SECT NESTAKE UTTE
SUSAN MSWEENEY BRAD HALPERN RAY PEARL NED E DAVIS KELLY HONIG Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
May 27, 2026
CALL TO ORDER:
This regular meeting of the Westlake Village City Council was called to order by Mayor Pro Tem Halpern on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 6:30 p.m., at 31200 Oak Crest Drive, Westlake Village.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
Also Present: City Manager de Geus, City Attorney Boga, Assistant City Manager Hughes, Assistant to the Pity ia Dier or At, an Cy minity Services Manager Roush.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Councilmember Davis moved to approve the Agenda as presented. Councilmember Pearl seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern
NO: None
ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern declared the motion passed 4-Yes, O-No, 1-Absent (Mayor McSweeney)
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 2
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Councilmember Honig moved to approve the Minutes of April 22, 2026 City Council Study Session and Regular Meeting. Councilmember Davis seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern
NO: None
ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern declared the motion passed 4-Yes, 0-No, 1-Absent (Mayor McSweeney)
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS/CEREMONIAL MATTERS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS: None
STAFF COMMENTS:
City Manager de Geus reported that the Sandy Fire is 94% contained, with crews continuing mop-up operations. A recent structure fire in the Westlake Colony Homeowners Association area was quickly extinguished, with one injury reported.
The Veterans Honor Tree has been installed at the Civic Center courtyard, with a dedication planned for late June. Street improvements in the Lakeshore area are delayed, with completion now expected by mid-June. Updates were provided on the long-term Pure Water Project schedule and the annual weed abatement goat program in June.
Additional updates on the start of the Regional Fiber Project, a recent water line break, completion of the Berniece Bennett Park playground, and continued reminder for the Leaf Blower Rebate Program were provided.
Mr. de Geus highlighted upcoming summer events, committee meetings, and the June 10, 2026 City Council meeting, which will include budget adoption and policy items.
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
Councilmember Honig commented on the return of the goats for annual brush clearance efforts.
Councilmember Davis acknowledged Councilmember Pearl's contribution to the Veterans Honor Tree, noting that it is a beautiful addition that will leave a lasting impression on the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern invited residents to visit City Hall to view the newly installed Veterans Honor Tree.
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 3
MONTHLY DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:
Sheriff's Department Report
Deputy Chad Ray presented the Sheriff Department's report for the month of April 2026 covering crime statistics.
Fire Department Report
Assistant Fire Chief Drew Smith presented the Fire Department's report for April fire was initially determined to be accidental but remains under investigation.
Library Report
Julie Frieze, Manager, Westlake Village Daniel K. Ludwig Library, presented the library's report for the month of April 2026 covering traffic, circulation, programs, and reference requests. Ms. Frieze announced that the summer reading program will run from June 1 - August 7, 2026.
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS: None
PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
MONTHLY IN-HOUSE DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:
1. Engineering Department Report
City Engineer Hughes provided the Engineering Report highlighting the Community Park Entry Signs, update on the Street Improvement Project, installation of the Civic Center Courtyard Veterans Honor Tree, and the Pure Water Project update.
Planning Department Report
Planning Director Asp presented the Planning Department report, highlighting updates on the Associate Planner recruitment, ongoing data collection for the General Plan Hazard Chapter update, and the 2025 California Building and Fire Code updates. Draft updates to the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance are anticipated to be presented to Council in early summer and slope development standards amendments will be returned to the Land Use Committee this summer.
Data gathering for Sign Programs is underway with the item scheduled to be presented to the Land Use Committee in July.
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 4
MONTHLY IN-HOUSE DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS (continued):
Cultural Recreation Report
Community Services Manager Roush highlighted a series of upcoming Cultural Recreation events including two concerts at Berniece Bennett Park in late May and early June featuring school groups and a Motown tribute band, a live-streamed USA vs. Paraguay soccer match with activities and a raffle, and a "Movie in the Courtyard" in August with refreshments and entertainment. The summer programming emphasizes accessible, tamily-friendly gatherings with food, entertainment, and community participation.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilmember Pearl moved to approve the Consent Calendar. Councilmember Davis seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern
NO: None
ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern declared the motion passed 4-Yes, O-No, 1-Absent (Mayor McSweeney)
APPROVAL OF WARRANTS: Warrants effective May 15, 2026 in the amount of $1,326,196.18 (Warrant Register is on file with the City Clerk) GENERAL BUSINESS:
1. AWARD OF CONTRACT TO OPTIMA ENERGY, INC. FOR THE
LINDERO LINEAR PARK LIGHTING REHABILITATION PROJECT - City Council awarded a construction contract for the Lindero Linear Park Lighting Rehabilitation Project to Optima in the amount of $141,015.71, authorized the City Manager to approve change orders up to the 15% contingency amount; and authorized the Mayor to sign and execute the construction contract on behalf of the City.
APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PROGRESS PAYMENTS
TO DASH CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.; RESOLUTION NO.
2453-26 - City Council adopted Resolution No. 2453-26.
Resolution No. 2453-26: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WESTLAKE VILLAGE AUTHORIZING PROGRESS PAYMENTS TO DASH CONSTRUCTION, INC.
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 5
CONSENT CALENDAR (continued):
3. ACCEPTANCE OF PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION FOR
THE BERNIECE BENNETT PARK REHABILITATION PROJECT; FILE
NOTICE OF COMPLETION - City Council accepted the installation of and authorized the Coy Clerk i electe Pad recorditatin Pre t Completion" for the project on behalf of the City.
OLD BUSINESS: None
NEW BUSINESS:
APPROVAL OF A PROJECT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
KIMLEY-HORN AND ASSOCIATES, INC FOR INTELLIGENT
TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS PHASE II PROJECT DESIGN
City Traffic Engineer Mericle presented a professional engineering services agreement for the City's ITS Phase II Project, which advances the ITS Master Plan to modernize traffic signals and enhance coordination and safety. Phase Il includes installation of fiberoptic infrastructure and communications equipment along Lindero Canyon Road and Via Colinas. These improvements will connect traffic signals to a regional network, enabling remote monitoring and more efficient, responsive signal operations.
Following a competitive selection process, Kimley-Horn and Associates was recommended based on their experience and familiarity with the project.
On May 20, 2026, the Environmental Committee (Davis/Honig) reviewed the Request for Proposals (RFP) results and recommended that the item be forwarded to the City Council for approval.
Mr. Mericle noted that the total project cost is estimated at $850,000, with partial funding from Measure M.
Councilmember Pearl moved that the City Council approve a Professional Services Agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates for professional engineering services in the amount of $129,475 with a contingency of $13,525 for the ITS Phase II Project, authorize the City Manager to approve additional scope and fee up to the contingency amount and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement on behalf of the City.
Councilmember Honig seconded the motion.
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 6
NEW BUSINESS (continued):
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern
NO: None
ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern declared the motion passed 4-Yes, O-No, 1-Absent (Mayor McSweeney)
2. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH WILLDAN
ENGINEERING FOR GENERAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE CITY City Manager de Geus presented the results of the 2026 Request for Proposals (RFP) for general engineering services. The existing contract with Willdan Engineering, originally approved in June 2019 and subsequently extended, is set to expire on June 30, 2026. An RFP was issued on March 2, 2026, seeking comprehensive engineering services, including a designated City Engineer and onsite support staff.
A total of 53 firms registered interest, and four proposals submitted by the April 15, 2026 deadline. Following a detailed evaluation based on qualifications, technical expertise, understanding of the scope, local presence, financial capacity, and cost, three firms, Ladayu Consultants, M6 Consulting, and Willdan Engineering, were shortlisted and interviewed.
Based on the final rankings after interviews, staff recommended Willdan Engineering. The firm was noted for its extensive in-house capabilities, large and experienced workforce, strong financial position, longstanding service history, and local presence. Its multidisciplinary team and ability to provide comprehensive services without reliance on subconsultants were key differentiators. The proposed contract would be effective from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, with two optional two-year extensions through 2033. The agreement includes an annual retainer of $251,640 (a 3% increase from the current year), with provisions for annual adjustments capped at 3% and additional project work billed separately at reduced hourly rates. Subconsultant and reimbursable costs would be passed through at no markup.
Councilmember Honig moved that the City Council approve a Professional Services Agreement with Willdan Engineering, for a three-year period expiring June 30, 2029 with two 2-year extension options if approved by City Council, and a revised annual retainer and fee schedule for FY 2026-27 and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement on behalf of the City. Councilmember Davis seconded the motion.
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 7
NEW BUSINESS (continued):
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern
NO: None
ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern declared the motion passed 4-Yes, 0-No, 1-Absent (Mayor McSweeney)
ADOPTION BY REFERENCE OF THE 2025 LOS ANGELES COUNTY
BUILDING, ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, MECHANICAL, RESIDENTIAL, GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS, AND EXISTING BUILDING CODES; TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, DELETIONS, AND ADDITIONS; AND
INCLUDING FINDINGS, FEES, AND PENALTIES; ORDINANCE NO. 314-26 Planning Director Asp presented the adoption of the 2025 Building Codes, noting that building codes are updated on a three-year cycle, with the current 2022 codes having taken effect on January 1, 2023. The update process begins with international model codes, which are then amended by the State of California, further modified by Los Angeles County to address regional conditions, and adopted by the City of Westlake Village with local administrative adjustments.
Ms. Asp stated that the proposed 2025 updates incorporate best practices, technological advancements in construction, and lessons learned from past events such as earthquakes and wildfires, with an emphasis on improving safety, conservation, and energy efficiency. Key changes include enhanced wildfire. protections in fire hazard zones, stricter fire safety standards for electric vehicle and battery systems, additional hillside and geologic requirements, and refinements to energy and electrification regulations. Local amendments by the City are primarily administrative in nature, addressing fees and enforcement.
Planning Director Asp noted that Los Angeles County has not yet finalized its updated Fire Code; the City will return at a later date to adopt that code once available. The City Council was asked to introduce Ordinance No. 314-26 and set a public hearing and second reading for June 24, 2026, as required for adoption by reference.
On May 6, 2026, the Land Use Committee (Halpern/Pearl) reviewed the recommendation to adopt by reference the 2025 editions of the Los Angeles County Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Existing Building Codes and recommended moving the item to the City Council for approval.
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 8
NEW BUSINESS (continued):
Councilmember Honig moved that Ordinance No. 314-26 be introduced by title only, that further reading be waived, and that a Public Hearing and second reading of the ordinance be set for June 24, 2026. Councilmember Davis seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Pearl, and Mayor Pro Tem Halpern
NO: None
ABSENT: Mayor McSweeney
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern declared the motion passed 4-Yes, O-No, 1-Absent (Mayor McSweeney)
ORDINANCE NO. 314-26: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE TITLE 26 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE; TITLE 27 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE
INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE; TITLE 28 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE; TITLE 29 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE; TITLE 30 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE; TITLE 31 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE; AND TITLE 33 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE; TOGETHER WITH
CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, DELETIONS AND ADDITIONS, INCLUDING FINDINGS, FEES AND PENALTIES; AND AMENDING THE WESTLAKE VILLAGE MUNICIPAL CODE (CHAPTER 8.1-BUILDING CODE; CHAPTER 8.2-ELECTRICAL CODE; CHAPTER 8.3-PLUMBING CODE: CHAPTER 8.4-MECHANCIAL CODE; CHAPTER
8.7-RESIDENTIAL CODE; CHAPTER 8.8-GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE AND CHAPTER 8.10-EXISTING BUILDING CODE)
City Council Minutes
City of Westlake Village May 27, 2026 9
ADJOURNMENT:
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern adjourned the meeting at 7:53 p.m.
Brad Halpern, Mayor Pro Tem
Attest:
Antorette In Mans
Antoinette Mann, City Clerk
CALIFORNIA