INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL -MAY 9 1 2023
SUBJECT
1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
6A.
6B.
6C.
6D.
6E.
6F.
6G.
6H.
61. 6J.
6K.
6L.
6M.
6N.
60. 6P.
7. 8.
BA.
BB.
BC.
8D.
OPENING CEREMONIES
Call to Order/Roll Call
Flag Salute/Invocation
Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading
Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental Items
Council Committee Meetings and Announcements
COMMUNITY MATTERS
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-38 declaring May 19 through May 21, 2023 for observance of the 61 st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-39 expressing appreciation to Carola List, Rear Admiral of the United States Coast Guard, for serving as Grand Marshal of the 61st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade and Observance
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-40 expressing appreciation to Andreas H.
Pulido, Petty Officer First Class of the United States Coast Guard, for serving as Honorary Grand Marshal of the 61st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade and Observance
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-41 expressing appreciation to Beau Bridges for serving as Celebrity Grand Marshal of the 61st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade and Observance
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-42 honoring City of Torrance Police Officer Eric Bernier as a recipient of the Life Saving Award
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-43 honoring City of Torrance Police Lieutenant Ryan Peterson as a recipient of the Life Saving Award
PROCLAMATION declaring May 13, 2023 as Letter Carriers' Food Drive Day in the City of Torrance
PROCLAMATION declaring May 13, 2023 as Fire Service Day PROCLAMATION declaring May 8-12, 2023 as National Teacher Appreciation Week
PROCLAMATION declaring May 2023 as National Tennis Month PROCLAMATION declaring May 2023 as National Preservation Month PROCLAMATION declaring May 2023 as Older Americans Month Recognize 2023 Older Americans Award Recipients
PROCLAMATION declaring May 2023 as CalFresh Awareness Month Recognition of El Camino College Forensics Team for their Achievements in the International Forensic Association Tournament Accept and File General Update from City Treasurer to the Community
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CONSENT CALENDAR
Approve City Council Minutes
Approve Master Service Agreement for Geographic Information Systems Software
Approve Final Parcel Map No. 82594 and Approve Categorical Exemption Under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Accept and Appropriate Grant Award from Providence Little Company of Mary-Torrance to Grant Project for Temporary Housing Program Operations
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
PAGE
1 1
1 2
2 2
2 2
3 3
3 3
3 3
3 3
3 3
3 4
11-12
9 9
9 9
10 City Council
May 9, 2023
8E.
8F.
BG.
8H.
9. 9A.
9B.
10. 10A.
10B.
Approve Categorical Exemption Under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Award Public Works Agreement for FY2022-23 Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190 10
Accept and Appropriate Donation from Friends of the Torrance Library for 2023 Summer Reading Program. 10
Accept and File Investment Report for the Month of March 2023 10-11 Approve Broker Service Agreement for Securities Services 11
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Adopt RESOLUTIONS Setting Forth Hours, Wages, and Working Conditions for Torrance Municipal Employees (AFSCME Local-1117), Crossing Guards, City Attorney, and City Manager 12-13
Provide Direction for Selection of New City Logo 13
HEARINGS
Consider Appeal of Planning Commission Approval of a Conditional Use Permit to Allow Demolition of Existing Market Building and the Construction of an 84, 100-Square Foot Industrial Building, Modification of Previously Approved Conditional Use Permit (CUP86-71 ), and Waiver of Landscape Setback Requirement and Maximum Building Height Requirement on Property Located in the M-2 Zone at 21515 Western Avenue 4-6 Conduct Public Hearing on Development of the Five-Year Consolidated Plan Covering Fiscal Year ("FY") 2023-27 and Annual Action Plan Covering FY 2023-24 6-7
1 0C . Conduct First Public Hearing on Proposed Fiscal Year 2023-25 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Plan 7-9
11. AGENCY AGENDAS
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES
13. COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 12
14. CLOSED SESSION 1, 14
15. ADJOURNMENT 14
At 2:57 a.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, May 16, 2023, is a Council Dark Night.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
May 9, 2023
May 9, 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 May 9, 2023 at 5:00 p.m in the Council Chamber.
ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Griffiths, Kaji, Kalani, Lewis, Mattucci, Sheikh, and Mayor Chen
Absent: None.
Present: City Manager Chaparyan, City Attorney Sullivan, City Clerk Rebecca Poirier and other staff representatives Agenda item 14 was considered out of order at this time.
14. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council immediately recessed to closed session to confer with the City Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 14A) Conference with Labor Negotiator, 14B) Conference with Legal Counsel -Anticipated Litigation, 14C) Threat to Public Services or Facilities and 140) Real Property -Conference With Real Property Negotiator -Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54957.6, California Government Code §54956.9(d)(2), California Government Code §54957 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 Lewis.
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 1, 2023, with the revised agenda posted Wednesday, May 3, 2023.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh 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 Lewis and passed by 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 1
City Council
May 9, 2023
4. WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Supplemental material was available for items 6B, 9A, 1 0A and Oral Communications.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Kaji overviewed the meeting of the Finance and Governmental Committee.
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. RESOLUTION NO. 2023-38 DECLARING MAY 19 THROUGH MAY 21, 2023 FOR OBSERVANCE OF THE 61ST ANNUAL ARMED FORCES DAY PARADE AND
CELEBRATION
Resolution No. 2023-38 Declaring May 19 Through May 21, 2023 For Observance Of The 61st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade And Celebration.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-38.
Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6B. RESOLUTION NO. 2023-39 EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO CAROLA LIST, REAR
ADMIRAL OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD, FOR SERVING AS GRAND MARSHAL OF THE 61ST ANNUAL ARMED FORCES DAY PARADE AND
OBSERVANCE
Resolution No. 2023-39 Expressing Appreciation To Carola List, Rear Admiral Of The United States Coast Guard, For Serving As Grand Marshal Of The 61st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade And Observance.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-39.
Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6C. RESOLUTION NO. 2023-40 EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO ANDREAS H. PULIDO,
PETTY OFFICER FIRST CLASS OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD, FOR SERVING AS HONORARY GRAND MARSHAL OF THE 61 ST ANNUAL ARMED
FORCES DAY PARADE AND OBSERVANCE
Resolution No. 2023-40 Expressing Appreciation To Andreas H. Pulido, Petty Officer First Class Of The United States Coast Guard, For Serving As Honorary Grand Marshal of The 61 st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade And Observance.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-40.
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 2
City Council
May 9, 2023
6D . RESOLUTION NO. 2023-41 EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO BEAU BRIDGES FOR SERVING AS CELEBRITY GRAND MARSHAL OF THE 61ST ANNUAL ARMED
FORCES DAY PARADE AND OBSERVANCE
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-41 expressing appreciation to Beau Bridges for serving as Celebrity Grand Marshal of the 61st Annual Armed Forces Day Parade and Observance.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-41 .
Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6E. RESOLUTION NO. 2023-42 HONORING CITY OF TORRANCE POLICE OFFICER ERIC
BERNIER AS A RECIPIENT OF THE LIFE SAVING AWARD
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-42 honoring City of Torrance Police Officer Eric Bernier as a recipient of the Life Saving Award.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-42 .
Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6F . RESOLUTION NO. 2023-43 HONORING CITY OF TORRANCE POLICE LIEUTENANT
RYAN PETERSON AS A RECIPIENT OF THE LIFE SAVING AWARD
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-43 honoring City of Torrance Police Lieutenant Ryan Peterson as a recipient of the Life Saving Award.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-43.
Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 6G. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 13, 2023 AS LETTER CARRIERS' FOOD DRIVE
DAY IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6H. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 13, 2023 AS FIRE SERVICE DAY IN THE CITY
OF TORRANCE
61. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 8-12, 2023 AS NATIONAL TEACHER
APPRECIATION WEEK IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6J. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 2023 AS NATIONAL TENNIS MONTH IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE
6K. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 2023 AS NATIONAL PRESERVATION MONTH
IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE
6L. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 2023 AS OLDER AMERICANS MONTH IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE
6M. RECOGNIZE 2023 OLDER AMERICANS AWARD RECIPIENTS
Recommendation of the Commission on Aging and Community Services Director that City Council recognize Gail Roulette, Ora Pastor, Patrick J. Furey, Terry Furey, and Ron Smith as the 2023 Older Americans Award recipients.
6N . PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 2023 AS CALFRESH AWARENESS MONTH IN
THE CITY OF TORRANCE
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 3
City Council
May 9, 2023
60. RECOGNITION OF EL CAMINO COLLEGE FORENSICS TEAM FOR THEIR
ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE INTERNATIONAL FORENSIC ASSOCIATION TOURNAMENT Item 1 O was taken out of order at this time.
10. HEARINGS
10A. CONSIDER APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT TO ALLOW DEMOLITION OF EXISTING MARKET BUILDING AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 84, 100-SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL BUILDING,
MODIFICATION OF PREVIOUSLY APPROVED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP86-71), AND WAIVER OF LANDSCAPE SETBACK REQUIREMENT AND MAXIMUM BUILDING HEIGHT REQUIREMENT ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE M-2 ZONE AT 21515 WESTERN AVENUE. THE PROJECT IS CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM CEQA PER GUIDELINES SECTION 15332 -INFILL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AND SECTION 15305 -MINOR AL TERA TIONS. CUP22-00005, MOD22-00005, WAV22-00011:
ERIN THRASH (REXFORD INDUSTRIAL-21515 S. WESTERN LLC)
Recommendation of the Planning Commission and Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Deny the appeal; and
2) Adopt RESOLUTIONS denying the appeal and approving a Conditional Use Permit to allow the demolition of an existing market building and the construction of an 84, 100- square foot industrial building, a Modification of a previously approved Conditional Use Permit (CUP86-71 ), and a Waiver of the landscape setback requirement and the maximum building height requirement on property located in the M-2 Zone at 21515 Western Avenue.
Planning and Environmental Manager Oscar Martinez introduced the item to the City Council. He used slides to overview the project.
Councilmembers Griffiths, Kalani, Sheikh, Lewis, Kaji, Mattucci, and Mayor Chen met with the developer and visited the site. They stated that their decision would be based on evidence presented during the meeting.
The appellant, Elizabeth Byrne, introduced herself to the City Council. She stated that the Rexford project would increase the daily new vehicle trip thresholds for small project screening.
She stated that guidelines from the city were not followed, and that some of their numbers do not make sense. She continued that the Rexford property has had criminal activity. She stated that the comparisons to the Mitsuwa markets were not applicable and had errors. She stated that the noise figures are in violation of Torrance guidelines and that they had errors in their reporting there too. She stated that they are in violation in their seeking to remove trees. She took issue with the avoidance of the California penal code regarding the property owners. She continued that the area has high pollution, and this project would put those who are vulnerable at risk. She overviewed the other problems to public health that would be caused by the project and the increase in vehicle trips. She concluded that she supports development but not at this site.
Steve Messara, Director of Entitlements for Rexford Industrials, introduced himself to the City Council. He stated that they stand by the response and analysis that they provided.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 4
City Council
May 9, 2023
Nicole Morse, Principal at TMB Planning, introduced herself to the City Council. She discussed how they came to create the reports . She stated that other sites such as markets are comparable to how the traffic would be here. She continued that proposed rates are comparable to general light industrial.
Andrew Fogg, from Cox Castle Nicholson and working with Rexford, introduced himself to the City Council. He discussed the delta between with baseline and the existing. He continued that this was based on the old retail sport that was there. He added that this will have mixed usage and that trips would be about 421 trips and only about 2 dozen truck trips .
Councilmember Mattucci stated that markets tend to not have visitors staying a while. He continued that retail brings more traffic.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired about the guideline violations. Mr. Fogg responded that they were subject to the guidelines of the CC&Rs and the M2 zone laws. He continued they were accommodating to how the Planning Commission decided.
Ms. Byrne stated that TC2 development plan prohibits warehousing as primary purpose and that the trees be maintained along the perimeter of the property.
Planning and Environmental Manager Martinez stated what the development plan covers and what staff was recommending.
Mr. Fogg stated that they would not be modifying past what the Planning Commission and the guidelines have dictated.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
A member of the public spoke that the city charges the public too much and that they should build the development.
Harry, a nearby resident, had concerns about the project regarding noise, pollution and that the intersection going into the Mitsuwa has a lot of traffic and more accidents could happen.
Mayor Chen inquired on the noise issue. Planning and Environmental Manager Martinez stated the details of the ordinance on noise and that construction would be during the day not evening.
Ms. Byrne stated that in a study, they stated that night-time concrete pouring activities would occur as part of the project. She continued that the proponents did not conduct enough environmental studies, and that it needs to be investigated if they qualify for an exemption. She implored enforcement on requiring reports.
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez stated that night-time construction cannot be done without the authorization of the city. Planning and Environmental Manager Martinez stated that they are allowed to exceed the noise threshold during the day. He explained the methodology of how the comparisons were deemed to be acceptable .
Councilmember Sheikh and Planning and Environmental Manager Martinez discussed how traffic was accepted. They also discussed the driveway.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 5
City Council
May 9, 2023
Council member Griffiths inquired about the removal of trees. Mr. Fogg responded that no trees would be removed unless diseased. Councilmember Griffiths inquired about the timeframe.
Mr. Messara stated it would be about 12-13 months. Councilmember Griffiths questioned about noise. Mr. Messara responded that they would be following all the code and would be going further to ensure no negative impacts.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation of the Planning Commission and Community Development Director. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-47 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE CALIFORNIA DENYING THE APPEAL AND APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9 CHAPTER 5 ARTICLE 1 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW THE
DEMOLITION OF AN EXISTING MARKET BUILDING AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 84,100 SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL BUILDING ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE M2 ZONE AT 21515 WESTERN AVENUE.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-48 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE CALIFORNIA DENYING THE APPEAL
AND APPROVING A MODIFICATION OF PREVIOUSLY APPROVED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT CUP-86-71 AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9 CHAPTER 5 ARTICLE 1 OF THE
TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW THE DEMOLITION OF AN EXISTING MARKET BUILDING AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 84,100 SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL BUILDING ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE M2 ZONE AT 21515 WESTERN AVENUE.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-49 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE CALIFORNIA DENYING THE APPEAL AND APPROVING A WAIVER AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9 CHAPTER 4 ARTICLE 2 OF
THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE LANDSCAPE SETBACK REQUIREMENT AND
THE MAXIMUM BUILDING HEIGHT REQUIREMENT IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE
DEMOLITION OF AN EXISTING MARKET BUILDING AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 84,100 SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL BUILDING ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE M2 ZONE AT 21515 WESTERN AVENUE.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-47, 2023-48, and 2023-49. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 10B . CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING ON DEVELOPMENT OF THE FIVE-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN COVERING FISCAL YEAR ("FY"} 2023-27 AND ANNUAL ACTION PLAN COVERING FY 2023-24
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council conduct a public hearing and take public testimony on the development of a Five-Year Consolidated Plan covering the period July 1, 2023 -June 30, 2028, and the Annual Action Plan covering the period July 1, 2023 -June 30, 2024.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 6
City Council
May 9, 2023
Community Development Director Ramirez introduced the item to the City Council. She overviewed the staff report regarding the consolidated plan.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
A member of the public questioned that something was not right with how the city was handling the funds.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file item 10B. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. The City Council took a recess at 8:12 p.m. The City Council returned from recess at 8:28 p.m. 10C. CONDUCT FIRST PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2023-25
OPERATING BUDGET AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Recommendation of the City Manager and Finance Director that City Council conduct the first public hearing on the Proposed Fiscal Year 2023-25 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Plan.
Finance Director Sheila Poisson introduced the item to the City Council. She used slides to review the city's budget development process, credit, economic indicators, expenses, revenues, etc.
Members of the public spoke.
A member of the public argued that the City Council was not properly utilizing its budget.
A mer;nber of the public stated that the budget needs a civilian oversight committee and detailed the ways that it could be paid for.
A member of the public stated that they take money from the Police Department to save money and to form a civilian oversight committee.
A member of the public stated that they should reduce the amount of money given to the Police Department.
A member of the public stated that a civilian oversight committee should be included in the budget.
A member of the public stated that the city would raise fees and taxes, and accused city officials of getting raises.
A member of the public criticized the City Council for dialogue regarding street vendors.
James Henry made an inquiry about the budget allocation. Finance Director Poisson responded that the general fund has 63% of $471M citywide budget.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 7
City Council
May 9, 2023
A member of the public stated a civilian oversight committee should be in the budget to save money from lawsuits and reduced police budget.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to close the first public hearing. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired on the reduction of reserve contribution. Finance Director Poisson described the category as discretionary bucket. She reviewed Public Safety costs, homelessness response costs, and how the fund projects and what is left after to fund the other items. City Manager Chaparyan interjected about how they rebuild the reserve and that they go to City Council on direction on that. He added that capital is deployed where needed and how they have been adding back to the reserve.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired about long-term debt obligations. Finance Director Poisson stated that pensions have the highest priority in terms of debt. She continued that they have made certificate participations refinancing for better rates and some that were issued for capital projects and city yard roof and fire stations. She detailed the lease revenue bonds to pay down pensions. She added that staff went with the lower interest route.
Councilmember Sheikh questioned if there were methods to show the public that they have provided help to businesses. Finance Director Poisson stated that the facade improvement program can be made to fit Councilmember Sheikh's request.
Councilmember Griffiths commented on the lease revenue bonds and the benefits. He questioned how the costs in the pension can be made up for. Finance Director Poisson responded that long-term it is a concern but that there were mitigations on the revenue side such as land- use studies, taxes, etc. City Manager Chaparyan detailed some of the solutions to reducing pension costs. He and Councilmember Griffiths discussed CalPERS and the general fund usage.
Councilmember Griffiths commented on the large cost of elections and the Friendship City costs. He continued that street sweeping fines should not be treated as a revenue source. He stated that there should be enforcement of such measures. He and staff discussed some administrative classifications and stated that the City Council should have some of the budget.
He was in favor of the tree planting program. He stated that dealing with homelessness budget was not defined in the report, and that it should be there. City Manager Chaparyan stated they would bring back information on that.
Councilmember Mattucci commented on methods to increase revenue for the city without raising taxes. He stated that paying unfunded liabilities should be a priority. He stressed that underdeveloped assets should be utilized. Councilmember Mattucci concurred with Councilmember Griffiths on the trees.
Mayor Chen and Finance Director Poisson discussed what the budget was foreshadowing . Mayor Chen stated that they are not using the reserves unless it is for an emergency.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 8
City Council
May 9, 2023
Councilmember Kaji commended the efforts for fiscal restraint. He stated that tech investment in Torrance and Hydrogen fuel could play roles in bringing revenue to Torrance.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to conclude the first public hearing and accept and file what has been presented thus far. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
7 . ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
The City Council returned to closed session on matters listed earlier at 10:30 p.m. The City Council returned at 11 :34.
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
8A. APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of April 11, 2023.
8B. APPROVE MASTER SERVICE AGREEMENT FOR GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
SYSTEMS SOFTWARE
Recommendation of the Communications and Information Technology Director that City Council:
1) Approve a Master Service Agreement with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI) of Redlands, CA, for an amount not-to-exceed $339,900, to provide Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software for a three-year period beginning from May 10 , 2023, and ending May 9, 2026; and
2) Authorize the City Manager to act as the City's signatory with respect to the necessary enrollment agreements.
SC. APPROVE FINAL PARCEL MAP NO. 82594 AND APPROVE CATEGORICAL
EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Approve Final Parcel Map No. 82594; and
2) Determine that approval of Final Parcel Map No. 82594 is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15332, Class 32 -In-Fill Development Projects; and
3) Abandon an existing 15' wide water easement that runs along the north property line; and 4) Abandon an existing 1 O' wide storm drain easement located adjacent to the northwest corner of the property; and
5) Accept a new 15' wide and variable width water easement south of the abandoned water easement; and
6) Terminate an Irrevocable Offer to Dedicate·an easement for water main purposes; and 7) Accept an easement along Amsler Street for public street purposes.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 9
City Council
May 9, 2023
SD. ACCEPT AND APPROPRIATE GRANT AWARD FROM PROVIDENCE LITTLE
COMPANY OF MARY -TORRANCE TO GRANT PROJECT FOR TEMPORARY
HOUSING PROGRAM OPERATIONS
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council accept and appropriate a grant award of $400,000 from Providence Little Company of Mary - Torrance to GRANTPLHA-Project for Temporary Housing Operating Grant.
Councilmember Lewis, Deputy City Manager Viet Hoang, and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the contribution amounts.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve item 8D. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
SE. APPROVE CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT {CEQA) AND AWARD PUBLIC WORKS AGREEMENT FOR FY2022-23 ARTERIAL ROADWAY STRIPING, T-190
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Adopt finding of a categorical exemption per staff determination, pursuant to Section 15301(c) of the guidelines implementing California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for FY2022-23 Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190; and
2) Approve the plans and specifications for FY2022-23 Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190 (B2023-03) project; and
3) Award a public works agreement to WGJ Enterprises Inc., dba PCI of Azusa, CA (B2023-03) in the amount of $492,795 and authorize a 15% contingency in the amount of $73,919 for construction of FY2022-23 Arterial Roadway Striping, T-190 for a two- year period beginning May 9, 2023 and ending May 8, 2025.
SF. ACCEPT AND APPROPRIATE DONATION FROM FRIENDS OF THE TORRANCE LIBRARY FOR 2023 SUMMER READING PROGRAM
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that City Council accept and appropriate a donation in the amount of $43,820 from the Friends of the Torrance Library for the 2023 Citywide Summer Reading Program.
Councilmember Sheikh and Community Services Director John La Rock reviewed the actions and support with the library and Friends of the Torrance Library. This included some of the events and the curriculum.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to approve item BF. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
SG. ACCEPT AND FILE INVESTMENT REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2023 Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council accept and file the Investment Report for the month of March 2023.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 10
City Council
May 9, 2023
Councilmember Kaji and City Treasurer Tim Goodrich conferred on the methods that the City Treasurer is keeping Torrance assets and funds in good health, given bank failures. Overall, Torrance funds are safe.
MOTION: Councilmember Kaji moved to approved item 8G. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
SH. APPROVE BROKER SERVICE AGREEMENT FOR SECURITIES SERVICES Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council:
1) Approve broker service agreement for securities services with Robert W. Baird & Co., of Milwaukee, WI and
2) Authorize the City Treasurer to execute the agreement on behalf of the City of Torrance; and
3) Ratify the agreement as of December 22, 2022.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve the Consent Calendar except 8D, 8F, and 8G. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Item 6P was taken out of order at this time .
6P. ACCEPT AND FILE GENERAL UPDATE FROM CITY TREASURER TO THE
COMMUNITY
Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council accept and file the City Treasurer's General Update to the Community.
City Treasure Tim Goodrich introduced the item to the City Council. He used slides to overview the hiring of Deputy City Treasurer, number of trades, returns, yields, budget, timeline, etc.
Councilmember Kaji inquired if City Treasurer was a part-time position, to which City Treasurer Goodrich stated that it was.
Councilmember Griffiths voiced concern that the resolution is that the position is for full- time and that problem needs to be resolved. City Treasurer Goodrich responded that it was more about work produced rather than hours. Councilmember Griffiths reiterated that it was about defining the resolution properly to avoid problems.
Councilmember Sheikh and City Treasurer Goodrich discussed the vision for the position and how to best govern the role, given the number of responsibilities. This was about efficiency.
Mayor Chen and City Attorney Sullivan clarified that resolution and charter.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that the Treasury Department has been operating well and that whether part-time or full-time is fine as long as the work is getting done. He added that more work needs to be done to possibly make it part-time.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 11
City Council
May 9, 2023
Mayor Chen and City Treasurer Goodrich conferred on the duties between the Treasury Department and the Finance Department. They also went over investment policy, including audit policy. Councilmember Griffiths inquired if the position would be full-time in the future, to which City Treasurer Goodrich stated that it would be wait and see.
Mayor Chen requested clarification on the charter and resolution. City Attorney Sullivan stated that the charter is silent on the matter but that the full-time language is part of the resolution.
City Manager Chaparyan stated that the position of City Treasurer has changed over the years.
Councilmember Griffiths, Councilmember Mattucci, Councilmember Sheikh, Mayor Chen, and City Attorney Sullivan discussed the language of full-time and part-time regarding the resolution.
Members of the public spoke .
In response to a member of the public, City Treasurer Goodrich stated that going forward will determine if the position will be full-time or part-time.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to accept and file item 6P. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9A. ADOPT RESOLUTIONS SETTING FORTH HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR TORRANCE MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME LOCAL-1117),
CROSSING GUARDS, CITY ATTORNEY, AND CITY MANAGER
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 Municipal Employees (AFSCME Local 1117) in the amount of $5,686,509 (15%), for the period January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and repeal Resolution No. 2019-38 in its entirety; and 2) Adopt a RESOLUTION pursuant to the MOU setting forth the hours, wages, and working conditions for Crossing Guards in the amount of $49,041 (9% ), for the period May 7, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and repeal Resolution No. 2019-37 in its entirety; and 3) Adopt a RESOLUTION amending Resolution No. 2018-109 setting forth changes regarding hours, wages, and working conditions for the City Attorney in the amount of $3,240 which updates the car allowance; and
4) Adopt a RESOLUTION amending Resolution No. 2020-97 setting forth changes regarding hours, wages, and working conditions for the City Manager in the amount of $3,240 which updates the car allowance.
Assistant to the City Manager Jamie 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. 2023-44 A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE SETTING FORTH HOURS, WAGES AND
WORKING CONDITIONS FOR EMPLOYEES REPRESENTED BY THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES-AFSCME, LOCAL 1117, AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 2019-38.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 12
City Council
May 9, 2023
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-45 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2020-97
SETTING FORTH CHANGES REGARDING THE HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR CITY MANAGER EFFECTIVE APRIL 23, 2023.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2023-46 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2018-109
SETTING FORTH CHANGES REGARDING THE HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR CITY ATTORNEY EFFECTIVE APRIL 23, 2023.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-44, 2023-45, 2023-46. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9B. PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR SELECTION OF NEW CITY LOGO
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council provide direction to staff regarding the 98 entries for a new City logo:
1) Select an Entry as submitted; or
2) Select an Entry and recommend modification(s); or
3) Determine no Entries are acceptable and extend the deadline; or 4) Direct Staff to create and submit alternatives; or
5) Direct Staff to work with on-line logo designers using professional artists; or 6) Direct Staff to develop a Request for Proposals and establish a budget; or 7) Do not replace the existing logo at this time.
Cable and Community Relations Manager Michael Smith introduced the item to the City Council. He used slides to detail how the logo would be formulated and the recent events.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that he would go without changing the logo at this time but added that it does need an upgrade.
Councilmember Lewis stated that going with not replacing the logo was the right call except for number 87 logo as the official City of Torrance seal.
Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Griffiths, Councilmember Kaji stated that she would go without replacing the existing logo.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to go with option 7. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS -None Scheduled .
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES-None ~cheduled.
13. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Griffiths, Councilmember Kaji, Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Lewis, Councilmember Mattucci, Councilmember Sheikh and Mayor Chen spoke.
Councilmember Griffiths received concurrence to review the City Treasurers resolution.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 13
City Council
May 9, 2023
14. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council returned to closed session at 1 :10 a.m. The City Council returned from closed session at 2:56 a.m.
15. ADJOURNMENT
At 2:57 a.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, May 16, 2023, is a Council Dark Night.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adjourn the City Council meeting .
Councilmember Griffiths seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-2 with Councilmember Sheikh and Councilmember Lewis voting no.
Attest: -._
Rebe ~,'\
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
f the City of Torrance
Approved on June 06, 2023
14 City Council
May 9, 2023