INDEX
TORRANCE CI TY COUNCIL -OCTOBER 11, 2022
SUBJECT PAGE
OPENING CEREMONIES
1 . Call to Order/Roll Call 1
2. Flag Salute/Invocation 1
3. Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading 1
4. Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental Items 2
5. Council Committee Meetings and Announcements 2
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. PROCLAMATION declaring October 2022 as Make A Difference Day in the City of Torrance 2
6B. PROCLAMATION declaring October 9-15, 2022 as Fire Prevention Week in the City of Torrance 2
6C. PROCLAMATION declaring November 6-12, 2022 as Military Veterans Appreciation Week in the City of Torrance 2
6D. PROCLAMATION declaring October 2022 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Torrance 2
6E. PROCLAMATION declaring October 2022 as National Arts and Humanities Month in the City of Torrance 2
6F. PROCLAMATION declaring October 2022 as Rideshare Month in the City of Torrance 3
6G. PROCLAMATION declaring October 2022 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in the City of Torrance 3
6H. Update from the South Bay Workforce Investment Board 3
61. Appoint Members to Fill Unscheduled Vacancies on the Civil Service Commission 3
6J. PROCLAMATION declaring 10:20 a.m . on October 20 , 2022 as The Great California Shakeout in the City of Torrance 3
6K. PROCLAMATION declaring October 2022 as Italian American Heritage Month in the City of Torrance 3
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 3
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
BA. Approve City Council Minutes 3
BB. Accept and File 2021-2022 Commission on Aging Annual Report 3 BC. Approve City of Torrance Centenarian Program 4
8D. Accept and File Report on Historic Preservation Ordinance Study 4 BE. Approve Examination to Fill Fire Chief Position 4
BF. Approve Revised Class Specification for Policy and Resources Specialist 4 BG. Approve Proposed Class Specification for Police Services Administrator 4 8H. Approve 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Application 4
BJ. Approve First Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement for North Torrance Well Field Program, 1-108 5
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
9A. Consider Discontinuation of Membership in League of California Cities 5-8 9B. Select and Appoint Chairs and Members to City Council Committees 9-1 O 9C. Confirm Appointment of Members to Outside Regional Boards and Agencies 10
9D. Accept and File Report from September 20, 2022, Committee Meeting 10
9E.
9F.
9G .
9H .
91. 10.
11. 12.
13. 14.
15. Approve Side Letter Agreement Between Torrance Fire Fighters Association and Management Regarding Longevity Pay and Vacation Accruals California Employers' Pension Prefunding Trust (CEPPT) Program
Approve Reclassification of 1.0 Senior Administrative Analyst Position to 1.0 Policy and Resources Specialist Position
Approve Contract Services Agreement for Tree Maintenance Service 11 11
at Various City Locations 11
Adopt RESOLUTION Approving Housing Element Update for 6th Regional Housing Need Assessment ("RHNA") Cycle (2021-2029). A Negative Declaration for the Project was Adopted by City Council on June 14, 2022 11 Approve Request to Set Date for a Public Hearing on Proposed Series of Annual Increases for Wastewater (Sewer) Discharge Rates over Five-Year Period of 2023 through 2027
HEARINGS
AGENCY AGENDAS
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT
12-13
13 1, 13
13 At 12:50am, the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, October 18, 2022, is a Council Dark Night
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
October 11, 2022
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on October 11, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Griffiths, Kaji, Kalani , Lewis, Mattucci, Sheikh, and Mayor Chen
Absent:
Present:
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 Mana ger and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 14A) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFOR MANCE EVALUATION, 148) REAL PROPERTY -CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR, 14C) CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR and 140) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION -Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54957(b)(1), California Government Code §54956.8, California Government Code §54957 .6 and California Government Code §54956 .9(d)(1 ).
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 Kaji.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Kalani.
3. BEPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF ,:HE 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 Tuesday, October 04, 2022, with the revised agenda posted on Thursday, October 6, 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 Sheikh and passed by 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 1
City Council
October 11, 2022
4. WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Item 9E was withdrawn. Supplemental material was available for items 6G, 6H, 61, 8B, 8G, 8H, 9A, 9B, and Oral Communications.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Kaji received concurrence from City Council to direct staff to bring back an item developing criteria to make unsolicited offers to potential property acquisitions for city related projects. He discussed his trip to the California League of Cities conference. He received concurrence from City Council to have staff bring an item overviewing AB2348 and if approved, direct staff to work with local state legislative delegation to reintroduce the bill that had bipartisan support prior to being forwarded to the governor.
Councilmember Mattucci discussed the Transportation Committee meeting deliberations and implored the public to support Torrance's position on the metro right of way alignment. He received concurrence from City Council to direct staff to bring an item to impose a temporary moratorium on additional flight schools. He received concurrence from City Council to explore additional off-leash dog runs or off-lease dog runs within existing park spaces and present recommendations to the Parks and Recreations and then present to the City Council on the recommendations.
Councilmember Sheikh received concurrence from City Council to have staff bring back the rent stabilization ordinance ready for adoption under the same item for City Council reconsideration with several amendments added. He also received concurrence from City Council to have staff research using existing open space resources as a way to raise revenue for the city.
He said staff should seek assistance from the County of Los Angeles and independent event owners. He said this would be presented to Parks and Recreation and then the City Council would hear the recommendations from staff afterward.
City Clerk Poirier reminded the public and City Council on the general election approaching and her role in some of the ballot events. She also mentioned the e-notify program for those that are interested in signing up for notifications for agendas and city events.
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2022 AS MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY IN
THE CITY OF TORRANCE
68. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 9-15, 2022 AS FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6C. PROCLAMATION DECLARING NOVEMBER 6-12, 2022 AS MILITARY VETERANS
APPRECIATION WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6D. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2022 AS NATIONAL BREAST CANCER
AWARENESS MONTH IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6E. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2022 AS NATIONAL ARTS AND
HUMANITIES MONTH IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 2
City Council
October 11 , 2022
6F. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2022 AS RIDESHARE MONTH IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE
6G. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2022 AS CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS
MONTH IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6H. UPDATE FROM THE SOUTH BAY WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD Chris Cagle gave a presentation on updates from the South Bay Workforce Investment Board .
61. APPOINT MEMBERS TO FILL UNSCHEDULED VACANCIES ON THE CIVIL SERVICE
COMMISSION
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council review applications and appoint two members to fill unscheduled vacancies on the Civil Service Commission from a list of qualified applicants. The City Clerk will administer the Oath of Office to the newly appointed Civil Service Commissioners.
City Clerk Poirier read the description of the item and the rules on the filling process .
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve the Civil Service Commission appointments of Ms. Kohus to the appointment that expires June 2023, and Ms. Lohnes to the appointment that expires June 2024. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried in a vote of 7-0.
Ms. Kohus and Ms. Lohnes were sworn in to fill the respective unscheduled vacancies on the Civil Service Commission.
6J. PROCLAMATION DECLARING 10:20 A.M. ON OCTOBER 20, 2022 AS THE GREAT
CALIFORNIA SHAKEOUT IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6K. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2022 AS ITALIAN AMERICAN HERITAGE
MONTH IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
8A. APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of September 13, 2022 and September 19, 2022 .
8B. ACCEPT AND FILE 2021-2022 COMMISSION ON AGING ANNUAL REPORT Recommendation of the Commission on Aging and the Community Services Director that City Council accept and file the 2021-2022 Commission on Aging annual report.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 3
City Council
October 11, 2022
SC. APPROVE CITY OF TORRANCE CENTENARIAN PROGRAM
Recommendation of the Commission on Aging and the Community Services Director that City Council approve the City of Torrance Centenarian Program.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the Commission on Aging and the Community Services Director. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried in a vote of 7-0.
SD. ACCEPT AND FILE REPORT ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION ORDINANCE STUDY Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council accept and file a report on the Historic Preservation Ordinance Study.
Councilmember Griffiths supported the plans of outreach to the community, and inquired on what was being done.
Planning Manager Gregg Lodan responded that staff was working with cable communications, social media announcements, building better relations with Torrance Historic Society and OTNA. He continued that having public events for education were being planned. He added that the first application for landmark status was going to the commission on October 20.
Councilmember Griffiths commended the efforts, especially to protect those properties with historic status. He stated that a 50% consent approval such as Pasadena should be strived for. He requested this be brought back after the commission sees it sometime before the end of 2023.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the Community Development Director. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
SE. APPROVE EXAMINATION TO FILL FIRE CHIEF POSITION
Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and the City Manager that City Council approve the Examination to Fill the Position of Fire Chief on a promotional basis.
SF . APPROVE REVISED CLASS SPECIFICATION FOR POLICY AND RESOURCES
SPECIALIST
Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and the City Manager that City Council approve the proposed revised class specification for Policy and Resources Specialist.
SG. APPROVE PROPOSED CLASS SPECIFICATION FOR POLICE SERVICES
ADMINISTRATOR
Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and the City Manager that City Council approve the proposed class specification for the Police Services Administrator.
SH. APPROVE 2022 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT
APPLICATION
Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council approve the 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) application.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 4
City Council
October 11, 2022
SJ . APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONSUL TING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR NORTH TORRANCE WELL FIELD PROGRAM, 1-108
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council approve a first amendment to consulting services agreement with Tetra Tech, Inc. of Irvine, CA (C2018- 151) to extend the contract term to October 22, 2023 to provide continued design review services for the North Torrance Well Field Program, 1-108 MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to approve the Consent Calendar except 8C and 8D. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
The City Council took a recess at 8:22pm. The City Council returned from recess at 8:32pm.
9. ADMIN ISTRAT IVE MATTERS
9A. CONSIDER DISCONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP IN LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council consider whether to discontinue membership in the League of California Cities .
Management Associate Carlos Huizar presented the item . He gave an overview of the League of California Cities and the history of Torrance 's association with it.
Councilmember Griffiths reviewed the past of Torrance's association with organizations.
He stated that this organization has not been fruitful for Torrance but that does not mean that attending those meetings were wasteful. He read from his report about how the League of California Cities has not upheld its mission statement in helping cities with local control. He continued that they have not improved after trying to appeal to the organization and implored to leave the organization until they improve.
Councilmember Kalani requested the expiration of the current membership. Management Associate Huizar responded that it would end June 30, 2023, and the LA County Division Membership would expire December 31, 2022.
Councilmember Kalani questioned what the organization provides staff that they would otherwise not get if Torrance was not a member. City Manager Chaparyan responded that they attend conferences, several league groups, serving on policy committees, receiving legislative updates, and statewide advocacy regarding labor representation and local sales taxes.
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez stated that the organization helps with analysis of the housing bills which can become convoluted. She continued that the templates they provide are useful on items such as bills, and that they are responsive in questions. City Attorney Sullivan stated that he gets continuing education from the meetings he attends there, but that he still could attend even if not a member. He added the municipal handbook was crafted there and there were COVID-19 solutions for attorneys there. •
Councilmember Kalani inquired if there was a financial benefit to withdrawing now.
Management Associate Huizar responded that the fee was already paid so the term should be completed and then the city would not renew at that time.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 5
City Council
October 11, 2022
Councilmember Mattucci stated that the mission statement of the League of California Cities has faltered. He continued that the organization needs to know that cities rely on them, and they are failing, in particular on the local control issues. He added that other organizations need to be reviewed as well. He recalled the meeting in which there was no allowance for debate on whether there would be a voice. He supported removing the funding due to their failures.
Councilmember Sheikh concurred with the failure of the allowance of a discussion.
In response to Councilmember Sheikh, Management Associate Huizar cited attachment B which contains boards and agencies that Torrance is a part of. He continued that Independent Cities Association was likely the closest match to the description Councilmember Sheikh was referring to. He added that Southern California Association of Governments was another one. He stated that the National League of Cities for a nationwide membership, as well as consulting organizations.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired on the resources used. Management Associate Huizar responded that the resources were similar across the different organizations. City Manager Chaparyan interjected that the League of California Cities was the largest group for advocacy among California cities and described the reach of some of the more local organizations.
Councilmember Sheikh questioned the length of the history of the League of California Cities. Management Associate Huizar responded that the organization has been active since the late 1800s and Torrance has been members since incorporation. City Manager Chaparyan stated that it was 1948.
Councilmember Sheikh stated that more due diligence on membership was needed and suggested his colleagues to do the same. He added that networking was important at these meetings.
In response to Mayor Chen's question, City Manager Chaparyan explained that attendance can happen even as a non-member, but the city would pay the non-member fee and could not be a voting member nor serve on policy committees. He added that this was more about the procedures and policies of the organization.
Councilmember Kaji concurred with Councilmember Griffiths to draw a line with the local control issues and advocate for Torrance.
Councilmember Griffiths reiterated that the benefits that staff recounted would still be available as non-members. He also reiterated that the purpose of this was local control and how the organization has not upheld its word, and enumerated examples of this. He implored on the importance of deciding this now.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that the League of California Cities has had many opportunities to improve, and concurred with Councilmember Griffiths statements, as well as the statement that a decision needed to be made now.
Councilmember Lewis stated that her experience as the League of California Cities was deflating and disingenuous. She cited the example of all the work members put into go through the requirements and then not even get to be heard. She stated that the organization has not followed the mission statement of advocating for local control.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 6
City Council
October 11 , 2022
Members of the public spoke .
President of California League of Cities Ali Sajjad Taj discussed what the organization was doing to help members.
Jeff Kiernan of California League of Cities urged Torrance to remain in the League of California Cities. He described the different avenues that members take advantage of in the organization.
Councilmember Lewis requested information on what happened and why at the League of California Cities petition resolution.
Mr. Kiernan explained the process of the petition resolution, and in particular this case. He continued that this case was sent back for further study. He stated that the first motion based on the bylaws must be an action from the General Resolutions Committee, and that the motion on debate failed. He stated that the reason for this was that legal counsel showed flaws in the drafting of the resolution may not accomplish what the proponents said it would. He continued that there may be unintended consequences with support for this initiative.
Councilmember Lewis questioned whether there was communication before it was taken to the General Assembly.
Mr. Kiernan responded that the discussion happened in the General Resolutions Committee. He stated petition resolutions do not provide much information to give out. He added that it cannot be amended or voted up or down or be recommended to be studied further. He answered that it was voted to be studied further through committees by the membership of the General Resolution Committee in response to Councilmember Lewis's question. He stated that this was not done during the conference but rather in January and February in response to further questioning from Councilmember Lewis.
Councilmember Lewis inquired about what the organization was planning to do differently going forward. Mr. Kiernan responded that they have discussed finding ways to give more time for discussion but stated that they did not want to grant more time when members have already made up their mind. He stated that this was the case here. Councilmember Lewis questioned further the claims Mr. Kiernan.
President Taj reiterated that there was no majority for a discussion, and he was following procedure. He mentioned that there was a timing issue with many members who wanted to leave early.
Councilmember Lewis disagreed with the idea that getting out early was justification to stifle a discussion.
Councilmember Griffiths recounted his work with the initiative and how many proponents wanted this discussed at the League of California Ci•ies. He stated that the General Resolutions Committee was too small to be making decisions such as this and tabling a discussion to a committee to a future time on a time critical issue was disagreeable. He stated the bylaws about removing discussion should not be there, and that the procedures going on at the organization have not been fruitful.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 7
City Council
October 11, 2022
President Taj responded that there was not enough time to have discussion and that he was a new president. He continued that he needed some time to make changes. He implored that local control was paramount to the League of California Cities and to table the discussion until there can be changes. He recited the benefits of being a member, in particular with CBRT coming up.
Councilmember Griffiths reiterated that Torrance could come back if the necessary changes are made but stated that there needs to be a message sent as much time has been given to the organization to improve.
In response to Councilmember Kalani's question, Mr. Kiernan stated they would be seeking to create a new local control ballot.
In response to Mr. Kiernan's comments about not being able to remain a member of the National League of Cities, Councilmember Lewis questioned the impact. City Manager Chaparyan answered that occasionally they attend the National League of Cities conferences but were not something prioritized but stated he would investigate. Mr. Kiernan stated that the NLC requires membership to participate but did not know if there was a non-member rate. Management Associate Zulma Gent informed that there was a non-member rate as well as a member rate.
Councilmember Lewis requested information on what the NLC does that the League of California Cities. Mayor Chen described some of the process such as conferences attended. City Manager Chaparyan added there was information on city collaboration and technology news.
Mayor Chen stated there was also lobbying opportunities which involve working with colleagues and legislative representatives on a national basis.
Councilmember Sheikh questioned the possibility of calling a special meeting with the board to consider the discussion for this item. President Taj responded that leadership was discussing it already and that he was taking action.
Councilmember Kalani concurred with Councilmember Griffiths but erred on giving them 30 days to see if they uphold their mission statement.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that the board and committees that make the decisions are not likely to change their decisions. He argued for cancelling the membership and going back if it is determined they have improved.
Council member Sheikh questioned how this motion at the CLC work, as the motion would not be back until next year. Mr. Kiernan stated that the committees and boards have decided and that this is going through a review process. Mayor Chen clarified that this would not be finished within the time frame that Torrance membership expires.
Councilmember Kalani inquired about the membership situation. Mayor Chen clarified that even though the LA County deadline is not until June 2023, it would be meaningless without the CLC membership that expires on December 31, 2022.
Councilmember Griffiths stated that non-membership was allowed in the NLC and reiterated leaving the CLC citing the organization's failures.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to discontinue Torrance membership with the California League of Cities at the end of the term. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion.
The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 8
City Council
October 11 , 2022
9B. SELECT AND APPOINT CHAIRS AND MEMBERS TO CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEES Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Select and appoint chairs and committee members to Standing Committees in accordance with Council Rules of Order; and
2) Select and appoint members to the Torrance Unified School District {TUSD) Joint Use Agreement Working Group in accordance with Council Rules of Order.
Management Associate Huizar presented the item to the City Council and supplied the City Council with the process of selection and appointment. The following appointments were made in the respective committees:
Standing Committee Chair Members (2)
Councilmember Sheikh CM Kalani Citizen Development and Enrichment CM Mattucci Councilmember Griffiths CM Mattucci Community Planning and Design CM Kalani Councilmember Kalani CM Lewis Employee Relations and Public Safety CM Sheikh Councilmember Kaji CM Sheikh Finance and Governmental Operations CM Griffiths Strategic Plan Councilmember Lewis CM Kaji
CM Griffiths
Transportation Councilmember Mattucci CM Kaji
CM Lewis
The following appointments were made to serve as City Council liaisons :
Working Group City of Torrance Members (2) TUSO Members (2) TUSD Joint Use Agreement CM Sheikh Selected by TUSD Board at their CM Mattucci discretion
Management Associate Huizar overviewed the process in the TUSD selection.
Mayor Chen went over the clarifications regarding how many representatives were there to be used. City Manager Chaparyan explained there could be three but the first two designated primary and with a backup alternative.
Mayor Chen received concurrence for the recommendation that Councilmember Sheikh be one member.
In response to Councilmember Mattucci's question, City Manager Chaparyan explained that this would be intended to create more frequent meetings and collaborations with the TUSD.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that he would.be available to be a primary representative .
Councilmember Kalani questioned how the representatives would be best used. City Manager Chaparyan clarified that this was intended to development a framework for a new collaboration and stated that there would be more hands-on interaction in changing programs such as the crossing guard program. He added that the Community Development and Enrichment committee could be utilized to better execute new developments in the partnership.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 9
City Council
October 11, 2022
Councilmember Sheikh questioned how often these meetings happen. City Manager Chaparyan responded that it is not a formal structure and that it is determined based on ground rules and expectations. He continued that City Council meetings happen as needed but some committees have specific needed meetings such as Finance and Governmental Operations and Transportation.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to concur with staff recommendation and for Councilmember Sheikh and Councilmember Mattucci to be the working group for TUSD.
Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9C. CONFIRM APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO OUTSIDE REGIONAL BOARDS AND
AGENCIES
Recommendation of the Mayor that City Council confirm the Mayor's current appointments for voting delegate and/or member and alternate to the National League of Cities; the League of California Cites; the Sanitation Districts of LA County; the Southern California Association of Governments; South Bay Cities Council of Governments; Independent Cities Association; US Conference of Mayors and West Vector Control District of LA County.
Management Associate Huizar presented the item the City Council and overviewed process.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the Mayor. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9D. ACCEPT AND FILE REPORT FROM SEPTEMBER 20, 2022, COMMITTEE MEETING Recommendation of the City Council Federal Legislative Advocacy Committee that City Council accept and file the report from the September 20, 2022, Committee meeting.
Management Associate Gent presented the item and overviewed the events at the meeting and major decisions taken.
A member of the public spoke.
In response to Councilmember Kaji's question, City Manager Chaparyan responded they would check with the Governor's office and notify City Council. He continued that an upcoming scheduled meeting with former Mayor Villaraigosa was not known but staff would investigate.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to accept and file report from September 20, 2022, committee meeting. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9E . APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN TORRANCE FIRE FIGHTERS
ASSOCIATION AND MANAGEMENT REGARDING LONGEVITY PAY AND VACATION
ACCRUALS
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve a Side Letter Agreement between Torrance Fire Fighters Association ·and Management modifying longevity pay and vacation accrual eligibility for fire fighters that previously separated from the Torrance Fire Department.
Item 9E was withdrawn .
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 10
City Council
October 11, 2022
9F . APPROVE RECLASSIFICATION OF 1.0 SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ANALYST POSITION TO 1.0 POLICY AND RESOURCES SPECIALIST POSITION Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and the City Manager that City Council approve the reclassification of 1.0 Senior Administrative Analyst position to the classification of 1.0 Policy and Resources Specialist position assigned to the Fire Department.
Senior Human Resources Analyst Tina Ortiz presented the item to the City Council and recounted the history of events, as well as overviewing the process.
A member of the public spoke .
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve item 9F. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9G . APPROVE CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR TREE MAINTENANCE
SERVICE AT VARIOUS CITY LOCATIONS
Recommendation of the Public Works and Community Services Directors that City Council approve a contract services agreement with West Coast Arborists, Inc. of Anaheim, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $1,125,000 to provide tree maintenance services on an as- needed basis at various locations throughout the City of Torrance as a cooperative purchase with the City of Agoura Hills for a three-year period beginning October 17, 2022 and ending October 16, 2025.
Landscape Manager/City Arborist Luis Ochoa presented the item to the City Council and read the report .
A member of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with staff recommendation.
Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0 . 9H . ADOPT RESOLUTION APPROVING HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE FOR 6TH REGIONAL HOUSING NEED ASSESSMENT ("RHNA") CYCLE (2021-2029). A
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE PROJECT WAS ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON JUNE 14, 2022
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council adopt an updated RESOLUTION to approve the Housing Element Update for the 6th Regional Housing Need Assessment (RHNA) Cycle (2021-2029).
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez presented the item to the City Council. She read the history of the events detailed in the report and overviewed new findings.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2022-101 A REVISED
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA APPROVING UPDATES TO THE GENERAL PLAN HOUSING ELEMENT FOR THE 2021 TO 2029 PLANNING PERIOD AND ADOPTION OF THE INITIAL STUDY AND NEGATIVE
DECLARATION PREPARED IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 11
City Council
October 11, 2022
\..._,..__ -
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Resolution No. 2022-101 .
Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
91. APPROVE REQUEST TO SET DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED
SERIES OF ANNUAL INCREASES FOR WASTEWATER (SEWER) DISCHARGE RATES OVER FIVE-YEAR PERIOD OF 2023 THROUGH 2027
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council set a date of December 6, 2022 for a public hearing on a proposed series of annual increases in the wastewater (sewer) discharge rates for the next five years to cover increases in operating and maintenance costs, fund infrastructure improvements and replacements, and to provide for an adequate level of financial reserves .
Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Chuck Schaich presented the item to the City Council and detailed the request to set a date for a public hearing. He displayed, using slides, the background of the project, the objectives, the finances, findings, rates, and customer impacts.
In response to Councilmember Kaji's question on large users on water, Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich stated that it typically would be an industrial user or large commercial establishment, or what they would call a medium industrial user.
Councilmember Sheikh commented on the deficit in the revenue and the low reserve.
Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich confirmed that comment and continued that they are break even. He stated the capital improvement will run at a negative balance.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired on the impact on residents with low income. Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich stated that low income would go up by 36 cents.
Councilmember Sheikh questioned on the number of accounts in Torrance . Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich stated 36K accounts are wastewater accounts, as well as other accounts such as rubbish and water accounts which are in the Torrance Municipal Service area. He continued that 26.5K water accounts in the Municipal service area for Torrance water.
Councilmember Sheikh questioned if there were plans to provide the water resources to others did not account with Torrance. Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich described the relationship with other agencies on water usage but that there were no plans to provide water services. In response to Councilmember Sheikh comment on the expenses, Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich confirmed that there were no plans to provide water services to that area .
Mayor Chen commented that this is sewer water not fresh water.
Members of the public spoke.
In response to a member of the public, Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich stated that it would cost around $20K to process everything.
Councilmember Mattucci inquired on some of the process. Senior Administrative Analyst, Water Operations Schaich stated that it uses a protest ballot all by Proposition 218. He continued that it has to be a separate mail and that it would be paid out of the operating budget.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 12
City Council
October 11, 2022
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis 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.
10. HEARINGS -None Scheduled.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS -None Scheduled.
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES-None Scheduled.
14. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council recessed at 11 :00pm to closed session to confer with the City Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 14A) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION, 148) REAL PROPERTY -CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR, 14C) CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR and 14D) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION -Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54957(b)(1 ), California Government Code §54956.8, California Government Code §54957.6 and California Government Code §54956.9(d)(1 ).
The City Council reconvened in public session at 12:33am. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
13. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
In Order, Councilmembers Kalani, Lewis, Mattucci, Sheikh, Griffiths, Kaji, Mayor Chen spoke.
Councilmember Griffiths received concurrence for staff to bring an item to allow City Council to consider a city-run mail-in election only for special elections.
15. ADJOURNMENT
At 12:50am, the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, October 18, 2022, is a Council Dark Night.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adjourn the City Council meeting .
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Sheikh voting no.
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
Approved on November 8,2022
13 City Council
October 11, 2022