INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNGIL - APRIL 26. 2022
SUBJECT
1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
64. 68.
6C.
6D.
6E.
6F.
6G
6H.
6t.
6J.
6K.
61. 7.
8. 84.
88. 8C.
8D.
8E.
8F.
8G
8H.
9. 9A.
98. 9C.
9D
9E
OPEN¡NG CEREMONIES
Callto Order/Roll Call I
Flag Salute/lnvocation 1
Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading I
Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental ltems I
Council Committee Meetings and Announcements 2
COMMUNITY MATTERS
Resolution No. 2022-35 honoring Police Sergeant Kelly Yokoe 2 Resolution No.2022-36 honoring Ted Symons 2
Resolution No. 2022-37 honoring Police Officer Philip Yapelli 2 Resolution No.2022-38 honoring Police Lieutenant Patrick Ghesquiere 2 Proclamation on National Teacher Day 3
Proclamation on Public Service Recognition Week 3
Proclamation on Municipal Clerks Week 3
Proclamation on Paint the Town Purple Week 3
Proclamation on National Small Business Week 3
Proclamation on California Travel and Tourism Month 3
Recognition of Hometown Heroes Banner Recipients tor 2022 3 Community Driven Strategic Plan Announcement 3
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 3
CONSENT CALENDAR
Approve City Council Minutes 3
Authorize Purchase Order to Complete the Replacement of Local Government Radio Field Equipment 3
Approve Agreement for Selling and Loading of Transit Access Pass (TAP) Fare 3
Authorize Payment for Annual Maintenance of Public Safety lnformationSystem 3 Appropriate Funds and Award Contract Services Agreement for Purchase and lnstallation of an Audio Visual System for Regional Transit Center 4
Approve Categorical Exemption Under CEQA and Award Public Works Agreement for Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190 4
Appropriate Transportation lmpact Fee Funds and Award Consulting Services Agreement for Pacific Coast Highway and Crenshaw Boulevard lntersection lmprovements, T-143 4
Accept Substitution of Subdivider Agreement from Storm Properties to Lennar Homes of California, LLC for Tract Map No. 82897 and Accept Subdivision Agreement from Lennar Homes of California, LLC 4
ADM I NISTRATIVE MATTERS
COVID-19 Recovery Update and Determine Direction from County of LA and the State of California
Adopt Resolution Authorizing Virtual City Council, Commission, Committee, Board, and Other City Bodies Meetings Under AB 361 Accept and File Updates on Coyote Management Plan and Coyote Abatement Six-Month lnterval Report
Provide Public Health Department Research Update
Adopt Ordinance Amending Section 45.6.6 of Division 4 of the Torrance Municipal Code Related to Anti-Camping
PAGE
City Council
April26,2022
5 5
5-6
6 6
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
9F.
9G
9H.
9t.
9J.
9K.
Accept and File Report and Provide Direction Regarding Consideration To Accept Funding Under HOME lnvestment Partnerships Program 7 Review and Determine City's Position on ltems to be Voted on at the 2022 Southern California Association of Governments GeneralAssembly 7 Commence Approval Process for Military Equipment Use Policy I Accept and File Report and Provide Direction Regarding Rent Stabilization Options for Tenants of Mobile Home Parks
Approve First Amendment to Subscription Agreement for Electronic Agenda Management Software and Video Streaming Services Approve Sid e Letter Ag reement between E n g i neersiTorrance Fiscal Employees Association (TFEA) and Management for Senior Account Clerk
HEARINGS
Consider Appeal of Planning Commission Adoption of Mitigated Negative Declaration, and Approval of Conditional Use Permit to Allow Construction of Five Light lndustrial Buildings, in Conjunction with Division of Lot to Allow Subdivision into Five Parcels, on Property Located in the M-2 Zone Bounded to the North by 190th Street, to the East by Western Avenue, to the South by 195th Street, and to the West by Gramercy Place EAS21-00002, CUP21-00022,
DlV21 -0001 0: Patrick Russell
AGENCY AGENDAS
8-11
11-12
12 10.
104.
11 12
13 14
15 SECOND READING ORDINANCES
13 13
13 13
1, 13
14 COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT
At 10:42 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, May 10,2022, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April26,2022
April26,2022
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALLTO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on April 26,2022, at 5:30 p.m in the Council Chamber and via teleconference.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
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
Agenda item 14 was considered out of order at this time. 14, CLOSED 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) Real Property - Conference with Real Property Negotiator, and 14C) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation - Litigation pursuant to California Government Code 554957.6, California Government Code 554956.8 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.
2.FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Chen.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Griffiths.
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON NG 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 Tonance Boulevard and on the City's website on Monday, April 18,2022,with the revised agenda posted on Thursday, April 21,2022.
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 Chen and passed by 7-0.
4. WITHDRAWN. DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
City Manager Chaparyan stated there was a request to continue item 10A to May 10,2022. Supplemental material was available for items 8G, 9C, 91, 104 and Oral Communications.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
1 City Council
April26,2022
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Furey asked to adjourn the City Council meeting in memory of Ralph lsmael. He said the CDD has been directed to study the effectiveness of the historic preservation programs and encouraged the public to participate in the survey. He said Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation is planning the annual South Bay Festival of the Arts. He went over the National Mayors' Challenge for Water Conservation.
City Clerk Poirier reminded the public about the coming Municipal Election.
Fire Chief Martin Serna reminded the public about the monthly Torrance Refinery Company test siren.
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. RESOLUTION NO. 2022.35 HONOR¡NG POLICE SERGEANT KELLY YOKOE UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY OF TORRANCE AFTER TWENW.SIX YEARS OF
SERVICE
Resolution No. 2022-35 honoring Police Sergeant Kelly Yokoe upon his retirement from the City of Torrance after twenty-six years of service.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-35. Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
68. RESOLUTION NO. 2022.36 HONORING TED SYMONS OF THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY OF
TORRANCE AFTER TWENTY-FOUR YEARS OF SERVICE
Resolution No. 2022-36 honoring Ted Symons upon his retirement from the City of Torrance after Twenty-Four years of service.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-36.
Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6C. RESOLUTION NO. 2022.37 HONORING POLICE OFFICER PHILIP YAPELLI UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY OF TORRANGE AFTER TWENW.ONE YEARS
OF SERVICE
Resolution No. 2022-37 honoring Police Officer Philip Yapelli upon his retirement from the City of Torrance after Twenty-One years of service.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to Resolution No. 2022-37. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6D. RESOLUTION NO. 2022.38 HONORING POLICE LIEUTENANT PATRICK
GHESQUIERE UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY OF TORRANCE AFTER
TWENW YEARS OF SERVICE
Resolution No. 2022-38 honoring Police Lieutenant Patrick Ghesquiere upon his retirement from the City of Torrance after Twenty years of service.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to Resolution No. 2022-38. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
2 City Council
April26,2022
6E.
6F.
PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 3,2022 AS NATIONAL TEACHER DAY IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE
PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 1.7,2022 AS PUBLIC SERVIGE RECOGNITION
WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6G. PROCLAMATION DEGLARING MAY 1.7, 2022 AS MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK IN
THE CITY OF TORRANCE
PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 7.14, 2022 AS PAINT THE TOWN PURPLE
WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANGE
PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 1.7,2022 AS NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS
WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 2022 AS CALIFORNIA TRAVEL AND TOURISM
MONTH IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
RECOGNITION OF HOMETOWN HEROES BANNER RECIPIENTS FOR 2022
COMMUNITY DRIVEN STRATEGIC PLAN ANNOUNGEMENT
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
CONSENT CALENDAR
APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of March 29,2Q22, and April 1,2022.
AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER TO COMPLETE THE REPLACEMENT OF LOCAL
GOVERNMENT RADIO FIELD EQUIPMENT
Recommendation of the Communications and lnformation Technology Director that City Council authorize a purchase order with Commline, lnc. of Gardena, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $143,800 for the purchase of sixty (60) P25 Trunked mobile radios and related accessories.
8C.APPROVE AGREEMENT FOR SELLING AND LOADING OF TRANSIT ACCESS PASS (TAP) FARE
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council approve an agreement between the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the City of Torrance to sell and load Transit Access Pass (TAP) fare products beginning October 7,2Q21. 8D.AUTHORIZE PAYMENT FOR ANNUAL MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC SAFETY
INFORMATION SYSTEM
Recommendation of the Police Chief, Fire Chief, and Communications & lnformation Technology Director that City Council authorize payment to Motorola Solutions of Chicago, lL in the amount of $144,702.35 for annual maintenance of the Public Safety lnformation System for a one-year period retroactively beginning February 1,2022 and ending January 31,2023.
6H.
61. 6J.
6K.
6L.
7 8.
84. 88.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
3 City Council
April26,2022
8E.APPROPRIATE FUNDS AND AWARD CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF AN AUDIO VISUAL SYSTEM FOR REGIONAL
TRANSIT CENTER
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council:
1) Appropriate $127,981.04 of Municipal Operator Service lmprovement Program Grant fund to FEAP 764; and
2) Award a contract services agreement to Golden Star Technology of Cerritos, CA (8.2022-02) for an amount not-to-exceed $127,981 .04 for the purchase and installation of an audio visual system for the Mary K. Giordano Regional Transit Center from April26, 2422to September 30,2022.
8F APPROVE CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND AWARD PUBLIC WORKS AGREEMENT FOR ARTERIAL ROADWAY STRIPING, T.1 90
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Adopt finding of a categorical exemption per staff determination, pursuant to Section 15301(c) of the guidelines implementing California Environmental Quality Act (CEOA) for Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190; and
2) Approve the plans and specifications for Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190 (82021-27) project; and
3) Award a public works agreement to Sterndahl Enterprises, lnc. of Sun Valley, CA (82021-27) in the amount of $342,150, and authorize a 15% contingency in the amount of $51 ,322,for construction of Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190 for a two-year period beginning April 26, 2022 and ending April 25, 2024. 8G APPROPRIATE TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEE FUNDS AND AWARD
CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY AND CRENSHAW BOU LEVARD I NTERSECTION I M PROVEM ENTS, T -1 43 Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Appropriate $578,000 in Transportation lmpact Fee (TlF) funds to the Pacific Coast Highway and Crenshaw Boulevard lntersection lmprovements, T-143 for a new not-to-exceed project budget of $1,078,000; and
2) Award a consulting services agreement to Psomas of Los Angeles, CA (RFP 82021-35) in the amount of $271,567 for preparation of a Project Study Report for the Pacific Coast Highway and Crenshaw Boulevard lntersection lmprovements, T-143 for a two-year period beginning April 26, 2022 and ending April 25, 2024. 8H.ACCEPT SUBSTITUTION OF SUBDIVIDER AGREEMENT FROM STORM PROPERTIES TO LENNAR HOMES OF CALIFORNIA, LLC FOR TRACT MAP NO. 82897 AND ACCEPT SUBDIVISION AGREEMENT FROM LENNAR HOMES OF
CALIFORNIA, LLC
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Accept substitution of subdivider agreement from Storm Properties to Lennar Homes of California, LLC for Tract Map No. 82897; and
2) Accept a substitute subdivision agreement and subdivision bonds from Lennar Homes of California, LLC to guarantee completion of the public improvements for a one-year period beginning April 4, 2022 and ending April 3, 2023.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to approve the Consent Calendar in its entirety Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
4 City Council
April26,2022
94. 9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
COVID.1g RECOVERY UPDATE AND OPTIONS FOR RESPONDING TO COUNTY
AND STATE ORDERS
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Receive COVID-19 Recovery Update (for Discussion Only); and2) Determine whatever action deemed appropriate for responding to Orders from the County of Los Angeles and the State of California Regarding COVID-19.
A member of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file item 94. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
98. ADOPT RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING VIRTUAL CITY COUNGIL, COMMISSION, COMMITTEE, BOARD, AND OTHER CITY BODIES MEETINGS UNDER AB 361 Recommendation of the City Manager and City Attorney that City Council:
1) Adopt a RESOLUTION making findings and determinations under AB 361 for the continuation of virtual meetings and authorizing virtual City Council, Commission, Board, and other City meetings pursuant to AB 361; and
2) Approve continuation of waiver to conduct virtual meetings; and 3) Report 30 days findings to continue virtual meetings in compliance with AB 361.
Councilmember Griffiths said that he would prefer to see some of the Commissions that do not get many crowds be allowed to participate publicly.
Members of the public spoke.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-39 A RESOLUTIONOF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE TO IMPLEMENT
TELECONFERENCING REQUIREMENTS DURING A PROCLAIMED STATE OF EMERGENCY
FOR ALL CITY COUNCIL, COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, BOARD, AND OTHER CITY MEETINGS PURSUANT TO ASSEMBLY BILL 361.
MOTION: Councilmember Ashcraft moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-39.
Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Griffiths voting no.
9C.ACCEPT AND FILE UPDATES ON GOYOTE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND COYOTE
ABATEMENT SIX-MONTH INTERVAL REPORT
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that City Council accept and file updates on the Coyote Management Plan and coyote abatement six-month interval report.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to accept and file item 9C and continue the six-month interval with report. He added to the motion that it would continue researching a regional approach. Councilmember Chen seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Mayor Furey voting no.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
5 City Council
April26,2022
Mayor Furey explained his vote that the locations where the coyotes are being trapped is giving the community a false sense of safety. He said education for the public on safety tips would be a better solution.
9D.PROVIDE PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT RESEARCH UPDATE
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council receive Public Health Department Research Update.
Councilmember Mattucci said that it was necessary to separate from County of LA Health Department but admitted that it would be difficult. He said it would add revenue and surrounding benefits to the city.
Councilmember Chen concurred with Councilmember Mattucci. He said more research on net-zero cost would be important. He said finding out if less taxes going to LA County Health Department after implementing an independent program would be crucial.
Councilmember Griffiths said the big part for breaking away would be the financials and he has not seen many numbers on the effects.
Councilmember Walser concurred with Councilmember Griffiths. He added that he was concerned about litigation that the city could be opening itself up to. He pointed to Long Beach as a research opportunity.
Members of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager that City Council receive Public Health Department Research Update and for staff to return with a report with emphasis on financials and liabilities of a program. Councilmember Chen seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9E. ADOPT ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 45.6.6 OF DIVISION 4 OF THE TORRANCE MUN¡CIPAL CODE RELATED TO ANTI.CAMPING
Recommendation of the City Attorney that City Council:
1) Adopt an ORDINANCE amending Division 4 by amending Section 45.6.6 of the Torrance Municipal Code to clarify the punishment for camping in public places; and 2) Approve an Ordinance Summary for publication.
Members of the public spoke
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3899 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE AMENDING DIVISION 4 BY AMENDING sEcTtoN 45.6.6.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Ordinance No. 3899. Councilmember Chen seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
6 City Council
April26,2O22
9F ACCEPT AND FILE REPORT
CONSIDERATION TO ACCEPT
PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM
AND PROVIDE DIRECTION
FUNDING UNDER HOME
REGARDING
INVESTMENT
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Accept and file the report on the HOME lnvestment Partnerships Program; and 2) Provide direction regarding the consideration to accept Fiscal Year 2022-23 funding allocation in the approximate amount of $512,936 under the HOME lnvestment Partnerships Program.
Councilmember Griffiths voiced concern about the 25% contribution exclusive of the administrative fees. He asked if it was budgeted for.
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez said that it was budgeted for. She added that the HIP is funded through the Community Services Department and those funds can be used to expand programs and services to seniors and disabled individuals.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked if the funds in the HIP program are used up every year.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that they do Councilmember Ashcraft asked how that program is advertised to seniors and disabled individuals.
Community Services Director John La Rock said it has been primarily word of mouth from prior recipients, many of which are revisited for the issues they have at their homes. He added there was advertising through the website and the Commission on Aging.
A member of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file the report and also consider accepting the funding. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9G REVIEW AND DETERMINE CITY'S POSITION ON ITEMS TO BE VOTED ON AT THE 2022 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS GENERAL
ASSEMBLY
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve City's position on the following:
1) Consideration of Proposed Amendments to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Bylaws; and
2) Adoption of Fiscal Year 2022-23 General Fund Budget and Membership Assessment Schedule; and
3) Ratification of 2022-23 Slate of Elected SCAG Officers.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to adopt the recommendation of staff and the Mayor that Councilmember Griffiths represent Torrance in the SCAG meeting and approve all three items. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
7 City Council
April26,2022
9H. COMMENCE APPROVAL PROCESS FOR MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council commence the approval process for the military equipment use policy in accordance with Government Code section 7071.
Councilmember Mattucci said that Torrance should have the best weapons possible to protect the city.
Mayor Furey said that this policy would fit all facets of the law Councilmember Chen said that he was in support of the officers are well-equipped to protect the city.
Members of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to concur with the recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council commence the approval process for the military equipment use policy in accordance with Government Code section 7071. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
The City Council took a recess at 8:40 p.m. The City Council returned to the chambers at 8:55 p.m.
91.ACCEPT AND FILE REPORT AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING RENT
STABILIZATION OPTIONS FOR TENANTS OF MOBILE HOME PARKS
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Accept and file the report on Rent Stabilization Options for Tenants of Mobile Home Parks; and
2) Provide direction regarding Rent Stabilization Options for Tenants of Mobile Home Parks.
Mayor Furey asked if the city could adopt an ordinance that mirrors 48978 for Torrance alone City Attorney Sullivan said that would likely make it considered more restrictive so it would be allowed, but that he would investigate more.
Mayor Furey asked if it would be the same if they were to adopt A.81482 and including mobile homes as well.
City Attorney Sullivan said that would be correct.
Mayor Furey said that would require legislative action from Sacramento.
City Attorney Sullivan said that would be whether the state occupied the field and whether they could go beyond that.
Mayor Furey said that there were eight cities that do have control Community Ðevelopment Director Ramirez corrected Mayor Furey and said that itwas local rent stabilization ordinance. She continued that because there was no ordinance for mobile home parks, the City Council could create an ordinance to fit whatever needs the city needs. She said to go through the state, Torrance could go through a legislator to carry a bill for Torrance also.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
I City Council
April26,2022
Mayor Furey said the downsides to rent stabilization was that no one knows how costly or efficient it would be.
Community Development Director Ramirez concurred. She added that adopting a local ordinance would mean having to manage the ordinance. Then there would be a rent stabilization board established that would oversee the ordinance. Tenants could go through that board if there was something found to be unfair, and staff does not know how often that would be.
Councilmember Griffiths did not agree with the exclusion of the mobile homes for AB1482.
Councilmember Ashcraft said the rent increases were excessive for the mobile home park.
She asked if the city would have to pay for board members if a new board were to be created.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that it would be part of the developed ordinance. She said paying commissioners now would involve some type of stipend and that would also apply to this board.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked about the possible conversion of the land to another use and mentioned that the covenant would be up around 2030-37.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that the was a covenant to keep it a mobile home park until 2037. She said other mobile home parks may not have that type of covenant. She said conversion is long, tedious, and expensive but can be done. She added that, if rent stabilization is the path taken, mobile home park owners could ask for more financial assistance if there is something that happens to the property.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked if any decision could be made retroactive.
City Attorney Sullivan said that retroactivity is usual against the law but that there were times where it could happen. He said that ordinances generally go into effect on the date of adoption.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked if the reason being that the residents could be strongly adversely affected would help with retroactivity.
City Attorney Sullivan responded that the courts would look at that as there would likely be a challenge to making it retroactive. He added that the property owners would argue that they did not have notice of the law when they made their decision and they had operated in good faith.
Councilmember Ashcraft said that essentially the residents are stuck with the increase.
City Attorney Sullivan stated that they would be stuck with what was put into place. He added that there was an agreement to split it up but that there was a condition that if there was action from the city that the agreement would go away.
Councilmember Mattucci argued the problems with rent control as landlords will tend to max out. He said making it retroactive would open Torrance to litigation. He continued that there needed to be more research before making major decisions.
Community Development Director Ramirez clarified that that A81482 has a 5% initial percentage plus whatever the CPI from April to April up to a maximum of 10%. She said it was this way with 48978. She listed previous years data to explain that unless the CPI is 5% then the property owner cannot get to that maximum 10%. She added that A8978 would have reached the full 5% given some of previous years data.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
I City Council
April26,2022
Councilmember Mattucci said that CPI would likely be over 5%. He said these were still large increases.
Councilmember Walser asked about rent stabilization in Torrance.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that the only rent stabilization in Torrance is entirely what the state has done.
Councilmember Walser asked if other cities have done rent stabilization and if it was strong or weak.
Community Development Director Ramirez said other cities have implemented their own and that data from the report showed differing amounts by city.
Councilmember Walser said he was generally for free markets and legislation gets in the way of that. He said grey/black markets can develop from over-legislating.
Members of the public spoke
Councilmember Kalani asked how long it would take to do rent stabilization if that decision was made, and if it was, could it trigger rent increases between now and then.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that staff would work with the legal office to develop an ordinance. She said it would take a minimum of 30 days to develop an ordinance and then it would go to City Council. She added that rents would not freeze but that there would need to be a 90-day notice from the mobile home park. She said they were investigating a date for it to go into effect so even if adopted after that date, then the rents would have to be effective on that date so there would be no gouging.
Councilmember Kalani asked if it could be limited to low-income mobile home residents.
Community Development Director Ramirez responded that it would be difficult and time- consuming as there would have to be income verification on over 1000 mobile home spaces.
Councilmember Kalani asked about using the HIP and Home programs for this.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that the Home program could be used for tenant rents but cautioned that it can go away per annum. She said the Section 8 program would be opening soon for them to apply for. She added that since there was no rent stabilization organization in Torrance, the city would not need to comply with 481482 or 48978 in terms of setting up rent stabilization.
Councilmember Kalani asked how they could hear from the owner of the park.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that staff could surveythe mobile home park owners and see if there was a response.
Mayor Furey said that they would be noticed if they moved fonruard with something Community Development Director Ramirez said they would notice the owners and the tenants
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
10 City Council
April26,2O22
Councilmember Griffiths asked if using the Planning Commission as the board was a possibility.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that it would not likely be allowed so there would need to be a new board created.
Councilmember Griffiths asked if the rate the property owners are asking for would not have been allowed if the mobile homes were included in the state bill.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that the first rental increase would have been allowed because it was within the rate. The second rate is not known as the April CPI was not released.
Councilmember Griffiths said that he supports free market initiatives but that mobile home residents should be getting the same benefits as others in the state. He called for investigating a rent stabilization ordinance leaving the CPI and cap percentages as an unknown which would later be defined. He said to use the A81482 numbers as a starting point. He added that the city should advocate to the state to give mobile homeowners the same benefits.
Mayor Furey recalled a previous time when tenants were being evicted and the city implemented a moratorium.
Councilmember Chen inquired on if the Planning Commission could be involved in any way with the board.
Community Development Director Ramirez stated that it would have to be the creation of an entirely new board. She said the board could have owners and tenants and some that have something at stake.
Councilmember Mattucci reiterated the importance of researching further and that rent stabilization would not have the effect that some think it would. He said there would be a limit to how much the property owner could charge from various factors such as supply and demand and tax recuperation. He said this could backfire and cause property repurpose.
Mayor Furey said he disagreed with the states decision to exclude mobile homeowners from the state rent stabilization bills.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to advocate to the state to expand AB1482 to include mobile home parks, have staff investigate creating an ordinance to mirror 481482 as a starting point with Council discretion to lower or raise numbers along with reports on all information for City Councilto run and enforce rent stabilization. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion.
The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Mattucci voting no. 9J.APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT FOR
ELECTRONIC AGENDA MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE AND VIDEO STREAMING
SERVICES
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the first amendment to subscription agreement with eScribe Software Ltd. of Markham, Ontario, Canada (C2021-005) to reflect the addition of the Public Speakers Module.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked if the city has started paying on this yet Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
11 City Council
April26,2022
Deputy City Manager Viet Hoang said that was correct. He said the city could start paying now that the features are in place.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked when that would be
Cable and Community Relations Manager Michael Smith explained that the project was delayed because expected features were not included. He said there was a misunderstanding on requirements so there were more discussions to resolve the issues. He added that payment is very close as the problems are resolving.
Councilmember Ashcraft said that the vendor should not have been receiving payment since the errors were on their side.
City Manager Chaparyan said that reupping the contract with the current vendor was very expensive and that e-Scribe is newer and price competitive. He said no payments have not been authorized until the system has been tested and approved by city staff.
Cable and Community Relations Manager Smith said that the Granicus contract was extended through June 30 and another extension would go through the end of September to ensure the voting system, minute taking and streaming services. He added the switching over would likely be in July.
Councilmember Ashcraft said they should not be paying unless they know it is working.
Cable and Community Relation Manager Smith stated that over a 3-year period there was a nearly $400K difference between Granicus and e-Scribe.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to approve the first amendment to the subscription agreement. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9K.APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN ENGINEERS/TORRANCE FISCAL
EMPLOYEES ASSOCTATTON (TFEA) AND MANAGEMENT FOR SENTOR ACCOUNT CLERK
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the Side Letter Agreement between the Engineers/Torrance Fiscal Employees Association (TFEA) and Management, for an estimated cost of $85,520, to update job classification titles and adjust pay ranges for Senior Account Clerk.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve the side letter agreement.
Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
12 City Council
April26,2022
10. 104.
HEAR¡NGS
CONSIDER APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION ADOPTION OF MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION, AND APPROVAL OF GONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO
ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF FIVE LIGHT INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS, IN
CONJUNCTION WITH DIVISION OF LOT TO ALLOW SUBDIVISION INTO FIVE PARCELS, ON PROPERW LOCATED IN THE M.2 ZONE BOUNDED TO THE NORTH BY î9OTH STREET, TO THE EAST BY WESTERN AVENUE, TO THE SOUTH BY 195TH STREET, AND TO THE WEST BY GRAMERCY PLACE (APNS 7352-016-040, 7352-016-042, AND 7352-016-04/) EAS2I-00002, CUp21-00022, DtV2l-00010:
PATRTCK RUSSELL (T.t. COMMERCE CENTER, LLC)
Recommendation of the Planning Commission and the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Deny the appeal; and
2) Adopt a RESOLUTION adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Torrance Gateway Project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act; and 3) Adopt RESOLUTIONS approving a Conditional Use Permit to allow construction of five light industrial buildings, in conjunction with a Division of Lot to allow a subdivision into five parcels, on property located in the M-2Zone bounded to the north by 190th Street, to the east by Western Avenue, to the south by 195th Street, and to the west by Gramercy Place (APNs 7352-0 1 6-0 40, 7 352-016-042, and 7352-0 16-044).
Mayor Furey stated due to request of appellant, this item is continued to May 10,2022" MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to continue the item to a date certain of May 10, 2022. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS - None Scheduled.
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES - None Scheduled
13. CITY COUNGIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
ln Order, Councilmember Griffiths, Kalani, Mattucci, Walser, Ashcraft, Chen, and Mayor Furey spoke.
Councilmember Griffiths announced that Cal Cities joined the fight against SBg Councilmember Walser asked for and received concurrence from the City Council to have staff gather information for City Council on use of photographs at city event of Councilmembers that are running for election. He said the report should have current policy or practice, the history of the current policy or practice and potential options going fonruard.
14. CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
13 City Council
April26,2Q22
15. ADJOURNMENT
At 10:42 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at6:30 p.m. PursuanttoAssembly 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, May 3, 2022is a Council Dark Night.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adjourn the City Council meeting Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. n
Poirier Approved on May 24,2022
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April26,2022
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