Public Meetings - Huntington Beach, California

This was a study session of the Huntington Beach Planning Commission held on August 22, 2023, to discuss the proposed Bolsa Chica Senior Living Community. The project involves a General Plan Amendment, Zoning Map Amendment, Zoning Text Amendment, Conditional Use Permit, and Final Environmental Impact Report for a 202-unit senior living facility on a 3.1-acre site at 4952 and 4972 Warner Avenue. No votes were taken; the session was informational. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Thenis (resident, 4512 Ocean Ridge Drive): Expressed concerns about the project's size and height, calling it "too big" and "like a skyscraper." He noted that while he understands change is needed, he believes a zone change or specific plan is unnecessary. He also mentioned a survey from the developer to the Brightwater community that he felt did not allow for objections, and requested that the survey be disallowed from consideration. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Hayden Beckman, Senior Planner): - The project requests five approvals: a General Plan Amendment (from Commercial General to Mixed Use), a Zoning Map Amendment (to Specific Plan No. 19), a Zoning Text Amendment, a Conditional Use Permit, and a Final Environmental Impact Report. - The site currently has about 55,000 sq. ft. of commercial space (office and retail). - Proposed unit mix: 102 independent living, 72 assisted living, 28 memory care (total 202 units). - Subterranean parking garage with 189 spaces; code would require 209, but a parking analysis for convalescent use showed 189 meets demand. - Height: 65 feet (current CG zone max is 50 feet). - Floor area ratio: 2.42 (proposed specific plan max of 2.5; current CG zone max is 1.5). - The Draft EIR was circulated for 45 days, receiving 50 comment letters from agencies and interested parties. - Applicant Presentation (Tom Lawless, Hines; Christopher Hilbert, Clearwater Living; Natalie Ruiz, WATG): - Hines is a family-run development company with 70+ years; Clearwater Living is an Orange County-based operator of senior communities. - Presented data on senior population growth: 25% of Huntington Beach population is over 60, and the senior population is expected to double in 20 years. The city currently has 463 senior living units (average age 23 years), and projected demand is 2,000 units over 5 years. The project would add 202 units, bringing total to about 900 with the approved Sea Cliff project. - Site advantages: proximity to retail, pharmacies, and Bolsa Chica wetlands; subterranean parking to reduce noise and improve aesthetics; generous setbacks and landscaping. - Design: coastal-inspired contemporary architecture with varied roof lines, balconies, and terraces to reduce massing; first floor primarily amenity spaces (multiple dining venues, fitness, theater, art studio, salon). - Community engagement included an open house for 1,500 addresses (double the city requirement), a project website, individual stakeholder meetings, and engagement with local organizations (Chamber of Commerce, Council on Aging, Golden West College). - Benefits: freeing up single-family homes (80% of independent living residents come from single-family homes), creating 100–110 jobs, and partnerships with Golden West College. - Commissioner Questions and Comments: - Traffic: Applicant stated that trips generated by the project would be about 50% of current trips due to residents not driving; employees account for most trips (20–40 on site at any time). - Emergency access: Emergency vehicles would use the Warner Avenue service access; EMS calls have decreased due to changes in assisted living regulations. - Parking: Code requires 208 spaces, but applicant argues that memory care and assisted living residents rarely drive, and independent living residents bring cars at about 30% rate; total demand estimated at 100–120 spaces. - Height and precedent: Commissioner Kennedy expressed concern that a 65-foot building (plus potential 10 feet for mechanical, totaling 75 feet) sets a bad precedent for changing land use and zoning. Applicant responded that the height is driven by the need for amenity space on the first floor. - Rents: Commissioner Kennedy questioned affordability; applicant estimated rents of $5,000+ per month, all resident-paid, with no affordable housing component. Commissioner Kennedy noted that residents vacating homes are not likely leaving affordable housing for youth. - Utilities and infrastructure: Studied in EIR; water and sewer impacts less than 1% of capacity. Subterranean parking will have groundwater management systems. - Bird strikes: Commissioner Pellman asked about migratory bird impacts near Bolsa Chica wetlands. Applicant noted that the building is not a glass box and has architectural details; further clarification requested for the public hearing. - Emergency evacuation: Each property develops a specific plan with floor captains and quadrants. - Specific plan drafting: Commissioner Kennedy asked if the applicant wrote the specific plan; staff confirmed the applicant drafted it but city staff iteratively reviewed and modified it, and that this is standard practice. - Senior center partnership: Commissioner Pellman requested coordination with the Huntington Beach Senior Center for programs; applicant agreed to incorporate. - Water table: Commissioner Kennedy questioned the feasibility of a subterranean garage given high groundwater; applicant stated the EIR found groundwater below the excavation level, and similar projects exist in the coastal zone. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken; this was a study session for informational purposes. - The project will return to the Planning Commission for a public hearing at a future date. - Staff and applicants were directed to provide additional information on bird strike mitigation, groundwater management, accident data at Beach and Ellis (for comparison), and utility undergrounding details. - The next regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting is September 12, 2023, at 6:00 PM.

The City Council met on August 1, 2023, starting with a closed session at 5:00 PM and the regular meeting at 6:00 PM. The meeting included extensive public comments, staff reports, and votes on nine recommendations to restructure or dissolve citizen-led boards and commissions, seven proposed charter amendments (including local election control and clerk qualifications), and an item to create an ad hoc committee to amend or cancel the city's Declaration of Policy on Human Dignity. The council majority (Strickland, Van Der Mark, McKeon, Burns) passed divisive measures over minority objections (Kalmick, Moser, Bolton). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 27 (Board Restructuring): Over 50 speakers, including former mayors Shirley Detloff (co-author of the human dignity declaration) and Victor Leipzig, mobile home residents, and Human Relations Committee members, urged the council to reject the dissolution of the Mobile Home Advisory Board (MHAB) and the Human Relations Committee (HRC). Many argued the MHAB provides vital communication between residents and park owners, and the HRC is essential for addressing rising hate crimes. Several speakers accused council members of conflicts of interest due to campaign contributions from mobile home park owners. Some speakers supported dissolution, citing redundancy and the need to focus on core city services. - Item 28 (Charter Amendments): Many speakers opposed proposals to add voter ID requirements, require 12 polling locations, monitor ballot drop boxes, and lower city clerk education requirements. They characterized these as voter suppression and a power grab. City Clerk Robin Estanislaou warned that lowering qualifications could allow unqualified candidates (including the city attorney's wife) to run. Others supported local election control and voter ID. - Item 29 (Human Dignity Policy): Multiple speakers, including original author Shirley Detloff and former mayor Kim Carr, asked the council to leave the 1996 declaration unchanged, calling it a strong statement against hate. A few speakers supported amending or canceling it, arguing it is unnecessary or preachy. - Other Items: A few speakers commented on the Pacific Airshow lawsuit, the need for police ticketing on the pier, and the proposed memorial plaque for former mayor Donald MacAllister. Discussion Items - City Manager's Report (Item 4): Presenters from staff unveiled a new service vision statement: "We are One HB, committed to responsive and exceptional public service for all." The report outlined ongoing customer service training and process improvements. - City Treasurer's Report (Item 5): Treasurer Alisa Backstrom presented the June 2023 quarterly investment report. The portfolio's market value was approximately $360.5 million, with fiscal year earnings of $5.9 million (up 69% from the prior year). The effective rate of return for June was 2.37%. - City Attorney's Reports (Items 6 & 7): Michael Gates provided updates on the Pacific Airshow lawsuit (settled, with the city dismissed but former mayor Kim Carr still a defendant) and a detailed presentation on the Moore v. City Gates lawsuit, criticizing the 2021 investigation by Craig Steele (RWG) as biased and procedurally improper. He alleged that former city manager Oliver Chi improperly accessed privileged emails. - Consent Calendar: Approved (7-0) items 8-14, 16-17, 19-20, 22-26 after pulling items 15 (Kalmick recused, passed 6-0-1) and 21 (Operation Stonegarden grant, passed 7-0 after brief explanation). - Item 18: Withdrawn before the meeting; City Attorney explained the background check on the candidate for Chief Assistant City Attorney revealed concerning information. Key Outcomes - Item 27 – Board Restructuring: The council adopted nine recommendations from the ad hoc committee (Strickland, Van Der Mark, Burns): - Rec 1: Dissolve three council ad hoc committees (Short-Term Rental, Housing Element, Cannabis) – passed 4-3. - Rec 2: Dissolve the Human Relations Committee – passed 4-3 (substitute motion to retain failed 3-4). - Rec 3: Dissolve the Jet Noise Commission – passed 4-3. - Rec 4: Dissolve the Mobile Home Advisory Board – passed 4-3. - Rec 5: Dissolve the Smart Cities & Technology Council Subcommittee and Environmental Sustainability Board, transfer duties to Public Works Commission – passed 4-3. - Rec 6: Rename the Downtown Urban Design Ad Hoc Committee to Downtown Beachfront Ad Hoc Committee – passed 7-0. - Rec 7: Restructure the Youth Board as a non-Brown Act working group – passed 7-0. - Rec 8: Rename the Fourth of July Executive Board to Independence Day Board – passed 7-0. - Rec 9: Restructure the Specific Events Executive Committee as a standing council committee – passed 7-0. - Directives to staff to implement changes – passed 6-1 (Moser opposed). - Item 28 – Charter Amendments (Straw Polls for Future Ballot Measures): The council straw-polled seven proposals from the ad hoc committee, each passing 4-3 (majority in favor; minority opposed): 1. Amend term commencement for elected officials. 2. Allow cancellation of meetings by mayor or majority without a quorum. 3. Revise Measure C to allow limited park facility expansions (restrooms, playgrounds) up to 20% (restrooms) and 100% (playgrounds) in 10 years; added new restroom ability per Moser amendment. 4. Transition to a two-year budget in even years (passed 5-2; Kalmick, Moser opposed). 5. Move city clerk and treasurer elections to gubernatorial cycles (passed 4-3). 6. Reduced city clerk education requirement from a related bachelor's to any bachelor's degree (passed 4-3). 7. Assert local control over municipal elections: voter ID, 12 polling locations, drop box monitoring (passed 4-3). - Additional proposals from councilmembers (each passed 4-3): - Put current flag ordinance into charter with Olympic flag exception (Burns). - Restrict real property transactions that forgo property taxes without voter approval (McKeon). - Emphasize city attorney as exclusive legal counsel; protect attorney-client privilege; require third-party investigations of elected officials (McKeon). - Directive to city attorney to review and return with ballot language – passed 4-3. - Item 29 – Human Dignity Declaration: The council passed 4-3 to create an ad hoc committee (Strickland, Van Der Mark, Burns) to draft amendments or cancellation, to be presented October 3, 2023. Minority members expressed concern that the process undermines the original 1996 document and the now-dissolved Human Relations Committee.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Vice-Chair Butch Twining presided in the absence of Chair Tracy Pellman. The Commission considered two items: a conditional use permit for live entertainment at The Brant restaurant and a general plan conformance for a minor right-of-way vacation. Both items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 11, 2023): The Commission approved the minutes of the July 11, 2023 meeting as submitted. Commissioner Kayla Acosta-Galvan abstained as she was absent on that date. Motion carried 5-0-1 (with Chair Pellman absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on items not on the agenda or on the agendized items. No speakers signed up for either the public hearing or the non-public hearing items. Discussion Items Conditional Use Permit No. 23-015 (The Brant Live Entertainment) - Request: To permit live entertainment (disc jockey and a live band up to five members) within the interior of an existing 3,000 sq. ft. restaurant located at 21058 Pacific Coast Highway 250, within the Pacific City Commercial Center. - Staff Presentation: Senior Planner Joanna Cortez presented. The restaurant is visitor-serving, located in the Downtown Specific Plan, and more than 500 feet from the nearest residential use. Police department reviewed and had no issues. Staff recommended a modification to Condition 2A: instead of prescribing specific hours, the condition would require compliance with the annually reviewed entertainment permit issued by the police department. The originally proposed hours were 5-10 PM Monday-Thursday, 5-11:30 PM Friday-Saturday, and 12 PM-9 PM Sunday. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioner Kennedy asked about the hour modification; staff clarified it allows police to adjust conditions annually. Commissioner Adam inquired about timing after approval. Commissioner Kennedy emphasized that the permit should allow up to five musicians, as the applicant indicated they intend only an acoustic singer but want flexibility. - Commissioner Deliberation: All commissioners expressed support. Commissioner Kennedy noted the permit should remain at five members maximum. Commissioner Rodriguez and others highlighted the benefit of live music for business. - Vote: Motion to approve CUP No. 23-015 with the staff-recommended modification. All present commissioners voted aye (Chair Pellman absent). Motion carried. The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 calendar days. General Plan Conformance No. 23-002 (302 3rd Street Vacation) - Request: To determine if the vacation of an approximately 46-square-foot portion of public right-of-way (sidewalk) at the northeast corner of 3rd Street and Olive Avenue is in conformance with the General Plan. - Staff Presentation: The vacation would allow the property owner to construct landscaping improvements in that area. Staff determined it would not impair public use, coastal access, circulation, or density. Public Works had no objections. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioner Kennedy asked about the leftover concrete; staff said it will remain as landscape planter. Commissioner Adam asked about tax implications; staff confirmed the vacated area reverts to the property owner. - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioners noted the straightforward nature of the item. Commissioner Kennedy commented it was a "no-brainer." Commissioner Wood praised the design. - Vote: Motion to approve General Plan Conformance No. 23-002. All present commissioners voted aye (Chair Pellman absent). Motion carried. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Permit No. 23-015 was approved, allowing live entertainment (up to 5 musicians) at The Brant restaurant, subject to conditions including annual police department review of the entertainment permit. - General Plan Conformance No. 23-002 was approved, recommending the vacation of 46 sq. ft. of right-of-way at 302 3rd Street to the City Council. - Next Meeting: Staff noted that the regular meeting scheduled for August 8, 2023, will likely be canceled, but a meeting will be held on the second meeting date in August (August 22, 2023). - Commissioner Comments: Commissioners congratulated Senior Planner Joanna Cortez on her interim role.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on July 18, 2023, at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting began with councilmember comments, a closed session, and reconvened at 6:00 PM for open session. Key actions included decisions on state legislation positions, a Banning Avenue improvement project, a cell tower appeal, a middle-income housing program update, and a proposed charter amendment regarding property tax foregone. Consent Calendar - Approve Minutes (Item 5): Approved minutes from June 20 and June 26, 2023. - Jet Noise Commission Letter (Item 6): Approved comment letter to the FAA. - Positions on State Legislation (Item 7): Council individually voted on each of 13 bills (A–L). Final votes: Most bills were opposed on 4-3 or 4-0-3 votes, with some abstentions. Opposed: AB 223, AB 957, SB 58, SB 253, SB 770, SB 7, SB 555, SB 584, SB 50, SB 838, ACA 4. Supported: AB 1287 (density bonus) passed 7-0. - Surfrider Foundation Pilot Program (Item 8): Pulled at staff request. - Norma Brandel Gibbs Park Plaque (Item 9): Approved. - Edison Community Park License Agreement (Item 10): Approved. - Appointment of CFO Sunny Han (Item 11): Approved. - Banning Avenue Street Improvements (Item 12): Approved staff recommendation with changes: defer roundabout, apply for OCTA grant, install conduit only for north-side lighting, increase lumens on south-side lights. Motion passed 7-0. - HF&H Consultants Amendment (Item 13): Approved. - Habitat Conservation Fund Grant Application for Shipley Nature Center (Item 14): Approved 7-0 to submit application; city match 50%. Bids may be lower than $766,000 estimate. - Well 9 Roof Replacement (Item 15): Approved. - Civic Center UST Replacement (Item 16): Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Pacific Airshow Controversy: Diane Bentley criticized the city attorney's settlement and alleged restrictions on beach access. Others (Marcia Naba, Lisa Ferraro, Doris Hill, Jeannie Gooden) spoke in support of the air show and current council majority. - Library and Content: Several speakers praised Mayor Pro Tem Vandermark for investigating sexualized materials in children's section; others defended library freedom. - Homelessness and Housing: Speakers like Pat Goodman urged support for middle-income housing and opposed charter amendment restrictions. - Banning Avenue Safety: Resident Brian Visnowski detailed dangerous conditions, including near-fatal accident, and urged traffic calming measures including roundabout. - Cell Tower Opposition: Multiple residents near 8101 Slater Ave spoke against AT&T's proposed 60-foot tower, citing proximity (55 ft from homes), visual impact, property value concerns, and health worries. Appellant's attorney Ariel Strauss argued the city code was not fully complied with. Discussion Items - Appeal of Conditional Use Permit for Cell Tower (Item 17): After public hearing and extended debate, Councilmember McKeon moved to uphold the appeal and deny the project, citing insufficient due diligence for alternate sites. The motion passed 4-3 (Kalmick, Moser, Bolton, Burns? Wait, roll call: Kalmick aye, Moser aye? Actually transcript: "council member calmek aye mocher aye bandermark yes strickland aye mckeean yes bolton no burns aye" so ayes: Kalmick, Moser, Vandermark, Strickland, McKeon, Burns? That's 6? Let's re-read: "council member calmek nocher no bandermark yes strickland aye mckeean yes bolton no burns aye" That is 5 ayes? Actually it's ambiguous. The vote was 4-3 as stated by mayor. Likely ayes: Kalmick, Moser, Vandermark, Strickland, McKeon? No, McKeon made the motion. The final result: "the motion passes four three". So four ayes. We'll report it as motion to deny passed 4-3. - Side Letter with MEO (Item 18): Approved 7-0. - Future Development of 17642 Beach Blvd (Item 19): Council selected the "Pathways Project" concept (navigation center + permanent supportive housing) over the "Healing Center" concept. A substitute motion for Healing Center failed 2-5. Final vote on Pathways Project passed 7-0. - Middle-Income Housing Program Update (Item 20): Staff and partners (CMFA, Catalyst) presented performance metrics: 57% of units income-qualified, rents 23-24% below market. Councilmember McKeon criticized lack of local preference data and retail vacancies. Council accepted the report and requested quarterly updates with local preference data. - Employee Recruitment and Retention (Item 21): Councilmember Bolton's request for staff analysis failed 3-4 (Kalmick, Moser, Bolton for; Vandermark, Strickland, McKeon, Burns against). - Proposed Charter Amendment and Real Property Policy (Item 22): Council voted separately on two parts. - Part 1: Direct the Charter Review Ad Hoc Committee to propose charter amendment restricting city councils from forgoing property tax on real property investments without voter approval (exceptions for infrastructure). Passed 4-3 (Vandermark, Strickland, McKeon, Burns for; Kalmick, Moser, Bolton against). - Part 2: Direct City Manager to create a centralized real property leasing, purchasing, and disposition policy. Passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Cell Tower Denied: Appeal of planning commission's approval upheld; project denied 4-3. City Attorney noted potential federal challenge but council majority cited insufficient alternative site search. - Banning Avenue Improvements Approved: Roundabout deferred; enhanced lighting scaled back to conduit-only on north side; OCTA grant pursued. - Pathways Project Selected for Homeless Site: Council chose navigation center + permanent supportive housing over healing center. - Charter Amendment Process Initiated: Voters may decide future on city real estate deals that forgo property taxes. - Middle-Income Housing Report Accepted: Quarterly updates with local preference data promised. The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:15 AM. Next regular meeting August 1, 2023.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on July 11, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, Civic Center, 2000 Main Street. The meeting included a consent calendar (approval of minutes), public comments, and two non-public hearing items regarding reasonable accommodation requests for sober living homes. The Commission voted to deny both administrative permits, citing city code requirements and staff recommendations. Commissioner Kayla Acosta-Galvan was absent. Consent Calendar - 23-556 – Approval of Planning Commission Minutes dated June 13, 2023: Approved unanimously (6-0, Commissioner Wood abstained, Commissioner Acosta-Galvan absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Ryan Messick: Spoke about alleged misconduct by the Talbert and Ward family, claiming they operate like a “mafia,” that his family is being held hostage, and that his civil rights have been violated. He urged the Commission to hold parties accountable. His comments were not related to specific agenda items. (Time expired after 3 minutes.) Discussion Items Administrative Permit No. 22-016 (Legacy Living LLC Sober Living Reasonable Accommodation) – 501 16th Street - Staff Presentation: Senior Planner Hayden Beckman explained that the applicant requested a reasonable accommodation to operate a sober living home within 288 linear feet of an existing residential care facility, violating the required 1,000-foot buffer. The city has issued six special use permits that comply with the buffer, and multiple sober living beds are available. Staff recommended denial because the request did not meet two of four required findings (Finding 2: necessity to make housing available; Finding 4: no fundamental alteration to city zoning). - Commissioner Adam asked to clarify the two findings; staff read them into the record. - Late Communication: The Commission received a 116-page letter from the applicant’s representative. - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Twining moved to deny the application; Commissioner Kennedy seconded. The Commission voted 6-0 to deny (Acosta-Galvan absent). Administrative Permit No. 22-015 (Legacy Living LLC Sober Living Reasonable Accommodation) – 9452 Castlegate Drive - Staff Presentation: Similar request for a property 60 linear feet from an elderly group home, violating the 1,000-foot buffer. Staff again recommended denial because the request did not meet Findings 2 and 4. - Commissioner Wood asked legal counsel whether changing the code requires a separate application to the Planning Commission or City Council; counsel confirmed it would require a code amendment. - Commissioner Wood commented before the vote, stating that the city code (Sections 230.28 and 17.77) is clear and that the denial does not prevent the applicant from operating elsewhere in the city. - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Wood moved to deny the permit; Vice-Chair Twining seconded. The Commission voted 6-0 to deny. Key Outcomes - Administrative Permit No. 22-016 (501 16th Street): Denied 6-0. The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 calendar days. - Administrative Permit No. 22-015 (9452 Castlegate Drive): Denied 6-0. The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 calendar days. - Next Meeting: The Commission adjourned to its next regular meeting on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 6:00 PM. Staff noted two items are anticipated for that meeting.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission held its regular meeting at 6:00 PM on July 11, 2023, in Council Chambers at the Civic Center. The agenda included approval of previous meeting minutes and two non-public hearing items regarding reasonable accommodation requests for sober living homes. No public hearing items were scheduled. The following summary is based solely on the agenda; no transcript or minutes were provided to confirm actual discussion or voting outcomes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Planning Commission Minutes dated June 13, 2023 – The agenda recommended approving the minutes as submitted. Non-Public Hearing Items - Administrative Permit No. 22-016 (Legacy Living LLC Sober Living Reasonable Accommodation) – Located at 501 16th Street. The request was to allow a reasonable accommodation for a sober living home within 1,000 feet of another group home or licensed facility. The staff recommended denial with suggested findings. - Administrative Permit No. 22-015 (Legacy Living LLC Sober Living Reasonable Accommodation) – Located at 9452 Castlegate Drive. Similar request for reasonable accommodation. Staff also recommended denial. Key Outcomes No transcript or minutes are available to confirm the Commission's actual decisions on these items. Based on the agenda, the Commission was scheduled to vote on the consent calendar and the two permit applications. The recommended action for both permits was denial.

On Monday, June 26, 2023, the Huntington Beach City Council/Public Financing Authority convened an adjourned regular meeting at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers, recessed to closed session, and reconvened at 6:00 PM. The council adopted the FY 2023/24 budget, approved a new Police Management Association (PMA) MOU, and made several other decisions. Closed session involved existing litigation (Clayton-Tarvin v. City of Huntington Beach); no report was given. Consent Calendar - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-33 appointing Mark D. Alvarado as Interim Chief Financial Officer and approving his employment agreement. The consent calendar passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - More than 50 public speakers addressed the council, most focusing on the FY 2023/24 budget. Many speakers expressed relief that library closures and reduced library hours had been removed from the revised budget plan, and urged the council to permanently protect libraries. - Several speakers supported the Circuit ride-sharing service, citing its ridership (over 165,000 trips), reduction of vehicle miles (274,000), gasoline savings (17,000 gallons), and user rating (4.96/5). They asked the council to continue funding it. - Multiple speakers opposed the proposed expansion of the city attorney’s office (four new positions) and criticized the office’s budget increase while other departments faced cuts. A few speakers challenged the city attorney’s argument that in-house legal work has no marginal cost. - Several speakers raised concerns about the air show settlement, including the $7 million payout (though one council member later stated the actual figure was $4.9 million with $1.9 million paid this year) and the separate $550,000 CEQA environmental review cost, questioning transparency and the use of public funds. - Some speakers criticized the last-minute distribution of a revised budget on the night of the meeting, calling it unprofessional and a disservice to transparency, while a few appreciated the council’s response to community input. - A smaller number of speakers voiced support for the council majority and the budget process, commending staff for their work in difficult circumstances. Discussion Items - FY 2023/24 Budget (Public Hearing Item 23-5663): Staff presented a structurally balanced General Fund budget of $283.1 million with a planned surplus of $1.7 million. The budget included the use of $4.9 million in AES reserves, $3.9 million in equipment replacement reserves, a return to a 12-year paving cycle, adoption of the Gann Appropriation Limit ($1,171,687,773), a retirement property tax levy, classification plan amendments (Graphic Designer, Multimedia Coordinator, Homeless Services Manager, Municipal Records Manager), a revised reserve policy, the fire inspection report, contract approvals (Mind OC, NDC, Hinderliter), and a budget balancing plan to address projected FY 2024/25 deficits. The revised plan presented at the meeting eliminated most proposed service cuts (including libraries and downtown maintenance) and achieved $7,039,530 in ongoing savings, reducing the projected FY 2024/25 deficit from $7.4 million to approximately $400,000. The original motion to adopt the budget as revised passed 7-0. A substitute motion by Councilmember Kalmick (to adopt the earlier June 6 budget with only revenue-raising items and to remove city attorney positions) failed on a 3-4 vote. - Police Management Association MOU (Item 23-5684): The council approved Resolution No. 2023-32 implementing a three-year PMA MOU (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026) with 5% wage increases each year, adjustments to pay programs, and increased health benefit contributions. The fiscal impact over three years is $1.2 million. The resolution passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-33 (Interim CFO appointment) – approved 7-0. - Adopted the FY 2023/24 budget, including the revised budget balancing plan and related resolutions – approved 7-0. - Defeated substitute motion to adopt the earlier budget version without certain reductions and without city attorney position increases – failed 3-4 (Kalmick, Moser, Bolton in favor; Strickland, Van Der Mark, McKeon, Burns opposed). - Approved Resolution No. 2023-32 (PMA MOU) – approved 7-0. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 18, 2023; the July 5, 2023 meeting was cancelled due to lack of quorum.

This special meeting, convened on June 20, 2023, at 4:00 PM (reconvening at 6:00 PM), featured a lengthy public comment period (over six hours) with more than 600 written communications received and approximately 135 speakers registered. The council addressed a range of agenda items, including a controversial proposal to review library materials for obscenity, a resolution denouncing hate, adoption of police union contracts, and a budget continuation. Notable votes included a 4–3 approval for a library policy study and a 5–0–2 resolution condemning specific forms of hate. Consent Calendar - Items 6–13 approved unanimously (7–0). These included: approval of minutes (June 6 and June 13, 2023); reappointments to the Environmental & Sustainability Board and Historic Resources Board; professional services contracts for video production (Dorado Creative, Tripepi Smith, Marketworks); a construction contract for the Saybrook Lane Rehabilitation Project ($1,559,316); a cooperative agreement with Orange County Flood Control District for flood wall improvements; a construction contract for a traffic signal at Heil Avenue ($308,008); and three resolutions concerning Measure M2 compliance and a 7-Year Capital Improvement Plan. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 135 speakers addressed the council during a public comment period that lasted approximately six hours. The overwhelming majority spoke against Agenda Item 18, arguing it would lead to book banning and censorship, while a smaller number spoke in favor, citing protection of minors from sexually explicit content. Speakers included residents, librarians, educators, clergy, and representatives of community organizations. Many referenced specific books such as "Gender Queer" and "It’s Perfectly Normal," and discussed the proper role of librarians versus the city attorney. - Many speakers also urged adoption of Agenda Item 19, denouncing antisemitism, white supremacy, and anti-LGBTQ+ hate, citing recent hate incidents in the city. Discussion Items - Item 5 – City Attorney’s Update on the Community Prosecutor Program: City Attorney Michael Gates presented a report on the program’s activities, including 990 criminal cases filed in the past year, 153 convictions, and 33 diversion resolutions. The program focuses on quality-of-life crimes and supports homeless outreach. - Item 14 – FY 2023/24 Budget: Continued to a special meeting on June 26, 2023, at 5:00 PM. The public hearing remained open for that date. - Item 15 – Future Development of 17642 Beach Blvd.: Withdrawn and continued to a future meeting. - Item 16 – Proposed MOU with Police Management Association (PMA): Introduced and approved unanimously (7–0) for a three-year contract (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026) with 5% annual wage increases and other benefit adjustments. Fiscal impact: $1.2 million total over the term. - Item 17 – MOU with Police Officers’ Association (POA): Adopted unanimously (7–0) via Resolution 2023-31. The three-year agreement includes 5% annual raises and various pay program modifications. Total fiscal impact: $12 million over the term. - Item 18 – Library Book Screening (Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark): After extensive public comment, the council debated a proposal to direct the city manager and city attorney to return with an ordinance making obscene or pornographic materials unavailable to minors, and to explore ending ties with the American Library Association (ALA). Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark read explicit excerpts from several books. A motion was made to approve, later modified to request a study session returning in September with options for safeguarding minors from age-inappropriate or obscene content. The substitute motion passed 4–3 (Van Der Mark, Strickland, McKeon, Burns in favor; Kalmick, Moser, Bolton against). - Item 19 – Denouncing Hate (Councilmembers Kalmick, Bolton, Moser): Original motion sought a minute action denouncing antisemitism, white supremacy, and anti-LGBTQ+ hate. A substitute motion by Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark expanded the list to include hatred against numerous other groups (e.g., Catholics, African Americans, Latinos, etc.). The substitute motion passed 5–0–2 (Kalmick absent, Bolton abstained). Key Outcomes - Item 18 – Approved 4–3 with modification: City Manager and City Attorney to return in September 2023 with a study session on options to address sexually explicit/obscene materials accessible to minors. - Item 19 – Approved 5–0–2: Resolution denouncing hate directed at a broad list of groups, including antisemitism, white supremacy, and anti-LGBTQ+ hate. - Items 16 and 17 – Police union MOUs (PMA and POA) both passed 7–0, implementing 5% annual raises and benefit changes. - Budget (Item 14) – Continued to June 26, 2023 special meeting. - City Attorney’s Report – Received and filed.

The Planning Commission held a regular meeting on June 13, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a public hearing on an appeal of the Zoning Administrator’s approval of Conditional Use Permit No. 23-006 for a 60-foot wireless communication facility disguised as a broadleaf tree at 8101 Slater Avenue (Huntington Beach Community Church). After extensive testimony and deliberation, the commission voted 3–3 on the motion to approve, which under city rules sustained the Zoning Administrator’s decision, effectively approving the project. The consent calendar to approve the April 25, 2023 minutes was also approved. Consent Calendar - Approval of April 25, 2023, Planning Commission Minutes: The commission voted 5–0–1 (Commissioner Acosta‑Galvan abstained due to absence; Commissioner Wood was absent) to approve the minutes as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - No non‑agenda public comments were received. Discussion Items: Appeal of CUP No. 23‑006 (Wireless Communication Facility) Staff Presentation - Senior Planner Hayden Beckman presented the project: a new 60‑foot freestanding monopole with four‑sector antenna array and an equipment enclosure, designed as a faux broadleaf tree. The Zoning Administrator approved the CUP on April 19, 2023; an adjacent property owner (Christina Price) appealed, triggering a de novo hearing before the Planning Commission. - Staff found the project consistent with the General Plan and zoning code, and recommended denying the appeal and approving the CUP. Appellant’s Arguments (Ariel Strauss, Greenfire Law) - The application is deficient (e.g., only 3 photo simulations provided instead of 5, no close‑ups of equipment). - The city’s ordinance requires a finding that the use “will not be detrimental to … value of property in the neighborhood”; the applicant provided no evidence on this point. - Alternative sites were not adequately pursued; co‑location opportunities may exist. - The project should not be exempted from CEQA because of potential impacts to Cooper’s hawks (a migratory bird), diesel generator noise, and air emissions; a full CEQA review is needed. - NEPA review is incomplete; the applicant should complete an Environmental Assessment before approval. Applicant’s Response (John Silverman, SmartLink/AT&T) - The facility is needed to fill a significant gap in AT&T’s coverage, especially for in‑building service. - Eleven alternative sites were considered; the church site was the only feasible one that met zoning, had a willing landlord, and addressed the coverage gap. - The application was deemed complete by city staff. - Photo simulations are to scale; additional views can be provided. - NEPA compliance will be completed before construction; the generator only runs for 30 minutes every 4–6 weeks. - The project complies with all applicable development standards and includes stealth design to minimize visual impact. Public Comments - Kenna Delsante (former resident of 8092 Windy Sand Circle): Opposed; stated AT&T coverage works fine in the neighborhood, the tower would be intrusive, and Cooper’s hawks nest in the area. - Rick Cook (resident): Opposed on grounds of property values, visual blight, and proximity to homes (65 feet from a bedroom). Stated health effects cannot be considered but they are a concern; asked the commission to side with families. - Scott Boxley (property owner at 8081 Windy Sand Circle): Reported losing a tenant because of the proposed tower; cited economic harm, and questioned the lack of attention to environmental effects (bees, birds). - Jonathan McGaugh (resident from neighborhood north of site): Recommended completing environmental studies before approval, and urged the commission to evaluate the number of homes impacted at each alternative site. Commissioner Deliberation - Commissioner Twining: Opposed; stated the neighborhood overwhelmingly opposes the project (30+ emails against, zero in support), property values will likely decline 2–30%, and the aesthetics are unsuited for the area. - Commissioner Rodriguez: Supported approval, noting the project meets zoning and General Plan; warned that denying this site could set a precedent for other neighborhoods and that residents without financial means to appeal would be disadvantaged. - Commissioner Adam: Supported approval; acknowledged unhappiness with the process but found no legal basis to deny. - Commissioner Kennedy: Voiced strong concerns about incomplete NEPA, insufficient due diligence on alternative sites (especially a vacant lot on Beach Boulevard), and the potential for future tower expansion under federal law; moved for a continuance to obtain NEPA results and confirmation of contact with property owners, but that motion was not voted on after discussion about shot‑clock constraints. - Chair Pellman: Raised concerns about the Cooper’s hawk and asked why a CEQA exemption was applied; staff explained the exemption is based on project size and that federal rules protect migratory birds. Key Outcomes - Substitute Motion to Deny (by Commissioner Kennedy, seconded by Commissioner Twining): Failed 3–3 (Ayes: Kennedy, Twining, Pellman? — transcript shows three ayes and three nays; Commissioners Acosta‑Galvan, Adam, Rodriguez voted no). - Motion to Approve (by Commissioner Rodriguez, seconded by Commissioner Adam): Tied 3–3 (Ayes: Rodriguez, Adam, Acosta‑Galvan? — transcript shows three ayes and three nays with Chair Pellman, Vice Chair Twining, and Commissioner Kennedy voting nay). Because the vote was tied, the decision of the lower body (Zoning Administrator) was sustained, effectively approving Conditional Use Permit No. 23‑006. - Appeal Rights: Any interested party may appeal the Planning Commission’s decision to the City Council within 10 calendar days. - Consent Calendar: Approved as described above. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for June 27, 2023. Note: Commissioner Wood was absent for the vote on the consent calendar; six commissioners were present for the CUP vote.