•
INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL -A P RIL 11, 2023
SUBJECT PAGE
1. 2.
3 .
4. 5.
6. 6A.
68 .
6C.
6D.
6E.
6F.
7. 8.
BA.
88. BC.
8D .
BE.
8F.
BG .
8H .
81. BJ.
BK.
BL.
BM .
8N .
80. BP.
9. 9A.
OPENING CEREMONIES
Call to Order/Roll Call 1
Flag Salute/Invocation 1
Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading 1
Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental Items 2
Council Committee Meetings and Announcements 2
COMMUNITY MATTERS
PROCLAMATION declaring April 2023 as National Pickleball Month 2 PROCLAMATION declaring April 2023 as OMV/Donate Life Month 2 PROCLAMATION declaring April 16 -22, 2023 as National Volunteer Week 2
PROCLAMATION declaring April 23 -29, 2023 as National Library Week 2 PROCLAMATION declaring April 22, 2023 as Earth Day 2
Appoint Members to Fill SST Citizen's Oversight Committee 3 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 3
CONSENT CALENDAR
Approve City Council Minutes
Appropriate Funds and Approve Consulting Services Agreement for Cooperative Purchase of Business License Tax Compliance Services Approve First Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement for External Auditing Services
Accept and File Investment Report for the Month of February 2023 Approve Request for Subsidy of Rental Fees for Use of Ken Miller Recreation Center by UCLA Blood Drive
Accept and File Status of Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at Torrance Municipal Airport -Zamperini Field
Approve Revised Class Specifications for Administrative Assistant and Office Assistant
Approve Revised Class Specification for Deputy City Attorney 11 Approve Revised Class Specification for Police Services Supervisor Approve Proposed Job Description for Transit Planning Manager Appropriate 2021 Citizens Options for Public Safety Grant Funds Authorize Purchase Order for Cooperative Purchase of Curbside Refuse, Recycling, and Organic Waste Bins
Approve Agreements with Southern California Edison Company (SCE) Related to Possible Removal of Overhead Electrical Facilities in Certain SCE-Owned Right-of-Way
Reject Bid, Appropriate Funds, and Award Public Works Agreement for Taxiway Lights and Wire Replacement at the Torrance Municipal Airport -Zamperini Field
Appropriate Funding for 2023 Armed Forces Day Parade Aircraft Flyovers and Designate Event as Special Exhibit Under Torrance Municipal Code 46.8 .10
Approve Public Works Agreement for Exterior Painting of City Yard Buildings as Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Appropriate Funding and Approve Fourth Amendment to Fee Agreement with Rutan & Tucker, LLP to Provide Legal Services 3 3-4
4 4
4 4
4 5
5 5
5 5
5 6
6 6
6 Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April 11, 2023
9B.
9C.
9D.
9E.
9F .
9G.
9H.
91. 9J.
10. 11.
11A.
12. 12A.
13. 14.
15. Approve Extension of 3290 Temporary Housing Program for a Period of 24 Months
Approve Request to Set Date for a Public Hearing on Proposed Series of Annual Increases for Refuse Collection Rates Over Five-Year Period of 2023 through 2028
Approve Reclassification of 1.0 Information Technology Analyst Position to 1.0 Systems Analyst Position
Adopt RESOLUTION Setting Forth Changes Regarding Hours, Wages and Working Conditions for Elected Officials and Approve Increase to City Clerk Monthly Pay Point
Accept and File Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) Update Consider Extending Vote by Mail (VBM) Drop Box Agreement with Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/ County Clerk (LARRCC) Budget Overview Session for Fiscal Year 2023-25 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Plan
Adopt RESOLUTIONS Pursuant to Memorandums of Understanding Setting Forth Hours, Wages, and Working Conditions for Torrance Professional Park & Recreation Employees Organization (TPPREO) and Torrance Recurrent Recreational Employees Organization (TRREO) Adopt RESOLUTION Amending Resolution No. 2023-12 Adding the Positions of IT Manager, Police Services Administrator and Transit Planning Manager to Executive and Management Employees
HEARINGS
AGENCY AGENDAS
Public Housing Agency
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
Second and Final Reading of ORDINANCE NO. 3916
COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT
7-10
10 10
11 11
11-12
12 13-14
14 14
14 14
15 1, 15
15 At 2:00 a.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p .m. in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, April 18, 2023, is a Council Dark Night.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
April 11, 2023
April 11, 2023
MINUTES OF AN ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in an adjourned regular meeting on April 11, 2023, at 5:00p.m in the Leroy J. Jackson Chamber.
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 Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 14A) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL -EXISTING LITIGATION, 148) CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR, and 14C) REAL PROPERTY -CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR -Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54956.9(d)(1 ), California Government Code §54957.6, and California Government Code §54956.8.
The City Council reconvened in public session at 6:30 p.m. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
2. FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Kaji.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Kalani.
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA/ MOTION TO WAIVE
FURTHER READING
City Clerk Rebecca Poirier reported that the agenda was posted on the Public Notice Board at 3031 Torrance Boulevard and on the City's website on Monday, April 3, 2023 with revised agenda posted on both April 6 and 8, 2023.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis 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.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 1
City Council
April 11, 2023
4. WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED OR SUPPLE MENTAL ITEMS
Item 81 was withdrawn . Supplemental material was available for items 6F, 8B, 8H , 8N, 9B, 9C, 9G, 9H, 91, 9J, 11A and Oral Communications.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANN OUNC EMENTS
Mayor Chen requested to adjourn the meeting in honor of Wayne Spencer.
Councilmember Kaji received concurrence for a resolution to urge Los Angeles County, County Public Health Authorities, California Department of Public Health and U.S. Department of Justice to investigate deaths that occurred at health facilities that cater to Japanese patients.
Councilmember Lewis updated the public about National Public Safety Telecommunications Week.
Councilmember Mattucci reminded the public about the upcoming Transportation Committee meeting.
City Clerk Poirier stated that applications were open for City commissions. She stated that appointments would take place on June 6 during the City Council meeting. Deadline was May 4 by 5:00 p .m. Applicants must be an elector of the City of Torrance and have completed certification training within the last two years. Commissioners going for reappointment must be current on ethics AB1234 and non-supervisory harassment prevention training.
Councilmember Griffiths reminded the public about the Bunka-sai event at the Ken Miller Recreation Center on April 15-16.
Environmental Quality and Energy Conservation Commissioner Garrett Wright reminded the public about the Climate Smart Awards.
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 2023 AS NATIONAL PICKLEBALL MONTH IN
THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6B. PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 2023 AS OMV/DONATE LIFE MONTH IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE
6C. PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 16 -22, 2023 AS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER
WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6D. PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 23 -29, 2023 AS NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK
IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6E. PROCLAMATION DECLARING APRIL 22,· 2023 AS EARTH DAY IN THE CITY OF
TORRANCE
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 2
City Council
April 11 , 2023
6F. APPOINT MEMBERS TO FILL SST CITIZEN'S OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council:
1) Review applications and appoint seven members to fill the newly created SST Citizen's Oversight Committee from a list of qualified applicants; and 2) The City Clerk will administer the Oath of Office to the newly appointed committee members present.
Finance Director Sheila Poisson provided information on the committee to the City Council.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to appoint the seven members to the SST Citizen's Oversight Committee. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
John De Rago and Melissa Wright to a term beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2027; Craig Neumann and Michelle Polcari to a term beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026; Ron Riggs and Camilla Seferian to a term beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2025; and Shamindra Manbahal to a term beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 ..
City Clerk Poirier administered the Oath of Office to the SST Citizen's Oversight Committee.
Councilmember Sheikh left the meeting at 7:30p.m. Councilmember Sheikh returned to the meeting at 7:31p.m.
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
The City Council recessed to closed session at 8:12p.m on matters considered earlier.
The City Council returned from closed session at 9:40p.m.
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
SA. APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of February 28 and March 14, 2023.
SB. APPROPRIATE FUNDS AND APPROVE CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT
FOR COOPERATIVE PURCHASE OF BUSINESS LICENSE TAX COMPLIANCE
SERVICES
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council:
1) Increase FY2022-23 General Fund Operating Fund revenue budget by $54,250; and 2) Appropriate $54,250 to the FY2022-23 <3eneral Fund Operating Fund expenditure budget; and
3) Approve a consulting services agreement to Hinderliter, de Llamas, and Associates of Brea, California for an amount not-to-exceed $976,500 to provide business license tax compliance services for a three-year period beginning April 11, 2023 and ending April 10, 2026 as a cooperative purchase utilizing the City of Bakersfield Master Services Agreement 2022-08.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 3
City Council
April 11, 2023
Councilmember Sheikh and Finance Director Poisson discussed the position that was being modified in the Finance Department and the duties it held.
Councilmember Griffiths inquired on the commitments to paying if no revenues are generated, to which Finance Director Poisson confirmed that if there were no generated revenues then they would not get paid.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to concur with staff recommendation .
Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
BC. APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONSUL TING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
EXTERNAL AUDITING SERVICES
Recommendation of the City Treasurer and the Finance Director that City Council approve the first amendment to the consulting services agreement with Vasquez & Company, LLP of Glendale, CA (C2021-077) in the amount of $27,029 for a new not-to-exceed contract amount of $223,979 to perform investment compliance review and issue additional audit report for the newly created Measure SST fund.
BD . ACCEPT AND FILE INVESTMENT REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2023 Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council accept and file the Investment Report for the month of February 2023.
BE. APPROVE REQUEST FOR SUBSIDY OF RENTAL FEES FOR USE OF KEN MILLER
RECREATION CENTER BY UCLA BLOOD DRIVE
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the request for subsidy of rental fees in the amount of $2,769 for the use of the Ken Miller Recreation Center by UCLA Blood Drive scheduled for Thursday, June 15, 2023, Thursday, August 24, 2023, and Thursday, June 13, 2024.
Councilmember Griffiths voiced concern over the finances of this subsidy and recommended to lower the subsidy given prior subsidies.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to approve the item in the amount of $1000.
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Mayor Chen voting no.
BF. ACCEPT AND FILE STATUS OF EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER (EOC) AT
TORRANCE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT -ZAMPERINI FIELD
Recommendation of the City Manager and General Services Director that City Council accept and file Status of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at the Torrance Municipal Airport -Zamperini Field.
BG. APPROVE REVISED CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
AND OFFICE ASSISTANT
Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and Human Resources Director that City Council approve the revised class specifications for Administrative Assistant and Office Assistant.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 4
City Council
April 11, 2023
SH. APPROVE REVISED CLASS SPECIFICATION FOR DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY II Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and Human Resources Director that City Council approve the revised class specification for Deputy City Attorney II.
81. APPROVE REVISED CLASS SPECIFICATION FOR POLICE SERVICES SUPERVISOR Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and Human Resources Director that City Council approve the revised class specification for Police Services Supervisor.
SJ. APPROVE PROPOSED JOB DESCRIPTION FOR TRANSIT PLANNING MANAGER Recommendation of the Human Resources Director that City Council approve the proposed job description for the Transit Planning Manager.
SK. APPROPRIATE 2021 CITIZENS OPTIONS FOR PUBLIC SAFETY GRANT FUNDS Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council appropriate $291,233.95 of 2021 Citizens Options for Public Safety (COPS) grant funds, and any additional interest, to support Police Department programs .
SL. AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR COOPERATIVE PURCHASE OF CURBSIDE
REFUSE, RECYCLING, AND ORGANIC WASTE BINS
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council authorize a purchase order with Toter, LLC of Statesville, NC for an amount not-to-exceed of $500,000 ($250,000 annually) to provide curbside refuse, recycling, and organic waste bins on an as needed basis for a two (2) year period beginning April 11, 2023 and ending April 10, 2025 as a cooperative purchase with Sourcewell.
SM . APPROVE AGREEMENTS WITH SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON COMPANY (SCE) RELATED TO POSSIBLE REMOVAL OF OVERHEAD ELECTRICAL
FACILITIES IN CERTAIN SCE-OWNED RIGHT-OF-WAY
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Approve a study agreement with the Southern California Edison Company (SCE) in the amount of $150,000 to analyze SCE facilities within the SCE right-of-way extending from Beryl Street to the Yukon Avenue substation to determine which portion, if any, of SCE transmission facilities can be decommissioned and removed after the AES Redondo Beach Generating Station ceases operation; and 2) Approve a confidentiality agreement with SCE related to SCE system information provided as a result of the study agreement.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 5
City Council
April 11, 2023
SN. REJECT BID, APPROPRIATE FUNDS, AND AWARD PUBLIC WORKS AGREEMENT
FOR TAXIWAY LIGHTS AND WIRE REPLACEMENT AT THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL
AIRPORT -ZAMPERINI FIELD
Recommendation of the General Services Director that City Council:
1) Reject bid submitted from BG Solutions, Inc. of Oxnard, CA (B2022-41) as non- responsive; and
2) Appropriate $449,282 to the Airport Fund Operating Budget; and 3) Appropriate $449,282 to FEAP 1136 Airfield Lighting and Signature Upgrade; and 4) Award a public works agreement to Elecnor Belco Electric, Inc. of Chino, CA (B2022-41) for an amount not-to-exceed $427,888 with a 5% contingency of $21,394 for Taxiway Lights and Wire Replacement for a one-year period beginning April 11, 2023 and ending April 10, 2024; and
5) Adopt a finding that the project is categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) and that there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances.
80. APPROPRIATE FUNDING FOR 2023 ARMED FORCES DAY PARADE AIRCRAFT
FLYOVERS AND DESIGNATE EVENT AS SPECIAL EXHIBIT UNDER TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE 46.8.10
Recommendation of the Chief of Police and Airport Commission that City Council:
1) Appropriate funding in an amount not-to-exceed $20,000 for the 2023 Armed Forces Day Parade Flyovers on Saturday, May 20, 2023; and
2) Designate the event as a special exhibit under Section 46.8.10 of the Torrance Municipal Code which exempts such events from aircraft noise regulations.
Councilmember Kalani recused herself at 9:49 p.m .
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with staff recommendation.
Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Kalani recused .
Councilmember Kalani returned to the meeting at 9:50p.m.
SP. APPROVE PUBLIC WORKS AGREEMENT FOR EXTERIOR PAINTING OF CITY YARD
BUILDINGS AS COOPERATIVE PURCHASE WITH SOURCEWELL
Recommendation of the General Services Director and Transit Director that City Council:
1) Approve a public works agreement with MDJ Management, LLC of El Segundo, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $441,628.88 and authorize a 5% contingency of $22,081 for Exterior Painting of City Yard Buildings for a one-year period beginning April 11, 2023 and ending April 10, 2024 as a Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell; and 2) Adopt a finding that the project is categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) and that there· are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve the Consent Calendar except 8B, 8E,
80. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 6
City Council
April 11, 2023
I
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
9A. APPROPRIATE FUNDING AND APPROVE FOURTH AMENDMENT TO FEE
AGREEMENT WITH RUTAN & TUCKER, LLP TO PROVIDE LEGAL SERVICES Recommendation of the City Attorney that City Council:
1) Appropriate $650,000 from Airport Fund Balance; and, 2) Approve a fourth amendment to fee agreement with the law firm of Rutan & Tucker, LLP of Costa Mesa, CA (C2020-038) in the amount of $650,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $2,415,000 to provide legal services relating to the 2020 Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Order/Hi-Shear Litigation.
City Attorney Sullivan introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke .
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to concur with staff recommendation and the City Attorney. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9B. APPROVE EXTENSION OF 3290 TEMPORARY HOUSING PROGRAM FOR A PERIOD OF 24 MONTHS
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve the extension of the 3290 Temporary Housing program at Civic Center Drive for a period of 24 months.
Using slides , Assistant City Manager Danny Santana introduced the item to the City Council. These covered topics revolving around the temporary housing village operated by Harbor Interfaith Services.
Continuing , Harbor Interfaith Services System Director Shari Weaver overviewed the accomplishments, lessons learned, anticipations and implications if the program is not continued.
Management Associate Zulma Gent continued the staff presentation using slides. She overviewed the TPD service calls and outreach program.
Deputy City Manager Viet Hoang, using slides, detailed the funding of the program.
Assistant City Manager Santana concluded the presentation, reviewing the alternate site research and the timeline of the next steps.
Councilmember Mattucci supported the staff efforts but voiced concern over the costs and the housing first approach given the unknowns on who is entering the housing. He brought up how background checks should be improved regarding the entries. City Manager Chaparyan stated the ways that staff and Torrance Police Department have worked to create safety and stability. He continued that they do look at backgrouJ1dS and identifications in the process as far as the law will allow. Police Chief Jeremiah Hart added that they have made extended contacts with unhoused individuals and went over their interactions which include documenting or enforcing.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 7
City Council
April 11, 2023
•
Councilmember Mattucci and Management Associate Gent discussed how the outreach program has been going and how they deal with those from outside of Torrance, including extensive verifying and obtaining of information/documents. Deputy City Manager Hoang described some of the large costs such as safety which takes up a great portion.
Councilmember Griffiths echoed Councilmember Mattucci on the positives and negatives of the program. He inquired if staff time was added into the costs, to which Deputy City Manager Hoang responded that it is not factored in. He added the city can start charging some staff time to those funding sources. Councilmember Griffiths and staff discussed how to go about tracking staff time into the costs and how to effectively use that staff time, and overall, the funds that this program is using. City Manager Chaparyan listed some ways to address spending such as making requests to the county.
Councilmember Griffiths inquired about the service calls not decreasing in relation to homelessness decreasing. Police Chief Hart explained that the calls have not significantly decreased but that they have increased the scope of the calls. Assistant Fire Chief Brian Hudson echoed the efforts of increased scope and inclusion of service calls from homeless individuals, so the tracking has been improved.
Councilmember Griffiths discussed anti-camping enforcement with Police Chief Hart. City Manager Chaparyan interjected that there have not been many instances to use the anti-camping ordinance because people have not refused generally. Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez emphasized that staff have used other services outside of the shelter to help homeless individuals .
Councilmember Griffiths inquired on those who have found housing afterwards. Harbor Interfaith Services System Director Weaver responded that they keep up to date with the individuals and have data on them, and they are all still in their new housing.
Mayor Chen inquired about opportunities to combine housing for individuals. Deputy City Manager Hoang stated that staff purchases these as one bunk, and that individuals who enter the site in a relationship do not always want to be with one another, so it adds complexity.
Finance Director Poisson, responding to an earlier question from Councilmember Griffiths, stated that safety costs not included in the presentation were homelessness related service calls, total hours of response time, etc. She stated public safety service calls approximate at $1.1 M and City Manager's office costs were about $500K with $88K being paid for by a fund.
Councilmember Sheikh voiced support for staff efforts but mentioned that the community has concerns. He requested confirmation for every occupant to be of Torrance residency, to which Management Associate Gent responded that using various cross-referencing and rigorous questioning led to the 99.9% accuracy in admitting only Torrance residents. They discussed how the cases have been operating and the processes.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired on the help that Venice Family Clinic provides. Harbor Interfaith Services Systems Director Weaver described the help they provide, including primary care, health care enrollment, baseline requirements, referrals and most importantly verification of disabling conditions which lead to housing admissions.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 8
City Council
April 11, 2023
Councilmember Sheikh and staff discussed funding for the program, including how grants were being requested or usage/requirements of Measure H and other state/federal funds . They overviewed the difficulties of using primarily motels/hotels versus using the shelter.
Councilmember Sheikh questioned the speed of this, to which City Manager Chaparyan responded that it was a large endeavor that considers many different factors, such as acuity and family reunification. He added that some measures can be taken with City Council decision, others have other requirements. He concluded that other cities could go faster depending on the severity of the situation .
Councilmember Sheikh and City Manager Chaparyan reviewed what options there were to make the program more efficient.
Commissioner Sheikh questioned how safety was going in the area. Police Chief Hart responded that there has been no increase in safety concerns and that the area has been secure but that they continue to monitor. Community Development Director Ramirez stated that there could be problems going forward with the removal of the eviction moratorium. She cited that the two-year extension would be useful especially considering that.
Councilmember Lewis inquired about how homeless living in vehicles were counted and safe parking. Deputy City Manager Hoang responded that vehicular and street homelessness did have separations in data tabulation and explained that safe parking has been explored but that some issues currently are from time restrictions. Councilmember Lewis inquired about the use of micro-apartments. Assistant City Manager Santana responded that micro-apartments could be added by City Council direction to explore and allow buildings like this. Community Development • Director Ramirez explained that there are already forms of micro-apartments allowed such as studios or ADUs but that there were more forms of housing being explored by housing that would be brought back to City Council. She continued that much of this requires large amounts of funds and that can take time. Councilmember Lewis and Deputy City Manager Hoang discussed the various funding and budgets that are being used.
Councilmember Kalani stated that the program has been running efficiently and voiced support for it. She continued that safety has been great and the cleanliness has been maintained.
Councilmember Kaji stated his support for the program.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired about the turnover rate , and Deputy City Manager Hoang responded that there very likely has been residents that have stayed there since the beginning.
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Lewis questioned those parameters that cause someone to not move on to permanent housing. Harbor Interfaith Services Systems Director Weaver responded that it was various factors but that the biggest one was resources. Another factor is trying to get those entitled to benefits through the system , which takes time.
Councilmember Griffiths voiced concern about how this does not seem temporary. He stated that residents'/businesses' quality of life has degraded from homeless on the street and that they need a solution now. He continued that going with a regional/state approach would be more efficient. He had support for one year rather than two.
Mayor Chen stated that he relayed his message to the state .
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 9
City Council
April 11, 2023
I
Commissioner Sheikh and Assistant City Manager Santana discussed the differences between going with two years rather than one. He stated that staff would continue to search for alternative locations .
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager and go the two years. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Griffiths voting no.
The City Council took a recess at 12 :04a.m . The City Council returned from recess at 12:18a .m .
9C. APPROVE REQUEST TO SET DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED
SERIES OF ANNUAL INCREASES FOR REFUSE COLLECTION RATES OVER FIVE- YEAR PERIOD OF 2023 THROUGH 2028
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council approve request to set a date of June 6, 2023 for a public hearing on a proposed series of annual increases in refuse collection rates for the next five years to cover increases in disposal, operating, maintenance, and vehicle replacement costs, and provide for an adequate level of financial reserves.
Sanitation Services Manager Chris Kuebert introduced the item to the City Council. He used slides to overview the background, objectives, costs, findings, projected operating reserve fund balance, refuse rate, proposals, and monthly rate comparisons.
Members of the public spoke .
Public Works Director Craig Bilezerian explained the expenditures to a member of the public . Sanitation Services Manager Kuebert detailed how the protest mail-in ballot mailed out with a protest form.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9D. APPROVE RECLASSIFICATION OF 1.0 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ANALYST POSITION TO 1.0 SYSTEMS ANALYST POSITION
Recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and Human Resources Director that City Council approve the reclassification of 1.0 Information Technology Analyst position to the classification of 1.0 Systems Analyst position .
Human Resources Analyst Tina Ortiz introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved, to concur with staff recommendation.
Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 10
City Council
April 11, 2023
9E. ADOPT RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH CHANGES REGARDING HOURS, WAGES
AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS AND APPROVE
INCREASE TO CITY CLERK MONTHLY PAY POINT
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Adopt a RESOLUTION setting forth changes regarding hours, wages, and working conditions for Elected Officials; and
2) Approve a 15% increase to the City Clerk monthly pay point; and 3) Repeal Resolution No. 2018-111 in its entirety.
Assistant to the City Manager Jamie Le introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-29 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE SETTING FORTH WAGES, HOURS AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2023 AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 2018-111.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with staff recommendation and adopt Resolution No. 2023-29. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9F . ACCEPT AND FILE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN (LHMP) UPDATE • Recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council:
1) Accept and file information on the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) update and the process for development and approval; and
2) Accept public comment on the LHMP process and survey; and 3) Direct staff to return to City Council at a future date for approval of the LHMP.
Management Associate Eunique Day introduced the item to the City Council. She overviewed the project background, planning committee internal, local hazard mitigation, current project work plan and opportunities for public engagement.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to accept and file item 9F. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9G . CONSIDER EXTENDING VOTE BY MAIL (VBM) DROP BOX AGREEMENT WITH LOS
ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER/ COUNTY CLERK (LARRCC) Recommendation of the City Manager and City Clerk that City Council consider the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/ County Clerk (LARRCC)'s proposal to extend the current agreement for a period of five-years for the placement of the unstaffed Vote by Mail (VBM) Drop Box located at Torrance City Hall -Human Resources Building.
Management Aide Robert Williams introduced the item to the City Council.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 11
City Council
April 11, 2023
City Manager Chaparyan stated there were no costs associated with the maintenance in a response to Councilmember Sheikh. He also stated there were no known reports of tampering with the box in response to Councilmember Kalani.
Members of the public spoke.
Responding to Councilmember Lewis, City Clerk Poirier stated that approximately 17,000 people used the ballot box.
Councilmember Griffiths stated that the costs have gone up since election changes have occurred in recent years and that these costs need to be reduced.
Mayor Chen was not in support due to other ways to have votes and reduce cost.
Councilmember Kalani stated her support for the box and that it has been helpful for residents.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that the costs have been prohibitive. He added that there needs to be streamlining and these boxes add to that cost.
In response to Councilmember Sheikh, City Clerk Poirier explained the registrar-recorder costs, and also stated that costs have decreased for next year's election at $223,496.33. She stated the costs vary based on the number of offices and measures.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager and City Clerk. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4-3 with Councilmember Kaji, Councilmember Mattucci and Mayor Chen voting no.
Councilmember Griffiths explained that one box was not going to affect costs for elections but reiterated that these changes have effects on voters and how items are placed on ballots.
Councilmember Lewis echoed Councilmember Griffiths.
9H. BUDGET OVERVIEW SESSION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-25 OPERA TING BUDGET
AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Recommendation of the City Manager and Finance Director that City Council receive department updates and provide feedback on the Fiscal Year 2023-25 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Plan.
Finance Director Poisson introduced the item to the City Council. Using slides, she overviewed the budget process, fund types, classifications, projected revenues/expenditures, capital improvement plans, etc.
Councilmember Kaji questioned if the expen.ditures could be paid for without drawing on reserves . Finance Director Poisson responded that the answer was yes.
Councilmember Griffiths left the meeting at 1 :25a.m .
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 12
City Council
April 11, 2023
I
Councilmember Lewis, Mayor Chen and staff discussed the costs associated with the Friendship City program and differences in that program and the Sister City Association program and the flexibility of the funds.
Members of the public spoke.
In response to a member of the public, Finance Director Poisson stated that they would get more information but that the gas tax funds were used in the street lighting district and the general fund for street sweeping activity .
Assistant Finance Director Ian Dailey stated that $2.5M in gas tax transfers was included in budget to support general funds to operating funds .
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to concur with the recommendation of the City Manager and Finance Director. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Griffiths absent.
91. ADOPT RESOLUTIONS PURSUANT TO MEMORANDUMS OF UNDERSTANDING
SETTING FORTH HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR TORRANCE
PROFESSIONAL PARK & RECREATION EMPLOYEES ORGANIZATION (TPPREO)
AND TORRANCE RECURRENT RECREATIONAL EMPLOYEES ORGANIZATION {TRREO)
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Adopt a RESOLUTION pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) setting forth the hours, wages, and working conditions for Torrance Professional Park & Recreation Employees Organization (TPPREO), in the amount of $102,877, for the period January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and repeal Resolution No. 2018-79 in its entirety; and
2) Adopt a RESOLUTION pursuant to MOU setting forth the hours, wages, and working conditions for Torrance Recurrent Recreational Employees Organization (TRREO) in the amount of $247,782, for the period January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and repeal Resolution No. 2018-90 in its entirety.
Assistant to the City Manager Le introduced the item to the City Council.
No members of the public spoke.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-30 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE SETTING FORTH WAGES, HOURS
AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR EMPLOYEES REPRESENTED BY THE TORRANCE
PROFESSIONAL PARKS AND RECREATION EMPLOYEES (TRREO) AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 2018-79.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 13
City Council
April 11, 2023
I
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-31 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE SETTING FORTH WAGES, HOURS
AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR EMPLOYEES REPRESENTED BY THE TORRANCE RECURRENT RECREATION EMPLOYEES (TRREO) FOR THE PERIOD OF APRIL 9, 2023 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024 AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO . 2018-90.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-30 and 2023-31.
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Griffiths absent.
9J . ADOPT RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2023-12 ADDING THE
POSITIONS OF IT MANAGER, POLICE SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR AND TRANSIT
PLANNING MANAGER TO EXECUTIVE AND MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council adopt a RESOLUTION amending Resolution No. 2023-12 adding the positions of IT Manager, Police Services Administrator and Transit Planning Manager to the Executive and Management Employees.
Assistant to the City Manager Le introduced the item to the City Council.
No members of the public spoke.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-32 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2023-12 SETTING FORTH HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR EXECUTIVE AND MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES EFFECTIVE APRIL 9, 2023.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-32.
Councilmember Kalani seconded 'the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Griffiths absent. '
10. HEARINGS -None Scheduled .
11. AGENCY AGENDAS
11A. PUBLIC HOUSING AGENCY (SEPARATE AGENDA)
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES
12A. SECOND AND FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 3916
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3916 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 15 ENTITLED "MANDATORY SEISMIC RETROFIT IN EXISTING BUILDINGS" TO DIVISION 8 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE ENTITLED "BUILDING AND SAFETY".
Council member Mattucci recused himself at 1 :49a.m .
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 14
City Council
April 11, 2023