INDEX
TORRANCE CITY CO UNC IL-MARCH 12 , 2024
SUBJECT PAGE
OPENING CEREMONIES
1. Call to Order/Roll Call 1
2. Flag Salute/Invocation 2
3. Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading 2
4. Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental Items 2
5. Council Committee Meetings and Announcements 2-3
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. Recognition of $10,000 Donation from Torrance Refining Company, LLC 3
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 3
8. CONSENT CALENDAR 3-4
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
9A. Approve Request to Set Closed Hearing Date to Consider Employee Termination Appeal 4
98. Discuss and Determine Action to Address Request for Subsidy of Rental Fees for Use of El Retiro Park by Hollywood Riviera Sportsman's Club 5 9C . Accept and File Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for Fiscal Year Ended 2022-23 and Fiscal Year 2023-24 Mid-Year Budget Review Report, Approve Proposed Program Modifications, and Appropriate Funds 5-6 9D. Accept and File Report on Public Safety at Transit Stations and Terminals and Provide Direction on Official Position Regarding LA Metro C-Line Extension to Torrance 6-8
9E. Discuss and Determine Action to Address Request for Subsidy of Landing Fees by Flabob Aviation Associates and Torrance Unified School District for S.T.E.M. Day at Torrance Municipal Airport-Zamperini Field 10
10. HEARINGS
1 OA-1 . Discuss and Determine Action on Potential City Charter Amendments Related to the City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, and City Treasurer 11-13 10A-2 Conduct First Pub)ic Hearing on Potential City Charter Amendments 13-14 1 OB. Conduct Closed Hearing on the Appeal of the Civil Service Commission Decision Sustaining the Termination of a Police Officer (7).
Confidential under Penal Code 832.7 and Copley Press v. Superior Court 39 Cal. 4th 1272 (2006). Consideration of Public Employee Discipline Will be Conducted in Closed Session per California Government Code Section 54957(b)(1 ), unless the Employee Requests to Have the Appeal Conducted in Public Session. The Deliberation of this Matter by the City Council will occur in Closed Session 1, 14
1 DC . Conduct Public Hearing on Land Use Study 24-00001 Regarding Proposed Amendment to Torrance Municipal Code Pertaining to the Approval Process and Placement of Pickleball Courts in the P-U (Public Use) 11 .
12 .
13 .
14. Zone, Adopt ORDINANCE Amending Torrance Municipal Code, and Adopt California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Exemption
AGENCY AGENDAS
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CLOSED SESSION
Crystal Cammarota
Minutes Secretary
9-10
14 1, 14
City Council
March 12, 2024
15. ADJOURNMENT 15
At 1 :50 a.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, March 26, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, March 19, 2024, is a Council Dark Night.
Crystal Cammarota
Minutes Secretary
City Council
March 12, 2024
March 12, 2024
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting at 5:05 p.m. on March 12, 2024 . in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber at Torrance City Hall.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
Present:
Councilmembers Griffiths, Kaji, Kalani, Lewis, Mattucci, Sheikh, and Mayor Chen
None.
Assistant City Manager Santana, City Attorney Sullivan, City Clerk Rebecca Poirier and other staff representatives Agenda items 14 and 108 were taken 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) Public Employee Discipline /Dismissal/Release, 148) Conference with Labor Negotiator, 14C) Public Employee Discipline /Dismissal/Release and 140) Public Employee Performance Evaluation -Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54957, California Government Code §54957.6, California Government Code §54957 and California Government Code §54957(b)(1). 1 OB. CITY MANAGER -CONDUCT CLOSED HEARING ON THE APPEAL OF THE CIVIL
SERVICE COMMISSION DECISION SUSTAINING THE TERMINATION OF A POLICE OFFICER (7). CONFIDENTIAL UNDER PENAL CODE 832.7 AND COPLEY PRESS V.
SUPERIOR COURT 39 CAL. 4TH 1272 (2006). CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC
EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINE WILL BE CONDUCTED IN CLOSED SESSION PER CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957(8)(1), UNLESS THE EMPLOYEE REQUESTS TO HAVE THE APPEAL CONDUCTED IN PUBLIC SESSION.
THE DELIBERATION OF THIS MATTER BY THE CITY COUNCIL WILL OCCUR IN CLOSED SESSION. EXPENDITURE: NONE.
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council conduct a closed hearing to consider an appeal of the Civil Service Commission's decision sustaining the termination of a Police Officer (7), unless the employee requests to have the hearing in public session and that the City Council's deliberation of this matter shall occur in closed session.
The City Council reconvened at 6:36 p.m. During closed session, City Manager Aram Chaparyan announced that during closed session the City Council voted 7 to O to uphold the decision of the Civil Service Commission to terminate the employee.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 1
City Council
March 12, 2024
2 . FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Kalani.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Lewis.
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA/ MOTION TO WAIVE
FURTHER READING
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani 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 7-0.
4. WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Supplemental material was available for items 8C, 9C, 9D, 10C, and Oral Communications.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Chen recognized and congratulated the Torrance Fire Department's re-accreditation by the Commission on Fire Accreditation.
Mayor Chen recognized March as Women's History Month.
Mayor Chen congratulated Mr. Noriya Kaihara who will take the helm at Honda Motor Company in Japan as the next Director and Executive Vice President and Representative Executive Officer. He also welcomed his successor, Mr. Kazuhiro Takizawa.
Councilmember Jon Kaji reminded the public to participate in the Torrance Civic Center Masterplan Survey which will be open until March 31, 2024.
Councilmember Asam Sheikh thanked everyone for their support and well wishes while he was out. He then discussed the 2021 amendment to the small cell towers policy. He stated that Community development will be bringing back needed amendments to the corresponding Ordinance for Council consideration. He encouraged the public to check the "Trending in Torrance" page for additional information.
Councilmember Aurelio Mattucci announced that the first Pitch Torrance event will be held at Toyota Meeting Hall at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center on Tuesday March 19th from 2-5:00 p.m. He encouraged that the public attend and participate by going to www. T orranceCA. Gov /Pitch Torrance.
Councilmember Kaji discussed a lease proposal from the Torrance Police Department to potentially establish a substation at the Westgate shopping center, He received concurrence to have staff prepare and bring back an item for discussion which will include information regarding lease terms, funding, pricing and potential capital improvements needed for occupancy.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 2
City Council
March 12, 2024
Councilmember Mike Griffiths announced the upcoming 49 th Annual Japanese Cultural Festival "Bunka-Sai" event which will be held on Saturday, April 2orn and Sunday April 21sr at the Ken Miller Recreation Center from 11a.m. to 5 p.m. He encouraged the public to come to experience it themselves and to visit. www.Torrancesistercity.org for more information on the event.
Councilmember Sharon Kalani discussed the Employee Relations and Public Safety Committee meeting that occurred on Thursday, March 7th . She also congratulated Torrance Fire on their reaccreditation .
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. RECOGNITION OF $10,000 DONATION FROM TORRANCE REFINING COMPANY, LLC
Mayor Chen discussed the history of the John J New Leadership Academy and explained how this program continues to help provide life lessons and develop students into successful adults. Alexandra Lakatos from the Torrance Refining Company presented the donation to Chief Hart and Maile Thai, Juvenile Diversion case worker.
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
SA. APPROPRIATE FUNDS AND AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER #2 TO PURCHASE ORDER FOR POLICE VEHICLE OUTFITTING.
Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council:
1) Appropriate $4,999.68 from Asset Forfeiture Fund's fund balance to Facility, Equipment, and Automation Plan (FEAP) 1132 -Police Vehicle Outfitting Project; and 2) Authorize change order #2 to the purchase order with Dana Safety Supply of Canoga Park, CA (PO# 2023-00000049) in the amount of $4,998.68, for a new not-to-exceed amount of $288,026.29, to provide police vehicle outfitting. 8B. ACCEPT AND FILE INVESTMENT REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2024.
Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council accept and file the Investment Report for the month of January 2024.
Councilmembers Griffiths and Sheikh requested item BC be pulled for separate discussion.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani motioned to approve consent items 8A & 8B .
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 3
City Council
March 12, 2024
SC . ACCEPT AND FILE UPDATE ON CITY'S ANIMAL CONTROL PROGRAM.
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that City Council accept and file update on the City's Animal Control Program.
Administrative Analyst Shane Lee provided an update on the City's Animal Control Program. In response to Councilmember Griffiths, he confirmed the mandatory license requirements and enforcement policies. He stated the licensing requirements for the adoption process and how expired licensing is tracked.
Councilmember Lewis questioned if the City would offer free clinics on weekends at the Farmers' Market at Charles H. Wilson Park with services for neutering and microchipping pets.
Administrative Analyst Lee stated staff can look into vendors that may be able to offer these services.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired about park ranger staffing on weekends and holding a vaccination clinic at the Farmers' Market. Community Services Director John La Rock responded that animals are prohibited at the Farmers' Market so it would not be possible to have a vaccination clinic there.
Councilmember Mattucci shared his concerns with euthanizing animals and inquired about contracting out to no-kill shelters or animal sanctuaries. Community Services Director John La Rock responded the City has not been able to find a vendor that would provide the type services.
The City is unable to take this on as it would require accepting financial responsibility for the care of animals for the duration of their lifespan.
Councilmember Kalani inquired if it is possible to make it mandatory to microchip pets.
Community Services Director John La Rock stated there would need to be an amendment to the Torrance Municipal Code. Councilmember Kalani made the public aware that it is possible to microchip any animal.
Councilmember Lewis referred to the supplemental item submitted which provided information on no-cost or low-cost options for vaccinations.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve item 8C. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
9A. APPROVE REQUEST TO SET CLOSED HEARING DATE TO CONSIDER EMPLOYEE
TERMINATION APPEAL
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve request to set a date of Tuesday, June 18, 2024 to conduct a closed hearing to consider an appeal of the Civil Service Commission's decision sustaining the termination of a Police Officer (6).
Brianne Cohen, Civil Service Manager, presented the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 4
City Council
March 12, 2024
In response to comments from members of the public, City Attorney Patrick Sullivan explained that the Brown Act allows for Closed Session Disciplinary Hearings.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to approve item 9A. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Griffiths abstaining.
9B. DISCUSS AND DETERMINE ACTION TO ADDRESS REQUEST FOR SUBSIDY OF
RENTAL FEES FOR USE OF EL RETIRO PARK BY HOLLYWOOD RIVIERA SPORTSMAN'S CLUB (HRSC).
In response to an oral request by Councilmember Mike Griffiths with City Council concurrence, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that City Council discuss and determine action to address the request for subsidy in the amount of $500 for use of El Retiro Park by the Hollywood Riviera Sportsman's Club (HRSC) for its 48th Annual Easter Egg Hunt to be held on March 30, 2024.
Economic Development Manager Fran Fulton presented the item to the City Council.
Councilmember Griffiths stated his support of the event and of the Club's contribution to the Community.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that approving this subsidy may open the door to everyone asking for subsidies. He then confirmed he was willing to support it due to the time constraints and requested staff create set guidelines for when subsidies are approved.
In response to Mayor Chen, Economic Development Manager Fran Fulton explained that there is normally a picnic fee of $75 dollars but as this event would have over 100 people attending it was upgraded to a special event which has a fee of $500.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to approve Item 9B. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9C. ACCEPT AND FILE ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED 2022-23 AND FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 MID-YEAR BUDGET REVIEW
REPORT, APPROVE PROPOSED PROGRAM MODIFICATIONS, AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS.
Recommendation of the Finance and Governmental Operations Committee that City Council:
1) Accept and file the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended 2022-23; and
2) Accept and file the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Mid-Year Budget Review Report; and 3) Approve the proposed program modification in the City Clerk's fiscal year 2023-24 General Fund operating budget in the amount of $2,474 per year; and 4) Approve the proposed program modification in the City Manager's fiscal year 2023-24 General Fund operating budget in the amount of $85,427 per year; and 5) Approve the proposed program modification in the Community Services Department's fiscal year 2023-24 General Fund operating budget in the amount of $54,723 per year; and
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 5
City Council
March 12, 2024
6) Approve the proposed program modification in the Finance Department's fiscal year 2023-24 General Fund operating budget for a savings of $54,332 per year; and 7) Approve the proposed program modification in the Finance Department's fiscal year 2023-24 Self-Insurance Fund operating budget in the amount of $78,557 per year; and 8) Approve the proposed program modification in the General Services Department's fiscal year 2023-24 General Fund operating budget in the amount of $54,339 per year; and 9) Approve the proposed program modification in the Police Department's fiscal year 2023-24 General Fund operating budget in the amount of $278,340 per year; and 10) Increase the Section 8 Housing Fund's fiscal year 2023-24 operating revenue budget by $850,000 ; and
11) Appropriate $850,000 to the Section 8 Housing Fund's fiscal year 2023-24 operating expenditure budget.
Councilmember Kaji presented the item to the City Council with the assistance of Assistant Finance Director Nao Pabalan.
Assistant Finance Director Pabalan presented the financial highlights for Fiscal Year 2022- 23 including increases in the City's General Fund Revenues and Self Insurance Fund.
Members of the public spoke .
Assistant Finance Director Nao Pabalan responded to public comment regarding the request for an additional payroll specialist, stating that although the automated payment system helps to improve the operational efficiency, it cannot entirely replace the processes performed by the staff. The data produced by the system is only as good as what is manually input by the payroll staff. Is critical to maintain and expertise of the payroll staff and given the large number of employees, labor groups and complexity of each MOU, the payroll team plays a key role in processing pay timely and accurately.
She also explained how the expenditure amount was reached, stating that only recommendations 3 through 9 were included in the calculation. Recommendation 10 was asking to increase the budget of the housing fund not to spend the money. That would be a separate item that Finance would need to bring back at a future Council meeting.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve item 9C. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to approve item 9C. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 6
City Council
March 12, 2024
9D. ACCEPT AND FILE REPORT ON PUBLIC SAFETY AT TRANSIT STATIONS AND
TERMINALS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON OFFICIAL POSITION REGARDING LA METRO C-LINE EXTENSION TO TORRANCE 7:58 P.M.
Recommendation of the Transportation Committee that City Council:
1) Accept and file a report on public safety at transit stations and terminals; and 2) Provide direction on the City's official position regarding the LA Metro C-Line Extension to Torrance.
Councilmember Martucci presented the item to the City Council with the assistance of Transit Director Kim Turner, Senior Business Manager David Mach and Administration Manager James Lee.
Senior Business Manager Mach provided background regarding the C-Line Extension's history, benefits of the project, different build options, and the LA Metro's approach to public safety.
Administration Manager Lee presented information on the funding sources that were awarded based on the anticipated C-Line Extension to Torrance and explain_ed how approving the no build option could lead to funding losses and possible denial of grants in the future.
Sergeant Stephen Kim discussed the Torrance Police Department's (TPD) plan for public safety including creation of a substation dedicated to the Transit Center that would include homeless outreach. He discussed staff schedules and projected costs for staff salary, equipment and vehicles.
Los Angeles Metro Director of Sales Mark Durkin shared funding sources for the TPD Metro Force and the existing contracts and collaborations that the Metro has in place with Los Angeles and Long Beach.
Councilmember Griffiths stated he would like to make sure coverage from the community isn't taken away. City Manager Chaparyan stated it would be dedicated to the Transit center and provide an opportunity to utilize technology and create a real time response center. He further stated the city would build up staff in anticipation of the C-Line extension.
Metro Director of Sales Mark Durkin discussed the possibility of Metro creating its own police force.
Councilmember Kaji stated his concerns regarding the lack of preparation and resources that City of LA and Santa Monica are encountering with the surge in homelessness and crime that was brought on by the end of line in their respective cities.
Mayor Chen stated he intends to make sure Metro pledges to provide additional support whether it be Torrance PD or Metro PD.
Councilmember Mattucci stated he is not against mass transit, . He stated the Torrance City Council doesn't make the final decision on if the extension is built; they can support or oppose the project. He expressed concerns regarding the negative aspects of having an end of the line station in the city including homeless dumping, drug use, and an increased criminal element. He inquired what would happen if they chose the no build option.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 7
City Council
March 12, 2024
City Manager Chaparyan deferred to Transit Director Turner who stated if the money had not been spent the City would simply return it.
Councilmember Mattucci reaffirmed his position is for a no build option and voiced concerns that TPD would not be able to enforce the law even if they had a large presence due to the new proposition where most crimes are classified as misdemeanors.
Councilmember Griffiths stated his concerns about the Metro system, regarding end of line homeless dumping and discussions he's had with Councilmembers in other cities that are dealing with similar issues like Long Beach and Azusa. He asked t what options Torrance would have if after the extension is built, the City decided they no longer wanted the station. He then voiced his support for the right-of-way build option.
Transit Director Turner stated options for the Transit Center if the C-line does not get built, such as collaborations with the Hollywood Bowl and offering special one day excursions to San Diego.
Assistant City Manager Santana stated that staff would also look for alternative uses for the parking lots that were allocated to the transit center. He explained they would need to look for alternate sources of funding as well since the original funding would no longer be offered.
Transit Senior Business Manager David Mach informed the Council on possible grant funding for lines 1 and 6 to Dignity Hill Sport Park, Dodger Stadium and the Intuit Dome.
Transit Director Turner explained maintenance costs and funding sources.
Councilmember Lewis stepped out at 8:53 p.m .
Councilmember Lewis returned at 8:56 p.m .
LA Metro Director of Sales Mark Durkin discussed turnstile jumpers and fare-dodgers and what current security and enforcement is in place including train ambassadors.
Councilmember Kaji d stated he met with several Metro board members over the course of 2 months and discussed both the benefits of the Metro such as pollution reduction and the negatives y discussed by Council. He expressed interest in creating a "South Bay Flyaway" service.
Councilmember Kalani, stated she's ridden the Metro and shared her experience when speaking with transit riders about the benefits of having the extension, including affordability, stress reduction and the ability to commute far which would enhance job opportunities.
Mayor Chen echoed the concerns of the other councilmembers with regards to public safety and agreed that having staff at the turnstiles would help eliminate most issues. He expressed concerns with LA County, the state legislature, and criminal justice system. He pointed out people are coming from out of town via buses on Hawthorne Blvd., using their own vehicles, bicycles, etc. and the concerns being discussed are with public safety, not necessarily LA Metro.
He stated the right-of-way build option is the simplest option.
Members of the public spoke .
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 8
City Council
March 12, 2024
Councilmember Sheikh stepped out at 9:13 p.m. He returned at 9:17 p.m.
Council took a recess at 9:31 p.m. and returned at 9:45 p.m.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to accept and file the report on public safety at the transit stations and terminals and continue with the City's current position of the right of way and accepting the Metro C-Line into Torrance. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-2 with Councilmember Kaji and Councilmember Mattucci voting no.
Item 1 0C was taken out of order at this time .
1 0C. CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING ON LAND USE STUDY 24-00001 REGARDING
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE
APPROVAL PROCESS AND PLACEMENT OF PICKLEBALL COURTS IN THE P-U (PUBLIC USE) ZONE, ADOPT ORDINANCE AMENDING TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE, AND ADOPT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT {CEQA) EXEMPTION.
Recommendation of the Community Services Director and Comm4nity Development Director that City Council:
1) Conduct a public hearing on Land Use Study 24-00001 regarding proposed amendment to Torrance Municipal Code pertaining to the approval process and placement of pickleball courts in the P-U (Public Use) Zone; and 2) Adopt an ORDINANCE amending Torrance Municipal Code Section 91.37.3(a) of Chapter 1 of Article 37 of Division 9 Entitled "Land Use"; and 3) Determine the project is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Sections 15378 and 15061 (b)(3); and
4) Approve an Ordinance Summary for publication.
Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez introduced the item to the City Council.
Councilmember Kalani stated the Council is working on making sure there are adequate courts throughout the city. She asked Community Services Director John La Rock to share the upcoming plans for Pickleball in the City. Community Services Director John La Rock discussed the current Pickleball amenities available throughout the city parks. He discussed potential capital projects planned for Columbia, Walteria and Wilson Park.
In response to Councilmember Griffiths, Community Services Director John La Rock stated that current tennis and pickleball courts would be grandfathered in as they don't meet the proposed 500-foot requirement. He explained that Tennis courts that are grandfathered in would be prohibited from being converted to pickleball courts in the future.
In response to Councilmember Sheikh. Community Services Director John La Rock responded the courts at Wilson Park did not meet the new distance requirement and advised the City would be repurposing the old horseshoe courts as Pickleball courts and moving the horseshoes court to the old Volleyball courts.
Members of the public spoke .
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 9
City Council
March 12, 2024
In response to Councilmember Sheikh, Community Services Director John La Rock responded he attended a conference where issues like parking and noise were addressed. He explained the different methods that are being looked into in response to the issues communities are facing due to growth of the sport.
Councilmember Kaji suggested indoor pickleball courts. He believes that the focus should be reducing the decibel levels.
Councilmember Kalani stated the focus should be on finding balance to give the residents relief.
Councilmember Lewis stated she would be willing to compromise and lower the number of feet down to half and grandfather in the existing courts.
Councilmember Griffiths agreed that compromise is required but stated that picking an arbitrary number without doing research would not be appropriate and that the item should be tabled until research has been done.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that doing a study would be a waste of resources as distance levels are subjective due to tolerance level for noise and that compromising at 250 ft is fair.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to amend the Ordinance to 250 ft, Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-2 with Councilmember Griffiths and Mayor Chen voting no.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3931, AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION
91.37.3(a) OF CHAPTER 1 OF ARTICLE 37 OF DIVISION 9 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL
CODE TO REGULATE THE APPROVAL PROCESS AND PLACEMENT OF PICKLEBALL COURTS IN THE P-U (PUBLIC USE) ZONE AS AMENDED.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Ordinance No. 3931 as amended, Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried with a vote of 5-2 with Councilmember Griffiths and Mayor Chen voting no.
Mayor Chen thanked the public for their participation .
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 10
City Council
March 12, 2024
9E. DISCUSS AND DETERMINE ACTION TO ADDRESS REQUEST FOR SUBSIDY OF
LANDING FEES BY FLABOB AVIATION ASSOCIATES AND TORRANCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR S.T.E.M. DAY AT TORRANCE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT -
ZAMPERINI FIELD
In response to an oral request by Councilmember Bridgett Lewis with City Council concurrence, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that City Council discuss and determine action to address the request for subsidy of landing fees for an amount not-to- exceed $100 by Flabob Aviation Associates and Torrance Unified School District for a Douglas DC-3 aircraft that will participate in a static aircraft exhibit at a S.T.E.M. Day event to be held on March 29, 2024.
Assistant City Manager Santana presented the item to the City Council.
Councilmember Griffiths stated he was disappointed with the tone of the letter that was submitted by the pilot who requested the subsidy but would still support it.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve the item. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
10. HEARINGS
1 0A-1. DISCUSS AND DETERMINE ACTION ON POTENTIAL CITY CHARTER
AMENDMENTS RELATED TO THE CITY MANAGER, CITY ATTORNEY, CITY CLERK, AND CITY TREASURER.
Recommendation of the Special Counsel that City Council:
1) Conduct the first public hearing on potential amendments to the City Charter regarding the positions of City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, and City Treasurer; and 2) Discuss and determine action on potential amendments to the City Charter; and 3) Set the date of the second Public Hearing.
Mayor Chen introduced the item to the City Council.
City Attorney Sullivan and City Manager Chaparyan recused themselves and left the chamber.
Special Counsel Peter Brown presented the item and stated the different amendments for discussion specific to the City Manager and City Attorney employment including wording regarding termination, residency/gender requirements and compensation. He also confirmed that the point of the hearing was for the Council to provide direction regarding amendment language which he would prepare to put on the ballot for the November election. He made note that these amendments would not affect the current employees in those positions unless they agreed to be subject to it.
In response to Councilmember Griffiths, Special Counsel Brown discussed the benefits of providing employment contracts to the City Manager and City Attorney; specifically, that they help with potential employee recruitment and retainment as they provide employees with a severance package. He also confirmed that it would not need to be addressed in the Charter at all as it would be a Human Resources Function while creating employment contracts.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 11
City Council
March 12, 2024
Special Counsel Brown, Councilmember Griffiths, Mayor Chen, Deputy City Attorney Jean Marie Litvin and Assistant City Manager Santana discussed the sick time/vacation time language.
Council came to a consensus to remove the language regarding sick/vacation time and leave that language to be negotiated on the employment contract.
Councilmember Mattucci and Special Counsel discussed the possibility of amending the Charter to state that changes to City Manager and City Attorney positions would be made by Resolution to minimize having to revisit the making amendments to the Charter They also discussed whether to bundle the different amendments or list them separately and the negatives associated to bundling such as added costs and voters possibly rejecting the entire amendment because they do not agree with sections of it.
Special Counsel Brown requested direction from the City Council on the elected positions of City Clerk and City Treasurer.
Mayor Chen inquired if it would be a conflict of interest for the City Clerk and City Treasurer to participate.
City Clerk Poirier stated she had asked City Attorney Sullivan if it would be a conflict and he responded it wouldn 't. She requested to be able to speak on this item.
Mayor Chen stated he would request comments from the City Clerk and City Treasurer before Council comments.
City Clerk Poirier stated she would like to add requirements to the City Clerk's position in the charter such as a Bachelor's degree and a Certified Municipal Clerk Designation. She stated that the City Clerk's field has evolved and requires someone with experience.
Mayor Chen inquired if the City Clerk felt the position could be appointed.
City Clerk Poirier stated she was in favor of an appointed City Clerk or to place requirements in the charter as the position is a professional position, City Treasurer Goodrich stated he was in favor of recommending language for removal, general qualifications, and gender-neutral language for the charter. He stated he is still working on evaluating what the minimum qualifications should be. He stated he was open to the position being elected or appointed.
Councilmember Griffiths stated on the issue of minimum requirements, he liked the idea, his concern is that there will be no candidates who meet the minimum requirements, what would they do.
Special Council Brown stated that they would have to rely on the Deputy City Clerk.
Councilmember Griffiths stated that with regard to the discrepancies in the charter between the City Clerk and City Treasurer, they need to be reviewed. There should be language that they could remove an elected official in the event of failure to perform the job.
City Treasurer Goodrich stated he understood Councilmember Griffiths concerns with the minimum requirements . He read the charter from Huntington Beach and stated their charter was much more restrictive than he would recommend.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 12
City Council
March 12, 2024
City Clerk Poirier stated that she was recommending a minimum requirement of a Bachelor's degree, not restricted to a particular field.
Councilmember Kalani inquired how many people run for the City Clerk in Huntington Beach .
City Clerk Poirier responded she had not inquired about that.
Councilmember Kalani inquired if they were going to place the positions on the ballot to be appointed again. Mayor Chen stated that could be a possibility.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Griffiths moved to concur with the recommendation of the special counsel, Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0 .
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to accept and file the recommendation of City Clerk, City Manager and City Attorney; Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to reconsider closing the public hearing, Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion.
Council recessed at 11 :55 p.m.
Council reconvened at: 12:02 a.m .
Members of the public spoke.
1 0A2. CONDUCT FIRST PUBLIC HEARING ON POTENTIAL CITY CHARTER
AMENDMENTS
Recommendation of the City Clerk, City Manager, and City Attorney that City Council:
1) Conduct the first public hearing on potential amendments to the City Charter; and 2) Discuss and determine action on potential amendments to the City Charter; and 3) Set the date of the second Public Hearing.
City Attorney Sullivan presented the item and provided potential dates for the second hearing.
Councilmember Asam Sheikh, City Attorney Sullivan, Councilmember Griffiths and Mayor Chen discussed the pros and cons of potentially changing the City election date from the state primary date and holding runoff elections.
Councilmember Griffiths discussed the residency requirements and requested staff to research if they could be longer than 30 days.
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 13
City Council
March 12, 2024
MOTION: Council member Kalani moved to close the public hearing; Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Attorney Sullivan confirmed he didn't observe dissent among the Council except regarding holding a runoff election. State that he could bring back Information regarding run offs and that City Clerk Poirier could bring back information from the county regarding the cost of a runoff and doing a mail in ballot.
Mayor Chen asked if the City Clerk would be looking into all mail ballots, if they could also apply them to their regular election. City Attorney Sullivan advised they would need to change the Torrance Municipal Code, which was brought before Council during Covid in 2020 and the council rejected it.
City Attorney Sullivan confirmed Council can continue to add or remove amendments in the second hearing but by the third hearing all amendments have to be finalized so they can be added to the ballot. He stated if Council was in agreement, he would return to the second hearing on April 23 rd with language based on the discussion they had.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to concur with the recommendation City Attorney. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion.
Councilmember Griffiths verified that the language would include additional information regarding potential changes to the 30-day residency requirement and potential regulations on special interest money and elections.
MOTION: The motion carried 7-0 .
1 OB. CITY MANAGER -CONDUCT CLOSED HEARING ON THE APPEAL OF THE CIVIL
SERVICE COMMISSION DECISION SUSTAINING THE TERMINATION OF A POLICE OFFICER (7). CONFIDENTIAL UNDER PENAL CODE 832.7 AND COPLEY PRESS V.
SUPERIOR COURT 39 CAL. 4TH 1272 (2006). CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC
EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINE WILL BE CONDUCTED IN CLOSED SESSION PER CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957(8)(1), UNLESS THE EMPLOYEE REQUESTS TO HAVE THE APPEAL CONDUCTED IN PUBLIC SESSION.
THE DELIBERATION OF THIS MATTER BY THE CITY COUNCIL WILL OCCUR IN CLOSED SESSION. EXPENDITURE: NONE.
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council conduct a closed hearing to consider an appeal of the Civil Service Commission's decision sustaining the termination of a Police Officer (7), unless the employee requests to have the hearing in public session and that the City Council's deliberation of this matter shall occur in closed session.
Considered earlier, see page 1.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS -None Scheduled .
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES-None Scheduled .
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary 14
City Council
March 12, 2024
13. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Griffiths, Councilmember Kaji, Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Lewis, Councilmember Mattucci, and Mayor Chen spoke.
14. CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1.
The City Council re-entered closed session at 12:46 a.m. The City Council returned from closed session at 1 :50 a.m. City Manager Chaparyan confirmed no formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
15. ADJOURNMENT
At 1 :50 a.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, March 26 , 2024, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session , with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m . in the Council Chamber. Tuesday, March 19 , 2024 is a Council Dark Night.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adjourn the City Council meeting Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Att ~
Re~
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
Crystal Cammarota
Minute Secretary
Approved on April 23, 2024
15 City Council
March 12, 2024