Public Meetings - Huntington Beach, California

The Huntington Beach City Council met on February 20, 2024, at 5:00 PM for a closed session, reconvening at 6:00 PM for the regular meeting. The meeting featured extensive public comment on three charter amendments (Measures A, B, C) on the March 5, 2024 ballot, a council member item requesting transparency on library material relocation, and routine consent calendar items. The council approved the consent calendar 6-0-1 (Councilmember McKeon absent), tabled a resolution to increase fireworks permits, and voted 3-3 on a library transparency request, failing it. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of February 6, 2024 meeting. - Received and filed the City Treasurer’s Quarterly Investment Report for December 2023. - Approved the 2023 Housing Element Annual Progress Report with amendments to clarify homeless outreach roles and note mobile home advisory board meetings were not held in 2023 (passed 6-0-1). - Approved Final Tract Map No. 19118 for Holly Triangle Townhomes, accepting bonds and subdivision agreement. - Approved a 5-year Joint Use Agreement with Westminster School District for Clegg-Stacey Park (item pulled for future discussion). - Approved a 5-year Recreation Facility Use Agreement with Huntington Beach City School District. - Approved naming parkland at 17281 Eucalyptus Lane as “Vella Park” in honor of fallen Police Officer Nicholas Vella. - Approved a 5-year Professional Services Contract with PSQ Productions for Independence Day Celebration (item pulled for future discussion). - Adopted Resolution No. 2024-08 (revising fireworks permit count from 15 to 16) – tabled to next meeting for definitional clarity on “foundation.” - Approved contracts for oil well abandonment, civic center lease closure, and Miley Keck Tank Farm lease closure, appropriating $1,236,763 in HB Recovery Funds. - Approved a Health Plan-Provider Agreement with CalOptima Health. - Approved a 6-month extension with Newport Beach for Public Safety Helicopter Services. - Approved a 1-year contract extension with Allied Universal Security Services for street sweeping enforcement (not to exceed $411,269.45). - Accepted the Cal OES Violence Against Women Act Grant ($270,857) and authorized contract with Waymakers for victim services. - Accepted the lowest responsive bid of $4,044,900 from R.J. Noble Company for Residential Zone 1 Street Maintenance Project. - Accepted the lowest responsive bid of $315,000 from Nobest, Inc. for Residential Zone 1 Curb Ramp Project. - Adopted Resolution No. 2024-07 authorizing OCTA grant applications for Special Event Shuttle Services and HB Circuit Program. - Adopted Resolution No. 2024-05 certifying resources for FY 2024/25-2029/30 Federal Transportation Improvement Program. Public Comments & Testimony - 74 speakers signed up; speaking time reduced to 2 minutes due to volume. - Majority of speakers opposed Measures A, B, C, arguing they are unnecessary, costly (estimated $1.3–$1.65 million for A), and based on false claims of voter fraud. Many cited the 40-year record of no voter fraud in Huntington Beach. - Supporters of Measures A, B, C argued for voter ID, local control, and flag restrictions, citing concerns about election security and state overreach. - Numerous speakers supported Councilmember Moser’s agenda item (Item 24) requesting transparency on library book relocation, criticizing the removal of books from children’s/teen sections without clear criteria or public input. - Several speakers advocated for a covered roller derby track in Huntington Beach as a community recreation and tourism asset. - Other comments included support for housing element compliance, concerns about noise from tennis/pickleball courts, and a request to fix the library fountains. Discussion Items - City Clerk Report: Presented the Safe and Sane Fireworks Stand Application and Lottery Process for 2024 (applications March 1–29, lottery April 16). - City Manager Report: Caltrans provided an update on the PCH pavement rehabilitation project (November 2023–end 2025), including ADA ramp upgrades, ladder crosswalks, and traffic signal upgrades. Work hours limited to 9:00 AM–3:30 PM, no weekend/summer work. Councilmember Kalmick questioned coordination with future projects and sea-level rise concerns; Caltrans noted a separate vulnerability assessment program. - Councilmember Moser’s Item (24) – Library Transparency: Requested a detailed report on criteria for book relocation, list of moved books, impact on youth library cards, digital access, and community feedback process. Councilmember Kalmick raised legal concerns about conflict with the municipal code’s adoption of the Library Bill of Rights. City Attorney Gates stated the resolution is not censorship as a matter of law. The item was debated and failed on a 3-3 vote (Moser, Bolton, Kalmick in favor; Burns, Van Der Mark, Strickland opposed; McKeon absent). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 6-0-1 (McKeon absent). - Item 8 (Housing Element) approved 6-0-1 with staff amendments to clarify homeless outreach and mobile home board notes. - Item 14 (Fireworks permits) tabled 6-0-1 to next meeting for definition of “foundation.” - Item 24 (Library transparency) failed 3-3. - Item 10 (Clegg-Stacey Park agreement) and Item 13 (Independence Day contract) were pulled for future discussion by staff. - Item 18 (Street sweeping enforcement contract) was withdrawn by Police Captain request. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 5, 2024.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission held a study session on February 13, 2024, at 5:00 PM in the Civic Center Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a presentation on Zoning Text Amendment No. 23-002, a citywide update to the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance (ZSO) and the Beach Edinger Quarter Specific Plan. The meeting included public comments unrelated to the agenda item and a detailed staff presentation followed by commissioner discussion. No votes were taken as this was a study session. Public Comments & Testimony - Connie Boardman (former mayor and council member) spoke against campaign signs that used the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) logo without permission, alleging the signs were a "dog whistle" against the LGBTQ+ community. She identified Planning Commission Chair Twining, Vice Chair Kennedy, and another city council candidate as the sign sponsors, and noted a related hate crime incident. She urged the commission to remove the signs. - Shirley Detloff (former mayor and planning commissioner) echoed concerns, stating that planning commissioners should be nonpartisan and that the signs contribute to community division. She questioned whether the HRC logo was used without permission. Discussion Items Staff (led by Joanna Cortez) presented proposed amendments to eight chapters of the ZSO, including: - Definitions (Ch. 203): Deleting redundant or outdated definitions, consolidating antenna definitions, and clarifying terms like "attached structures" and "landscaping." - Residential Districts (Ch. 210): Adding neighborhood notification references, codifying building separation rules for patio covers, and removing the seldom-used "courts" provision. - Site Standards (Ch. 230): Clarifying patio cover setbacks, home occupation permits (prohibiting commercial use of residences), building projections into yards, and significantly updating fence/wall regulations. Proposed changes include: - Removing the three-foot setback for fences/walls in the RMHA zone for front yards. - Increasing maximum fence/wall height from 6 to 8 feet in side/rear yards by-right (no conditional use permit needed). - Allowing open lattice extensions up to 2 feet above 6-foot walls without a permit. - Deleting the garden wall provision and clarifying retaining wall height limits. - Parking (Ch. 231): Adding provisions for space-efficient parking (mechanical stackers/lifts) for single-family residences (surplus parking only) and commercial uses (up to 40% of required parking with a conditional use permit). - Waiver of Development Standards (Ch. 241): Clarifying that such waivers require an administrative permit/neighborhood notification; changing notification from 10 working days to 10 calendar days. - Beach Edinger Quarter Specific Plan (Sec. 2.5): Updating street improvement standards to address conflicts with Caltrans (state highway) right-of-way requirements. The intent is to avoid situations like the Subaru dealership development, which was delayed over a year because Caltrans stopped accepting additional right-of-way dedications. The amendment would clarify allowable tree species, eliminate the in-lieu fee process, and allow alternative design for irregular sidewalk widths. Commissioner questions focused on: - Vice Chair Kennedy sought context on the Beach Boulevard changes, why only one specific plan was addressed, and how the changes relate to Caltrans policy. He expressed concern about transparency and suggested breaking out the Beach Boulevard-related items for separate discussion at the public hearing. - Commissioner Pellman asked for clarification on home occupation permits, landscaping definitions (including artificial turf), antenna regulations (including 5G concerns), patio cover height limits, and whether the changes would create nonconforming uses. Staff responded that the amendment only adds allowances, not restrictions. - Commissioner Adam noted that the Caltrans conflict creates a practical problem and supported clarifying the code to avoid putting developers in limbo. Public Works staff confirmed that other projects (e.g., Jamboree housing, GNM Oil) are already in the queue and need this resolution. Chair Twining proposed that interested commissioners meet with staff for additional briefings before the next meeting, but Vice Chair Kennedy argued that discussion should remain public for transparency. Staff confirmed that a full public hearing with the same presentation will occur on February 27, 2024. Key Outcomes - No action taken during the study session. - The next meeting on February 27, 2024, at 6:00 PM will include a public hearing on Zoning Text Amendment No. 23-002, including the Beach Edinger specific plan changes. Commissioners may choose to vote on the entire package or separate items. - Staff will provide a full staff report and presentation at the February 27 meeting, including required findings and analysis. - Chair Twining agreed to speak further with Vice Chair Kennedy to ensure understanding of the issues. - No decision was made on breaking out items; that will be determined at the public hearing.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on February 6, 2024, at 5:00 PM for a closed session and 6:00 PM for the regular business meeting. The meeting was marked by extensive public comment regarding local ballot measures A, B, and C, a proposed statement of solidarity with Texas, and other city issues. The council also approved several consent calendar items, including the 2024 Legislative Platform, and discussed the council liaison list. Key votes included approval of the Texas solidarity statement (4-3) and amendments to the council liaison list (4-3). Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the January 16, 2024 meeting (item 9) as amended by supplemental communication. - Received and filed monthly updates of activities for citizen boards, commissions, and committees for December 2023 and January 2024 (item 10) after discussion led by Councilmember Kalmick regarding the need for more detailed reports. - Received and filed the City Clerk’s quarterly listing of professional services contracts for Q4 2023 (item 11). - Adopted Resolution No. 2024-06 approving the 2024 Huntington Beach Legislative Platform (item 12) after discussion and suggestions for future amendments. - Approved the reappointment of Jeffrey Dahl to the Design Review Board for a second term (item 13). - All consent items passed 7-0, except item 10 which was pulled for discussion but still passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Approximately 79 speakers were signed up, with a 2-minute time limit imposed due to the large number. - Measure A (Voter ID): Many speakers voiced opposition, citing costs (estimated $1.3–$1.5 million or more), lack of evidence of voter fraud, and state law conflicts. Others expressed support, arguing voter ID enhances election integrity and citing instances of voter fraud. - Measure B (Flag Policy): Opposition argued it was a ban on the Pride flag and an unnecessary charter change requiring unanimous council votes. Supporters saw it as preventing divisive flags and promoting patriotism. - Measure C (Council Meetings/Budget): Opponents claimed it grants the mayor unilateral power to cancel meetings and changes budgeting without public input. Supporters saw it as improving efficiency and preventing future issues like extended council terms. - Item 14 (Texas Solidarity): Supporters cited border security, drug trafficking, and federal overreach. Opponents argued it was not a city matter, divisive, and contrary to Supreme Court rulings and federal law. - Other comments included calls for transparency, concerns about library book reviews, city manager hiring, and appreciation for city staff. Discussion Items - Council Liaison List Amendments (Item 8): Mayor Van Der Mark proposed adding Mayor Pro Tem Burns to the Downtown Ad Hoc Committee and removing Councilmember Moser. Councilmember Kalmick criticized the list for conflicts and lack of minority representation, while Councilmember Bolton noted the mayor had 25 of 30 positions. The motion passed 4-3. - Legislative Platform (Item 12): Councilmember Kalmick suggested adding specific items like coastal cleanup, broadband, and cybersecurity. The council agreed to adopt the platform as a starting document and consider future amendments. - Texas Solidarity Statement (Item 14): Mayor Pro Tem Burns introduced the statement, citing constitutional authority and the impact on Huntington Beach. Councilmembers Moser, Bolton, and Kalmick opposed, calling it performance art and not city business. The statement passed 4-3. Key Outcomes - Vote on Council Liaison List Amendments: Passed 4-3 (Yes: Burns, Van Der Mark, Strickland, McKeon; No: Moser, Bolton, Kalmick). - Vote on Texas Solidarity Statement: Passed 4-3 (Yes: Burns, Van Der Mark, Strickland, McKeon; No: Moser, Bolton, Kalmick). - Consent Calendar Items: Passed 7-0, with item 10 approved after discussion. Closed Session - The council convened in closed session to discuss real property negotiations, litigation, and anticipated litigation. No report was given on most items, but the council voted 4-3 to support an amicus brief in Gloria Johnson v. City of Grants Pass before the U.S. Supreme Court. Adjournment The meeting adjourned after the Texas solidarity vote, with the next regular meeting scheduled for February 20, 2024.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission held a study session at 5:00 PM and a regular meeting at 6:00 PM on January 23, 2024. The study session provided an overview of the Zoning Map Amendment Clean-Up Project, covering 141 parcels across six phases. The regular meeting included the election of the 2024 Chair and Vice Chair, a public hearing on the first phase of the zoning map amendment (17 city parks and city-owned properties), approval of meeting minutes, committee assignments, and annual code of ethics acknowledgement. Study Session - Zoning Map Amendment Clean-Up Overview - Staff presented an overview of 141 parcels with zoning designations inconsistent with the General Plan, last updated in 2017. The project is broken into six phases: (1) city parks and city-owned properties, (2) churches and schools, (3) coastal zone parcels, (4) utility properties, (5) commercial, and (6) residential. Phase 1 includes 17 parcels. - Community outreach for Phase 1 included 2,200 notices sent to property owners within a 300-foot radius and to subject parcels, plus expanded noticing (30 days instead of 10). Staff received five inquiries: three seeking more detail and two asking about development. Staff clarified the amendment is for mapping purposes only. - Commissioners praised the phased approach and clarity of the presentation. Commissioner Kennedy questioned the inconsistency of having an adopted general plan with non-conforming zoning and suggested the notification method may need improvement, noting only five responses out of 2,200. Commissioner Wood asked about the timeline (six months) and suggested possibly combining phases. Staff noted the project was paused during COVID-19. Election of 2024 Chair and Vice Chair - Commissioner Wood moved to set aside the Planning Commission bylaws for the election (to allow a majority vote instead of strict seniority). The motion passed 6-1, with Commissioner Acosta-Galvan dissenting. - Commissioner Twining was nominated and elected Chair by a 5-2 vote (Acosta-Galvan and Rodriguez dissenting). Commissioner Kennedy was nominated and elected Vice Chair by a 5-2 vote (same dissenters). - Outgoing Chair Pellman was thanked for her service and presented with a token of appreciation. The new Chair, Twining, expressed interest in cleaning up the conflicting bylaws language. Public Hearing - Zoning Map Amendment No. 23-001 (Phase 1) - No public speakers signed up for the public hearing. Commissioners stated no disclosures. - Staff presented the details of the 17 parcels, including examples: City Gym, McCallan Park, pump stations on Warner, Edison Park, Bower Park, Bartlett Park, Wardlow Park, Lingenbeck Park, Monroe Pacific Nursery, Lamb Park, and Oak View Park. All amendments change zoning to match the General Plan designations (Open Space-Parks and Recreation or Public/Semi-Public). - Commission questions: Commissioner Pellman confirmed that existing uses (e.g., community gardening at one park) would continue. Commissioner Acosta-Galvan asked if residential rezonings would affect housing stock; staff responded that the parcels are already developed as utilities and the General Plan designates them as such. Commissioner Kennedy reiterated concerns about notification and requested a better mechanism for future phases. - The Commission approved the zoning map amendment with a motion that included: (A) finding the project exempt from further CEQA review under Section 15183, and (B) recommending approval to the City Council with findings. The motion also included a request for staff to provide different notification options for the next meeting (a minute action). The motion passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 26, 2023: Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Minutes of October 10, 2023: Motion to approve passed 4-3 (Commissioners Acosta-Galvan, Adam, and Wood abstained). Planning Commission Advisory Boards and Committees - Commissioners assigned or reassigned committee liaisons for 2024. Commissioner Rodriguez accepted Design Review Board liaison, Commissioner Twining remained on Southeast Huntington Beach Committee, Commissioner Wood accepted Economic Development Committee (with Commissioner Adam as alternate), and Commissioner Acosta-Galvan asked to be alternate on Historic Resources Committee but later withdrew from Design Review Board alternate due to scheduling conflicts. Commissioner Kennedy became alternate for Design Review Board. Code of Ethics Annual Review - Staff reminded commissioners to complete and submit the annual code of ethics acknowledgement. New commissioners received blank forms. Commissioner Comments - Commissioners exchanged New Year greetings and thanked staff and outgoing Chair Pellman. Staff announced the upcoming Planning Commission Academy in Long Beach. Key Outcomes - Study Session: Informational; no vote taken. - Chair Election: Butch Twining elected Chair, Don Kennedy elected Vice Chair (both 5-2). - Zoning Map Amendment No. 23-001: Approved unanimously with CEQA exemption and request for improved notification methods. - Consent Calendar: September 2023 minutes approved unanimously; October 2023 minutes approved 4-3. - Committee Assignments: Updated as noted above. - Next Meeting: February 13, 2024, at 6:00 PM.

The City Council met on January 16, 2024, from 4:00 PM to adjournment, including a study session on water and sewer rate studies, a closed session, and a regular meeting from 6:00 PM. Key topics included proposed charter amendments (Measures A, B, and C) for the March 5, 2024 ballot, the 2024 celebration calendar program, litigation updates, a strategic plan progress update, and two council member items regarding a sewer easement dispute and an expedited plan check proposal. Public comment was extensive, with 48 speakers, each limited to two minutes, predominantly opposing the charter amendments. Study Session: Water & Sewer Rate Study - Deputy Director of Public Works Alvin Papa presented a five-year rate study, citing $180 million in water projects and $75 million in sewer projects over the next five years. Key infrastructure needs include replacing aging wells (6 of 9 are 50+ years old, each failure costing $2M/year in water purchases), replacing 6 miles of pipe per year (currently 1 mile), and upgrading lift stations. - Proposed rate adjustments: For a typical single-family home, water bills would increase by about $6/month in the first year. The city currently has among the lowest rates in Orange County. The schedule includes a Prop 218 public hearing on April 16, 2024, with rates effective July 1, 2024, if approved. - Council discussion touched on drought modeling, tiered rates (currently not used), commercial rate impacts, and reserve targets. Councilmember Kalmick raised concerns about drought revenue cycles and stormwater funding. No vote was taken; it was a study session. Public Comments & Testimony - 48 members of the public signed up to speak; time was reduced from 3 to 2 minutes due to volume. - The overwhelming majority of speakers opposed Measures A (voter ID for municipal elections), B (restricting flags to government flags, requiring unanimous council vote to change), and C (mayor's authority to cancel meetings, two-year budgets). Arguments included: lack of voter fraud evidence, unknown and potentially millions in costs, violation of state law, risk of litigation, and that the measures are divisive political theater. - Several speakers referenced the Orange County Registrar of Voters' integrity, the high cost of running independent elections (estimated $1.2M-$1.6M startup), and potential cuts to services (libraries, parks, roads) to pay for them. - A few speakers supported the measures, arguing for election integrity and flag unity. - Other comments concerned the city celebration calendar (absence of Pride Month, Black History Month recognition), parking pass restrictions, the city deficit, and the Rhone Lane easement issue. City Manager's Report: 2024 Celebration Calendar Program - Staff presented a proposed 2024 monthly celebration calendar with 12 overarching themes (e.g., January: Founder's Legacy, February: We Love Our Libraries) and secondary acknowledgments based on federal holidays, city events, and public safety messages. June is themed "History of Independence Day" with acknowledgments including Juneteenth and Alzheimer's Awareness, but no Pride Month mention. - Councilmember Moser questioned why secondary acknowledgments were added beyond council direction. Councilmember McKeon clarified that the 12 overarching themes are the focus for 2024, and other heritage months could be considered in future years by a proposed resident committee. Councilmember Kalmick criticized the exclusion of state-recognized holidays and the delegation of approval authority to two council liaisons. - The City Attorney confirmed the item was properly agendized and council could make a motion. A motion to receive and file the report passed 4-3 (McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark, Strickland in favor; Moser, Bolton, Kalmick against). City Attorney's Report - Redevelopment Reimbursement Lawsuit: The city prevailed in a lawsuit against the State Department of Finance. The county oversight board approved a $30,464,000 reimbursement for the Waterfront loan (originally $22.4M plus interest). Total reimbursements from two loans now exceed $37M. - RHNA Mandate Challenge: The city filed an appeal brief with the Ninth Circuit on January 11, 2024, arguing the lower court erred in dismissing the case because the city is a charter city. The state's response brief is due March 1, 2024. Consent Calendar (Items 9-18) - Items 10 and 11 were pulled for separate discussion. - Item 10: Quarterly list of professional services contracts. Councilmember McKeon expressed concern about high consultant costs ($610K Q1, $621K Q2, $1.1M Q3) and urged reducing reliance. The item passed 7-0 after discussion. - Item 11: Annual review of the City Code of Ethics. Councilmember McKeon moved to change the word "equity" to "equality" under the fairness section. A substitute motion to keep the original failed 3-3-1 (abstention: Van Der Mark). The original motion to receive and file passed 4-3. - The remaining consent items (9, 12-18) were approved 7-0 en bloc. Item 9 (minutes) was amended via supplemental communication. Administrative Items: FY 2023-2027 Strategic Plan – Biannual Progress Update 1 - Staff reported 32% of 99 tasks complete, 47% in progress, 19% upcoming, 2% on hold. Progress was summarized across 8 goals. Key achievements include an economic development summit, customer service training, homeless outreach, and infrastructure master plans. - Councilmember Moser requested broader Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for each goal to create a public-facing digital dashboard. A motion to receive and file the update and bring back expanded KPIs in July 2024 passed 7-0. Council Member Items - Item 20 & 21 (Combined): Rhone Lane/OC San Easement Issue – Councilmembers Burns, Bolton, Kalmick, and Moser addressed a dispute between OC San and homeowners over a 63-year-old easement for a 67-inch raw sewage pipe. Homeowners face a February 1, 2024 deadline to remove structures (walls, pools, sheds) encroaching on the easement, with OC San offering to pay for removal but no compensation for loss of use. Residents requested 120 days extension and city mediation. - A motion passed 7-0 directing the City Manager and City Attorney to request OC San extend the deadline (preferably 120 days) and to assist in facilitating a solution, provided the city does not provide legal representation to residents. - Item 22: Expedited Plan Check for Development – Councilmembers Bolton, Kalmick, and Moser proposed directing staff to negotiate with bargaining units to allow voluntary overtime for plan checkers, funded by applicant fees, to speed up plan approvals. The item was part of a larger one-stop shop initiative already in progress. The motion failed 3-4 (Moser, Bolton, Kalmick in favor; Burns, Van Der Mark, Strickland, McKeon against), with opponents citing redundancy with ongoing fee study. Key Outcomes - Water/Sewer Rate Study: No vote; staff will present Prop 218 notices and schedule a public hearing for April 16, 2024. - Celebration Calendar: Received and filed (4-3). The 2024 themes and acknowledgments stand as presented; a resident committee will advise on future years. - Consent Calendar: Items 9, 12-18 approved 7-0; Item 10 (contracts) and Item 11 (code of ethics) passed separately with amendment discussion. - Strategic Plan Update: Received and filed with directive to develop broader KPIs (7-0). - Rhone Lane Easement: Council requested OC San extend deadline and offered city facilitation (7-0). - Expedited Plan Check: Motion failed (3-4). - Next Regular Meeting: February 6, 2024.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on December 19, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included consent calendar approvals, a public hearing that was continued, approval of firefighter labor agreements, an ordinance on parking time limits, and a controversial vote to establish a monthly heritage program. Public comment addressed numerous topics including charter amendments, the Bolsa Chica Senior Living Community project, and an OC Sanitation easement dispute. Consent Calendar - Approved consent items 6, 8–19 (7-0) after pulling items 7 and 20. - Item 7 (November update of activities for citizen boards/commissions) was pulled by Councilmember Bolton to note that reports now only provide a link to minutes, lacking context. Motion to receive and file passed 7-0. - Item 20 (two-year downtown shuttle service agreement with Circuit Transit, Inc., not to exceed $1,535,426) was pulled by Councilmember McKeon for questions on funding and scope. After clarification, the item passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony Thirty-six speakers addressed the council. Key positions included: - Charter amendments (Ballot Measures A, B, and a third): Many speakers urged voters to vote no, citing increased costs (e.g., city-run elections could cost “millions”), potential lawsuits, and concerns about voter suppression. A few speakers supported the measures, arguing for election integrity. - Bolsa Chica Senior Living Community (Item 21): The majority of speakers opposed the project, calling it “too big,” “high density,” and not fitting the neighborhood (e.g., “monster project,” “does not comply with zoning”). Some supporters cited the need for senior housing and noted the developer’s recent revisions (reducing height by 13 feet, eliminating 24 independent living units). The applicant requested a continuance. - Heritage Program (Item 25): Multiple speakers opposed the proposal, arguing it would eliminate existing recognitions like Black History Month and Pride Month, and that it bypassed the Historic Resources Board. One speaker (Kathy Shea, Historic Resources Board member) announced her resignation, stating the council “doesn’t know what we do.” Supporters called the program a “fun exercise” to celebrate shared history. - OC Sanitation easement (Rhone Lane residents): Several residents from Rhone Lane described receiving letters from OC Sanitation requiring removal of improvements (pools, fences) from a 30-foot easement, with some facing loss of backyard use. They requested council assistance, particularly from Mayor Pro Tem Burns (OC Sanitation board member). - Other comments: fiscal concerns ($198.2 million unfunded liabilities, projected $23.9 million deficit by 2028), the Orange County Power Authority, police chief/city manager dual role, and election integrity. Discussion Items - Bolsa Chica Senior Living Community (Item 21): Staff introduced the item. The applicant requested a continuance to revise the project. The council voted 7-0 to continue to a date uncertain without opening the public hearing, ensuring proper procedure for potential project modifications. - Memoranda of Understanding (Items 22 & 23): Staff presented three-year MOUs with the Huntington Beach Firefighters Association (HBFA) and Fire Management Association (FMA) for Jan 1, 2024 – Dec 31, 2026. Both include base salary increases, longevity pay adjustments, elimination of performance bonus, and increased medical contributions. The council approved both introductions 7-0. - Ordinance 4303 (Item 24): Introduction of an ordinance allowing the Chief of Police to grant permanent parking time limit exceptions for applicants with a licensed doctor’s statement of a permanent condition. Approved 7-0. - Monthly Heritage Program (Item 25): Submitted by Mayor Van Der Mark, Mayor Pro Tem Burns, and Councilmember McKeon. The proposal establishes a 12-month program honoring U.S., California, and Huntington Beach history, replacing existing monthly themes. A committee of 7-9 residents would develop future calendars. After debate, Councilmember McKeon moved to adopt with amendments (swapping February and August themes, adding Holocaust Remembrance in January, and clarifying that pre-existing individual day/week programs are not affected). A substitute motion failed. The main motion passed 4-3 (Burns, Van Der Mark, Strickland, McKeon in favor; Moser, Bolton, Kalmick opposed). Key Outcomes - Consent calendar (items 6, 8-19) approved 7-0. - Item 7 received and filed 7-0. - Item 20 (Circuit Transit shuttle contract) approved 7-0. - Item 21 (Bolsa Chica Senior Living) continued to a date uncertain 7-0. - Item 22 (HBFA MOU introduction) approved 7-0. - Item 23 (FMA MOU introduction) approved 7-0. - Item 24 (Ordinance 4303 introduction) approved 7-0. - Item 25 (Monthly Heritage Program) approved 4-3. - Adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM. The next regular meeting is January 16, 2024; the January 3, 2024 meeting was canceled.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on December 5, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included presentations, public comments, and the election of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem. Due to the lack of substantive business, public comment time was reduced to one minute per speaker. 45 residents signed up to speak, and the council voted 4-3 to set aside the long-standing Resolution No. 6320 for the election process, leading to the election of Gracie Vandermark as Mayor and Pat Burns as Mayor Pro Tem. Public Comments & Testimony - Support for Gracie Vandermark as Mayor: Numerous speakers, including Don Kennedy, Patty Pappas, Kathy Carrick, Heidi Barlow, Lisa Musel, and others, praised Vandermark's leadership, courage, and historic role as the first Latina mayor. They highlighted her stands on protecting children, supporting Israel, and opposing vaccine mandates. - Opposition to Gracie Vandermark as Mayor: Several speakers, such as Pat Goodman, Terry Rose, Bethany Webb, and Dr. Stanley Wolfe, argued that Vandermark is unfit due to alleged affiliations with extremist groups, lack of a high school diploma, and violation of council resolution 6320, which they claimed should have made Dan Kalmick mayor. - Criticism of Council Majority: Multiple speakers (e.g., Delane Bailey, David Reinerson, Meg Robinson, and others) accused the council majority of breaking norms, ignoring the 1991 resolution, and engaging in partisan politics. They also criticized the reduction of public comment time and the elimination of citizen boards. - Praise for Outgoing Mayor Strickland: Several residents and officials (including Senator Janet Nguyen and Assemblyman Tri Ta's representative) thanked Tony Strickland for his accessibility, town halls, and accomplishments such as reducing homelessness, increasing police staffing, and fighting high-density mandates. - Other Topics: Speakers addressed the Bolsa Chica Senior Living Project (urged a 'no' vote), the withdrawal from Orange County Power Authority, the three charter amendments (ballot measures on voter ID, flag policy, and ballot drop boxes), and the city's book policy. One speaker requested municipal voting with voter ID. Discussion Items - Procedure for Election of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem: Councilmember Tony Strickland moved to set aside Resolution No. 6320 (which traditionally awarded the mayor position to the council member with the longest tenure). Councilmember Dan Kalmick offered a substitute motion to appoint Dan Kalmick as mayor, which failed 3-4. Another substitute motion to appoint Natalie Moser as mayor also failed 3-4. The original motion to set aside the resolution passed 4-3 (Strickland, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark in favor; Bolton, Kalmick, Moser opposed). - Election of Mayor: Strickland moved to elect Gracie Vandermark as mayor. The motion passed 4-3 (Strickland, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark in favor; Kalmick, Moser, Bolton opposed). Gracie Vandermark was sworn in as the first Latina mayor of Huntington Beach. - Election of Mayor Pro Tem: Vandermark moved to elect Pat Burns as mayor pro tem. A substitute motion to elect Natalie Moser failed 3-4. The original motion passed 4-3 (Strickland, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark in favor; Kalmick, Moser, Bolton opposed). Pat Burns was sworn in as mayor pro tem. - Presentations: Mayor Strickland presented the Mayor’s HB Excellence Award to Cathy Fikes, Senior Administrative Assistant. He also gave a retrospect of his year as mayor, listing accomplishments including town halls, homeless reduction, police hiring, and fighting state mandates. Senator Janet Nguyen and Assemblyman Tri Ta's representative presented resolutions honoring Strickland. Key Outcomes - Set Aside Resolution 6320: The council voted 4-3 to set aside the traditional procedure for electing the mayor and mayor pro tem, allowing the majority to choose leadership without following seniority precedence. - Election of Gracie Vandermark as Mayor: Passed 4-3. Gracie Vandermark became the 67th mayor and the first Latina mayor of Huntington Beach. - Election of Pat Burns as Mayor Pro Tem: Passed 4-3. Pat Burns assumed the role of mayor pro tem. - Next Regular Meeting: The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 6:00 PM (note: the transcript says December 21, but agenda states December 19; the summary follows the agenda date).

The Huntington Beach City Council met on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers after a closed session that began at 4:00 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including e-bike safety updates, a quarterly investment report, approval of the consent calendar, an appeal of a sober living home denial, appointment of an interim city manager/police chief, and two councilmember-sponsored items on veteran homelessness and exploring becoming a certified autism destination. The meeting also included public comments from 15 speakers on various agenda items. Consent Calendar - Items 7–16 were approved unanimously (7-0). These included: - Approval of minutes from November 7, 2023. - Extension and fee modifications for the Hometown Heroes Banner Program. - Reaffirmation of the Sister City Covenant with Anjo, Japan. - Authorizing an additional $500,000 in SLESF funds for a police helicopter. - Resolution ordering summary vacation of an easement on Third Street. - Approval of three professional services contracts for environmental engineering (each up to $600,000). - Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-49 concerning Measure M2 Expenditure Report. - Appropriation of $50,000 from Storm Water Quality fund for water quality monitoring buoys. - License agreement with Abound Food Care for a solar-powered cold food storage unit. - Acceptance of a $4,565,300 construction contract for Admiralty Drive Bridge Rehabilitation and appropriation of $2,100,000 from Measure M funds. Public Comments & Testimony - Public comments (15 speakers) addressed multiple topics. Key positions: - Rocky McKinnon (owner of McKinnon Surf & SUP Lessons) spoke in support of inclusive programs, highlighting adaptive surfing equipment and a chairboard for people with disabilities. - Kenny Noah (50-year resident) urged fiscal prudence, citing potential budget deficits, $200 million in unfunded liabilities, and deferred maintenance. - Andy Einhorn opposed ballot measures, arguing they lacked a business plan and would lead to hidden costs and legal challenges. - Kathy Carrick (48-year resident) opposed the autism destination proposal, calling it divisive “virtue signaling” similar to the gay pride flag issue. - Russell Neal supported three charter amendments, particularly the shift to in-person voting, arguing mail-in ballots reduce election integrity. - Amory Hanson expressed concerns about a future senior housing project at 4952 Warner Avenue, citing size and impact on Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. - Tim Geddes (library patron) criticized the council majority’s approach to library services, displaying a mock “Enemies of the Library” card. - Kathy Ryder (homeowner since 1985) supported e-bike safety efforts but questioned the dual role of Chief Parra as interim city manager/police chief; she also supported veteran homelessness and autism destination items. - Jessamyn Garner, Brittany Boz, Vivian Phan, Denise Ivanis Tadora, Pat Goodman, and others spoke in support of both items 19 and 20 (veteran homelessness and autism destination). - Cindy offered suggestions for e-bike education, including QR codes at beach parking lots linking to safety videos. - Neil supported both items and urged the council to consider housing needs for young people and ADUs. Discussion Items - E-Bike Update (City Manager’s Report) – Lieutenant Toby Archer presented an update on e-bike safety efforts including a new municipal code (Oct. 3, 2023) allowing citations and impoundment for unsafe operation. 18 citations were issued in October. Education programs reached over 1,000 students, and 178 helmets were distributed. The city also worked on a safety video and engineering improvements (e.g., third lane on bike path, Bicycle Boulevard). Councilmembers requested future data analysis and trend tracking. - City Treasurer’s Report – City Treasurer Alisa Backstrom presented the quarterly investment report for September 2023. Portfolio book value: $350.7 million, market value: $335.1 million. Earnings for September were $740,049 (up 77% year-over-year). Fiscal year-to-date earnings of $2.3 million (up 147%). The effective rate of return was 2.59%. The report was received and filed (7-0). - Appeal of Planning Commission’s Denial of Sober Living Home (Item 17) – The appellant argued that the nearby elderly group home was not a disqualifying use under the 1,000-foot buffer rule. City staff and the city attorney clarified that even if the elderly home was not a disqualifier, the property was still within 150 feet of a state-licensed drug and alcohol recovery facility. The city council denied the appeal (7-0), upholding the planning commission’s denial. - Interim City Manager/Police Chief Appointment (Item 18) – Council approved Resolution No. 2023-60 and Amendment No. 1 to Eric G. Parra’s employment agreement, making him interim city manager/police chief. Approved 7-0. - Item 19 – Addressing Veteran Homelessness (Councilmember Moser) – Councilmember Moser proposed a study session in Q1 2024 to develop a targeted action plan. Councilmember Burns and McKeon argued the work is already being done by the homeless task force, citing 64 contacts, 27 veterans with HB ties, 20 referred to shelters, and 4 permanently housed. A substitute motion (by McKeon) for a mayor’s town hall in Q1 passed 6-0-1 (Kalmick abstaining). The original motion was not approved. - Item 20 – Exploring Certified Autism Destination (Councilmember Moser) – Moser proposed a feasibility study to become a certified autism destination, citing benefits of inclusivity, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. Councilmembers Burns and McKeon opposed, citing unknown costs, impracticality, and that private sector/charties should lead. Kalmick supported, noting the journey matters and benefits extend to all. The motion failed 3-4 (Kalmick, Moser, Bolton in favor; Vandermark abstained, Strickland not voting, McKeon abstained, Burns abstained). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 7-0. - City Treasurer’s Report received and filed 7-0. - Appeal of Sober Living Home denied 7-0. - Interim City Manager/Police Chief appointed 7-0. - Item 19 (Veteran Homelessness) – Substitute motion for a mayor’s town hall in Q1 2024 passed 6-0-1 (Kalmick abstaining). - Item 20 (Certified Autism Destination) – Motion failed 3-4 (Kalmick, Moser, Bolton aye; Vandermark abstain, Strickland not voting, McKeon abstain, Burns abstain). - Next regular meeting scheduled for December 5, 2023.

The City Council met on November 7, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers after a closed session that began at 4:00 PM. The meeting included councilmember comments, public testimony, a consent calendar with several items pulled for discussion, and action on multiple agenda items. Key decisions included approving the CalOptima Health Street Medicine Program (Item 11), a $16.2 million general fund surplus allocation to unfunded liabilities (Item 14), a $2.28 million DHCS agreement for EMS reimbursement (Item 17), and the Edinger Avenue Sewer Replacement Project (Item 20). The Bolsa Chica Senior Living Community public hearing (Item 26) was continued indefinitely, and the appeal of the Legacy Living Sober Living facility (Item 27) was continued to November 21, 2023. The ordinance on parking time limits for recreational vehicles (Item 28) was withdrawn. Consent Calendar - Items 8, 9, 12, 15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, and 25 were approved unanimously (7-0). Item 8 (minutes) was amended per a clerk's memo. - Items pulled for separate discussion: 10, 11, 13, 14, 17, 20, 24. Public Comments & Testimony - Approximately 30 speakers addressed the council. A majority spoke in opposition to the Bolsa Chica Senior Living Project (Item 26), citing excessive density (70 units/acre vs. surrounding 7-15 units/acre), building height (65-72 feet), traffic, parking deficiencies, and shadow impacts. Several speakers urged the council to honor campaign promises against high-density development. - Multiple speakers supported Item 11 (Street Medicine Program), noting it provides preventive health care to homeless individuals at no cost to the city. - Several speakers expressed concerns about Item 13 (MOU with Chamber of Commerce), arguing it gives preferential treatment and may be a poor use of city funds given a projected deficit. - A few speakers supported the emergency operations plan (Item 15) and the CalOptima agreement (Item 17). - One speaker criticized the proposed voter ID charter amendment, estimating it could cost up to $5 million and disenfranchise voters. - Several speakers voiced opposition to the library book relocation policy, calling it book banning and unconstitutional. - A speaker provided a detailed analysis of the city's unfunded liabilities ($198.3 million after transfers) and recommended quarterly financial reports. - A Planning Commissioner apologized for his earlier vote supporting the Bolsa Chica project, stating he was wrong and had listened to constituents. Discussion Items - Item 10 – Council Liaison List: Councilmember Kalmick expressed frustration over lack of representation on certain boards and noted that some liaisons had poor attendance. Moser reported being elected to the OC Human Relations Commission. The item passed 7-0. - Item 11 – CalOptima Street Medicine Program: Councilmember Moser explained the program provides preventive care, urgent care, and social services to homeless individuals, with a minimum patient encounter every 45 days. The city will not incur direct costs. Approved 7-0. - Item 13 – MOU with Chamber of Commerce: Councilmember Bolton moved to continue indefinitely for further study, citing public confusion. The chamber would receive waiver of facility fees for up to 7 events (valued at $2,750/year) in exchange for $2,500 membership and recognition. Continued to a date uncertain (7-0). - Item 14 – Budget Adjustment for Unfunded Liabilities: Finance Director Sonny Han presented that FY 2022-23 ended with a $16.2 million general fund surplus, driven by one-time spikes in utility taxes and TOT. The council approved transferring $1.5 million to workers' compensation (raising funded status to 48%), $4.5 million to general liability (87% funded), $4.62 million to retiree supplemental plan (94.3% funded), and $2 million for library transformer replacement. Total unfunded liabilities as of June 30, 2023: $208.7 million. Councilmember McKeon noted the city's projected surplus of $577,000 for FY 2024-25, not the $7 million deficit cited by some. Approved 7-0. - Item 17 – DHCS Agreement for EMS Reimbursement: Division Chief Lopez explained the city will appropriate $2,282,450 to unlock federal matching funds, with a 142% return of $5,525,810 within about 44 days. The city will participate as the sixth entity in an 11-year program. Approved 7-0. - Item 20 – Edinger Avenue Sewer Replacement: Public Works staff detailed a 10-month project to replace 8- and 12-inch sewer lines with 8- to 15-inch lines from Gothard to Beach Boulevard. Night work (9 PM to 3 AM) will occur in commercial sections. A community meeting is scheduled for December 1. The project will reduce sanitary sewer overflows and grease buildup. Budget: $3,970,850, with a $1.34 million transfer from the PCH restroom sewer lift station project. Approved 7-0. - Item 24 – Shipley Nature Center Trail Grant: Councilmember Burns expressed concern over the cost ($786/foot for a 1,000-foot path). Public Works Director Chow noted the soil is too soft for heavy equipment, requiring fill and grading. The resolution authorizes the grant application; the city will decide later whether to accept the matching funds. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Continuances: Item 26 (Bolsa Chica Senior Living) continued indefinitely for further public outreach. Item 27 (Legacy Living Sober Living appeal) continued to November 21, 2023. Item 28 (parking ordinance) withdrawn by staff. - All votes on consent calendar and pulled items passed 7-0, except where noted as unanimous. - The council received a closed session report with no action taken. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 21, 2023.