INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24. 2022SUBJECT PAGE
OPENING CEREMONIES1. Call to Order/Roll Call 12. Flag Salute/lnvocation 13. Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading 14. Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental ltems I5. Council Committee Meetings and Announcements 26. COMMUNITY MATTERS64. PROCLAMATION on LGBTQ Pride Montn 27, ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 28. CONSENT CALENDAR84. Approve City Council Minutes 288. Accept and File lnvestment Report for the Month of March 2022 28C. Approve Revised Class Specification for Human Resources Director 38D. Authorize Purchase Order for Computer Equipment 38E. Consider License Agreement Between City of Torrance and Limitless Hospitality Group, LLC DBA Local Kitchen for Use of City-Controlled Parking Spaces Located at 1231-1261 Cabrillo Avenue 3-48F. Approve First Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement for Survey of At-Risk Buildings and Preparation of Seismic RetrofitOrdinance 48G. Approve First Amendment for Trapeze Payroll System lnterface and Enhancement 48H. Award Contract Services Agreement for Custodial Services at Regional Transit Center 481. Approve Submission of Required Title Vl Program Report to Federal Transit Administration 59. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS94. Provide COVID-19 Recovery Update and Determine Direction on Orders from the County of Los Angeles and the State of California RegardingcovtD-1g 598. Adopt RESOLUTION Authorizing Virtual City Council, Commission, Committee, Board, and Other City Bodies Meetings Under AB 361 59C. Adopt RESOLUTIONS for Lighting District No. 99-1 Proceedings to Levy Annual Assessments for Fiscal Year 2022-23 and Set Date for Public Hearing 69D. Approve Selection of Conceptual Design for 2023 Torrance Rose Float in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade 6-79E. Accept and File Update on Downtown Torrance Revitalization and Connectivity Plan 7-89F. Approve Categorical Exemption Under CEQA and Award Public Works Agreement for Crenshaw Boulevard Rehabilitation,l-147 I9G. Accept and File Quarterly Update from Office of Economic Development 89H. Adopt RESOLUTION Amending Resolution No. 2021-89 for Certain Full-Time Salaried and Hourly Employees to Update Pay Range for Emergency Medical Services Coordinator g
91. Adopt ORDINANCE Amending the Torrance Municipal Code Regarding Military Equipment Use Policy as Mandated Under State Law I9J. Approve Side Letter Agreement between Torrance Professional and Supervisory Association (TPSA) and Management g
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
May 24,2022
9K.Discuss and Provide Direction Regarding Support for Creation of South Bay Regional Housing Trust in Coordination with South Bay Cities Council of Governments 9-11
HEARINGS
Conduct Public Hearing and Adopt ORDINANCE Amending the Torrance Municipal Code Pertaining to "Administrative Citations and Fines." 11-12 Conduct Second Public Hearing on Proposed Fiscal Year 2022-23 Operating Budget and Capital lmprovement Plan and Adopt RESOLUTIONS Establishing Operating Budget and Capital lmprovement Plan Appropriations and lnvestment Policy 13-18
AGENCY AGENDAS 18
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
Second and Final reading of ORDINANCE NO. 3900 18
Second and Final reading of ORDINANCE NO. 3901 18
COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 18-19
CLOSED SESSION , 1, 19
ADJOURNMENT 19
10. 104.
108
11. 12.
12A..
128.
13. 14.
15. At 10:48 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, June 14,2022, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
May 24,2022
May 24,2022
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALLTOORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on May 24, 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. 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 144) Conference with Labor Negotiator, and 148) Real Property - Conference with Real Property Negotiator - Litigation pursuant to California Government Code 554957.6 and California Government Code 554956.8.
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 Kalani.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Mattucci
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, May 16,2022.
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 Kalani and passed by 7-0.
4. WITHDRAWN. DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Items 9J and 108 were withdrawn. Supplemental material was available for items 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, 9C, 9D, 91, 13 and Oral Communications.
1 City Council
May 24,2022
64. 8.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Ashcraft reminded the public about the City Council Facility Naming Committee meeting on the naming of the Gene Barnett facility.
Councilmember Mattucci reminded the public about the Transportation Committee meeting that discussed various issues.
City Clerk Poirier reminded the public about the positions open for various commissions and the upcoming municipal election.
Fire Chief Martin Serna reminded the public about the Torrance Refinery Company monthly test of the community alert siren.
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
PROCLAMATION DECLARÍNG JUNE 2022 AS LGBTQ PRIDE MONTH IN THE CITY
OF TORRANCE
7. 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 April26, 2022.
ACCEPT AND FILE INVESTMENT REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2022 Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council accept and file the lnvestment Report for the month of March 2022.
Councilmember Griffiths requested clarification on why the Finance Department is presenting the investment report rather than the, historical, Treasury Department.
Finance Director Sheila Poisson stated that the investment report has historically been presented by the Deputy City Treasure and City Treasurer if present at City Council. She said the investment report is reviewed by the City Treasurer monthly who has been attending the monthly investment committee meetings. She concluded that the Finance Department is the default if the City Treasurer is not present at the City Council meeting.
Councilmember Griffiths asked if she had been given opportunities to join City Council meetings and present but has chosen not to.
Finance Director Poisson said that was correct
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to approve item 88. Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
84. 88.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
2 City Council
May 24,2022
8C APPROVE REVISED CLASS SPECIFICATION FOR HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and the City Manager that City Council approve the revised class specification for Human Resources Director. 8D.AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
Recommendation of the Communications and lnformation Technology Director that City Council authorize a purchase order to Lenovo USA, lnc. of Morrisville, NC for an amount not-to-exceed $284,569.64 for computer equipment on an as-requested basis beginning May 25,2Q22 and ending June 30, 2023.
8E.CONSIDER LICENSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF TORRANCE AND LIMITLESS HOSPITALITY GROUP, LLC DBA LOGAL KITCHEN FOR USE OF CITY.CONTROLLED PARKING SPACES LOCATED AT 1231.'1261 CABRILLO AVENUE
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council consider entering into a license agreemènt with Limitless Hospitality Group, LLC DBA Local Kitchen for use of 19 City-controlled parking spaces located in the subterranean parking structure at 1231-1261 Cabrillo Avenue in conjunction with the operation of a restaurant located at 1321 SartoriAvenue.
Councilmember Walser stated that Torrance is under-charging in general. He asked if Torrance was under-charging considerably and how the spaces are being utilized.
Community Development Planning Manager Gregg Lodan replied that this was done from the perspective of an economic development area. lt was designed to help uses that would not othenruise provide on-site parking and therefore attract new uses. He added that the assets were existing parking lots and existing parking structure being maintained. He said in 2012 restaurants were having trouble paying the original $50 per space so it was reduced to $25 per space. He said there is agreement with a restaurant whose ownership has changed, and staff is seeking to reassign the agreement with the new ownership. He said staff suggests retaining existing fees as the agreement would expire in September of 2026. He said staff could review current parking fees in downtown and compare to market rates and maintenance costs and determine other cities policies.
Mayor Furey elaborated that these measures were to ensure that businesses could survive and create economic development.
Councilmember Walser said he supports economic development but that is already there because of insufficient parking downtown. He asked if this was being done simply for building permits and that it was important to review the fees. He said that Community Development Planning Manager Lodan replied that the municipal code allows engaging in these arrangements if parking is within 300 feet of the subject use. He said people prefer parking on the street, so it helps the restaurant proved for their parking requirement.
Councilmember Mattucci asked if the terms made it so Torrance could not just change midterm the lease amount.
City Manager Chaparyan said there would be open discussion on the broader scale as to how the relationship of parking, safety, employee parking, enforcement.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
3 City Council
May 24,2022
Councilmember Mattucci mentioned removing the fee completely.
City Manager Chaparyan said the fee helps offset maintenance.
Councilmember Mattucci asked about some permanent measures to solve this parking ISSUE
City Manager Chaparyan responded that they would bring a long-term plan about the outdoor permanent dining structure.
Councilmember Mattucci said the restaurant sector is struggling and needs help Economic Development Manager Fran Fulton stated that the city has covered the costs of the city owned parking fees with the COVID assistance program. She said they were looking at the sunset clause in June.
Councilmember Mattucci said the agreement should stand but that the fees should go down Councilmember Griffiths stated his support for the agreement with the new operator. He said the parking situation needs to be addressed.
Councilmember Chen reiterated his support to review finances when the city is not breaking even.
MOTION: Councilmember Walser moved to accept as is but to have staff come back to City Council with a review of parking throughout the city as well as downtown, looking at market rates, costs, and other economic factors. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously in a vote of 7-0.
8F. APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR SURVEY OF AT.RISK BUILDINGS AND PREPARATION OF SEISMIC RETROFIT
ORDINANCE
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council approve a first amendment to the consulting services agreement with Degenkolb Engineers of Los Angeles, CA (C2021-019) to extend the term through June 30, 2023. 8G.APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT FOR TRAPEZE PAYROLL SYSTEM INTERFACE
AND ENHANCEMENT
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council approve the first amendment to Software License and Maintenance Agreement with TripSpark Technologies, an operating division of Trapeze Group, lnc. of Mississauga, Canada (C99-239), in the amount of $34,1 13, for a new not-to-exceed amount of $187,553 for the enhancement of the Trapeze OPS payroll system interface with the City's new ADP payroll system. 8H AWARD CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR CUSTODIAL SERVICES AT
REGIONAL TRANSIT CENTER
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council approve a contract services agreement with Commercial Building Management, lnc. of Santa Ana, CA (RFP 82021-02) in the amount of $132,780 for custodial services at Regional Transit Center for a one-year period beginning June 1 ,2022 and ending May 31 ,2023.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
4 City Council
May 24,2022
94. 8t APPROVE SUBM¡SSION OF REQUIRED TITLE VI PROGRAM REPORT TO FEDERAL
TRANSIT ADMI NISTRATION
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council approve the submission of the Transit Department's Title Vl Program Report as required by the Federal Transit Administration.
MOTION: Councilmember Walser moved to approve the Consent Calendar except items 88 and 8E. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
PROVIDE COVID-1g RECOVERY UPDATE AND DETERMINE DIRECTION ON
ORDERS FROM THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES AND THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA REGARDING COVID.I9
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Receive COVID-19 Recovery Update (for Discussion Only); and 2) Determine whatever action deemed appropriate for responding to Orders from the County of Los Angeles and the State of California Regarding COVID-19.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file the COVID-19 recovery update. Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
98.ADOPT RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING VIRTUAL CITY COUNCIL, 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 reiterated that commissions, committee and boards should be able to meet in-person but understood the complexities of large crowds such as the City Council meetings and to keep those virtual.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-43 RESOLUTION OF
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.
A member of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager and City Attorney and adopt Resolution No.2022-43. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Griffiths voting no.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
5 City Council
May 24,2022
9C ADOPT RESOLUTIONS FOR LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 99.1 PROCEEDINGS TO LEVY ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022.23 AND SET DATE FOR PUBLIC
HEARING
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Adopt a RESOLUTION initiating proceedings to levy assessments within the City of Torrance Lighting District No. 99-1 for Fiscal Year 2022-23; and 2) Adopt a RESOLUTION approving the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Engineer's Report for the City of Torrance Lighting District No. 99-1; and
3) Adopt a RESOLUï|ON of lntention to levy assessments within the City of Torrance Lighting District No. 99-1 for Fiscal Year 2022-23 setting the date of June 14,2022for the public hearing.
Members of the public spoke.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-44 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CIÏY OF TORRANCE INITIATING PROCEEDINGS FOR THE
LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS WITHIN THE CITY OF TORRANCE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 99-1 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 2 OF DIVISION 15 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND AS PROVIDED BY ARTICLE XIIID OF THE CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-45 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE APPROVING THE REPORT OF THE
ENGINEER IN CONNECTION WITH THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS WITHIN CITY OF TORRANCE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 99-1 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 2 OF DIVISION 15 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND AS PROVIDED BY ARÏICLE XIIID OF THE CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-46 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS WITHIN THE CITY OF TORRANCE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 99-1 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 2 OF DIVISION 15 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND AS PROVIDED BY ARTICLE
XIIID OF THE CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION, APPOINTING A TIME AND PLACE FOR PUBLIC HEARING.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director and adopt Resolution No.2022-44, Resolution No. 2022-45 and Resolution No. 2022-46. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9D APPROVE SELECTION OF CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FOR 2023 TORRANCE ROSE
FLOAT IN THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE
Recommendation of the City Council Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee that City Council approve the selection of conceptual design for the 2023 Tarrance Rose Parade Float.
Councilmember Chen asked about how much more contribution the Rose Float Association could add.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
6 City Council
May 24,2022
TRFA President Beverly Findley responded that they are required to keep a certain amount in reserves. She said the fees and decorators'fees are going up every year as well as taking out a liability insurance. She added that they are raising more funds, such as looking at more businesses to sponsor. She concluded that this is an important cultural aspect of Torrance that is important to keep.
Councilmember Chen concurred and clarified that his question was directed at the balance sheet showing current in cash about $86K.
TRFA President Findley replied that the number was for year-end and there have been more expenses since then such as the parade entry fee. She said there was indeed about that amount in cash.
Councilmember Chen said this could be a good opportunity to up the contribution with what the Association is able to.
TRFA President Findley said that the usual builder has kept the same price and that they were keeping reserve in case the builder raises the price. She said they would investigate contributing more.
Councilmember Griffiths stated that cash in the bank is not reflective of the encumbrances an organization may have so it would not be fair to judge based on that. He said it would be important to look at other factors such as fundraising income or expenses.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Walser moved to approve the selection of the conceptual design for the 2023 Rose Parade Float. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9E ACCEPT AND FILE UPDATE ON DOWNTOWN TORRANCE REVITALIZATION AND
CONNECTIVITY PLAN
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council accept and file update on the Downtown Torrance Revitalization and Connectivity Plan.
Councilmember Kalani asked if there were any options to improve the parking in the downtown Torrance area to make it more inviting. She asked if there were any funds available to the businesses there to help improve the aesthetics and if there were ways to investigate ways to get funding to move fonvard the items City Council wants done.
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez said that anything would be possible if the funding is available. She continued that parking they could look at concepts with Public Works such as reconfiguring parking spaces and going back to City Council for concurrence which would depend on available funding.
Public Works Director Craig Bilezerian interjected that anything in the downtown in public right-of-way, Public Works Department would work jointly with Community Development Department. He said there were some concepts they were overviewing and then assess costs and timeline and then bring it back to City Council to review. He added that there are challenges to modifying parking depending on what is adjacent to the space.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
7 City Council
May 24,2022
Community Development Director Ramirez stated that a façade program was being developed and would be addressed in an upcoming agenda item. She said downtown clients could apply for rebate programs.
Councilmember Griffiths emphasized the importance of the business improvement district.
He said it would generate revenue to implement these things.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that there have been staff meetings and efforts have been made to get the district going.
Mayor Furey said the job of Torrance is to sell the benefit of the agreement to clients.
Members of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file the update on the downtown Torrance revitalization and connectivity plan, with a follow-up on ways, within a budget, to increase parking and encourage parking turnover. Councilmember Mattucciseconded the motion.
The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9F. APPROVE CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALTTY ACT (CEOA) AND AWARD PUBLTC WORKS AGREEMENT FOR CRENSHAW BOULEVARD REHABI LITATION, 1.1 47
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Determine that the approval of Crenshaw Boulevard Rehabilitation, l-147 is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15301(c) of the Guidelines implementing California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"); and 2) Approve the plans specifications for Crenshaw Boulevard Rehabilitation, l-147 (9.2022-07); and
3) Award a public works agreement to All American Asphalt of Corona, CA, (8'2022-07) in the amount of $4,253,680 and authorize a 5o/o contingency of $212,684 for construction of the Crenshaw Boulevard Rehabilitation, l-147, for a two-year period beginning May 24,2022 and ending May 23,2024.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director. Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9G ACCEPT AND FILE QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM OFFICE OF ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council accept and file the quarterly Economic Development update.
A member of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file the quarterly economic update Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
I City Council
May 24,2022
9H. ADOPT RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2021.89 FOR CERTAIN FULL.
TIME SALARIED AND HOURLY EMPLOYEES TO UPDATE PAY RANGE FOR
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES COORDINATOR
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council adopt a RESOLUTION amending Resolution No. 2021-89 for Certain Full-Time Salaried and Hourly Employees to update pay range for Emergency Medical Services Coordinator.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2Q22-47 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2021-89 SETTING FORTH CHANGES REGARDING HOURS, WAGES,
AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR CERTAIN FULL-TIME SALARIED AND HOURLY EMPLOYEES.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager and City Attorney and adopt Resolution Na.2022-47. Councilmember Chen seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vbte of 7-0.
9I. ADOPT ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING
MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY AS MANDATED UNDER STATE LAW Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council:
1) Adopt an ORDINANCE amending Division 1 (Administration) of the Torrance Municipal Code of Chapter 5 (Police Department; Miscellaneous) establishing a Military Equipment Use Policy under Assembly Bill (AB) 481; and 2) Approve an Ordinance Summary for Publication.
A member of the public spoke.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3902 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING CHAPTER 5 OF DIVISION 1 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD A NEW ARTICLE 3 REGARDING MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to concur with the recommendation of the Police Chief and adopt Ordinance No. 3902 and approve and Ordinance summary for publication.
Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9J APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN TORRANGE PROFESSIONAL AND SUPERV¡SORY ASSOCIATION (TPSA) AND MANAGEMENT
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the Side Letter Agreement regarding uniform allowance between the Torrance Professional and Supervisory Association (TPSA) and Management.
Item 9J was withdrawn.
9K.D¡SCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING SUPPORT FOR CREATION OF
SOUTH BAY REGIONAL HOUSING TRUST IN COORDINATION WITH SOUTH BAY
CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council discuss and provide direction regarding the support for creation of a South Bay Regional Housing Trust (SBRHT) in coordination with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG).
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
I City Council
May 24,2Q22
Councilmember Griffiths expressed support but had some concern over creating more bureaucracies. He asked for more information regarding the successes of San GabrielValley RHT.
South Bay Cities COG David Leger replied that they have created close to 800 units in a couple years. He added they acquired state funding from earmarking.
Councilmember Griffiths asked how long their program has been in place.
Mr. Leger said it was just over two years ago.
Councilmember Chen asked if there were any specific features or advantages by participating in this regional trust, even for voluntary no commitment.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that a housing trust could acquire earmarked funding that could be applied regionally that would not be acquirable by an independent city by themselves. ,
Councilmember Kalani asked if the funds were only available to a trust or could the COG request it. She asked if several cities together could do this.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that they would advantages in applying such as lower interest loans provided versus what Torrance could provide. She added the more resources of cities that apply then the larger funds Torrance could obtain.
Mayor Furey concurred that the group could gain more than an independent city could Hermosa Beach City Councilmember Armato said there have been success in regional housing trusts such as the earmarked funds in the hundreds of millions of dollars. She cited the success of San Gabriel Valley. She said cities banding together independently may not be as successful as the regional housing trust.
A member of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to enter agreement to send a support letter to continue the formation of the housing trust fund knowing it is not obligating the city at this point.
Councilmember Mattucci said moving fon¡vard with the agreement could entail a future obligation for Torrance in terms of money. He voiced concern about the bureaucratic entanglement that could see Torrance using more funds considering the vagueness in going forward. He asked what this organization could do that any of the other organizations could not already do.
Community Development Director Ramirez responded that this is part of the COG. She reiterated the importance of the earmarked funds that Torrance may not be able to get otheruise and that this would enable funds to stay within the South Bay region. She said that there are unknown fees but that at this point it is only for a letter of support to look at the legislation and submitted to the state for approval. She continued that joining would entail bringing it back to the City Council for decision on being a member, and at that time fees and costs would be revealed.
City Manager Chaparyan interjected that cost and fee concerns have been made known to the COG and this is simply as letter of interest. He said the housing trust is a framework for the state level that would allow access to these funds should the city proceed.
Aleksander Alderete 10 City Council
Minutes Secretary May 24,2022
Councilmember Walser suggested that there should be a representative for each city if cities are going to be involved.
Councilmember Kalani stated that this is an expression of interest, not to become members.
Mayor Furey said that this gives Torrance another opportunity should it choose to.
Community Development Director Ramirez clarified that the voluntary part was integral to this Councilmember Griffiths asked if the San Gabriel Valley member cities pay any dues.
Community Development Director Ramirez replied that they do.
Councilmember Griffiths asked what the number was.
Mr. Leger elaborated that San Gabriel Valley normally pays assessments for one-off projects whereas South Bay works off of grants. He continued that San Gabriel Valley is structured off population size. He approximated that it was $20K annually for membership. He added that there would be an exit to the trust if there were fees discovered in later years that were not there in year one.
Councilmember Griffiths asked how many cities in the San Gabriel Valley COG participated in RHT.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that it was 22 Mr. Leger added that they have about 36 members, so they do not have 100% participation.
Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Mattucci voting no.
ïhe City Council took a recess at 9:01 p.m. The City Council returned from recess at 9:17 p.m
10. HEARINGS
104.CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING AND ADOPT ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO "ADMINISTRATIVE CITATIONS AND FINES.''
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Conduct Public Hearing regarding establishing an Administrative Citation and Hearing process and consider any testimony received during the hearing; and 2) Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEOA) exemption per guidelines Section 1 5061 (bX3); and
3) Adopt an ORDINANCE amending the Torrance Municipal Code by adjusting the available penalties for violation of the Torrance Municipal Code under sections 11.2.1,
11.2.6,92.35.6, and 92.43.040, and adding Article 8 entitled "Administrative Citations and Fines" to Chapter 2 of Division 1 of the Torrance Municipal Code; and 4) Approve an Ordinance Summary for publication.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
11 City Council
May 24,2022
Councilmember Walser asked if there were any criminal aspect to this other than a fine.
Community Development Director Ramirez explained that once the citation is issued, a citation can be issued every day that they are in violation if Torrance was not working with them and giving them a time period to comply. Type of penalty received would depend on if they were given time to comply or if they were being cited every day. She said the first one would be $100, second $200, third $500 and so on. She said after the third offense the City Attorney's office gets involved with going towards prosecution.
Councilmember Chen asked if the Police Department ever gets involved.
Community Development Director Ramirez answered no and stated that this is an administrative process rather than a criminal one. She said processing illegal street vendors can sometimes involve the Police Department working with staff to obtain their information.
Councilmember Chen asked if there was any enforcement.
Community Development Director Ramirez said that administrative citations and fines and the realization that Torrance can file with the Franchise Tax Board to collect the fines when they file their taxes each year.
Deputy City Attorney Sarigumba elaborated that this gives the city an additional tool, and that they can go towards criminal prosecution if it chooses. lf the violation is a misdemeanor or infraction, then the Police Department can enforce.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
Mr. Turda showed opposition to the plan that Torrance is using to prosecute and fine.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3903 AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, ADJUSTING THE
AVAILABLE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE UNDER SECTIONS 11.2.1, 11.2.6,92.35.6, AND 92.43.040, AND ADDING ARTICLE 8 ENTITLED "ADMINISTRATIVE CITATIONS AND FINES'' TO CHAPTER 2 OF DIVISION 1 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the Community Development Director and adopt Ordinance No. 3903 and approve an ordinance summary for publication. Councilmember Walser seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
12 City Council
May 24,2Q22
t0B.CONDUCT SECOND PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2022.23 OPERATING BUDGET AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN AND
ADOPT RESOLUTIONS ESTABLISHING OPERATING BUDGET AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN APPROPRIAT¡ONS AND INVESTMENT POLICY
Recommendation of the City Manager and Finance Director that City Council:
1) Conduct the second public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2022-23 Operating Budget and Capital lmprovement Plan; and
2) Adopt the proposed Fiscal Year 2022-23 Operating Budget and Capital lmprovement Plan; and
3) Adopt RESOLUTION establishing the annual appropriation for the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Operating Budget; and
4) Adopt RESOLUTION establishing the annual appropriation for the Fiscal Year 2Q22-23 Capital lmprovement Plan; and
5) Adopt RESOLUTION establishing the 2022 Statement of lnvestment Policy.
Councilmember Griffiths asked why the statement of investment policy was being provided by the Finance Department and not the City Treasurer.
Finance Director Poisson said that normally the City Treasurer does do that. She said the City Treasurer has responded to the changes and approved the changes via email. She continued that Finance Department was presenting it because the City Treasurer was not present.
Councilmember Griffiths asked about the staffing levels drop of 44 FIE drop and how that correlate to the previous statement that it was flat.
Finance Director Poisson replied that her saying flat was trying to controlfor certain items.
She said the animal control program included 3 officers and 0.8 staff assistant. She continued that a 3.0 reduction was included in between that drop period to offset the cost increase of the 2019-23 MOU. She concluded that the 44 was the proposed reductions and conversions that the Police Department has in the budget.
Councilmember Griffiths said that this is a new reduction in this budget.
Finance Director Poisson concurred. She added that these were the reduction target that was proposed two years ago, and City Council had delayed until now.
Councilmember Griffiths asked if it was wrong to say that 36 sworn positions would be eliminated from this budget.
Finance Director Poisson said that was correct
Councilmember Griffiths asked if it was wrong to say that if the budget gets approved and the sales tax measure is not passed, then that would lead to layoffs of current staff.
Police Chief Jeremiah Hart said that was correct. He continued those cuts would not be able to be made with programs, they would be people. He said that police officers would need to be looked at being for layoff targets.
Councilmember Griffiths said that the sales tax measure was not assured, so the budget would cause reductions in staff.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
13 City Council
May 24,2Q22
City Manager Chaparyan concurred. He said that the American Rescue Plan funding would target avoiding police officers losing their jobs. He added that they would hold vacancies as retirements are given. He conceded that if the cuts were made on July I ,2022, then that would impact layoffs.
Councilmember Griffiths said this is the wrong direction and would be defunding the Police Department at a time when crime is on the rise.
Councilmember Chen recalled his initiatives for every department, if they have funds, to ask for less subsidy. He asked if reserves were being used to balance the budget this year.
Finance Director Poisson said that was correct. She added that the FY23 proposed budget is balanced with use of reserves including the public safety cuts.
Councilmember Chen asked if staff created the budget with conscious decision to put some funds back into reserve.
Finance Director Poisson answered that that was correct. She continued that anything more than the planned expenditures would be included in the unassigned balance at end of FY23.
She said there was also a planned of almost $2M to the pension trust fund.
Councilmember Chen asked if the amount that would go into the reserves was around $44M.
Finance Director Poisson concurred it was around $44M. She said unassigned fund balance would increase from 36, which is the FY22 prqection, to 37.377.
Councilmember Chen asked about the target of 20o/o.
Finance Director Poisson said that rule of thumb was 20%. She added that with the current 5-year fund projection to reach that in FY27 with current service levels being planned for.
Councilmember Chen asked if it was right to state that staff makes proper balancing decisions between adding reserves and preventing reductions in staffing.
City Manager Chaparyan made the distinction between one-time funds, or reserves, and the projected structural deficit which was in the $10M. He said if the sales tax fails, then that would entail more decisions. The next City Council may want alternatives if they deem cuts to public safety too draconian, and that would lead to drawing down the reseryes. He said that would be a temporary fix. He added that sustainable sales tax revenue is unknown as significant closures just happened. He said that if the next City Council wanted alternatives staff would recommend a September revise. He said that taking out public safety, public works, and transit, then it would not leave much. All together the subsidies are less than $1M. He said a priority is to build the reserves and get out of the list of distressed cities.
Councilmember Chen reiterated his point that the rate at which the reserve is built back was paramount.
Finance Director Poisson said it would be 4 years for building back to the 20o/o reserve.
She said there is not a set amount to set aside in the five-year projections, but rather the projected increase is due to what is left over after planning for expenditure growth, 2o/o salary growth, contract increases, workers compensation, risk litigation settlements, etc. She said fiscal restrictions do not allow set amounts to set aside.
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Minutes Secretary
14 City Council
May 24,2022
Councilmember Chen asked about the staffing levels of officers not on runtime or leave.
Police Chief Hart responded that the number at fully staffed was 221 and the number of officers that could actively respond on duty was about 50 officers down.
Councilmember Kalani stressed that Torrance was doing good but that it was impossible to know what the next unexpected threat would be.
City Manager Chaparyan said that the city faces significant litigation exposure. He added that Torrance is in preliminary discussions with the Department of Justice at the Police Department which may lead to more stipulations which could impact staffing and resources. He said $30-36M could be depleted quickly which means that structural work on the budget going foruvard is paramount.
Councilmember Kalani asked about the self-insured unfunded obligations.
City Manager Chaparyan said that it was about $55M balance which comes out as $6-8M a year in pay-as-you-go. This accrues about $3-5M a year in liabilities. ldeal scenario would be replenishing to 2O% and then amortizing the self-insurance unfunded obligations. He said the goal, which would free up general funds in the future, was to be just 20o/o of the debt. Capital budget is underfunded, and the costs of infrastructure and construction have increased.
Councilmember Kalani noted the costs of building materials and gas have skyrocketed and the city is experiencing it as well.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
Chris Wolfe, executive director of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, opened himself to questions.
Councilmember Chen asked how much funds are in the TOCA bank account.
Executive Director Wolfe replied that there were about $72,465 Councilmember Chen requested TOCA investigate ways to reduce the subsidy from ïorrance.
Executive Director Wolfe concurred and stated they have been seeking ways to reduce subsidies.
Mr. Turda criticized the usage of funds by the city
A caller going by the name Torrance Patriot criticized the usage of funds by the city Lauren Cottner asked how much money was lost to COVID-19 lockdowns and how much recovery aid came from state and federal grants. She said Torrance should be requesting more money from the state as they are sitting on a surplus.
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Minutes Secretary
15 City Council
May 24,2022
Finance Director Poisson answered that Torrance will have received in the second portion in June a total of $24M from the American Rescue Plan and $1.8M from the CARES Acts in 2021.
She continued that ARPA could be used as revenue loss and it was calculated that Torrance lost $23.2M in revenue in 2Q2Q and in 2021, if the loss is included, it would have exceeded the allocation of $24M. She said that the Federal Treasurer has been accepting this number.
Mayor Furey asked what the spending costs due to various necessary programs during the pandemic.
Finance Director Poisson estimated it was over millions of dollars, including PPE, staff vaccination clinics, etc.
Mayor Furey said the ARPA was pivotal, but it did not fill every dollar lost. He said the community block grant funding criteria which spread money out to multiple jurisdictions. He said other cities got more money than they lost due to the formula, which was due in part to other cities not losing so much money or not having the same tax measures.
City Manager Chaparyan clarified that the state does have a surplus, and that the California League of Cities has been advocating for relief for cities. He said there was no indication that funding would come to the cities. He said support from state or federal could come in the way of homelessness or public safety but that it most likely would be about infrastructure.
Mayor Furey stressed the fleeting nature of one-time payments and the need to balance the budget.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Chen moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager and Finance Director.
City Manager Chaparyan clarified that this should be about approving the budget as is, see what happens on June 7, and then the new City Council can, on July 12, can make the decision to abide by the budget as is or to direct the City Manager to come back with a revision. lf revision is required, he said September would be the proper date to prepare. At that point, staff could investigate utilizing reserves to offset carrying funds in a worst-case scenario. He said the City Council should decide on the crossing guard decisions.
Councilmember Chen suggested for now to reduce the amount put into the reserve to cover the crossing guards for now. He said TUSD has a funding vehicle to cover so Torrance can communicate how to fund.
City Manager Chaparyan corrected Councilmember Chen that it would be a notice to TUSD that in Fall of 2022Torrance may not have the coverage currently being provided.
Police Chief Hart commented that the contract with All-American creates a time constraint on the crossing guard program.
City Manager Chaparyan said that it was about $300K that would have to be drop from the reserves. This would be so TUSD could hold up for a year and find alternative options.
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Minutes Secretary
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May 24,2022
Councilmember Ashcraft asked if the company agreement needs to be for an entire year or if it could be a partial year. She asked if there has been any movement in discussions with TUSD.
City Manager Chaparyan replied that discussions would be accelerated pending City Council decision as there has not been determination to this point.
Assistant City Manager Danny Santana interjected that representatives from Torrance contacted TUSD and made them aware of City Council direction on May 10. He said TUSD was concerned about shifting the management of the crossing program. lt was explained that the TUSD could recoup funding where the city could not.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked if TUSD took on the program, could they get funding that the city would be unable to acquire.
Assistant City Manager Santana said that was correct.
Councilmember Ashcraft questioned the rationale that Torrance is paying over $300K and having to pay the Police Department overtime to cover when TUSD could have funding to pay the entire program.
Mayor Furey concurred and said that discussions have been brought to school representatives and that they said they would like to see more information.
Police Chief Hart stated that Beverly Hills, Pasadena, and Glendale School District run their programs. He said the educational code allows schools to secure funding through the traffic vehicle code. He continued that the code stipulates that the funds cannot be used to fund crossing guard programs where police officers are also involved. ln order to obtain state funding, it would need to be though the school district removed from the Police Department.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked how those cities' school districts are funded Police Chief Hart said he did not know but that it did not come from the Police Department.
City Manager Chaparyan said staff would engage in discussion and return. He suggested going as is while the TUSD is on notice.
Councilmember Ashcraft asked how long they were put on notice.
Assistant City Manager Santana replied that a virtual meeting was held May 12 regarding the notice.
City Manager Chaparyan said June 7 would give more clarity. He added there would still be more discussion regardless of the outcome of the measure and that they return in the Fall in case of revision and expedition of the transition.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-48 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE ESTABLISHING THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2022-23 FISCAL YEAR FOR THE ADOPTED 2021-23 TWO YEAR OPERATING BUDGET.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
17 City Council
May 24,2022
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-49 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE ESTABLISHING THE ANNUAL AppRopRtATtoN FoR THE SECOND YEAR (2022-23) OF THE CITY'S 2021-2026 CAPTTAL BUDGET.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-50 A RESOLUTION BY THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL ESTABLISHING THE 2022 STATEMENT OF INVESTMENT POLICY IN ACCORDANCE WITH CERTAIN GUIDELINES.
Councilmember Chen added to the motion to extend the funding of all the crossing guards and to allow the TUSD a transition period and if the transition can be earlier, then staff will come back for an update. He also moved to adopt Resolution No.2022-48, Resolution No. 2022-49, and Resolution No. 2022-50. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Griffiths voting no.
Councilmember Griffiths explained his vote as the cuts being too punitive on the Police Department and should be shared across all public safety including Fire Department.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS - None Scheduled.
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES
12Á..SECOND AND FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 39OO AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO DIVISION 1 ALLOWING LEASES OF CITY PROPERTY UP TO NINETY.NINE YEARS
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3900 AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO DIVISION 1 ALLOWING LEASES OF CITY PROPERTY UP TO NINETY-NINE YEARS.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to adopt Ordinance No. 3900. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 12B.SECOND AND F¡NAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 3901 AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 TO CHAPTER I OF DIVISION 6 RELATING TO PARKING AND OTHER MATTERS AT THE MARY K.
GIORDANO REGIONAL TRANSIT CENTER
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3901 AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 TO CHAPTER 1 OF DIVISION 6 RELATING TO PARKING AND OTHER MATTERS AT THE MARY K. GIORDANO REGIONAL TRANSIT CENTER.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to adopt Ordinance No. 3901. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
13. C¡TY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
18 City Council
May 24,2022
ln Order, Councilmember Mattucci, Walser, Ashcraft, Chen, Griffiths, Kalani, and Mayor Furey spoke.
Councilmember Walser asked for and received concurrence from the City Council to have staff bring back a procedure for the public to make recommendations or requests on public lights.
14. CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1.
I5. ADJOURNMENT
At 10:48 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, June 14,2022, at 5:00 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 orvia 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 31 and Tuesday, June 7, 2022, are Council Dark Nights.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adjourn the City Council meeting Councilmember Ashcraft seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. ner Approved on June 14,2022
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
of
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
19 City Council
May 24,2022