8A
Date: January 27, 2026
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Rebecca Poirier, City Clerk
By: Robert Williams, Deputy City Clerk I | [email protected] Subject: City Clerk – Approve City Council Minutes. Expenditure: None.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of December 16, 2025 and December 19, 2025.
FUNDING
None required.
ATTACHMENTS
1. December 16, 2025, STA City Council Minutes
2. December 19, 2025, STA City Council Minutes
1 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary December 16, 2025
INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL – DECEMBER 16, 2025
SUBJECT PAGE
OPENING CEREMONIES
1. Call to Order/Roll Call 1
2. Flag Salute/Invocation 1
3. Withdrawn, Deferred or Supplemental Items 1
4. Affidavit of Posting/Waive Further Reading 1
5. Council Committee Meetings and Announcements 1-2
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-74 honoring Marc Simons 2
6B. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-75 honoring Rhonda Cleveland 2 6C. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-76 honoring Lenora Duncan 2
6D. Accept and Appropriate Donation for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) 2
6E. Recognition of $10,000 Donation from the Torrance Refining Company LLC for the Torrance Police Department’s John J. Neu Leadership Academy 2
6F. Recognition of the Torrance High School Football Team’s Achievement of Completing the 2025 Season with a Perfect 10-0 Record 2
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 2
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
8A. Approve City Council Minutes 2-3
8B. Ratify Vote for Adoption of RESOLUTION NO. 2025-69 – A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Torrance, California, Amending Resolution No. 2018-110 Setting Forth Changes Regarding the Hours, Wages, and Working Conditions for City Treasurer Effective July 14, 2026 3
8C. SECOND AND FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 3962 3
8D. Award Consulting Services Agreement for the Implementation of a Policing Reform Agreement Between The California Department of Justice, The City of Torrance, and The Torrance Police Department 6 8E. Approve Amendment to Contract Services Agreement for Supplemental Parking Enforcement Services. 3
8F. Award Contract Services Agreement for the Roof Replacement at City Yard and Adopt California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption Pursuant to Section 15301 3
8G. Approve First Amendment to Contract Services Agreement for IT Tenant Improvement Project and Adopt California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption Pursuant to Section 15301 3 8H. Adopt California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption Pursuant to Section 15301 and Approve Amendments to Contract Services Agreements for On-Call Architectural Design and Construction Administration Services 3-4
8I. Award Design Build Agreement, Appropriate Funds for Electrical Improvements at Torrance Municipal Airport (Zamperini Field) and Adopt California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption Pursuant to Section 15301 4
8J. Authorize Purchase Order for One (1) Firematic Ford F550 Hazmat as a Cooperative Purchase with Sourcewell 4
8K. Award Contract Services Agreement to Supply, Install, and Maintain an 2 ATTACHMENT 1
Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary December 16, 2025
On-Board Video Surveillance System 4
8L. Adopt Categorical Exemption Under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Section 15303, Approve Second Amendment to Goldsworthy Desalter Site Lease Agreement with Water Replenishment District of Southern California (WRD) and Waive Permit Fees. 4-5 8M. Approve Additional Funding Allocation and Appropriate Funds to Citywide Traffic Signal Improvements, T-171 (Lomita Boulevard at Madison Street) 5
8N. Accept and File November 13, 2025, Strategic Plan Meeting Minutes and Implementation Update 6
8O. Accept and File Fiscal Year 2025-26 First Quarter Budget Review Report, Approve Proposed Program Modifications, and Appropriate Funds 5
8P. Accept and File Fiscal Year 2025-26 First Quarter Investment Portfolio Report 5-6
9. HEARINGS
9A. Conduct Public Hearing and Consider Adoption of RESOLUTION Regarding Eligibility and Application of CEQA Exemption for 272-Unit Residential Condominium Development on Property Located in the P-D Zone at 2325 Crenshaw Boulevard (APN 7359-028-233), Herein Referred as the Torrance Del Amo Project: Rose Equities (Optimus Properties, LLC). (MOD25-00004 7
10. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
10A. Discuss and Provide Direction on Amending the Torrance Municipal Code to Combine Commissions or Change Meeting Frequency of Commissions 7-8
10B. Adopt ORDINANCE Amending Torrance Municipal Code Regulating Bicycle Use and Use of Parks 9-10
10C. Discuss and Provide Direction Regarding Fiscal Year 2026-27 Operating Budget & Capital Improvement Plan Priorities 10
10D. Reconsideration of a Council Action Regarding the Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration 10
11. AGENCY AGENDAS
12. COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 10
13. CLOSED SESSION 1, 10
14. ADJOURNMENT 10
At 10:43 p.m., the City Council adjourned to Friday, December 19, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. for special session.
3 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 1 December 16, 2025
December 16, 2025
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on December 16, 2025 at 5:04 p.m.
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 13 was considered out of order at this time.
13. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council immediately recessed to closed session at 5:05 p.m. to confer with the City Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 13A) Real Property – Conference with Real Property Negotiator, 13B) Conference with Labor Negotiator, - Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54956.8 and California Government Code §54957.6.
The City Council reconvened in public session at 6:38 p.m. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
2. FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Kaji.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Kalani.
3. WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS
Supplemental material was available for items 8I, 8O, 9A, and 10C.
4. 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 Mattucci and passed by 7-0.
5. COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Chen gave honors for the annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony.
President of the Volunteer Center Josh Gezahegn announced for the public the success of the food drive for those that need it.
4 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 2 December 16, 2025
Social Services Chairman Karen Prior invited the community to volunteer for the Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count.
6. COMMUNITY MATTERS
6A. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-74 HONORING MARC SIMONS
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-74 honoring Marc Simons upon his retirement from the City of Torrance after thirty-nine years of service.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2025 -74 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, HONORING MARC
SIMONS UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY AFTER THIRTY-NINE YEARS OF SERVICE.
6B. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-75 HONORING RHONDA CLEVELAND
RESOLUTION NO. 2025 -75 honoring Rhonda Cleveland upon her retirement from the City of Torrance after thirty-nine years of service.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2025-75 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, HONORING RHONDA R. CLEVELAND UPON HER RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY AFTER THIRTY-NINE YEARS OF SERVICE.
6C. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-76 HONORING LENORA DUNCAN
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-76 honoring Lenora Duncan upon her retirement from the City of Torrance after twenty-nine years of service.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No. 2025-76 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, HONORING LENORA
DUNCAN UPON HER RETIREMENT FROM THE CITY AFTER TWENTY -NINE YEARS OF SERVICE.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adopt Resolution No. 2025-74, 2025-75, and 2025-76. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
6D. ACCEPT AND APPROPRIATE DONATION FOR THE COMMUNITY EMERGENCY
RESPONSE TEAM (CERT)
6E. RECOGNITION OF $10,000 DONATION FROM THE TORRANCE REFINING COMPANY LLC FOR THE TORRANCE POLICE DEPARTMENT’S JOHN J. NEU
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
6F. RECOGNITION OF THE TORRANCE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM’S ACHIEVEMENT OF COMPLETING THE 2025 SEASON WITH A PERFECT 10 -0 RECORD
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
8A. APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
5 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 3 December 16, 2025
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council approve the City Council minutes of November 18, 2025.
8B. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2018-110 SETTING FORTH CHANGES REGARDING
THE HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR CITY TREASURER EFFECTIVE JULY 14, 2026
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council ratify their prior action of approval of RESOLUTION NO. 2025 -69 regarding changes to the hours, wages, and working conditions of the City Treasurer. This action will include reading the title into the reco rd and formally adopt the Resolution.
8C. SECOND AND FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 3962
Second and Final Reading of ORDINANCE NO. 3962 amending Article 7 “Enforcement” of Chapter 1, Division 5 of the Torrance Municipal Code and approval of the Ordinance Summary for publication. This item is for consideration of adoption of the ordinance only.
The item was previously discussed, and action was taken at a prior council meeting.
8E. APPROVE AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
SUPPLEMENTAL PARKING ENFORCEMENT SERVICES
Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council approve a first amendment to the contract services agreement with ACE Parking Management, Inc. of San Diego, CA (C2024-292), in the amount of $708,103, for a new total not -to-exceed amount of $1,273,697, for supplemental parking enforcement services, and extend the term for a one-year (1) period beginning January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2026, with two additional one-year (1) extension options.
8F. AWARD CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE ROOF REPLACEMENT AT
CITY YARD AND ADOPT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301
Recommendation of the General Services Director that City Council:
1. Award contract services agreement to Commercial & Industrial Roofing Co., Inc. of Spring Valley, CA, (B2025-21), in the amount of $1,201,899.20 and authorize a 15% contingency of $180,285, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $1,382,184.20, for the roof replacement at City Yard, for a one-year (1) period beginning December 16, 2025 and ending December 15, 2026; and
2. Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities).
8G. APPROVE FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR IT
TENANT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT AND ADOPT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301 Recommendation of the General Services Director that City Council:
1. Approve a first amendment to contract services agreement with Kindness General Contractors, LLC of Cypress, CA, (C2025 -205) to increase the contract amount by $34,091 and increase the 10% contingency by $3,409.10, for a new total not -to-exceed amount of $279,915.90, for the IT Tenant Improvement Project, for a one -year (1) beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026; and
2. Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities).
8H. ADOPT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301 AND APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO 6 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 4 December 16, 2025
CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENTS FOR ON -CALL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
AND CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES
Recommendation of the General Services Director that City Council:
1. Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities); and
2. Approve a second amendment to consulting services agreement with Kardent of Long Beach, CA (C2024-112), in the amount of $750,000, for on-call services through June 30, 2027; and
3. Approve a second amendment to consulting services agreement with Kitchell CEM of Los Angeles, CA (C2024-133), in the amount of $750,000, for on -call services through June 30, 2027; and
4. Approve a second amendment to consulting services agreement with Partner Assessment Corporation dba Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. of Torrance, CA (C2024-132), in the amount of $750,000 for on-call services through June 30, 2027; and
5. Approve a second amendment to consulting services agreement with AWu Government Services of Rolling Hills Estates, CA (C2024-130), in the amount of $750,000 for on -call services through June 30, 2027.
8I. AWARD DESIGN BUILD AGREEMENT, APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR ELECTRICAL
IMPROVEMENTS AT TORRANCE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (ZAMPERINI FIELD) AND
ADOPT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301
Recommendation of the General Services Director that City Council:
1. Award a design build agreement to Royal Electric Co. of Long Beach, CA, in the amount of $4,444,444, and authorize a 20% contingency of $888,888.80, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $5,333,332.80, for Electrical Improvements at Torrance Municipal Airport - Zamperini Field, for a one-year (1) period beginning December 16, 2025, and ending December 31, 2026; and
2. Appropriate $2,750,000 from the Airport‘s Fund Balance to the Taxiway Lighting Replacement project (FAC0017-BI0005); and
3. Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities).
8J. AUTHORIZE PURCHASE ORDER FOR ONE (1) FIREMATIC FORD F550 HAZMAT 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 Inc. of Corona, CA, in the amount of $532,182.21, plus a 5% contingency in the amount of $26,609.12, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $558,791.33, for one (1) Firematic Ford F550 Hazmat as a cooperative purchase with Sourcewell.
8K. AWARD CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT TO SUPPLY, INSTALL, AND
MAINTAIN AN ON-BOARD VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM
Recommendation of the Transit Director that City Council award a contract services agreement to Transit Solutions, LLC (DBA TSI Video Surveillance) of Zelienople, PA (RFP B2024-13), for an amount not-to-exceed $1,024,663.36, to supply, install and maintain an on-board video surveillance system on the Torrance Transit buses and trolleys, for a two- year (2) period beginning December 2, 2025 and ending December 1, 2027.
8L. ADOPT CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) SECTION 15303, APPROVE SECOND AMENDMENT TO
GOLDSWORTHY DESALTER SITE LEASE AGREEMENT WITH WATER
7 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 5 December 16, 2025
REPLENISHMENT DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (WRD) AND WAIVE PERMIT FEES.
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1. Adopt a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Categorical Exemption pursuant to Guideline Section 15301 (Existing Facilities); and
2. Approve a second amendment to the site lease agreement (C2021-164) with the Water Replenishment District of Southern California (WRD) of Lakewood, CA, (C2021-164), for the Goldsworthy Desalter located at the City Services Facilities (City Yard), 20500 Madrona Avenue; and
3. Waive associated permit fees for the project estimated at $3,300,000.
8M. APPROVE ADDITIONAL FUNDING ALLOCATION AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO CITYWIDE TRAFFIC SIGNAL IMPROVEMENTS, T -171 (LOMITA BOULEVARD AT
MADISON STREET)
Recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council:
1. Approve an additional $100,010 of Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant funds to be added to Program Supplement No. A168 to Administering Agency -State Master Agreement No. 07-5249S21, for the Lomita Boulevard at Madison Street Traffic Signal Installation Project, T-171, HSIPSL-0549(033), thereby increasing the total amount of HSIP grant funds from $537,790 to $637,800; and
2. Appropriate the additional $100,010 of Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant funds to the Citywide Traffic Signal Improvements, T -171 (Lomita Boulevard at Madison Street), thereby increasing the project budget from $2,929,320 to $3,029,330.
8O. ACCEPT AND FILE FISCAL YEAR 2025 -26 FIRST QUARTER 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 Fiscal Year 2025-26 First Quarter Budget Review Report; and
2. Approve the proposed program modifications in the fiscal year 2025 -26 Operating Expenditure Budget in the amount of $3,672,663 for the City Attorney’s Office, City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Community Services Department, Finance Department, General Services Department, Non -Departmental, Police Department, Public Works Department, and Transit Department; and
3. Approve the proposed increase to the General Fund’s fiscal year 2025 -26 operating revenue budget in the amount of $877,028; and
4. Approve the proposed increase to the General Fund’s fiscal year 2025 -26 operating expenditure budget in the amount of $567,602; and
5. Approve the proposed decrease to the Fleet Services Fund’s fiscal year 2025 -26 operating revenue and expenditure budget in the amount of $(194,654); and
6. Approve the proposed increase to the Airport Fund’s fiscal year 2025 -26 operating revenue budget in the amount of $876,600; and
7. Approve the proposed increase to the Airport Fund’s fiscal year 2025 -26 operating expenditure budget in the amount of $1,791,600; and
8. Appropriate funds to a newly created project in the amount of $100,000.
8P. ACCEPT AND FILE FISCAL YEAR 2025 -26 FIRST QUARTER INVESTMENT
PORTFOLIO REPORT
Recommendation of the Finance and Governmental Operations Committee that City Council accept and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 First Quarter Investment Portfolio Report.
8 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 6 December 16, 2025
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Resolution No . 2025-69 A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2018 -110 SETTING FORTH CHANGES REGARDING THE HOURS, WAGES, AND WORKING CONDITIONS FOR CITY TREASURER EFFECTIVE JULY 14, 2026.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3962 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ARTICLE 7 “ENFORCEMENT" OF CHAPTER 1, DIVISION 5 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to adopt the Consent Calendar except 8D and 8N, and adopt Resolution No. 2025-69 and Ordinance No. 3962. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
ITEMS 8D AND 8N WERE PULLED AND CONSIDERED AT THIS TIME*
8D. AWARD CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A
POLICING REFORM AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF
JUSTICE, THE CITY OF TORRANCE, AND THE TORRANCE POLICE DEPARTMENT Recommendation of the Chief of Police that City Council award a consulting services agreement to Teri Black & Company, LLC, dba Joseph Brann & Associates of Torrance, CA (RFP B2025-25), for the implementation of a policing reform agreement between the California Department of Justice, the City of Torrance, and the Torrance Police Department, for an amount not-to-exceed $1,250,000 for a five-year (5) period beginning January 5, 2026 and ending January 4, 2031.
Councilmember Lewis and Human Resources Director Hedieh Khajavi discussed Terry Black and the recruitment for department heads. City Manager Chaparyan stated that appointments have been done by HR and will not use external recruiters or any conflicts of interest this this recruiter.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to approve item 8D . Councilmember Sheikh seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
8N. ACCEPT AND FILE NOVEMBER 13, 2025, STRATEGIC PLAN MEETING MINUTES
AND IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE
Recommendation of the City Council Strategic Plan Committee and City Manager that the City Council:
1. Accept and file November 13. 2025 City Council Strategic Plan Committee meeting minutes; and
2. Accept and file November 13, 2025 City Council Strategic Plan Implementation Program update.
Councilmember Sheikh discussed the Strategic Plan update and the goals and subgoals.
He stated that the achieved category increased and that the statuses are published online.
MOTION: Councilmember Sheikh moved to approve item 8N . Councilmember Gerson seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
The City Council went to recess at 7:44 p.m. The City Council returned from recess at 7:54 p.m.
9. HEARINGS
9 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 7 December 16, 2025
9A. CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING AND CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION REGARDING ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION OF CEQA EXEMPTION FOR 272-UNIT
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM DEVELOPMENT ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE P- D ZONE AT 2325 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD (APN 7359 -028-233), HEREIN REFERRED AS THE TORRANCE DEL AMO PROJECT: ROSE EQUITIES (OPTIMUS PROPERTIES, LLC). (MOD25-00004
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that City Council:
1. Conduct a public hearing, and
2. Adopt a RESOLUTION adopting additional conditions of approval for the Torrance Del Amo Project (“Project”) and making factual findings exempting the Project from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 21080.66 of the California Public Resources Code (AB 130). (MOD25-00004).
Item 9A was deferred to January 13, 2026.
MOTION: Councilmember Gerson moved to move item 9A to a date certain of January 13, 2026. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
10. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
10A. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON AMENDING THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL
CODE TO COMBINE COMMISSIONS OR CHANGE MEETING FREQUENCY OF
COMMISSIONS
Recommendation of the City Clerk that City Council discuss and provide direction on amending the Torrance Municipal Code with respect to City Commissions by combining Commissions or changing how often they meet.
City Clerk Poirier introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that staff time was valuable and it was important to save time where possible. He added that if there are savings to be had then it should be considered and that there should be more input on difficulties of keeping the agendas filled. He stated that nobody would be silenced. He continued that the conversation should be had but not necessarily a decision.
Councilmember Kalani stated that going to the commissions to study how many meetings there would be important but that the commissions should be kept separate. She and staff discussed the possibility of a commission for the Armed Forces Day Parade. Councilmember Kalani stated that she wanted to see more advertising for applicants.
Councilmember Sheikh and City Clerk Poirier overviewed the number of vacancies and the amount of times in a year for asking for applicants. They also discussed possible savings of combining commissions or of other methods to increase efficiency without combining .
Councilmember Sheikh stated that many people want to serve and the public wants commissioners to represent them, and that it would not be a good idea to have less input from commissioners.
Councilmember Lewis and City Clerk Poirier discussed how the topic of combining commissions came about, which included how the state mandated training affects agenda items.
They overviewed the power of the City Clerk office and the ability to control the commissions, and 10 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 8 December 16, 2025
the methods that would assist in enforcing training on commission members. City Clerk Poirier stated that there needs to be stricter enforcement on attendance of commission members.
Councilmember Kaji stated that some commissioners need to take positions seriously. He added that there needs to be more study for more efficiency for the commissions. He stated that studies should come back to analyze the financial impacts and then make decisions on efficiency.
He continued that combining commissions may not be the best route but that it should be taken in a more nuanced way.
Councilmember Gerson stated that having the commissions was very valuable and to not discount the important information for possible cost savings to a detriment. He noted that some of the commissioners have made poor decisions. Him and City Clerk Poirier overviewed decreasing the number of commissioners if possible, and to address commissioners who are absent. Councilmember Gerson deliberated on the ad -hoc meetings and their relation to the commissions. He continued that he did not support necessarily condensing commissions but to reduce participants and/or meetings on certain commissions and to have a code of conduct.
Mayor Chen and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the consequences of combining commissions and the duties of them. They also overviewed the public concerns such as public participation . Mayor Chen and Community Services Director John La Rock discussed the pros and cons of combining the Library Commission and Cultural Arts Commission.
Mayor Chen stated that the first bullet should have a 12-month trial period and then decide to separate if needed, in addition to considering a few other measures.
Councilmember Lewis noted that some commissions like Civil Service had closed meetings so no members of the public would be there. She and Community Services Director La Rock about making the Commission on Aging an advisory board and the responsibilities of them.
Councilmember Lewis stated that a volunteer basis would give more flexibility on meeting subjects and function without the requirements normally needed by commissions.
Councilmember Sheikh and Community Development Director Ramirez discussed the issues with some commissions not having enough items on the agenda and the participation.
Councilmember Sheikh and Former Councilmember Kurt Weideman discussed his perspective of being on council and commissions. Councilmember Sheikh stated that if there are vacancies that there should be a chance for those who expressed willingness to serve and did not get appointed.
Councilmember Kalani stated that the commissions should review their mission statements and intent. She and City Clerk Poirier discussed determining the number of meetings and if they must all be at night. They also overviewed the process and restrictions of filling commissions as needed. City Clerk Poirier enumerated ways to improve efficiency of commissions and filling them. They and Community Development Director Ramirez overviewed the idea of cancelling meetings and the mission statements of commissions.
MOTION: Councilmember Mattucci moved to bring an item back for expansion of the City Clerk’s role in enforcement , bring back a report on costs and savings of combining or cutting meetings, to bring back a report on attendance and relevant data, and for the City Clerk to bring back a recommendation on commissions that may not have to file conflicts of interest .
Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-0 with Mayor Chen.
Mayor Chen voted no because the motion did not contain any of the recommendations.
11 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 9 December 16, 2025
10B. ADOPT ORDINANCE AMENDING TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING
BICYCLE USE AND USE OF PARKS
Recommendation of the Chief of Police and Public Works Director that City Council:
1. Adopt an ORDINANCE amending the Torrance Municipal Code sections 49.2.7, 62.1.1,
62.1.2, 62.1.3, 62.1.4, and 62.1.8, repealing sections 62.1.9, 62.1.10, 62.1.11, 62.1.12,
62.1.13, 62.2.1, 62.2.2, 62.2.3, 62.2.4, 62.2.5, 62.2.6, 62.2.8, 62.2.9,62.2.10, 62.2.11, and
62.2.12, and adding sections 62.1.14, 62.1.15, and 62.1.16 of the Torrance Municipal Code; and
2. Approve an ordinance summary for publication.
-OR-
Recommendation of the Traffic Commission that City Council:
1. Adopt an ORDINANCE amending the Torrance Municipal Code sections 62.1.1, 62.1.2,
62.1.3, 62.1.4, and 62.1.8, repealing sections 62.1.9, 62.1.10, 62.1.11, 62.1.12, 62.1.13,
62.2.1, 62.2.2, 62.2.3, 62.2.4, 62.2.5, 62.2.6, 62.2.8, 62.2.9,62.2.10, 62.2.11, and 62.2.12, and adding sections 62.1.15 and 62.1.16 of the Torrance Municipal Code; and
2. Approve an ordinance summary for publication.
Members of the public spoke.
Police Lieutenant Charles Fisher introduced the item to the City Council.
Councilmember Lewis and Lieutenant Fisher discussed the extent of restrictions on bicycles in parks and how enforcement would be done, as well as edge cases. Councilmember Lewis strongly supported the ordinance coming forward but stressed that it should b e clear in order to get out in front of potential public complaints.
Councilmember Gerson discussed the liability coverage and the risks with e -bikes being bought by residents. He gave PSA information to parents buying their children e-bikes. He voiced concerns about the wide area of interpretation such as the scenarios of training wheel bikes.
Lieutenant Fisher clarified some of the measures that would mitigate the concerns.
Councilmember Kalani and Lieutenant Fisher discussed the parameters of “unsafe speed”, and some of the other restrictions that are written and how police will handle those situations.
Councilmember Sheikh and Lieutenant Fisher overviewed the penalties for breaking restrictions in terms of juveniles and adults, and the potential of confiscation if necessary.
Lieutenant Fisher described the collaboration with Torrance Unified School District in response to Councilmember Sheikh’s question.
Councilmember Kaji and Deputy Public Works Director Shin Furukawa discussed protected bike lanes and the reasons there have not been more built. Councilmember Kaji stated that protected bike lanes should be investigated more given the continued prevalence of e-bikes.
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adopt recommendation 1 and approve ordinance summary for publication. Councilmember Mattucci seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 6-1 with Councilmember Gerson voting no.
City Clerk Poirier read the number and title for Ordinance No. 3963 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING CHAPTER 2 OF DIVISION 6 BY AMENDING SECTIONS 62.1.1, 62.1.2, 62.1.3, 62.1.4, 62.1.8, REPEALING SECTIONS 62.1.9, 62. 1.10, 62.1.11, 62.1.12, 62.1.13, 62.2.1, 62.2.2, 62.2.3, 62.2.4, 62.2.5,
62.2.6, 62.2.8, 62.2.9, 62.2.10, 62.2.11, AND 62. 2.12, AND ADDING SECTIONS 62 .1.14, 12 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 10 December 16, 2025
62.1.15, AND 62.1.16 OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING BICYCLE USE IN THE CITY OF TORRANCE AND AMENDING CHAPTER 9 OF DIVISION 4 BY AMENDING SECTION 49.2.7 TO THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING THE USE OF PARKS.
The City Council went to recess at 10:15 p.m. The City Council returned from recess at 10:23 p.m.
10C. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING FISCAL YEAR 2026 -27
OPERATING BUDGET & CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN PRIORITIES
Recommendation of the Finance and Governmental Operations Committee that City Council discuss and provide direction regarding the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Operating Budget & Capital Improvement Plan Priorities.
Councilmember Kaji introduced the item to the rest of the City Council.
No members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kaji moved to approve the priorities of the Finance and Governmental Operations Committee. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
10D. RECONSIDERATION OF A COUNCIL ACTION REGARDING THE ARMED FORCES
DAY PARADE AND CELEBRATION
Recommendation of the City Manager that City Council reconsider their action on December 2, 2025 regarding the Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration.
Public Engagement Manager Jin Chun introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to approve item 10D . Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
11. AGENCY AGENDAS – None Scheduled.
12. CITY COUNCIL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Gerson, Councilmember Kaji, Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Lewis, Councilmember Mattucci, Councilmember Sheikh and Mayor Chen spoke.
13. CLOSED SESSION
Considered earlier, see page 1.
14. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Councilmember Gerson moved to adjourn the City Council meeting at 10:43 p.m. to Friday, December 19, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. for special session. Tuesday, December 23, 2025, December 30, 2025, and January 6, 2026 are City Council Dar k Nights. Councilmember Kalani seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
13 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 11 December 16, 2025
Attest: Mayor of the City of Torrance
Rebecca Poirier Approved on January 27, 2026
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
14 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary December 19, 2025
INDEX
TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL – DECEMBER 19, 2025
SUBJECT PAGE
OPENING CEREMONIES
1. Call to Order/Roll Call 1
2. Flag Salute/Invocation 1
3. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 1
4. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
4A. Reconsider and Provide Direction on the 2026 Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration Event Location 1-2
5. CLOSED SESSION 1, 3
6. ADJOURNMENT 3
At 5:16 p.m., the City Council adjourned to January 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session, with the regular meeting commencing at 6:30 p.m . in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber.
Tuesday, December 23, 2025, December 30, 2025, and January 6, 2026 are City Council Dark Nights.
15 ATTACHMENT 2
Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 1 December 19, 2025
December 19, 2025
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TORRANCE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Torrance City Council convened in a regular meeting on December 19, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
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
Item 5 was considered out of order at this time.
5. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council immediately recessed to closed session at 3:31 p.m. to confer with the City Manager and the City Attorney on agenda matters listed under 5A) Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation - Litigation pursuant to California Government Code §54956.9(d)(1).
Councilmember Gerson arrived at the City Council meeting at 3:41 p.m.
The City Council reconvened in public session at 4:07 p.m. No formal action was taken on any item considered in closed session.
2. FLAG SALUTE/ INVOCATION
The flag salute was led by Councilmember Kalani.
The non-sectarian invocation was given by Councilmember Lewis.
3. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Members of the public spoke.
4. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
4A. RECONSIDER AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON THE 2026 ARMED FORCES DAY
PARADE AND CELEBRATION EVENT LOCATION
Recommendation of the Armed Forces Day Standing Committee, City Manager, and Chief of Police that City Council reconsider and provide direction on the 2026 Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration event location.
Public Engagement Manager Jin Chun introduced the item to the City Council.
Members of the public spoke.
Councilmember Kalani stated that she does not want the event to be diminished and that she would support bringing it back to Torrance Boulevard. 16 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 2 December 19, 2025
Councilmember Lewis clarified that the VIP banquet was to honor service members and to end the day after the festivities. She added that it was not for council members to have a party as some claimed. She, City Manager Chaparyan, and Public Engagement Manager Chun discussed alternate options under consideratio n, and any issues regarding parking.
Councilmember Lewis requested more marketing for the event which would set up more efficient marketing for future events.
Councilmember Mattucci stated that Torrance Boulevard was the best spot for this event, and that professional marketing would be a good way to go. He was skeptical about equipment at the airport and preferred the city yard.
Councilmember Sheikh and City Manager Chaparyan discussed alternatives to the non- wage cost such as the $180K. They further deliberated on the attendance statistics to determine the basis of any possible declines and the use of programs such as Zen City to improve attendance data.
Councilmember Gerson voiced concerns about public safety. He overviewed the innovation of the parade. He stated that the hometown heroes banners should be stayed on for Torrance Boulevard.
Councilmember Kaji did not support moving the parade and cited his experience as the son of a veteran. He enumerated the differences of how naming signs are and how it affects the public. He continued that the Armed Forces Day Parade should have a name. He stated that if the parade returns from the airport to Torrance Boulevard that it should be renamed to the Ted Tanouye Armed Forces Day Parade.
Councilmember Lewis recounted her experience as the daughter of a veteran. She understood Councilmember Kaji’s request, but that the issue on the agenda was to not rename the park but to come out with outreach plan on renaming the park. She stated that the parade was aptly named for all those that were in all branches of the military and should not be renamed.
Councilmember Gerson stated that the item was never about renaming the park and that the Parks and Recreation Committee was working on it. He stated that it was not a yes or no on renaming.
Councilmember Sheikh reiterated that the agenda was about not adding something new without asking for public input.
Councilmember Kaji stated that enough public input was needed for the renaming of the park but that it should have been decided already. He contrasted that with the discussion on changing the parade route from Torrance Boulevard to the airport without much public input. He stated that there was a double standard.
Councilmember Gerson disagreed in that the two situations were not similar and the public did not get similar input opportunities.
MOTION: Councilmember Kalani moved to hold the Armed Forces Day Parade and celebration on Torrance Boulevard and to allow staff and the Armed Forces Day Committee to work out details and bring it back. Councilmember Lewis seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
17 Aleksander Alderete City Council
Minutes Secretary 3 December 19, 2025
5. CLOSED SESSION
Item 5 was considered earlier.
6. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Councilmember Lewis moved to adjourn the City Council meeting at 5:16 p.m. to Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. for closed session with regular business commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chamber. Tuesday, December 23, 2025, December 30, 2025, and January 6, 2026 are City Counc il Dark Nights. Councilmember Kaji seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 7-0.
Attest: Mayor of the City of Torrance
Rebecca Poirier Approved on January 27, 2026
City Clerk of the City of Torrance
18