INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNGIL - SEPTEMBER 9.2025
SUBJECT
OPENING CEREMON¡ESL Callto Order/Roll Call2. Flag Salute/lnvocation3. Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental ltems4. Affidavit of PostingArVaive Further Reading5. Council Committee Meetings and Announcements6. COMMUNITY MATTERS64. Torrance Rose Float Association68. Recognition of Torrance Girl's 12U All Star Softball Team6C. Recognition of Volunteerism Benefitting City Parks by World Mission Society Church of God7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS8. CONSENTCALENDAR84. Approve City Council Minutes88. Authorize a Sole Source Purchase Order to Furnish Water Treatment Chemicals for the North Torrance Well Field Facility8C. Authorize Purchase Order for Two (2) 1500 GPM Triple Combination Pumpers as a Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell8D. Adopt Categorical Exemption Under CEQA Section 15301 and Approve a First Amendment to Ground Lease (RC93-004)for City-owned Property at 1215 El Prado Avenue8E. Authorize Purchase Order for the Acquisition and Outfitting of Thirteen (13) 2026 Police lnterceptors as a Cooperative Purchase with Arizona Department of Transportation8F. Approve lnsurance Agreement and Rates for Life/Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD) lnsurance, Dental lnsurance, Vision lnsurance, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Account, COBRA, and Retiree Administration8G. Approve Proposed Conceptual Design for Paradise Park Renovation Project, Approve First Amendments to Consulting Services Agreements for On-Call Design and Construction Administration Services and On-Call Construction Management Services, and Authorize Staff to Proceed with Preparation of Constiuction Plans t and Specifications8H. Authorize Purchase Order for One (1) BC-3 Asphalt Patcher Mounted on a2026 Ford F650 Chassis as a Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell81. Accept and File lnvestment Report for the Month oÍ June20258J. Authorize Purchase Order for the Acquisition of Cab Utility Tractor, Stump Grinder, and Vermeer Chippers as a Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell8K. Adopt a RESOLUTION for the Approval of a Modification (MOD23-00010) of a Previously Approved Division of Lot (DlV14-00006) to Amend an Open Space Easement (Note A) for Purposes Related to Solar Panels and Associated Equipment and Perimeter Fencing, on Property Located within the Hillside Overlay in the Open Area - Planting - Parking District (P-1) Zone at 2550 Pacific Coast Highway and Determine a Categorical Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
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September 9,2025
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Exemption in accordance with the Guidelines for lmplementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Approve Rotational Library Commission Rotational Meeting Schedule for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year
Approve First Amendment to Contract Services Agreement
with Hometown Manufacturing, lnc. for the Purchase of Rubber WheelTrolleys
Approve Amendment #1 to Grant Agreement for World War ll Camp Wall Monument Project at Columbia Park
HEARINGS
Conduct Public Hearing and Consider Adoption of RESOLUTION for Approval of Variance (VAR24-00001) on Property Located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the Limited Multiple Family Residential District (R-3) Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue (APN 7357-023-020) and Determine a Categorical Exemption from the CEQA
Conduct a Public Hearing on Land Use Study 24-00005 Regarding Proposed Amendments to the Torrance Municipal Code Pertaining to Target Density for All Zoning Districts Allowing Residential or Mixed-Use Development, Determine an Exemption from CEQA, and Adopt an ORDINANCE Amending the Torrance Municipal Code
Conduct Public Hearing on Adoption of the 2025 California Building Codes with LocalAmendments, Adopt RESOLUTION of Local
Amendments to the 2025 California Building Standard Codes, Adopt URGENCY ORDINANCE and ORDINANCE Amending the
Torrance Municipal Code, and Determine a Categorical Exemption from the CEQA
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Discuss and Consider Amendment to the Torrance Municipal Code, Determine CEQA Exemption, and Adopt an ORDINANCE adding "Mylar Balloons" to Division 4 of the Municipal Code
Approve Proposed Program Modifications and Appropriate Funds
AGENCY AGENDAS
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CLOSED SESSION
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11ADJOURNMENT
At10:24 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Tuesday, September 16,2025, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
City Council
September 9,2025
September 9,2025
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALLTOORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on September 9, 2025 at 5:02 p,m
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
Present:
Councilmembers Gerson, Kaji, Kalani, Lewis, Mattucci, Sheikh, and Mayor Chen
None
City Manager Chaparyan, City Attorney Sullivan,
City Clerk Rebecca Poirier and
other staff representatives
Agenda item 14 was considered out of order at this time.
14. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council immediately recessed to closed session at 5:03 p.m. to conferwith the City Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 134) Conference With Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation, 138) Conference With Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation, 13C) Real Property - Conference With Real Property Negotiator and 13D) Conference With Labor Negotiator - Litigation pursuant to California Government Code 554956.9(dX1), California Government Code S54956.9(dX2), California Government Code 554956.8 and California Government Code 554957.6.
The City Council reconvened in public session at 6:39 p.m. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
2 FLAG SALUTE/ ¡NVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Lewis
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Mattucci.
3.WITHDRAWN. DEFERR ED R SUPPLEMENT AL ITEMS - None I
4. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA/ MOTION TO
WAIVE FURTHER READING
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved that afterthe City Clerk has read aloud the number and title of any resolution or ordinance on the meeting agenda, the further reading thereof shall be waived, reserving and guaranteeing to each Councilmember the right to demand the reading of any such resolution or ordinance in regular order. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Sheikh and passed by 7-0.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Mattucci received concurrence to have staff bring an item that if a homeless individual refuses shelter threb times they could be arrested, expanding locations for Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary I
City Council
September 9,2025
6. temporary shelter beds with partialfunding from SST, and should be away from residential areas.
He included to form an advocacy group that can help with creating expedited gateways to permanent solutions through higher levels of government.
Mayor Chen received concurrence to have staff bring an item for best ways to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States.
COMMUNITY MATTERS
TORRANCE ROSE FLOAT ASSOCIATION
RECOGNITION OF TORRANCE GIRL'S 12U ALL STAR SOFTBALL TEAM
RECOGNITION OF VOLUNTEERISM BENEFITTING CITY PARKS BY WORLD
MISSION SOCIETY CHURCH OF GOD
Fire Chief DuMais stated that Fire Station 1 would have a wreath laying ceremony 7 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke
CONSENT CALENDAR
APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of July 22,2Q25 and August 5,2025.
AUTHORIZE A SOLE SOURCE PURCHASE ORDER TO FURNISH WATER
TREATMENT CHEMICALS FOR THE NORTH TORRANCE WELL FIELD FACTLITY Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council authorize a sole source purchase order with Carus Corporation of Peru, lllinois, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $500,000, to furnish water treatment chemicals for the North Torrance Well Field Facility for a one-year period beginning october 1,202s and ending september 30,2026. 8C.AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR TWO (2) 1500 cpM TRtpLE coMBtNATtON
PUMPERS AS A COOPERATIVE PURCHASE WITH SOURCEWELL
Recommendation of the General Services Director and Fire Chief that City Council authorize a purchase order with South Coast Fire Equipment lnc. of Corona, CA, in the amount of $2,649,529.16, plus a 5% contingency in the amount of $132,476.46, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $2,782,005.62, for two (2) 1500 GPM Triple Combination Pumpers as a cooperative purchase with Sourcewell.
8D.ADOPT CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) SECTION 1530I AND APPROVE A FIRST AMENDMENT TO GROUND LEASE (RC93-OO4) FOR CITY.OWNED PROPERTY AT 1215 EL PRADO AVENUE
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council: 1. Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption pursuant to Guideline Section 15301 (Existing Facilities); and 2. Approve a First Amendment to Ground Lease (RC93- 004) made by and between the City of Torrance, a municipal corporation, and Mar Development Corporation, a California corporation, for City-owned property located at 1215 El Prado Avenue (APN: 7355-027-142).
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Minutes Secretary 2
City Council
September 9,2025
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Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR THE ACQUISITION AND OUTFITTING OF THIRTEEN (13) 2026 POLTCE TNTERCEPTORS AS A COOPERATTVE PURCHASE W¡TH ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Recommendation of the General Services Director and lnterim Police Chief that City Council authorize a purchase order with PFVT Motors, LLC of Peoria, M, in the amount of $1,1 09,946.12, plus a 5% contingency in the amount of $55,497.00, for a total not-to- exceed amount of $1,165,443.12, for nine (9) 2026 Explorer lnterceptors, three (3) 2026 Explorer lnterceptors K9 Patrol, and one (1) 2026 Transit Prisoner Transport'as a cooperative purchase with Arizona Department of Transportation.
APPROVE INSURANCE AGREEMENT AND RATES FOR LIFE/ACCIDENTAL DEATH AND DTSMEMBERMENT (AD&D), SHORT-TERM DtSABtLtTy (STD), LONG-TERM DtSABtLtTY (LTD) TNSURANCE, DENTAL TNSURANCE, VtStON TNSURANCE,
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT, COBRA,
AND RETIREE ADMINISTRATION
Recommendation of the Human Resources Director that City Council:
1. Approve the Standard to provide Term Life/Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), ShortTerm Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD) insurance to eligible employees effective January 1,2026; and
2. Approve the proposed rate of $0.20 per $1,000 of payroll for term life insurance and $0.020 per $1,000 for AD&D, for a combined rate of $0.220 per $1,000 of volume for an estimated total expenditure of $226,204 per year for a one-year period beginning January 1 , 2026 and ending December 31,2026; and
3. Approve the proposed rate of $0.710 per $100 of covered payroll for STD insurance for an estimated total expenditure of $519,554 per year for a one-year period beginning January 1,2026 and ending December 31,2026;and
4. Approve the proposed rate of $0.546 per $100 of covered payroll for LTD insurance for employees represented by TME-AFSCME/TLEA, and $0.278 per $100 of covered payroll for executive, management, and general employees not represented by TME- AFSCME/TLEA for a combined estimated total expenditure of $259,610 per year for a one-year period beginning January 1,2026 and ending December 31, 2026; and
5. Approve the selection of Delta Dental of San Francisco, CA to provide dental insurance at the proposed rates for active employee insurance and group rates for Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) dental coverage at $35.15 single party, $70.31 two-party, and $121.29 family; and Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) group rates at $16.60 single party, $29.96 two-party, and $44.31 family for a combined estimated total expenditure of $1,093,381 per year for a two-year period beginning January 1, 2026 and ending December 31,2027; and
6. Approve the selection of Delta Dental of San Francisco, CA to prould" dental insurance at the proposed rates for retiree insurance and group rates for Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) dental coverage at $50.16 single party, $100.31 two-party, and $173.03 family; and DHMO group rates at $16.60 single party, $29.96 two-party, and $44.31 family for a combined estimated total expenditure of $158,673 per year for a two- year period beginning January 1,2026 and ending December 31,2027; and
7. Approve the selection of Anthem Blue Cross of California of Woodland Hills, CA to provide vision insurance at the proposed rates for eligible active employees effective January 1, 2Q26; and approve an agreement for active employee insurance and group rates for Anthem Blue Cross Base Plan at $3.06 single party, $S.ZA two-party, and $8.45 family; and Anthem Buy-Up group rates at $7.53 single party, $14.21 two-party, and $20.80 family for a combined estimated total expenditure of $1 10,210 per year for a three- year period beginning January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2028; and TorranceCA.Gov I Facebook I X (Formerly Twitter) | lnstagram 3 City Council
September 9,2025
8. Approve the selection of Anthem Blue Cross of California of Woodland Hills, CA to provide vision insurance at the proposed rates for eligible retirees effective January 1, 2026; and approve an agreement for retiree insurance and group rates for the Anthem Base Plan at $3.06 single party, $5.78 two-party, and $8.45 family; and the Anthem Buy- Up group rates at $7.53 single party, $14.21two-party, and $20.80 family for a combined estimated total expenditure of $9,404 per year for a three-year period beginning January 1,2026 and ending December 31, 2028; and
9. Approve the selection of Aetna Resources for Living (RFL) of San Diego, CA to pr'ovide Employee Assistance Program at the proposed rate for eligible employees including the City's Part Time and Recurrent Employees at $1.72 per employee per month effective January 1, 2026 for an estimated total expenditure of $30,203 per year for a three-year period beginning January 1,2026 and ending December 91,2028. 8G. APPROVE PROPOSED CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FOR PARADISE PARK
RENOVATION PROJECT, APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENTS TO CONSULTING
SERVICES AGREEMENTS FOR ON-CALL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES AND ON.CALL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
SERVICES, AND AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PROCEED WITH PREPARATION OF CoNSTRUCT|ON PLANS AND SpECtFtCATtONg
Recommendation of the Community Services Director and General Services Director that City Council:
1. Approve the proposed conceptual design prepared by Black O'dowd and Associates, lnc, dba BOA Architecture for the Paradise Park Renovation project; and
2. Approve a First Amendment to the Consulting Services Agreement with Black O'dowd and Associates, lnc. dba BOA Architecture of Long Beach, CA (C2024-131) in the amount of $500,000, for a new not{o-exceed amount of $750,000, to provide on-call design and construction administration services; and
3. Approve a First Amendment to the Consulting Services Agreement with Maestro Development, LLC of Los Angeles, CA(C2024-156) in the amount of 9500,000, for a new not-to-exceed amount of $750,000, to provide on-call construction management services; and
4. Authorize staff to proceed with the preparation of construction plans, specifications, and opinion of probable cost estimate for construction bid. 8H. AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR ONE (1) BC-3 ASPHALT PATCHER MOUNTED ON A 2026 FORD F65O CHASSIS AS A COOPERATIVE PURCHASE WITH
SOURCEWELL
Recommendation of the General Services Director and Public Wor(s Director that City Council authorize a purchase order with Nixon-Egli Equipment Co. of Ontario, CA, in the amount of $305,770.58, plus a 5% contingency in the amount of $15,288, for a total not- to-exceed amount of $321,058.58, for one (1) BC-3 Asphalt Patcher mounted on a 2026 Ford F650 Chassis as a cooperative purchase with Sourcewell. 8I. ACCEPT AND FILE INVESTMENT REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE 2025 Recommendation of the City Treasurer that City Council accept and file the lnvestment Report for the month of June 2025.
8J. AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR THE ACQUISITION OF CAB UTILITY
TRACTOR, STUMP GRINDER, AND VERMEER CHIPPERS AS A COOPERATIVE
PURCHASE WITH SOURCEWELL
Recommendation of the General Services Director, Public Works Director, and Community Services Director that City Council authorize a purchase order to RDO Equipment Co. of lndio, CA, in the amount of $323,308.40, plus a b% contingency in the Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes secretary 4 september g, zo2s
amount of $16,165.00, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $339,473.40, for one (1) Cab Utility Tractor, one (1) Stump Grinder, and three (3) Vermeer Chippers as a Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell.
*8K.PULLED FROM CONSENT AND CONSIDERED SEPARATELY
ADOPT A RESOLUTTON FOR THE APPROVAL OF A MOD|FICATTON (MOD23-00010) oF A PREVTOUSLY APPROVED DIV|S¡ON OF LOT (DtV14-00006) TO AMEND AN oPEN SPACE EASEMENT (NOTE A) FOR PURPOSES RELATED TO SOLAR
PANELS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT AND PERIMETER FENCING, ON
PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE HILLSIDE OVERLAY IN THE OPEN AREA - PLANTING - PARKTNG D|STRICT (p-r) ZONE AT 2550 pACtFtC COAST HtcHWAy
AND DETERMINE A CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
GUIDELINES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALTTY ACT (CEQA)
8L.APPROVE ROTATIONAL LIBRARY COMMISSION ROTATIONAL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE2025.2026 FISCAL YEAR
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that City Council approve the proposed Library Commission Rotational Meeting Schedule for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.
8M APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH HOMETOWN MANUFACTURING, INC. FOR THE PURCHASE OF RUBBER WHEEL
TROLLEYS
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council approve the first amendment to contract services agreement C2024-170 with Hometown Manufacturing lncorporated of Crandon, Wl, for the purchase and delivery of ten (10) rubber wheel trolley buses and to extend the term to August 31,2026.
8N. APPROVE AMENDMENT #1 TO GRANT AGREEMENT FOR WORLD WAR II CAMP
WALL MONUMENT PROJECT AT COLUMBIA PARK
Recommendation of the City Manager and Community Services Director that City Council approve Amendment #1 to Grant Agreement GF2126-O with the California Natural Resources Agency to extend the project performance period for the World War ll Camp Wall Monument Project at Columbia Park through December 31,2027.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve the Consent Calendar in its entirety except for 8K. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carrigd by a vote of 7-0. "PULLED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR AND CONSIDERED SEPARATELY:
8K.ADOPT A RESOLUTION FOR THE APPROVAL OF A MODTF|CAT|ON (MOD23-00010) oF A PREVTOUSLY APPROVED DtVtStON OF LOT (DtV14-00006) TO AMEND AN oPEN SPACE EASEMENT (NOTE A) FOR PURPOSES RELATED TO SOLAR
PANELS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT AND PERIMETER FENCING, ON
PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE HILLSIDE OVERLAY IN THE OPEN AREA - PLANTTNG - PARKING D|STR|CT (P-r) ZONE AT 2550 pAC¡FtC COAST HtcHWAy
AND DETERMINE A CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
GUIDELINES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALTTY ACT (CEOA)
Based on the City Council's direction at their meeting date of August 19, 2025, it is the recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 5
City Council
September 9,2025
1. Adopt a RESOLUTION for the approval of MOD23-00010 of previously approved DlV14-00006 to amend an open space easement (Note A) for purposes related to solar panels and associated equipment and perimeter fencing, on property located within the Hillside Overlay in the P-l Zone at 2550 Pacific Coast Highway; and
2. Determine a Categorical Exemption for approval of MOD23-00010 in accordance with the Guidelines for lmplementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Article 19, Section 15317 (Open Space Contracts and Easements).
Councilmember Sheikh stated that some terms in the open-space easement were vague, and the conditions were not laid out. He added that there was conflict about the intent of the oþen- space easement. He stated that the 700 plus solar panelwas dire. He stated that it should be an open-space to preserve the area and that it is near residential. He and Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez discussed if solarfarms around residentialwas legal and the magnitude and proximity of panels. Councilmember Sheikh and City Attorney Sullivan discussed the court system and legal challenges on possible overturning on interpretation of the easement. They also discussed Skyline's involvement in any possible litigation, and the idea of the project as a public utility.
Councilmember Gerson and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the abilities of the City Council to approve solar and the differences between natural and open spaces.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that the applicant should be present when discussing bringing back an item.
Councilmember Lewis and City Attorney Sullivan discussed the legal rights to be able to modify definitions such as natural open-space. Community Development Director Ramirez stated that Torrance has language regarding some of these zones, and that the code says that open space solar is allowed.
Councilmember Kalani, Community Development Director Ramirez, and City Attorney Sullivan overviewed the setback requirements.
Councilmember Sheikh and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the other structures that could be placed on an open-space.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2025-53 A RESOLUTTON
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AS PROVIDED FOR IN DlvlsloN 9, CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 28 AND DtVtStON 9, CHAPTER 2, ARTTCLE 29 OF THE ToRRANCE MUNICIPAL CoDE, FoR THE APPRoVAL oF MoDtFtcATtÔN (MoD23-00010) oF A PREVIOUSLYAPPROVED DtVtStON OF LOT (DtV14-00006), ON pROpERTy LOCATEI' WITHIN ÏHE HILLSIDE OVERLAY IN THE OPEN AREA _ PLANTING _ PARKING DISTRICT (P-1) ZONE AT 2550 pAClFlC COAST HlcHWAy.
MOTION: Councilmember Kaji moved to adopt Resolution No. 2025-53. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-2 with Councilmember Gerson and Councilmember Sheikh voting no.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary b
City Council
September 9,2025
9 94.
HEARINGS
CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING AND CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION FOR APPROVAL OF VARTANCE (VAR24-00001) ON PROPERTY LOCATED WtTHtN THE
TORRANCE TRACT OVERLAY AND HOUSING CORRIDOR OVERLAY IN THE L|M|TED MULTTPLE FAMTLY RESTDENTTAL D|STR|CT (R-3) ZONE AT 1810 GABR|LLO AVENUE (APN 7357-023-020) AND DETERMTNE A CATEGORTCAL EXEMPT|ON FROM THE CALTFORNTA ENVTRONMENTAL QUALtry ACT (CEAA) Recommendation of the Planning Commission and Community Development Directorthat City Council:
1. Conduct public hearing; and
2. Adopt a RESOLUTION approving a Variance (VAR24-00001) request to convert an existing two-unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four-unit multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the R-3 Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue; and
3. Determine a Categorical Exemption for the project in accordance with Guidelines for lmplementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Article 19, Section 15303 (Conversion of Small Structures).
Planning Manager Robert Garcia used slides to overview the project location, background, site plan, massing diagram, and recommendation.
Councilmembers Kalani, Kaji, Sheikh, Lewis, and Mattucci disclosed that they visited the location and talked with the developer. They stated they would be basing their decision on the information provided.
The applicant, Robert Osborne, representing KBSS Management requested that the proposed variance be approved by the City Council.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2025-54 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A VARIANCE AS PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9, CHAPTER 4, ARTICLE 2 OF THE TORRANCE
MUNICIPAL CODE TO CONVERT AN EXISTING TWO-UNIT MULTIFAMILY RESIDENCE
BACK TO ITS ORIGINAL DEVELOPMENT AS A FOUR-UNIT MULTIFAMILV RESIDENCE, ON
PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE TORRANCE TRACT OVERLAY AND HOUSING
CORRIDOR OVERLAY IN THE LIMITED MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT ZONE AT'r810 CABRTLLO AVENUE (ApN 7357-023-020I
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adopt Resolution No, 2025-54.
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
98.CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING ON LAND USE STUDY 24.OOOO5 REGARDING
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING
TO TARGET DENSITY FOR ALL ZONING DISTRICTS ALLOWING RESIDENTIAL OR MIXED.USE DEVELOPMENT, DETERMINE AN EXEMPTION FROM CALIFORNIA
ENVTRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA), AND ADOPT AN ORDTNANCE
AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 7
City Council
September 9,2025
Recommendation of the Planning Commission and Community Development Directorthat City Council:
1. Conduct a Public Hearing on Land Use Study 24-00005 regarding proposed amendments to the Torrance Municipal Code pertaining to Target Density; and2. Determine an exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 (aX3) Subsequent ElRs and Negative Declarations; and
3. Adopt an ORDINANCE amending the Torrance Municipal Code to establish target density for all zoning districts Citywide which allow residential and mixed-use development; and
4. Approve Ordinance Summary for publication.
Planning Associate Kevin Joe introduced the item to the city councir.
Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time.
MOTION: Councilmember Gerson moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3955 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 1, ARTICLE 2 OF DIVISION 9 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING AMENDING CHAPTER 1, ARTICLE 3 OF THE DIVISION 9 BY ADDING A NEW SECTION 91.3.4 PERTAINING TO TARGET RESIDENTIAL DENSITY. LUS24-00005: Clry OF TORRANCE MOTION: Councilmember Kaji moved to adopt Ordinance No. 3955. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
The City Council went to recess at 8:16 p.m. The City Council returned from recess at 8:29 p.m.
9C. CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARTNG ON ADOPTION OF THE 2025 CALIFORNTA BUILDING
CODES WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS, ADOPT RESOLUTION OF LOCAL
AMENDMENTS TO THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARD CODES, ADOPT URGENCY ORDINANCE AND ORD¡NANCE AMENDING THE TORRANCE
MUNICIPAL CODE, AND DETERMINE A CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION FROM THE GAL¡FORNIA ENVTRONMENTAL QUAL|TY ACT (CEQA)
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Çouncil:
1. Conduct a public hearing on the 2025 Calilornia Building Standard'Codes; and
2. Adopt a RESOLUTION with Findings of Fact in support of certain City of Torrance local amendments to the 2025 Calilornia Building Standard Codes; and
3. Determine both Ordinances are exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEOA) pursuant to Sections 15061(bX3) of the California Code of Regulations; and
4. Adopt an URGENCY ORDINANCE adopting the 2025 California Buitding Standard Code with local amendments; and
5. Adopt an ORDINANCE adopting the 2025 Caïfornia Building Standard Codes with local amendments; and
6. Approve an Urgency Ordinance Summary for publication; and
7. Approve an Ordinance Summary for publication.
Building official uykheang Keo introduced the item to the city council Members of the public were allowed to speak at this time Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary I City Council
September 9,2025
Councilmember Sheikh and Building Official Keo about what it means to have everything more restrictive, as well as how the recent fires affect this and the new codes. They also overviewed the timeline.
MOTION: Councilmember Gerson 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. 2025-55 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE FINDING AND DECLARING THE
EXISTENCE OF UNIQUE GEOLOGIC, TOPOGRAPHIC, OR CLIMATIC CONDITIONS IN THE
CITY OF TORRANCE JUSTIFYING CERTAIN AMENDMENTS TO THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING SÏANDARDS CODE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Urgency Ordinance 3956 AN URGENCY
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 1,2,3,9, 12 AND 13 OF DIVISION 8 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT AND AMEND THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE VoLUMES 1 AND 2 W|TH APPENDTCES, THE 2025 ED|T|ON OF THE CALTFORNTA ELECTRICAL CODE, THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE WITH APPENDICES, THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE WITH APPENDICES, THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE WITH APPENDICES AND THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3957 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 1, 2,3,9,12 AND 13 OF DIVISION 8 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE. TO ADOPT AND AMEND THE2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE VOLUMES 1 AND 2 WITH APPENDICES, THE 2025 EDÏION OF THE CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE WITH APPENDICES, THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE WITH APPENDICES, THE 2O2sEDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE WITH APPENDICES, AND THE 2025 EDITION OF THE
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
MOTION: Councilmember Gerson moved to adopt Resolution 2025-55, Ordinance No. 3956, and Ordinance No. 3957 and approve the ordinance summary for publication.
Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
10. ADMINISTRATIVEMATTERS
1OA. DISCUSS AND GONSIDER AMENDMENT TO THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE, DETERMINE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALtry ACT (CEQA) EXEMPÏON, AND ADOPT AN ORDINANCE ADDING 'MYLAR BALLOONS'TO DIVISION 4 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1. Discuss and consider amending the Torrance Municipal Code by establishing a Mylar Balloon Ordinance; and
2. Determine the project is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Sections 15061(bX3) and Section 15308 of the California Code of Regulations; and
3. Adopt an ORDINANCE amending the Torrance Municipal Code to add Chapter 21 entitled "Mylar Balloons" to Division 4 of the Torrance Municipal Code; and
4. Approve Ordinance Summary Tor publication.
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary 9
City Council
September 9,2025
Community Development Director Ramirez introduced the item to the City Council.
Mayor Chen and Community Development Director Ramierz overviewed details of the safety requirements.
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Lewis clarified that helium or any gas lighter than air rather than just not being able to buy a mylar balloon. She and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed how to enforce this, given that one could go to another city to buy them.
Councilmember Sheikh and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the various methods of using mylar balloons and the gases, as well as the method of education for the public. They overviewed the penalties and the ways that they are applied.
Councilmember Kalani and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the framework of the foil balloons, and the reusability of the mylar balloons.
Councilmember Kaji voiced skepticism about t"git"ting mylar balloons but stated that there was a good intent to it.
Councilmember Gerson agreed with Councilmember Kaji that it would be difficult to enforce this and that people could go to another city to buy them.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that nearby cities have banned mylar. He added that a balloon released in Torrance could end up in another state, and that it should be taken seriously that it could end up in high fire risk zones. He stated that Torrance should do its part to ban mylar balloons. He continued that this would be faster than the state law.
Mayor Chen supported letting the state phase it out and letting businesses replace the mylar. He stated that he did not want Torrance to be the mylar police, but that business would be the solution to helping the environment.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3958 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING ARTICLE 21 ENTITLED 'MYLAR BALLOONS' TO CHAPTER 5 OF DIVISION 4 OF THE TORRANCE MUNIC|PAL CODE.
t
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adopt Ordinance No. 3958 and approve the ordinance summary for publication. Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion failed by a vote of 2-5 with Councilmembers Gerson, Kaji, Kalani, Lewis, and Mayor Chen voting no.
1OB. APPROVE PROPOSED PROGRAM MODIFIGATIONS AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS Recommendation of the Finance Director, General Services Director, and lnformation Technology Director that City Council:
1. Approve the proposed program modification in the lnformation Technology Department's fiscal year 2025-26 General Fund operating budget; and
2. Approve the proposed increase to the Fleet Services Fund's fiscal year 2e24-25 operating expenditure budget in the amount of $550,000; and
3. Approve the proposed increase to the Fleet Services Fund's fiscal year 2025-26 operating expenditure budget in the amount of 91,000,000; and Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes secretary 10 september 9,2025
4. Approve the proposed increase to the Airport Fund's fiscal year 2024-25 operating revenue budget in the amount of $15,000,000; and
5. Approve the proposed increase to the Airport Fund's fiscal year 2024-25 operating expenditure budget in the amount of $15,000,000; and
6. Appropriate $3,000,000 to OP95-6002-OP0003 - Airport Site Remediation (Hi-Shear) pro¡ect.
Finance Director lan Dailey introduced the item to the City Council No member of the public spoke
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve item 108. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS - None Scheduled
12. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Gerson, Councilmember Kaji, Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Lewis, Councilmember Mattucci, Councilmember Sheikh and Mayor Chen spoke.
I3. CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1 . The City Council returned to closed session at 9:15 p.m. to confer on matters listed earlier. The City Council returned from closed session at 10:24 p.m.
14. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to adjourn the City Council meeting at 1O:24 p.m. to Tuesday, September 16,2025, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber. Councilmember Gerson seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Councilmember Sheikh abstaining.
L,ll
Poirier
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
Aleksander Alderete
Minutes Secretary
Mayor e City of Torrance
Approved on October 7,2025
11 City Council
September 9,2025