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INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL -JUNE 181 2024
SUBJECT
OPENING CEREMONIES
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
2. Flag Salute/Invocation
3. Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading
4. Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental Items
5. Council Committee Meetings and Announcements
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
BA. Approve Request to Set Closed Hearing Date to Consider Employee Termination Appeal
88. Accept and File Investment Report for the Month of April 2024 BC. Approve Third Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement for Seismic Retrofit Ordinance Implementation
8D . Approve Conceptual Float Design for 2025 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade
BE . Approve City-County Municipal Services Agreement for Sole Source Animal Care and Control Services
BF . Approve Policy Renewal for Property Insurance Coverage and Authorize the Finance Director to Execute the Policy
BG . Approve Policy Renewal for Excess Workers' Compensation Insurance Coverage and Authorize the Finance Director to Execute the Policy 8H . Approve Policy Renewal for Automobile Physical Damage Insurance Coverage and Authorize the Finance Director to Execute the Policy
81. Approve Side Letter Agreements Between Torrance Police Officers Association (TPOA) and Management and Torrance Police Commanders Association (TPCA) and Management, and Torrance Professional and Supervisory Association (TPSA) and Management
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
9A. Approve Program Modification in the Community Services Department's Fiscal_ Year 2024-25 Operating Budget
98. Award Contract Services Agreement for Unarmed Security Guard Services
9C. Adopt RESOLUTION Adopting a List of Projects for Fiscal Year 2024-25 as Funded by SB 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act and Appropriate Funds
9D. Authorize Sole-Source Purchase Order for Neptune Advanced Metering Infrastructure Water Meter Registers
9E. Approve Policy Renewal for Excess Liability Insurance Coverage and Authorize the Finance Director to Execute the Policy
9F. Approve Third Amendment to Amended and Restated Lease with South End Racquet and Health Club, Inc. for City-Owned Property Located at 2800 Skypark Drive
9G. Approve Third Amendment to Fee Agreement for Legal Services Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
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City Council
June 18, 2024
10. HEARINGS
1 0A. Conduct Closed Hearing on the Appeal of the Civil Service Commission Decision Sustaining the Termination of a Police Officer (6). 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 13
1 OB. Conduct Public Hearing and Adopt RESOLUTION Confirming a Diagram and Assessment for Fiscal Year 2024-25 in Connection with City of Torrance Lighting District No. 99-1 9-10
1 0C . Consider Appeal of Planning Commission Adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Approval of a General Plan Amendment to Amend the Land Use Designation from General Commercial (C-GEN) to Medium High Density Residential (R-MH), in Conjunction with a Conditional Use Permit to Allow the Construction of a 272-Unit Residential Condominium Development with a Density Bonus, a Planned Development to Establish Development Standards for the Development Plan, and a Division of Lot to Allow a Vesting Tentative Tract Map for Condominium Purposes, on Property Located in the P-D Zone at 2325 Crenshaw Boulevard (APN 7359-028-233), Herein Referred as the Torrance Del Amo Project. The Potential Environmental Impacts Associated with the Project have been Assessed in an Initial Study in Accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act. EAS23-00005, GPA23-00002, CUP23-00027, PUD23-00001, DIV23-00008: ROSE EQUITIES (OPTIMUS PROPERTIES, LLC) 5-9
11. AGENCY AGENDAS
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES
13. COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
14. CLOSED SESSION 1, 14
15. ADJOURNMENT 14
At 11 :11 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Toyota Meeting Hall. Tuesday, June 25, 2024, is a Council Dark Night.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
June 18, 2024
June 18, 2024
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on June 18, 2024 at 5:06 p.m . in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber.
ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Gerson, 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 Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation, 148) Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release, 14C) Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release 140) Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release 14E) Real Property -Conference With Real Property Negotiator 14F) Conference With Labor Negotiator and 1 0A) Conduct Closed Hearing on the Appeal of the Civil Service Commission Decision Sustaining the Termination of a Police Officer (6) -Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54956.9(d)(1 ), California Government Code §54957, and California Government Code §54957.6.
The City Council reconvened in public session at 6:40 p.m. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
City Attorney Sullivan stated that in 1 0A and 14A the City Council voted 7-0 to deny an appeal and uphold the decision of the Civil Service Commission in the termination of a peace officer.
2. FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Mattucci.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Sheikh .
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 1
City Council
June 18, 2024
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA/ MOTION TO WAIVE
FURTHER READING
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci 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.
4. WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Item 9F was deferred. Supplemental material was available for items BC, 1 0C and Oral Communications .
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Lewis reminded the public about the upcoming TOCApalooza event.
Councilmember Sheikh reminded the public about the Friends of the Madrona Marsh organization and their objective.
Councilmember Mattucci overviewed the Armed Forces Day meeting in Torrance and ways citizens can get involved with event planning. He also updated the public about the recovery efforts in the severe winter storm and the roads and hillside damage.
Mayor Chen read about the Children's Hospital South Bay Specialty Care Center blood drive and informed the public about how to contribute. He also stated that on June 24 would be a Torrance Investment Advisory Meeting .
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
None Scheduled.
7 . ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke .
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
SA. 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, August 13, 2024 to conduct a closed hearing to consider an appeal of the Civil Service Commission's decision sustaining the termination of a Police Officer (8). 88 . ACCEPT AND FILE INVESTMENT REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024 Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council accept and file the Investment Report for the month of April 2024.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 2
City Council
June 18, 2024
BC . APPROVE THIRD AMENDMENT TO CONSUL TING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
SEISMIC RETROFIT ORDINANCE IMPLEMENTATION
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council approve a third amendment to the consulting services agreement with Degenkolb Engineers of Los Angeles, CA (C2021-019) in the amount of $40,000, for a new not-to-exceed amount of $464,770, to provide implementation services for a seismic retrofit ordinance, and to extend the contract term for an additional one-year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2025.
BD. APPROVE CONCEPTUAL FLOAT DESIGN FOR 2025 PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF
ROSES PARADE
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that City Council approve the conceptual float design as the City's float entry in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2025.
BE . APPROVE CITY-COUNTY MUNICIPAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR SOLE
SOURCE ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL SERVICES
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that City Council approve a City-County municipal services agreement with the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control for an amount not-to-exceed $1,600,000 to provide sole source animal care and control services for a five-year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2029.
BF. APPROVE POLICY RENEWAL FOR PROPERTY INSURANCE COVERAGE AND
AUTHORIZE THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE THE POLICY
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council:
1) Approve the policy renewal for property insurance coverage with the Alliant Property Insurance Program (APIP) through Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. of Irvine, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $683,925.34 plus taxes and fees for a one-year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending July 1, 2025; and
2) Authorize the Finance Director or designee to execute the insurance policy.
BG . APPROVE POLICY RENEWAL FOR EXCESS WORKERS' COMPENSATION
INSURANCE COVERAGE AND AUTHORIZE THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE
THE POLICY
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council:
1) Approve the policy renewal for excess workers' compensation insurance coverage with Public Risk Innovation, Solutions, and Management (PRISM) through Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. of Irvine, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $457,000 for a one year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending July 1, 2025; and 2) Authorize the Finance Director or designee to execute the insurance policy.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 3
City Council
June 18, 2024
SH. APPROVE POLICY RENEWAL FOR AUTOMOBILE PHYSICAL DAMAGE
INSURANCE COVERAGE AND AUTHORIZE THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE
THE POLICY
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council:
1) Approve the policy renewal for automobile physical damage insurance coverage with The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. through Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. of Irvine, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $400,000 plus taxes and fees for a one-year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending July 1, 2025; and
2) Authorize the Finance Director or designee to execute the policy.
81. APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENTS BETWEEN TORRANCE POLICE OFFICERS
ASSOCIATION (TPOA) AND MANAGEMENT AND TORRANCE POLICE
COMMANDERS' ASSOCIATION (TPCA) AND MANAGEMENT, AND TORRANCE
PROFESSIONAL AND SUPERVISORY ASSOCIATION (TPSA) AND MANAGEMENT Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council:
1) Approve a side letter agreement between the Torrance Police Officers Association (TPOA) and Management amending language pertaining to longevity steps and pay ranges; and
2) Approve a side letter agreement between the Torrance Police Commanders Association (TPCA) and Management updating language pertaining to merit pay; and 3) Approve a side letter agreement between the Torrance Professional and Supervisory Association (TPSA) and Management modifying the pay range for the Transit Training Coordinator classification.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve the Consent Calendar in its entirety .
Councilmember Gerson seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Item 1 0C was taken out of order at this time.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 4
City Council
June 18, 2024
10C. CONSIDER APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION ADOPTION OF A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND APPROVAL OF A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT TO AMEND THE LAND USE DESIGNATION FROM GENERAL COMMERCIAL (C
GEN) TO MEDIUM HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (R-MH), IN CONJUNCTION WITH A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 272-UNIT
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM DEVELOPMENT WITH A DENSITY BONUS, A
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT TO ESTABLISH DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT PLAN, AND A DIVISION OF LOT TO ALLOW A VESTING
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP FOR CONDOMINIUM PURPOSES, ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE P-D ZONE AT 2325 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD (APN 7359-028- 233), HEREIN REFERRED AS THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT. THE
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT HAVE
BEEN ASSESSED IN AN INITIAL STUDY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. EAS23-00005, GPA23-00002, CUP23-00027, PUD23-00001, DIV23-00008: ROSE EQUITIES (OPTIMUS PROPERTIES, LLC) Recommendation of the Planning Commission and the Community Development Director that City Council:
1) Deny the appeal; and
2) Adopt a RESOLUTION adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Torrance Del Amo Project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act; and 3) Adopt a RESOLUTION approving a General Plan Amendment as provided for in Division 9, Chapter 2, Article 34 of the Torrance Municipal Code to allow an amendment to the Land Use designation from General Commercial to Medium High Density Residential on property located in the P-D Zone at 2325 Crenshaw Boulevard (APN 7359-028-233); and
4) Adopt a RESOLUTION approving a Conditional Use Permit as provided for in Division 9, Chapter 5, Article 1 of the Torrance Municipal Code to allow the construction of a 272-unit residential condominium development with density bonus on property located in the P-D Zone at 2325 Crenshaw Boulevard (APN 7359-028-233); and 5) Adopt a RESOLUTION approving a Planned Development as provided for in Division 9 Chapter 1, Article 42 of the Torrance Municipal Code to establish development standards for a development plan for property located in the P-D Zone at 2325 Crenshaw Boulevard (APN 7359-028-233); and
6) Adopt a RESOLUTION approving a Division of Lot as provided for in Division 9 Chapter 2, Article 29 of the Torrance Municipal Code to allow a Vesting Tentative Tract Map for condominium purposes on property located in the P-D Zone at 2325 Crenshaw Boulevard (APN 7359-028-233).
Community Development Department Planning Manager Leo Oorts introduced the item to the City Council. He used slides to overview the project location, existing conditions, land use designation, zoning designation, site plan, elevations, renderings, density bonus, environmental analysis and recommendation.
The appellant, Marjan Abubo, introduced himself and stated that his and his organization's position remains that the mitigated negative declaration was improper. He added that the fair argument standard applies and that an environmental impact can be made. He stated that his independent experts would emit VOCs, which would be about 85 pounds a day. He continued that significance thresholds would be exceeded, and that significant amounts of greenhouse emissions would be emitted. He reiterated that fair argument usage was crucial and that disagreement solutions should be made through an EIR. He refuted that enough investigation Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 5
City Council
June 18, 2024
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was done in effects in sounds, and enumerated methods the city can use to corroborate with their own experts in noise levels.
The proponent, Principal Dan Miller with Rose Equities, introduced himself and the background of his group and the project. He stated they have followed every regulation and worked with the city closely to bring multi-family housing. Land-Use Counsel Andrew Fog, with Cox Castle and Nicholson, introduced himself to the City Council. He stated that the number of units was approved by the city and that the city must fulfill this project to comply with state mandates. He noted that the letter submitted of 219 pages is a CEQA abuse and that under law this can be disregarded. He commented that the noise level letters have not been submitted until now because they want to use it for potential litigation. He continued that none of the evidence claimed was substantial or qualified. He overviewed the incorrect information presented by the appellant such as the formaldehyde research, noise research and more. He stated that the evidence presented by Kaja was correct. He continued that the conditions of approvals added regarding toxic controls would make it secure and known for the public that no issue is there. He detailed if there was any contamination it would be removed during demolition and dealt with thereafter. Noah Tansy stated that the noise issue was assessed with many metrics such as meeting regulations to the city's standard for noise and added a 5-decibel threshold to help with noise even more. Brent Stall, with Rose Equities, stated that this project was designed with the goal of satisfying the housing element conditions and the surrounding communities.
Mr. Abubo responded that the proponent was incorrect and that you could provide housing to fulfill the housing element and provide an EIR. He continued that the proponent was related to the environment not the housing. He explained the issue with the late submission and why the document was so dense. He stated that they have been communicative over this process and that the EIR would resolve disagreements in evidence.
Councilmember Sheikh, Councilmember Gerson, Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Lewis, Councilmember Kaji, Councilmember Mattucci and Mayor Chen disclosed that she met with Rose Equities and the community, as well as staff. She disclosed she also visited the location.
She stated that she would make her decision based on evidence presented during the hearing.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
Joe Odencratz voiced concern about vapor intrusion and the remaining contamination. He relayed the data from LA County. He listed his credentials in being able to assess the problems that the proponent has created in terms of building and contaminants.
Joan Davidson recounted the large amounts of contaminants in the history of that location and that building there would harm the community. She criticized the exclusion of the EPA in this project.
Nancy Howard described the problems in communication with the proponent. She stated that there were problems in the layout given as well.
Roland Chan stated that there were incorrect items such as the schematics, parking, bike lanes .
Richard Wenish stated that an EIR was important, and that the community's health and noise levels were at stake.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 6
City Council
June 18, 2024
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Melanie Hayne stated that her home was going to be affected and that the community needed help but stated that Rose Equities was being helpful in communicating with her and her concerns. She stated that their development was one of the better-looking ones.
A member of the public stated that the traffic is going to be made even worse by this, and it was a safety concern. She stated that she was against the density building.
A member of the public was not against the proposed building but said that an EIR needed to be done. She stressed listening to the public and the experts, and she criticized the process of how they would keep them safe.
Gary Cardinalli criticized the rezoning of the area to allow such a high density building and how the concerns of the community were not heard. He also stated that traffic would increase negatively.
A member of the public was not against the project, but rather criticized that the community was not being heard and that there were concerns over the environment and other factors.
A member of the public stated that while there were environmental factors to be considered that they need population growth with projects like this. He was for the project.
Councilmember Lewis reminded the public that the City Council did their due diligence in reviewing this project. Assistant City Manager Santana explained why staff handled the EIR aspect. In response to Councilmember Lewis, Planning Manager Oorts explained how the city must act in response to RHNA and why this project works toward that.
Councilmember Sheikh inquired about the environmental analysis, and Planning Manager Oorts explained the various hazards and mitigation measures that staff worked on, such as tribal cultural resources, paleontological evidence, nesting, and more. He continued that greenhouse gases would not exceed the levels that were significant so there was no need for mitigation.
Councilmember Sheikh and Planning Manager Oorts discussed the walkway and sidewalks and any outstanding natural features that were at risk. They also discussed the differences in heights of the building and adjacent buildings and the work done on making the height work in the area.
Councilmember Sheikh and the proponent Mr. Stall discussed how many meetings they had with the community and what concerns were there and some of the ways they are fixing those. They overviewed the number of parking spaces and how the number was acquired, as well as the traffic study and its impact.
Councilmember Kaji inquired about below grade parking. Mr. Stall stated that the majority is underground except for a few for leasing. The cost of constructing this way would be about $60,000 a space. Mr. Stall stated that remote work was not factored into the traffic study.
Councilmember Kaji and Planning Manager Oorts overviewed the history of development and the regulations in Torrance, and the conditions that staff have for reviewing environmental hazards.
Additional studies would be required to identify and remove contamination if found, and more reviews and regulations would be required in that event. Councilmember Kaji and Planning Manager Oorts elaborated on the necessity of projects such as these to meet the RHNA dictated by the state.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 7
City Council
June 18, 2024
Councilmember Kalani and Planning Manager Oorts discussed who will be maintaining and taking responsibility for the crosswords, and where the heavy equipment would be coming from and areas where emergency access would be provided in places with limited access.
Mayor Chen and Planning Manager Oorts overviewed the concerns about the sidewalks and the requirements of on-site walking and on the perimeter.
Councilmember Gerson stressed that given the requirements from the state, more low-income housing has to be built. He acknowledged that the concerns from the public were valid. Planning Manager Oorts reported the number of units being proposed and where Torrance was in the building.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-42 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. · City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-43 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA APPROVING A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9, CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 34
OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW AN AMENDMENT TO THE LAND USE
DESIGNATION FROM GENERAL COMMERCIAL TO MEDIUM HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE P-D ZONE AT 2325 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD (APN 7359- 028-233), HEREIN REFERRED AS THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-44 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9, CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE 1 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 272-UNIT
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM DEVELOPMENT WITH DENSITY BONUS ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE P-D ZONE AT 2325 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD (APN 7359-028-233), HEREIN REFERRED AS THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-45 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA APPROVING A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9 CHAPTER 1, ARTICLE 42 OF
THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR A DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE P-D ZONE AT 2325 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD (APN 7359-028-233), HEREIN REFERRED AS THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 8
City Council
June 18, 2024
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City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-46 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA APPROVING A DIVISION OF LOT AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9 CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 29 OF THE
TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW A VESTING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP FOR CONDOMINIUM PURPOSES ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE P-D ZONE AT 2325 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD (APN 7359-028-233), HEREIN REFERRED AS THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to deny the appeal and adopt Resolution No. 2024-42, 2024-43, 2024-44, 2024-45, 2024-46 stated. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
The City Council went to recess at 8:43 pm. The City Council returned from recess at 9:04 pm .
Item 1 OB was taken out of order at this time .
1 OB. CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING AND ADOPT RESOLUTION CONFIRMING A DIAGRAM AND ASSESSMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 IN CONNECTION WITH CITY OF TORRANCE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 99-1
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Conduct a public hearing on the proposed levy of assessments within the City of Torrance Lighting District No. 99-1 for fiscal year 2024-25; and 2) Adopt a RESOLUTION confirming a diagram and assessment for fiscal year 2024-25 in connection with the City of Torrance Lighting District No. 99-1.
Public Works Department Associate Engineer Jessamine Que introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
James Henry inquired about the total revenue the lighting district creates and how much revenue decreases were for the SCE increase in rates. Public Works Director Craig Bilezerian responded that it was in the report where the assessments were $1,388,609 in revenues and that the SCE increase does not lead to a revenue decrease but rather Torrance collects revenue to pay the expense.
A member of the public recounted his process for paying bills on lighting. He stated that Torrance is making enough money off this and that he should not be paying so much in bills.
Public Works Director Bilezerian responded that the special benefit assessment explains to the public what the funds were used for and how it benefits the public. He added that the streetlights were not metered so city cost was on a property tax role.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 9
City Council
June 18, 2024
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-41 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, CONFIRMING A DIAGRAM AND ASSESSMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 AND IN CONNECTION WITH THE CITY OF TORRANCE LIGHTING DISTRICT #99-1 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ACT OF 1972 PART 2 OF DIVISION 15 OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND AS PROVIDED BY ARTICLE 13D OF THE CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adopt Resolution No. 2024-41 .
Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
9. ADMINISTRATIVE MA TIERS
9A. APPROVE PROGRAM MODIFICATION IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 OPERATING BUDGET
Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council approve a program modification to add a 0.5 full-time equivalent Maintenance Worker position in the Community Services Department's fiscal year 2024-25 operating budget in the amount of $29,203 per year.
Enterprise Risk and Human Resources Manager Jason Nishiyama introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Sheikh and Community Services Director John La Rock discussed which part of the park will have the dogs and the salary and scope of the position, as well as the reasoning for location such as regulations and low activity.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to approve item 9A. Councilmember Gerson seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9B. AWARD CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR UNARMED SECURITY GUARD
SERVICES
Recommendation of the City Manager and Community Services Director that City Council award a contract services agreement to Citiguard, Inc. of West Hills, CA (RFP 82024-04) for an amount not-to-exceed $546,415.44 to provide unarmed security guard services at City Hall, LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber, Katy Geissert Civic Center Library, and the Torrance Farmers' Market for a three-year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2027.
Community Services Director John La Rock introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke .
Assistant City Manager Santana listed the security guards that would be covered by this and the objective was to free up Police Officers to do other tasks.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 10
City Council
June 18, 2024
Per request of Councilmember Sheikh, Community Services Director La Rock elaborated on the training, scope, actions and more of the security guards. They deliberated on the contract and how there is no annual evaluation process and contract length and extensions. Assistant City Manager Santana mentioned while they cannot cancel the entire contract that there are other ways to drop and add different kinds of support. Councilmember Sheikh and Community Services Director La Rock discussed the amount of guards and the cost. Councilmember Sheikh commented that the high cost was not good, and that staff should look for more options.
Community Services Director La Rock and Assistant City Manager Santana explained that the process of this choice considered pricing and quality and this company was the most optimal.
Community Services Director La Rock explained the process of bringing over one current security personnel and others may be replaced.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve item 9B. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9C . ADOPT RESOLUTION ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 AS FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT
AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1) Adopt a RESOLUTION adopting a list of projects for fiscal year 2024-25 as funded by SB 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act to identify the Residential Pavement Improvement, 1-159 as the project to be funded; and
2) Appropriate Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) funds in the amount of $353,686 to the Residential Pavement Improvement, 1-159; and 3) Appropriate additional prior fiscal years' RMRA revenues received from the State of California in the amount of $575,000 to the Residential Pavement Improvement, 1-159.
Councilmember Gerson, Councilmember Mattucci, and Councilmember Kaji recused themselves at 9:34 pm.
Public Works Department Engineering Manager Beth Overstreet introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
Council member Sheikh and Public Works Director Bilezerian discussed the usage of the $950K and the methods to which Torrance has used to gain that funding and stay compliant with SB 1. He added that there was other funding in the capital budget that is part of the 1-159 project so the project would expand to include streets not funded by SB1.
Per request of Councilmember Kalani, Public Works Director Bilezerian overviewed the process of tree removal and reinstalled trees later after the construction was done. He added that they have plans to add even more trees.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 11
City Council
June 18, 2024
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2024-40 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 AS FUNDED BY SB1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adopt Resolution No. 2024-40.
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4-0 with Councilmembers Gerson, Mattucci and Kaji recused.
Councilmember Gerson , Councilmember Mattucci, and Councilmember Kaji returned to the City Council meeting.
9D . AUTHORIZE SOLE-SOURCE PURCHASE ORDER FOR NEPTUNE ADVANCED
METERING INFRASTRUCTURE WATER METER REGISTERS
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council authorize a sole-source purchase order with Ferguson Waterworks of Poway, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $6,500,000 for 26,500 Neptune Advanced Metering Infrastructure water meter registers.
Water Operations Manager Andy Darlak introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
Council member Mattucci inquired about movement on the mainline and the cases of leaks on residents' properties. Water Operations Manager Darlak explained that these would be registered changes only and no meters would be changed.
Councilmember Kalani alerted the public that the current meters have reached their life expectancy. Water Operations Manager Darlak concurred and stated that they are replacing them and detailed the registers that they are using.
Councilmember Sheikh and Water Operations Manager Darlak discussed the parameters of software upgrades and cellular register fees.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to approve item 9D. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9E , APPROVE POLICY RENEWAL FOR EXCESS LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE
AND AUTHORIZE THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE THE POLICY Recommendation of the Finance Director that City Council:
1) Approve the policy renewal for excess liability insurance coverage with Public Risk Innovation, Solutions, and Management (PRISM) through Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. of Irvine, CA for an amount not-to-exceed $3,957,200 for a one-year period beginning July 1, 2024 and ending July 1, 2025; and
2) Authorize the Finance Director or designee to execute the insurance policy.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 12
City Council
June 18, 2024
Risk Management Finance Rashida Johnson introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve item 9E. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0. 9F. APPROVE THIRD AMENDMENT TO AMENDED AND RESTATED LEASE WITH SOUTH END RACQUET AND HEAL TH CLUB, INC. FOR CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2800 SKYPARK DRIVE
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve a third Amendment to the amended and restated lease with the South End Racquet and Health Club, Inc. of Torrance, CA (C-1990) for City-owned property located at 2800 Skypark Drive, to consolidate the original lease into one comprehensive document and set forth certain agreements concerning the second Fair Market Valuation Period effective July 1, 2024.
Item 9F was deferred.
9G. APPROVE THIRD AMENDMENT TO FEE AGREEMENT FOR LEGAL SERVICES Recommendation of the City Attorney that City Council approve a third amendment to the fee agreement with law firm Liebert Cassidy Whitmore of Los Angeles (C2023-115) in the amount of $70,000, for a new not-to-exceed amount of $320,000, to provide the City with legal services pertaining to Civil Service Appeal Matter #A23-000790.
City Attorney Sullivan introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to approve item 9G . Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
10. HEARINGS
1 0A. CONDUCT CLOSED HEARING ON THE APPEAL OF THE CIVIL SERVICE
COMMISSION DECISION SUSTAINING THE TERMINATION OF A POLICE OFFICER (6)
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.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS -None Scheduled .
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES-None Scheduled .
13. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Sheikh, Gerson, Kaji, Kalani, Lewis, Mattucci, and Mayor Chen spoke .
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 13
City Council
June 18, 2024
14. CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1. The City Council returned to closed session at 10:06 pm to deliberate on items listed earlier. The City Council returned from closed session at 11: 10 p.m.
15. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Council member Mattucci moved to adjourn the City Council meeting at 11: 11 p.m. to Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m . in the Toyota Meeting Hall. Tuesday, June 25 , 2024, is a Council Dark Night.
Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Sheikh abstaining.
Attest: ._ Rebp!ufll
City lerk of the City of TOirance
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
Approved on July 2, 2024
14 City Council
June 18, 2024