. 2022-32. Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9M APPROPRIATE FUNDS AND AWARD CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT TO
PROVIDE DESIGN SERVICES FOR CITYWIDE STORM DRAIN REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATTON (REGTNA ALLEY), t-t 92
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Appropriate $867,075 of the Urban Flood Protection Grant Program Fund to the Citywide Storm Drain Replacement and lnstallation, l-192 in FY2021-22 for a new project total of $4,957,012.23 as of FY2021-22; and
2) Award a consulting services agreement to CWE of Fullerton, CA (RFP 82022-03) in the amount of $99,990 to provide design services for the Citywide Storm Drain Replacement and lnstallation (Regina Alley), l-192 for a two-year period beginning April 12,2022 and ending April 1 1,2024.
A member of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9N. ADOPT RESOLUTION SETTING PAY RANGES FOR ALL JOB CLASSES Recommendation of the City Managerthat City Counciladopt a RESOLUTION setting pay ranges for all job classes in compliance with California Public Employee Retirement System (CaIPERS) requirements for reporting employee pay.
Members of the public spoke.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
17 City Council
April12,2Q22
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-33 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE 2A22 PAY RANGES REPORT FOR ALL JOB CLASSES.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-33. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 90 APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN ENGINEERS/TORRANCE FISCAL
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION (TFEA) AND MANAGEMENT FOR LEAD SENIOR
PLANNING ASSOCIATE
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the Side Letter Agreement between the Engineers/Torrance Fiscal Employees Association (TFEA) and Management, in the amount of $5,880, which adjusts the Lead Senior Planning Associate Premium.
MOTION: Councilmember Ashcraft moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9P. APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN TORRANCE MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES/AFSCME LOCAL II17 AND MANAGEMENT
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the Side Letter Agreement between Torrance Municipal Employees/AFsCME Local 1117 and Management, in the amount of $414,198, which increases the Water System Operator Series by 15o/o, corrects a mathematical error on pay rate, and adds additional premiums for certain employees in the Wastewater Division of the Public Works Department.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9Q APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN ENGINEERS/TORRANCE FISCAL
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION (TFEA) AND MANAGEMENT FOR SENIOR FIRE
PREVENTION SPECIALIST AND FIRE PREVENTION SPEGIALIST
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the implementation of a trial period for the addition of a 4110 schedule for Senior Fire Prevention Specialists and Fire Prevention Specialists Side LetterAgreement between the EngineersiTorrance Fiscal Employees Association (TFEA) and Management.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
18 City Council
April 12,2022
10. HEARINGS
10A.CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING AND ADOPT RESOLUTION APPROVING
ALLOCATION PLAN FOR HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM AMERTCAN RESCUE PLAN ("HOME-ARP") FUNDS AND AppROpRtATE FUNDS Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Conduct a Public Hearing on the HOME - American Rescue Plan ("ARP") Allocation Plan and consider any testimony received during the hearing; and 2) Adopt a RESOLUTION approving the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan; and 3) Appropriate $1,710,939 of the Home-ARP Grant Funds to fund activities.
Councilmember Chen referenced page I and asked if those were additional funds that would be used to supplement the homeless services.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that this fund could supplement that but not only that. She said it must be used citywide so it would need to assist the homeless overall.
Councilmember Chen asked about the flexibility of the funds.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that depending on how much was being moved around would depend on there being another public hearing. She said there were certain percentages that could change without needing to return and notify the community that the allocation is being changed.
A member of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-34 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA AUTHORIZING THE
HOME-ARP ALLOCATION PLAN AND ADOPTINGTHE HOME-ARP ALLOCATION PLAN FOR
THE USE OF FUNDS,
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-34. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS - None Scheduled.
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES - None Scheduled.
I3. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
ln Order, Councilmember Ashcraft, Chen, Griffiths, Kalani, Mattucci, Walser, and Mayor Furey spoke.
Councilmember Walser asked for and received concurrence from the City Council to have staff investigate methods to not have Torrance pay for shopping cart returns.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
19 City Council
April12,2022
14.CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1
ADJOURNMENT15
At 12:52 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361 , members of the Torrance City Council and staff may participate in this meeting in person or via teleconference or other electronic means. The Council Chamber is closed to the public in the interest of maintaining appropriate social distancing and in order to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. Members of the public are encouraged to watch the meeting via CitiCable Channel 3 (Spectrum) and Channel 31 (Frontier), streaming on TorranceCA.Gov, Facebook @ City of Torrance CA Government, and YouTube Channel TorranceCitiCABLE. The public is also encouraged to participate before the meeting by emailing [email protected] or during the meeting by calling 310-618-2404. Tuesday, April 19,2022 is a Council Dark Night.
MOTION: Councilmember Ashcraft moved to adjourn the City Council meeting Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Poirier Approved on May '10,2022
City Cierk of the City of Torrance
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April12,2022
20