Public Meetings - Huntington Beach, California

The Huntington Beach City Council/Public Financing Authority held a special meeting on Friday, October 30, 2026, to ratify a local emergency proclamation following historic high tides that caused significant flooding in Sunset Beach and Huntington Harbor. The meeting covered a closed session legal report, public testimony, a detailed staff briefing on the response, and a council vote on emergency measures. Closed Session Report - The City Attorney reported a 7-0 vote to seek a petition for review in the case Grant Parks (California State Auditor) v. City of Huntington Beach (OCSC Case No. 30-2024-01435113). The report emphasized the city’s commitment to transparency but noted that the state’s audit requests were unreasonable and lacked guardrails, making a settlement unattainable. Public Comments & Testimony - Kristen Altbom, a Bayview Drive resident, thanked first responders for their presence during the flooding. She requested a public-private partnership to repair and raise seawalls on the island, offering to reimburse the city. She reported that her family built a 125-foot wall that saved their home and requested assistance with a malfunctioning drain valve at 16860 Bayview. Mayor McKeon acknowledged her request and announced a town hall meeting on Thursday, November 5. - Councilwoman Van Der Mark shared observations from the field, noting that speeding cars and boat wakes were pushing water into damaged homes and urged residents to be mindful of this. She also thanked first responders for helping an elderly couple sandbag their home. Discussion Items - Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-41: The Council considered ratifying the local emergency proclamation and adopting emergency orders and regulations. - Staff Report: City Manager Travis Hopkins and Division Chief Kyle Kramer presented the city’s response. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activated on October 9. The incident ran on 12-hour operational periods from October 25-29. Statistics: 75 personnel assigned daily, 10 fire calls (including one working fire), 32 police calls, 114 homes reported damaged, 18 structures yellow-tagged. The highest tide reached 8.2 feet on October 27. Projections for November 24-25 are 8.5-8.9 feet, with similar or higher levels in December. - Proposed Emergency Orders: The resolution provides authority for street closures, evacuations, emergency purchases (up to $500,000 without council sign-off), mutual aid requests, and enforcement of protective measures. - Council Deliberation and Amendments: - Enforcement (Section 4K): A debate arose over making violations of emergency orders a misdemeanor. Councilmember Williams suggested removing fines for those who cannot act, instead having the city install protective measures. Mayor McKeon and Councilmember Kennedy insisted on keeping enforcement teeth for property owners who refuse to act, while seeking a hardship exception and city assistance for seniors and disabled residents. The final consensus maintained enforcement with a focus on outreach and assistance. - Flood Help Desk & Fee Waivers: Councilmember Williams presented his HELP framework (Hold fees, Emergency funds, Lend a hand, Pre-cleared permits). The Council directed the city manager to immediately establish a flood protection help desk, waive city permit fees for flood repairs and protection, and coordinate sandbag assistance for vulnerable residents. - Drone Program: The Council directed the fire department to establish a drone program funded by the new emergency fund for real-time flood monitoring, as proposed by Councilmember Gruel. A citizen had already offered to donate funds for the drone. - Coastal Commission: The Council directed the city manager to request the California Coastal Commission to pre-approve a menu of flood protection measures (e.g., raising seawalls and dock pilings) and to waive or reduce fees. - Funding: The Council approved a $1,000,000 appropriation from the city’s reserves (rainy day fund) into a dedicated flood help desk supply fund to cover emergency costs and improve tracking for state/federal reimbursement. Councilmember Burns stressed the importance of meticulous record-keeping for reimbursement. Key Outcomes - Resolutions Adopted: Resolution No. 2026-41 ratifying the local emergency was adopted as amended, with a unanimous 7-0 vote. - Funding Secured: $1,000,000 appropriated from city reserves for flood response. - Fee Waiver: City permit fees for flood protection and repair were waived. - New Programs: A flood protection help desk and a fire department drone program were established. - Coastal Commission: Direction given to seek pre-approved measures and fee waivers from the Coastal Commission. - Litigation: A 7-0 vote to seek further review in the Grant Parks v. City of Huntington Beach audit case. - Next Steps: A community town hall is scheduled for November 5. The next regular City Council meeting is November 3, 2026. Votes: All substantive motions (ratification, appropriations, directives) passed 7-0.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met in study session on October 27, 2026, to receive information on General Plan Amendment No. 25-001, Zoning Text Amendment No. 25-002, Local Coastal Program Amendment No. 25-001, and Environmental Impact Report No. 25-002, related to the Palm/Goldenwest Specific Plan Amendment. The item was informational only; no public hearing or formal action was taken. Staff and the applicant, California Resources Corporation (CRC), presented a proposed land-use framework for the 92-acre CRC portion of the specific plan, located east of Pacific Coast Highway near Dog Beach. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the public comment period. Study Session Presentation - Staff planner Joanna Cortes explained that the proposed amendment affects only the 92-acre CRC portion of the Palm/Goldenwest Specific Plan, not the existing 54-acre Boardwalk residential community. The site is currently one of the city's largest remaining oil fields. - The proposal would add residential uses and expanded open space while retaining hotel and visitor-serving commercial uses. Staff described three planning areas: 16 acres of commercial visitor uses; residential medium density on 22.4 acres and 30.8 acres; and open space including a 1.2-mile esplanade along PCH and a 1.15-mile green belt. - Staff stated the current commercial entitlement is approximately 614,000 square feet; the amendment would reduce it to 348,000 square feet. Maximum average daily trips would be capped at 10,000, down from 21,909. A 75-foot habitable structural setback from the Boardwalk community would be maintained. - The applicant, CRC Senior Vice President Bob Grunström, said CRC is the largest oil and gas producer in California and that the long-term highest and best use for this oceanfront property is not continued oil drilling. He noted existing operations include onshore facilities, platform Emmy offshore, and obligations in the Bolsa Chica wetlands. - Land-use consultant Ed Mountford said the project was shaped by the Coastal Act, market studies by Jones Lang LaSalle and WATG, and extensive community outreach with over 1,000 residents. He noted the Coastal Commission has final approval authority and that CRC has had four or five meetings with Coastal Commission staff. - The applicant proposed up to 350 hotel rooms, 25% of them affordable; 10% of residential units affordable, with an employee preference; approximately 23 acres of public open space; a non-gated community; a 12-foot-wide multi-use path; and about 100 public parking spaces in the esplanade with revenue going to the city. - The applicant estimated $3.2 billion in project value at build-out, $12.2 million in gross annual fiscal benefit to the city, $9.2 million net annual fiscal benefit, 1,700 construction jobs, 100 permanent jobs, about $10 million in park fees, and about $8.3 million in school fees. - Note: In the staff presentation, the maximum residential units were stated as up to 1,800. The applicant's presentation stated a maximum of 800 dwelling units. The record does not reconcile this discrepancy. Commissioner Questions and Concerns - Commissioners asked about the number of stores and restaurants, parking revenue, signals and turning movements on PCH, possible widening of PCH, pedestrian bridge options, transit stops, underground parking, and whether the 800 units were already counted in the city's housing element. - Commissioner Thienes raised concerns about trip generation assumptions, the need for a 16-acre hotel site, unclear public/private street maintenance language, a 10-year conservancy grant term, Palm Avenue width and parking, HOA maintenance of the PCH median, differing setbacks for privacy walls, storm drain capacity language, the need for a water supply assessment, and the lack of detailed site-level planning. - Commissioner Goldberg asked about the transportation hub reference, confirmed future discretionary coastal development permits would provide another public review opportunity, and suggested commissioners tour the site. Staff and the applicant said site tours could be arranged. - The chair reminded commissioners to refrain from expressing opinions on the merits or indicating future votes to avoid due process concerns. Key Outcomes - No formal action, motion, or vote was taken; the item was a study session for future consideration. - Staff announced a tentative study session on the draft EIR for November 10, 2026, and a tentative public hearing for December 8, 2026. - The next regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting was set for November 10, 2026.

This internal training session, held on October 23, 2026, provided a detailed walkthrough of the Granicus e-comment and speak-up modules. Led by Granicus representative Kristen, the session covered system configuration, public access settings, and administrative controls. City staff (including attendees named Donna and Juan) discussed and decided on key implementation choices for e-comments. Discussion Items - Enabling E-Comment per Meeting: E-comment must be enabled on a meeting-by-meeting basis via the Media Manager (huntingtonbeach.granicus.com). The system allows cherry-picking which agenda items accept comments. - Speak Up Feature Not Needed: The city confirmed they will not use the speaker registration (speak up) module, and it will remain disabled. - Comment Deadline Calculation: The comment cutoff time is set as minutes before the meeting start time (pulled from Legistar). For a 6 p.m. meeting with a 25‑hour advance cutoff, 1,500 minutes must be entered. Staff expressed confusion about closed session start times varying, but clarified the calculation is based on the stated meeting time. - Anonymous Comments: The city requires anonymous comment submission (no mandatory account or email). Kristen will coordinate with Brianna to disable email validation requirements. - Attachments: Attachments will be disallowed due to security risks and ADA compliance concerns. - Comment Visibility and Replies: After debate, the city decided: - Allow users to view comments: Enabled – all public comments will be visible to other users. - Allow users to comment (on others’ comments): Disabled – users may only submit one independent comment per agenda item; they cannot reply to or discuss others’ comments. - Profanity Filter: The city explicitly stated they want to permit offensive language and profanity to avoid First Amendment violations. The default filter must be turned off. Kristen will confirm this with Brianna. - Support/Oppose/Neutral Toggle: The system can display a sentiment indicator for each comment. This will be enabled. The percentage breakdown (e.g., 60% support) is only visible to council via the Legislate application, not to the public. - Public Access: Once enabled, the public accesses comments via the Legistar Insight page. Comments display as a list under each agenda item. - Council Access: Council can view comments through the web-based Legislate application (no longer a native iPad app). Instructions will be provided. - User Guides: The city requested printable instructions for citizens on how to use e-comments. Brianna will follow up. Key Outcomes - E-comment will be adopted with the following specific settings: - Speak up (speaker registration) disabled. - Attachments not allowed. - Anonymous comments permitted (email validation to be turned off). - Users may view all comments but may not reply to or comment on others’ comments. - Profanity filter disabled to allow all speech. - Comment deadline set at 1,500 minutes (25 hours) before the meeting. - Sentiment toggle (support/neutral/oppose) enabled. - Next steps: Brianna will provide user-facing instructions, confirm anonymous comment settings, and verify the ability to disable the profanity filter. - The test meeting created during the session was deleted to avoid confusion with the live system.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. for Closed Session and reconvening at 6:00 p.m. for the Regular Meeting. The meeting included a lifesaving recognition, public comments dominated by election endorsements and criticism of the current council, a public hearing on an ADU project, staff reports on flood preparedness and a new ADA grant program, and administrative items regarding a time capsule and the Independence Day celebration contract. Key votes included approval of the ADU coastal permit (6-1), approval of the Police Management Association MOU (4-3), and tabling of the Independence Day RFP item to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Items 10–12, 14–15 were approved unanimously (7-0) after Item 13 was pulled for separate discussion. Approved items included: adoption of minutes; the Surf City ADA Improvement Grant Program (authorizing $500,000 from the Disability Access Fund for grants up to $10,000 per eligible small business); an amendment to the Senior Mobility Program cooperative agreement with OCTA; acceptance of a $561,300 California Office of Traffic Safety STEP Grant (FY 2026/27); and a sole source justification for police helicopter parts from Heli-Mart, Inc. (up to $175,000 per year for five years). Public Comments & Testimony - Election-related comments: Approximately 30 public speakers addressed the council, with many expressing support for current council members Casey McKeon, Pat Burns, Andrew Gruel, and candidate Brian Thenis, citing reductions in crime (over 27%) and homelessness, balanced budgets, and opposition to high-density development. Others criticized the council for lawsuits, loss of court cases, the air show settlement, and lack of transparency, endorsing challengers Taryn Palumbo, Aaron Spivey, Ben Davis, and Brenda Gumm. - Firefighters Association: Multiple representatives stated that the Huntington Beach Firefighters Association did not authorize or approve the use of its logo in campaign mailers supporting candidate Brian Burley, and clarified that the HBFA endorses Andrew Gruel and Brian Thenis only. - ADU project comments: Several speakers, including a 17-year-old high school student and the property owner, urged the council to approve the coastal development permit for two accessory dwelling units at 205 Pecan Avenue, arguing the project complies with state law and provides needed housing. One speaker noted it would take 15–25 years to recoup the investment. - Other topics: A speaker raised safety concerns about palm trees obstructing visibility at a Walmart exit on Beach Boulevard; another urged against offshore oil drilling; and several speakers supported the time capsule proposal or provided community event announcements. Discussion Items - Item 9 – Appeal of Planning Commission’s Action on Coastal Development Permit No. 26-006 (205 Pecan ADUs): The council considered an appeal of the Planning Commission’s 4-2 denial of two detached ADUs (approx. 420 and 480 sq. ft., two stories, 18 ft. high) on an existing triplex site. Staff recommended approval, stating the project meets state ADU law (Gov. Code §66323) and coastal program requirements. The applicant and architect spoke in support. After brief discussion, the council voted 6-1 to approve the permit, overturning the Planning Commission’s denial. (Mayor McKeon initially announced recusal but later participated in the vote.) - Item 13 – Police Management Association MOU (Pulled from Consent): The council debated the proposed MOU for FY 2026-29, which would appropriate $270,000 from General Fund reserves (total contract cost approx. $971,000, about 0.279% of the city budget). Councilmember Gruel expressed concerns about fiscal sustainability; Councilmember Kennedy opposed it due to potential precedent for other bargaining units. The motion to approve passed 4-3 (Gruel, Kennedy, McKeon, Burns opposed; Twining, Van Der Mark, Williams in favor). - Item 16 – America 250 Time Capsule and Plaque at Patriot Park: The City Celebration Committee proposed installing a time capsule with various commemorative items and a bronze plaque (cost $700). A substitute motion to send the proposal back to the Historical Resources Board and Community and Library Services for further input, with a planting date of December 2, 2026, failed 2-5. The original motion to approve the time capsule and plaque as recommended passed 5-2 (Gruel and Williams opposed). - Item 17 – Independence Day Celebration RFP Review and Development: Staff and the Finance Commission presented options for revenue goals (status quo, break even, or profit) and scope options for the July 4th event contract. Councilmember Kennedy objected that the commission exceeded the scope of the original motion, which he stated was limited to reviewing five specific items from a 2017 audit and the professional services agreement. After heated exchange, a motion to table the item to the next regular meeting (November 3, 2026) passed 5-2 (Williams opposed, Gruel opposed? Actual tally: Gruel no, Kennedy yes, Twining yes, McKeon yes, Burns yes, Van Der Mark yes, Williams no). Key Outcomes - Coastal Development Permit Approved (6-1): The council overturned the Planning Commission’s denial and approved two ADUs at 205 Pecan Avenue, finding the project compliant with state law and coastal policies. - Police Management Association MOU Approved (4-3): The council adopted the three-year MOU and appropriated $270,000 from reserves for FY 2026/27 costs. - Time Capsule Approved (5-2): The America 250 time capsule and plaque will be installed at Patriot Park, with a dedication ceremony planned for late 2026. - Independence Day RFP Item Tabled (5-2) to November 3, 2026, due to procedural disagreements over the scope of the Finance Commission’s review. - Consent Calendar Items Approved (7-0), including the Surf City ADA Improvement Grant Program ($500,000) and the $561,300 traffic safety grant. - City Manager Reported on flood preparedness efforts, including deployment of 1,950 door hangers and 900 informational bulletins in Sunset Beach and Huntington Harbor, and a community meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Warner Fire Station. - The next regular City Council meeting is set for Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

The City Council/Public Financing Authority met on October 6, 2026, beginning with a closed session at 4:00 PM and reconvening publicly at 6:00 PM. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, council member comments, a Mayor’s Spotlight presentation, business highlights, community event announcements, a public hearing, consent calendar, and several discussion items. Key topics included the annual assessment for the Downtown Business Improvement District, legislative advocacy contracts, a lease assignment for the Park Bench Cafe, a firefighters grant, Main Street seatwall improvements, introduction of a police management MOU, establishment of an Art Center Advisory Committee, and a new item on the Independence Day Celebration Finance Subcommittee. Consent Calendar - Items 14, 15, 17, 20, 21, 22 were approved unanimously (7-0). These included: approval of minutes (14), quarterly listing of professional services contracts (15), HBTBID annual report for FY 2026-27 (17), a workers’ compensation third-party administration contract (20), rejection of bids for the Well 4 Facilities Upgrades Project (21), and award of a construction contract for Newland House Museum & Water Tower Restoration (22). Items 16, 18, 19, and 23 were pulled for individual discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Ryan Rustin (owner of Sugar the Surfing Dog) expressed gratitude to the council for inducting his dog into the Surfing Hall of Fame and praised the city’s improvements, safety, and business climate. He endorsed incumbents. - A candidate for city council (name not given) criticized the council for name-calling and costly lawsuits, calling for respectful, transparent leadership and responsible spending. - Jeannie Paris celebrated the record-breaking Pacific Air Show attendance and cited a 27% reduction in crime and the greatest reduction in homelessness since 2022. - A resident thanked the council for cleaning up Main Street, removing homeless encampments, and restoring planters and fountains. - Dean Schwartz advocated for non-smokers’ rights, citing health hazards of secondhand smoke and urging the council to take action. - Janet (last name not provided) supported incumbents, noting decreased homelessness and increased safety, and dismissed claims of a bad reputation. - Another speaker listed council accomplishments: fighting state housing mandates, cutting red tape, reducing homelessness by over 20%, and strengthening police force. - Nadim Altamimi and Nick Torres opposed the sister city relationship with Ramat Gan, Israel, calling it an endorsement of genocide and espionage risks. Torres also accused council members of being “bought and sold by Zionist paymasters.” - Linda defended the sister city relationship, citing Judeo-Christian values and blessing Israel. - Perry Clitheroe criticized the council for not having a housing element update on the agenda, calling their zoning policies misguided and illegal, and endorsed the Surf City 4 candidates. - Chris Clue (candidate for Assembly District 72) condemned anti-Semitism and white nationalism displayed by earlier speakers, criticized council’s library policies and budget deficit, and urged support for his candidacy. - Bethany Webb (via Zoom) criticized the air show giveaway to Code 4, the library book controversy, and claimed the council created a deficit and lost the Olympics due to reputation. - Other speakers addressed library book policies, infrastructure needs, housing affordability, and support for various candidates. Discussion Items - Item 16 – Legislative Advocacy Contracts: Staff reported renegotiated rates: state contract reduced to approximately $32,000/year (from $90,000) for monitoring only, federal contract reduced to $60,000/year (from $78,000). Councilmember Gruel and Williams expressed concerns about value and alignment with city priorities. Motion to approve as amended passed 5-2 (Gruel no, Williams no; Kennedy, Twining, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark yes). - Item 18 – Park Bench Cafe Lease Assignment: Staff presented a 10-year lease amendment and assignment to 2R2S LLC, a local family with restaurant experience. Councilmember Williams questioned the lack of public disclosure of LLC members and moved to continue the item for more transparency. Substitute motion failed 2-5 (Gruel and Williams yes; Kennedy, Twining, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark no). Original motion passed 5-2 (Gruel and Williams no; others yes). - Item 19 – Firefighters Grant: Fire Chief McCoy reported a $294,621 grant for 10 Lucas automatic chest compression devices. Motion to approve passed 7-0. - Item 23 – Main Street Seatwall Improvements: Public Works staff described a $541,750.28 contract with Rolcom, Inc. for new seat walls and painting, funded $400,000 from Visit HB and $200,000 from the Infrastructure Fund. Motion to award contract passed 7-0. - Item 24 – MOU with Police Management Association: Introduction of a three-year MOU with total projected cost of $971,641. Received and filed unanimously (7-0). - Item 25 – Art Center Advisory Committee: Resolution 2026-38 establishing the committee. Passed 5-2 (Gruel and Williams no; Kennedy, Twining, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark yes). - Item 26-865 – Independence Day Celebration Finance Subcommittee: Councilmember Williams introduced a proposal for a subcommittee to review past audits and contracts and provide recommendations. After extensive debate, a substitute motion was adopted: the subcommittee (working with CFO Zach) will review the current RFP and existing contract deliverables, make edit suggestions based on a 2017 audit, and report back by the next regular meeting (October 20, 2026). Motion passed 6-0-1 (Van Der Mark abstained). Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously: Consent calendar items 14,15,17,20,21,22; Item 19 (firefighters grant); Item 23 (seatwall contract); Item 24 (MOU introduction). - Approved 5-2: Item 16 (legislative advocacy contracts with modified terms); Item 18 (Park Bench Cafe lease assignment); Item 25 (Art Center Advisory Committee). - Approved 6-0-1: Item 26-865 (Independence Day subcommittee with amended scope). - Public hearing closed: The Downtown Business Improvement District annual assessment was approved 7-0 with zero protests.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on September 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The commission considered two public hearing items: a live/work project at 712-714 Pacific Coast Highway and a five-unit live/work project at 210-218 3rd Street. The first project was approved unanimously; the second was continued for redesign due to parking concerns. No consent calendar or non-public hearing items were on the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - 712-714 PCH Live/Work: No members of the public signed up to speak. - 210-218 3rd Street Live/Work: Three speakers addressed the commission: - Dave C (applicant's agent): Expressed support for the project, noting that similar units sell for high prices and that parking is available in the nearby structure except on peak days like July 4th. He offered to work with the commission on design changes. - Dewey David (resident): Voiced opposition, citing existing parking shortages during special events, noise from rooftop decks, and concerns about visitor parking permits. He questioned what businesses would occupy the commercial spaces. - Jeffrey Hansler (resident): Echoed parking and noise concerns, and noted that the parking permit system is inconvenient. He urged the commission to consider resident impacts. Discussion Items 1. Coastal Development Permit No. 26-003/Administrative Permit No. 26-002/Conditional Use Permit No. 26-009 (712-714 PCH Live/Work) - Staff presented the proposal for two 2,900 sq. ft. three-story live/work units with rooftop decks and 330 sq. ft. of ground-floor visitor-serving commercial. The project required a conditional use permit to participate in the Downtown Parking In-Lieu Program for two commercial parking spaces. - Commissioners discussed parking constraints on the 25-foot-wide lots, the ADA requirement, and the in-lieu fee program. The applicant agreed to condition the commercial space as visitor-serving and to address neighbor concerns about privacy and construction debris. - The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. The commission voted to approve the project as recommended by staff. (Motion carried unanimously.) 2. Coastal Development Permit No. 25-013/Administrative Permit No. 25-004/Conditional Use Permit No. 26-017 (210-218 3rd Street Live/Work Units) - Staff presented a proposal for five 3,000 sq. ft. three-story live/work units, each with a 650 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit (ADU), rooftop decks, and 300 sq. ft. of visitor-serving commercial. The project sought a CUP to participate in the parking in-lieu program for five commercial spaces. - Commissioners raised concerns about parking adequacy, especially given the ADUs which do not require additional parking under state law. They questioned the amount of parking actually provided (10 spaces vs. the 25 that would be required under city code without ADU exemptions). The applicant argued that high-end buyers typically do not rent out ADUs and that the nearby parking structure has ample capacity except on holidays. - After deliberation, Commissioner Thenis made a motion to deny the project, but the commission instead voted 4-3 to continue the item to allow the applicant to redesign the project to address parking concerns, specifically to increase on-site parking. Key Outcomes - 712-714 PCH Live/Work: Approved (unanimous). The project will proceed with conditions including a requirement that the commercial space remain visitor-serving and that construction debris be controlled. - 210-218 3rd Street Live/Work: Continued by a 4-3 vote. The applicant is directed to return with a revised plan that increases on-site parking, likely by enlarging the garages to accommodate four tandem spaces per lot. The in-lieu fee request for the commercial spaces will still be needed due to site constraints, but the commission wants to see more residential parking provided. - The commission also requested that staff provide updated information on the Downtown Parking In-Lieu Program, including the fund balance and recent uses, at a future meeting.

On September 15, 2026, the Huntington Beach City Council held a regular meeting starting at 6:00 PM following a closed session. The council addressed consent calendar items, heard extensive public comments, debated several agenda items including lobbyist contracts, commemorative plaques, capital projects, and the creation of an art center committee. Key decisions included approving the America 250 plaque (5-2), the Main Street Library 75th anniversary plaque (5-2), the Harbor dock replacement (7-0), and tabling the Newland House restoration for two weeks. The council also voted to delay action on lobbyist contracts for two weeks and directed staff to bring back a resolution to form an Art Center Committee. Consent Calendar - Items 13, 15, 17, 18, and 21 were approved unanimously (7-0) after items 14, 16, 20, 22, and 23 were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Ryder criticized the council for lack of transparency, lawsuits, and using city reserves, accusing them of ignoring voters. - Brenda Glenn, a city council candidate, argued that the council’s focus on national headlines and lawsuits has wasted taxpayer money, citing a $170,000 penalty for the housing element and a $1.8 billion infrastructure backlog. - Wendy Rencon opposed the council majority’s efforts on library privatization, book restrictions, and the Pacific Air Show settlement, and supported the “Surf City Four” candidates. - Elaine Bauer Keeley updated the public on Friends of the Library’s $825,000 donation MOU and urged caution on forming an art commission, noting the existing Art Center Foundation’s role. - Dr. Gerald Chapman, a former Art Center Foundation member, supported item 24 (Art Center committee), recommending the council learn from past successes like Celebration Plaza. - Alex Kess, a 12-year-old resident, presented 1,356 signatures asking the council to support state-level e-bike safety reforms (minimum age 16, speedometers, licensing, safety fund), citing a 1,557% increase in e-bike injuries since 2018. - Several speakers opposed item 24, arguing it would disrupt the current successful professional staff at the Art Center, while others supported it to give local artists more opportunities. - Additional speakers addressed police contract contributions, housing litigation costs, library conditions, and called for fiscal responsibility and transparency. Discussion Items - Item 14: Lobbyist Contracts (Kahn, Soares and Conway for state; Stapleton & Associates for federal) – Councilmember Williams questioned the $504,000 total cost and proposed delaying for further review of return on investment. Vice Mayor Twining noted the state lobbyist may be ineffective due to hostile relations in Sacramento. Motion to postpone two weeks for staff to analyze historical ROI passed 7-0. - Item 16: Main Street Library 75th Anniversary Plaque – Debate centered on including council members’ names. Councilmember Gruel proposed a substitute motion to allow any council member to replace their name with a community member, which failed 2-5. The original plaque design was approved 5-2 with Councilmember Gruel and Williams voting no. - Item 20: Newland House Museum & Water Tower Restoration – Councilmember Kennedy questioned the $628,600 cost and revenue generation; staff noted $170,000 annual barn revenue and $82,000 operating costs. Councilmember Gruel requested a deeper financial analysis. Motion to table for two weeks passed 7-0. - Item 22: Harbour Dock Demolition and Replacement – Discussion focused on receiving only one bid ($416,000 total including contingencies). Councilmember Gruel expressed concern about lack of competition and asked staff to verify outreach efforts. After staff listed 14 firms that pulled plans, the council voted to approve the contract with South Shore Marine Construction 7-0. - Item 23: America 250 Plaque at Pier Plaza – Councilmember Gruel made a substitute motion to include specific local heroes (Medal of Honor recipient Chris Carr and veteran Mike Ali) instead of council names, which failed 1-6. The original staff design honoring all veterans was approved 5-2 with Councilmember Gruel and Williams voting no. - Item 24: Creating an Art Center Committee – Introduced by Mayor McKeon, Councilman Burns, and Councilman Kennedy. Supporters argued it would enhance the art center, increase revenue, and involve residents similar to the successful City Celebration Committee. Opponents cited redundancy with the existing Community and Library Services Commission. Motion to direct staff to return with a resolution establishing a Brown Act committee passed 5-2. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar (Items 13, 15, 17, 18, 21): Approved 7-0. - Item 14 (Lobbyist Contracts): Delayed two weeks for staff analysis of historical benefits; return at next meeting. - Item 16 (Library Plaque): Approved as presented 5-2 (Gruel, Williams against). - Item 20 (Newland House Restoration): Tabled for two weeks to review financial details; return at next meeting. - Item 22 (Harbour Docks): Approved 7-0. - Item 23 (America 250 Plaque): Approved as presented 5-2 (Gruel, Williams against). - Item 24 (Art Center Committee): Motion to bring back a resolution establishing the committee passed 5-2 (Gruel, Williams against). - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 6, 2026.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission held a regular meeting on September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The primary agenda item was a public hearing on an appeal of the Zoning Administrator’s approval of Coastal Development Permit No. 26-006 for two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) at 205 Pecan Avenue. After extensive deliberation, the commission voted to deny the project, overturning the Zoning Administrator’s decision. The commission also approved the June 23, 2026 meeting minutes. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission unanimously (5-0-1, with Goldberg abstaining) approved the Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes dated June 23, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Appellant/Applicant Representative (Marcus Kemer): Stated that the project complies with state ADU law and that the applicant had an approved project prior to the appeal. Emphasized that state law governs the situation and that the ADUs are not touching the existing parking area. - Property Owner (Rochelle Crachiello): Expressed frustration with the process, noting that the applicant had invested significant time and money (over $50,000 so far, with a total investment expected near $1 million) and had followed city requirements. Supported the project, stating it would provide needed low-cost housing and improve the property, and urged approval. Discussion Items - Appeal of Coastal Development Permit No. 26-006 (205 Pecan ADUs): The project proposed two detached ADUs (approx. 420 sq. ft. and 480 sq. ft.) at a height of two stories (18 ft.) on a triplex property. The Zoning Administrator had approved the permit on July 15, 2026, with conditions. The appeal, filed by Council Member Burns, cited concerns over existing parking deficiencies, inadequate backup distance from the alley, insufficient parking for the proposed development, future condominium conversion, and setback compliance. Staff presented that the ADUs qualify as state-exempt 66323 units, which limit local parking and development standards. Staff noted that the city cannot require parking for ADUs within half a mile of a transit stop, and that the existing non-conforming parking for the triplex cannot be corrected as part of this application. The applicant modified the site plan to avoid altering the existing parking stalls, and staff recommended upholding the Zoning Administrator’s approval. - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioner Thienes disclosed speaking with Councilman Gruel and another commissioner about the item. Several commissioners expressed personal opposition to ADU state mandates but acknowledged legal constraints. Commissioners Babineau, Palmer, Clifford, and Thienes argued that the project would negatively impact coastal access and neighborhood integrity, and supported denying the project. Commissioners Bush and Goldberg argued that state law precludes denial and that the city could face legal risk if the project is rejected. Commissioner Goldberg noted that the applicant had removed any parking impacts from the revised site plan. Key Outcomes - Denial of Appeal and Project: A motion to uphold the Zoning Administrator’s approval (approving the project) failed by a vote of 2-4 (Bush, Goldberg in favor; Thenis, Babineau, Palmer, Clifford opposed). A subsequent motion to deny the project passed 3-2 (Thenis, Babineau, Clifford in favor; Bush, Goldberg opposed). The Planning Commission’s action is final unless appealed to the City Council within 10 working days. - Next Steps: The commission adjourned to its next regular meeting on September 22, 2026.

The Planning Commission met on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at 2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach. The agenda included three identical public hearing items for a conditional use permit for a floating marina office and restroom, and a consent calendar to approve minutes from two prior meetings. The transcript provided with the source materials does not contain the meeting proceedings but instead a children's storytime recording from the Huntington Beach Public Library; therefore, no actual discussion, public comments, or decisions from the meeting are documented. Consent Calendar - Item 26-791: Approve Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes dated April 28, 2026. - Item 26-792: Approve Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes dated May 12, 2026. Public Hearing Items - Item 26-787, 26-788, and 26-790: Conditional Use Permit No. 25-033 for a floating marina office (580 sq. ft.) and restroom (420 sq. ft.) at an overall height of 12 ft. 6 in. at 16340 Pacific Coast Highway (Peter’s Landing Marina in Huntington Harbour). The recommended action was to find the project categorically exempt from CEQA (Class 3) and approve the permit with suggested findings and conditions. The agenda lists three separate agenda numbers for the same request, which may be a duplication error. Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions are recorded because the transcript does not contain the meeting's proceedings. The agenda indicates that the recommended action was approval, but the actual outcome is unknown.