SUSAN MOSWEENEY BRAD HALPERN RAY PEARL NED E DAVIS KELLY HONIG Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
July 22, 2026
CALL TO ORDER:
This regular meeting of the Westlake Village City Council was called to order by Mayor McSweeney on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 6:35 p.m., at 31200 Oak Crest Drive, Westlake Village.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor McSweeney led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
Also Present: City Manager de Geus, City Attorney Boga, Assistant City Manager Wilson, City Clerk Mann, Planning Director Asp, Public Works Manager Iverson, Deputy City Manager Mott, City Traffic Engineer Mericle, Deputy City Engineer Wilde, and Community Services Manager Roush.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern moved to approve the Agenda as presented. Councilmember Davis seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
NO: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor McSweeney declared the motion passed 4-Yes, 0-No, 1-Absent (Councilmember Pearl)
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APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
regular Meeting Onig meer Davis secondinte of June 24, 2026 City Council YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
NO: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor McSweeney declared the motion passed 4-Yes, 0-No, 1-Absent (Councilmember Pearl
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS/CEREMONIAL MATTERS:
Presentation - Chief William J. McSweeney Award of Excellence for Outstanding Law Enforcement Service
Mayor McSweeney recognized the inaugural recipients of the Chief William J.
McSweeney Award of Excellence for Outstanding Law Enforcement Service. A joint task force of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department personnel from the Lost Hills Station and California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers whose collaborative efforts improved safety along Pacific Coast Highway were selected for 2026.
Sheriff Luna spoke about the legacy of Chief William J. McSweeney, noting his decades of service to the Sheriff's Department and continued commitment to public service after retirement. He thanked the Westlake Village community for its strong support of law enforcement and recognized the important partnerships among the Sheriff's Department, CHP, and Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Captain Dustin Carr, Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station, thanked the City for its partnership and support and highlighted the task force's accomplishments. He reported that the task force issued 11,804 citations in 2024, contributing to a 60 percent reduction in traffic fatalities and a 12.5 percent reduction in injury collisions on Pacific Coast Highway. Captain Martin Geller of the California Highway Patrol also spoke, emphasizing the strong collaboration between CHP and the Sheriff's Department and expressing appreciation for community support.
The City Council then presented the inaugural award to 17 members of the Pacific Coast Highway Safety Task Force from both agencies in recognition of their contributions to public safety. Sheriff Robert Luna assisted with presenting the awards and praised the dedication and professionalism of local law enforcement personnel. Mayor McSweeney also acknowledged attending public safety leaders, elected officials, business representatives, family members, and community supporters.
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RECESS:
Mayor McSweeney announced a City Council recess at 6:58 p.m.
RECONVENED:
City Council reconvened the regular meeting at 7:06 p.m. with four City Councilmembers in attendance (Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney. Councilmember Pearl was absent).
UBLIC COMMENTS: None
COUNCIL RESPONSE: None
STAFF COMMENTS:
City Manager de Geus stated that staff recently participated in artificial intelligence training with the City of Agoura Hills and completed cybersecurity training to improve awareness of emerging cyber threats and technology best practices. He reported that approximately half of the planned conduit installation is completed on the Las Virgenes/Malibu Council of Governments' Middle Mile Fiber Project with construction expected to finish in August and fiber installation planned for the fall. The project will support future broadband expansion to homes and businesses.
The Las Virgenes Municipal Water District's Pure Water Project will begin major roadway construction in August along Agoura Road and Lindero Canyon Road. Residents were advised to expect traffic delays and other construction impacts. An overnight valve installation near the Agoura Road/Lindero Canyon Road intersection was also noted.
City Manager de Geus announced National Night Out on August 4, 2026 at the Calabasas Civic Center, upcoming summer concert programming, several committee meetings, and a reminder that the City Council will be on recess in August. The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2026.
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
Councilmember Honig expressed appreciation for the William J. McSweeney Award of Excellence, noting it will provide a meaningful way to recognize the service of law enforcement, fire personnel, and other public safety professionals. She praised the award's lasting connection to William J. McSweeney's legacy and thanked those involved in honoring the recent recipients.
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern highlighted the long-term benefits of the Fiber Project and the Pure Water Project, acknowledging that both may cause temporary inconveniences while providing significant community benefits.
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COUNCIL COMMENTS (continued):
Councilmember Davis commended the Water District for its innovative efforts to increase local water supplies, including the Pure Water Project and the developing Ocean Well desalination technology, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives in addressing future water challenges
MONTHLY DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:
Sheriff's Department Report
Deputy Chad Ray presented the Sheriff's Department report for June 2026, outlining crime statistics for the month. He thanked the City for the recent task force award and recognized the deputies and officers who participated. Deputy Ray also Appreciation was extended to City staff, event coordinators, and volunteers who Councilmembers commended the successful management of the fireworks event and the effective law enforcement presence.
Agenda item taken out of order.
2. Library Report
Julie Frieze, Manager, Westlake Village Daniel K. Ludwig Library, presented the library's report for the month of June 2026 covering traffic, circulation, programs, and reference requests.
Fire Department Report
Supplemental Packet June 2026 Report
Assistant Fire Chief Drew Smith presented the Fire Department's report for June 2026, highlighting the total number of fire incidents, medical response calls, and rescue operations completed during the month. He thanked the City for its continued support of public safety agencies and highlighted the strong partnership with the Lost Hills Sheriff's Station. He reported that personnel remain healthy and prepared for the summer season.
Chief Smith provided an update on the City's evacuation analysis efforts, noting productive discussions among City staff , fire personnel, and law enforcement partners. He also introduced Battalion Chief David Stevens, a recently promoted local resident, who expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve the community. Councilmembers thanked both officials for their service and participation in community events.
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MONTHLY DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS (continued):
Daniell Vicente, Las Virgenes & Topanga Field Deputy, Representing Lindsey Horvath-Third District Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor (Quarterly Office Update-Verbal Report)
Daniell Vicente, representing Supervisor Lindsey Horvath's office, highlighted the Mountains ad expected to reeves approximately 245 milion in Sarastructica, rebuilding efforts, and wildfire resilience without increasing tax rates.
Mr. Vicente reported on efforts to streamline restaurant permitting, support the film and television industry, maintain homelessness services funding while advancing accountability reforms, and improve aviation safety. He noted county sponsorships of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Conejo Valley's 25th Anniversary Gala and the Ladytace Mountain Film Festival, as well as a $12,500 grant to the Foundation for Las Virgenes Schools' LaunchPad Library Initiative.
Mr. Vicente emphasized the county's ongoing partnership with Westlake Village and noted a recent meeting with city staff to strengthen collaboration.
Councilmembers thanked Mr. Vicente for the county's support of local businesses, public safety initiatives, and schools. In response to City Council questions, he confirmed the $12,500 grant amount and shared information about an upcoming public Operation Safe Canyons meeting.
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
1. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE REPORT - BERNIECE BENNETT PARK
RESTROOM RENOVATIONS PROJECT
Public Works Manager Iverson presented the Bernice Bennett Park restroom renovation project, requesting direction to finalize plans and specifications for bidding to replace the existing outdated restrooms which require frequent maintenance.
Designer Shalina Smith presented a durable low-maintenance design featuring large-format porcelain wall tiles, terrazzo floor tiles, graffiti-resistant partitions, automatic hand dryers, and updated fixtures.
Councilmembers discussed partition durability, water-saving features, and ongoing maintenance practices.
Mr. Iverson stated the project budget is $213,810, with estimated costs of approximately $126,200, leaving the project significantly under budget.
City Councilmembers supported the project and provided direction to proceed with finalizing plans and moving the project to bid.
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PUBLIC HEARING:
1. PLANNED DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO. 26-002; ADMINISTRATIVE TREE 26-007; SIGN MODIFICATION PERMIT NO. 26-008;
RESOLUTION NO. 2465-26
Supplemental Packet Updated Resolution No. 2465-16 (Conditions 16 and 18)
Mayor McSweeney opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Asp presented a request from Calvary Community Church for approval of Planned Development Permit No. 26-002, Administrative Tree Permit No. 26-007, and Sign Modification Permit No 26-008 and authorize the expansion of the existing parking lot, construction of a new parking lot and related improvements to landscaping, sidewalk and street trees at 5495 Via Rocas. The project would add 126 parking spaces, increasing the total on-site parking count to 657 spaces, and include new landscaping, sidewalks, street trees, monument sign modifications, and circulation improvements.
Ms. Asp explained that the project required deviations from development standards including an eight-foot wrought-iron perimeter fence, a reduced landscape buffer along Via Rocas, and modifications to monument sign locations Staff found the requests appropriate due to site design, security needs, and compatibility with surrounding development, with enhanced landscaping and screening incorporated to mitigate visual impacts.
On June 25, 2026, the Land Use Committee (Halpern/Pearl) reviewed the proposed request and expressed support for the project. The Committee recommended that the permit proceed to the full City Council for a Public Hearing.
Andrew Walthouse from 360 Architecture and Design addressed the City Council.
Mayor McSweeney closed the Public Hearing.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed fence height, monument signs, landscaping, and screening of existing cell tower equipment. Staff noted that vines and additional landscaping would soften the appearance of the fencing and signs, while the 8-foot fence would improve security and match adjacent Oaks Christian School fencing. The applicant's representative confirmed that the design would create a more cohesive appearance and enhance site security.
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City of Westlake Village July 22, 2026
PUBLIC HEARING (continued):
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern moved that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2465- 26, determining Planned Development Permit No. 26-002, Administrative Tree Permit No. 26-007, and Sign Modification Permit No 26-008, are exempt from CEQA and authorize the expansion of the existing parking lot, construction of a new parking lot and related improvements to landscaping, sidewalk and street trees at 5495 Via Rocas (Calvary Community Church). Councilmember Davis seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
NO: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor McSweeney declared the motion passed 4-Yes, O-No, 1-Absent (Councilmember Pearl)
RESOLUTION NO. 2465-26: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WESTLAKE VILLAGE APPROVING PLANNED DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO. 26- 002, ADMINISTRATIVE TREE PERMIT NO. 26-007, AND SIGN MODIFICATION PERMIT NO. 26-008 FOR THE EXPANSION OF AN EXISTING PARKING LOT,
CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW PARKING LOT, AND ASSOCIATED IMPROVEMENTS
INCLUDING LANDSCAPING, SIDEWALK INSTALLATION, STREET TREES,
ENCROAHMENT INTO THE PROTECTED ZONE OF ONE OAK TREE AND SIGN MODIFICATIONS, LOCATED AT 5495 VIA ROCAS (CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH) MONTHLY IN-HOUSE DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:
Engineering Department Report
Deputy City Engineer Mark Wilde highlighted progress on the Lindero Canyon Road Sidewalk Extension Project, which will close the remaining sidewalk gap between Baronsgate Road and Lakeview Canyon Road. He also reported that the Council of Governments' (COG) fiber infrastructure installation is expected to be completed in August, with fiber installation and testing continuing through the end of the year. Staff coordinated closely with the contractor and the Pure Water Project team to minimize impacts.
Eric Schlageter of the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) provided an update on the Pure Water Project noting that construction plans were reevaluated in response to community concerns. A revised approach using a specialized zero-turn excavator will allow one westbound lane on Agoura Road to remain open throughout construction while avoiding impacts to median pine trees City Council Minutes
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MONTHLY IN-HOUSE DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS (continued):
and eliminating the need for nighttime work. Although the approach may slightly reduce construction efficiency, it is expected to significantly lessen traffic and business impacts.
Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort that led to the revised plan, welcomed the preservation of westbound traffic access and business driveways, and acknowledged the long-term benefits of the Pure Water Project despite the temporary construction impacts. Staff noted that upcoming City communications will provide additional information about the project and its
2. Planning Department Report
Planning Director Asp reported that the 2025 California Building Codes were adopted in June, with the Los Angeles County Fire Code update expected later this year. Staff continues work on the Oak Forest Mobile Estates utility upgrade oak tree permit, Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance updates, slope development standards, and the non-conforming wall study. The Land Use Committee also reviewed sign regulations, and staff will return with policy options later this year. An evacuation study update is planned for Council in September.
3. Cultural Recreation Report
Community Services Manager Roush highlighted the success of the Fourth of July celebration, noting a record turnout of more than 50 volunteers and an estimated attendance of 10,000 people. She thanked volunteers, community organizations, City Council members, and staff for their contributions. Ms. Roush also reported on the recent Shrek at the Park event (150 attendees), and reviewed upcoming summer concerts, movie nights, and themed community activities throughout August.
Councilmembers expressed appreciation for City staff, volunteers, and their families for delivering a safe and successful Fourth of July event, with formal volunteer recognition planned for September.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilmember Davis moved to approve the Consent Calendar. Mayor Pro Tem Halpern seconded the motion.
APPROVAL OF WARRANTS: Warrants effective July 15, 2026, in the amount of $1,074,192.46 (Warrant Register is on file with the City Clerk) TREASURERS REPORT - March 31, 2026
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City of Westlake Village July 22, 2026
OLD BUSINESS:
1. STATUS UPDATE ON CALENDAR YEAR 2026 CITY COUNCIL GOALS City Manager de Geus presented a mid-year update on the Council's nine adopted 2026 goals, reporting that most are progressing well, several have reached key milestones, and some have been completed. Highlights included completion of the Chief William McSweeney Public Safety Recognition program, implementation of a zero-based budget resulting in a 10.1% leaner budget, continued fiscal resiliency and economic development planning, and ongoing work related to the North Business Park Specific Plan and citywide evacuation assessment.
Mr. de Geus also reported progress on sign policy updates, development of a new community recognition program, planning for a Westlake Village Artisan Fair, and an upcoming Classic Movie Night. Reviews of Los Angeles County Building and Safety services and the Last Mile Fiber Project are ongoing, with significant progress reported on expanding fiber connectivity. Additional achievements included adoption of the 2035 Strategic Plan, dedication of the Veterans Honor Tree, completion of Triunfo Canyon Road median improvements, and a projected budget surplus of more than $1 million.
Councilmembers praised staff for their work, highlighted the City's proactive approach and fiscal strength, and expressed appreciation for the progress made on key initiatives, particularly the fiber project.
The report was received and filed.
2. CITYWIDE SPEED LIMIT REVISIONS
City Traffic Engineer Mericle presented proposed citywide speed limit reductions based on updated engineering and traffic safety surveys and recent changes in California law. Staff conducted speed studies and reviewed nine years of collision data, concluding that lower speeds would improve safety, particularly for pedestrians, bicyclists, school children, seniors, and other vulnerable road users.
The proposed changes generally reduce posted speed limits by five miles per hour throughout the city.
Staff also recommended retaining existing school-zone signage on Village School Road and establishing a new school zone on Foxfield Drive near St. Jude School.
Ridgeford Drive, which has never had a posted speed limit, would remain unsigned at this time, with authority granted to the City Manager and City Traffic Engineer to install signage in the future if warranted.
On June 18, 2026, the Public Safety Committee (Pearl/Honig) supported the recommendations for the proposed speed limit revisions and recommended that it be forwarded to the full City Council for consideration.
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OLD BUSINESS (continued):
Councilmembers expressed strong support for the proposal, citing long-standing community concerns regarding speeding and the importance of improving traffic safety. Mr. Mericle also outlined a public education and outreach effort that will include newsletters, social media, Homeowners Association communications, community banners, speed-feedback trailers, and temporary flags on new speed limit signs to help inform motorists of the changes.
Mayor Pro Tem Halpern moved that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2466- 26, that new speed limit signs be installed, and the installation of signs and markings on Ridgeford Drive be delayed until such time that the City Manager, in consultation with the City Traffic Engineer, determines it necessary to install.
Councilmember Honig seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
NO: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor McSweeney declared the motion passed 4-Yes, O-No, 1-Absent (Councilmember Pearl)
RESOLUTION NO. 2466-26: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WESTLAKE VILLAGE ESTABLISHING NEW SPEED LIMITS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE CITY AND RESINDING RESOLUTION NO. 1799-15
3. APPOINTMENT OF AD-HOC AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO THE
COMMUNITY WILDFIRE PROTECTION PLAN COMMITTEE AND APPROVAL
TO ISSUE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES Deputy City Manager Mott presented a proposal to establish an ad hoc Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) Committee and authorize a Request for Proposals (RFP) for consultant services to assist with development of the plan.
The CWPP is a community-driven planning document focused on reducing wildfire risk through hazard assessments, vegetation management, public education, and other mitigation strategies. The plan will be developed with significant public and stakeholder involvement and is expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete.
Staff recommended creating an Ad-Hoc Committee and appointing Julie Newsome, Gabriel Albarian, and Michael Dyer due to their expertise in wildfire prevention, conservation, and fire service. Mayor McSweeney recommended that she and Councilmember Pearl serve as the Council representatives.
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OLD BUSINESS (continued):
PUBLIC SPEAKER:
Mr. Albarian thanked the City Council for the opportunity to participate and noted that adoption of a CWPP could improve the City's eligibility for state and federal wildfire-prevention grants.
On July 16, 2026, the Public Safety Committee (Honig/Pearl) supported the proposed FP and emphasized the importance of representation from communities on bot des of the freeway to address varving wildfire-related needs. The Committe recommended forwarding the item to the full City Council for approval.
Councilmembers expressed strong support for the initiative and thanked the recommended residents for their expertise and willingness to serve.
Councilmember Honig moved that the City Council approve the Ad-Hoc Community Wildfire Protection Plan Committee; appoint two Councilmembers to serve on the Ad-Hoc Committee; appoint community members Julie Newsome, Gabriel Albarian and Michael Dyer to the Community Wildfire Protection Plan Committee, and authorize staff to issue a Request for Proposals for consultant services related to analysis, outreach, and drafting the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Mayor Pro Tem Halpern seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
NO: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor McSweeney declared the motion passed 4-Yes, 0-No, 1-Absent (Councilmember Pearl)
4. ADOPTION OF THE CITY'S 2026 EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN Deputy City Manager Mott presented the proposed 2026 Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which establishes the City's framework for responding to emergencies and disasters. Updates include a streamlined staffing model better suited to the City's size, expanded sections addressing extreme weather, public health emergencies, dam failure scenarios, and enhanced communication tools such as Finalsite Connect and social media platforms. The plan incorporates lessons learned from the Kenneth Fire response and includes provisions for alternate Emergency Operations Center (EOC) locations.
City Manager de Geus reviewed the Council's role during emergencies, including ratifying local emergency declarations and supporting public communications in coordination with the Emergency Operations Center Director. Staff also discussed City Council Minutes
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OLD BUSINESS (continued):
ongoing preparedness efforts, including EOC training, continuity of operations planning, emergency technology upgrades, and backup power capabilities.
City Council discussion included coordination with public safety agencies during emergency incidents. Councilmembers praised staff's proactive approach to emergency preparedness and public safety.
Councilmember Davis moved that the City Council adopt the 2026 Emergency Operations Plan and grant the City Manager the authority to make revisions to the document as needed. Mayor Pro Tem Halpern seconded the motion.
YES: Councilmembers Honig, Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Halpern, and Mayor McSweeney
NO: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Pearl
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor McSweeney declared the motion passed 4-Yes, 0-No, 1-Absent (Councilmember Pearl)
NEW BUSINESS: None
ADJOURNMENT:
Mayor McSweeney announced the next City Council meeting will be held on September 9, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
Susan McSweeney, Mayor
Attest:
Antoinete on marr
Antoinette Mann, City Clerk
PRORATED DECE
CALIFORNIA