Public Meetings - Huntington Beach, California

This special meeting of the Huntington Beach City Council, held on May 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM, featured an oral history interview with former Mayor Bob Lambert conducted by Dr. Tom Cooper, followed by a pre-recorded episode of "Flashback" detailing the history of the Huntington Beach Pier and the 1985 reopening of the End Cafe. No formal business, votes, or public comments were conducted. Discussion Items - Interview with Former Mayor Bob Lambert: Councilmember Tom Cooper interviewed Bob Lambert, who served on the city council from 1958 to 1966, including as mayor from 1962 to 1964. Lambert recounted being recruited to run after a fire department meeting, defeating an incumbent by 31 votes. He discussed early initiatives: a downtown study with the Urban Land Institute, a traffic survey by the Auto Club, ordinances requiring developers to donate land for parks and fire stations, coordination with school districts to co-locate parks, and efforts to clean up oil field areas through an oil fuel committee. He noted the arrival of Douglas Aircraft (dedicated by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson in November 1963) as the city's first major industry. Lambert expressed pride in the council's foresight and stated he would not change anything if he could do it over. He declined to offer advice to the current council, saying he preferred to let them "roll their own boat." He mentioned council compensation started at $50 per month and was later increased to $125 per month by a ballot measure. Lambert now works as a service manager at Manning Motors and plans to retire in about a year. - Huntington Beach Pier Historical Segment: The meeting included an episode of "Flashback" narrated by Fire Department Deputy Chief Eric McCoy, covering the pier's history from its 1902 wooden construction (1,000 feet long) to its many rebuilds after storms. Key events: the 1912 storm that nearly destroyed the wooden pier; the 1914 concrete pier (1,350 feet, then the longest concrete pier in the U.S.); the 1939 hurricane that collapsed 250 feet of the pier; the WPA-built pavilion (finished 1939, later a restaurant); World War II military occupation; the 1983 storms that caused nearly $1 million in damage and destroyed the End Cafe; and the 1985 reopening of a two-story, 2,900-square-foot End Cafe (later Ruby's Diner). The segment noted that the city was the only pier owner on the coast with insurance, enabling repairs. Approximately 7,000 people attended the reopening ceremony, which featured two mariachi bands and the Goodyear Blimp. The pier's role in surfing championships (1958–1974), population growth from 1,500 to over 110,000 by 1970, and the widening of the beach from 50 feet to 350 feet were also highlighted. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions, votes, or referrals were made during this meeting. The session served as an informational and historical presentation for the council and public. The city's cable channel produced the program as part of a series on past mayors.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on May 12, 2026, to consider an appeal of a conditional use permit for a duplex at 7812 Liberty Drive, among other routine items. Commissioners present: Chair Bush, Commissioners Thenis, McGee, Palmer, and Goldberg. Absent: Commissioner Clifford and Vice Chair Babanel. The meeting included public comments, a staff presentation, deliberation, and a vote to deny the permit. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes of the previous meeting (motion carried with 4 yes, 1 abstention, 2 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda comment: Charles Jackson spoke in support of mixed-use housing development at the Reliable Lumber Yard, arguing it would generate higher tax revenue than a warehouse and provide affordable housing without requiring subsidized units. He urged the commission to consider housing instead of a warehouse use. - Public hearing on Liberty Duplex: A resident (Mike) who owns a multifamily dwelling on Liberty Drive expressed concerns about existing parking congestion. He described proactive measures to ensure tenants used garages and urged the commission to require adequate off-street parking for the proposed project. Discussion Items - Appeal of Conditional Use Permit 24-008 (Liberty Duplex): The item concerned a proposal to demolish a single-family residence and construct a three-story duplex (approximately 5,200 sq ft, 32 ft height) in the RM (Residential Medium Density) zone at 7812 Liberty Drive. The project also included two 1,200 sq ft ADUs permitted by right under state law. The Zoning Administrator had approved the CUP on March 4, 2026, but Councilmember Pat Burns appealed, citing concerns about the 32-foot height and density. Associate Planner Marco Cuevas presented the staff report, noting compliance with development standards. Commissioners asked technical questions about ADU size (state allows up to 1,200 sq ft despite local code), parking requirements, and height compatibility (no three-story buildings on Liberty Drive, but one at the end of the block approximately 500 feet west). After the public hearing, Commissioner Goldberg spoke strongly against the project, citing negative experiences with similar high-density infill in Long Beach and arguing the duplex was incompatible in scale and would worsen parking. He moved to uphold the appeal and deny the CUP based on inconsistency with Land Use Element 1D (compatibility proportion scale and character). The motion was seconded by Commissioner Palmer. Key Outcomes - Vote on Liberty Duplex Appeal: The commission voted 5-0 (Commissioners Clifford and Vice Chair Babanel absent) to uphold the appeal and deny the conditional use permit. The decision is final unless appealed to the City Council within 10 calendar days. - Future Meetings: Staff reported no items scheduled for the May 26, 2026 meeting; a cancellation notice will be sent if unchanged. - Commissioner Comments: Commissioner Thenis raised concerns about sewer infrastructure capacity, citing a deficient trunk main on Slater Avenue, and suggested that state housing mandates should not override infrastructure limitations. Commissioner Goldberg shared positive remarks about a pet adoption event. Chair Bush wished everyone a Happy Mother’s Day. Note: The ADUs were not subject to the CUP, and the commission’s deliberation focused solely on the duplex.

The City Council met on May 5, 2026, at 11:45 a.m. for a regular meeting that included a public hearing on the appeal of a conditional use permit for the Huntington Beach City School District’s maintenance and operations building, adoption of the 2026-2027 annual action plan for federal CDBG and HOME funds, approval of the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan, authorization of the annual weed abatement program, and a city manager’s report introducing the proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. The council also approved several commemorative plaques and a donation of America 250 hats. Consent Calendar - Items 20–23 were approved unanimously (7-0). - Item 24 (Pier Plaza flagpole rededication plaque honoring veterans and America 250) was pulled and approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Fluoridation (Item 25 pulled): Over 30 speakers, including representatives from the California Dental Association and local dentists, expressed gratitude for the removal of the item from the agenda. They cited the proven public health benefits of community water fluoridation, noting that discontinuation leads to a 25% increase in cavities, especially among underserved populations. Several speakers referenced the 1972 voter mandate (60% in favor) and warned that overturning it would undermine trust in elections. - Redondo Circle Project (7600 Redondo Circle): Approximately 15 residents from the Terry Park and Windward Cove neighborhoods opposed the proposed 85,000- and 97,000-square-foot industrial buildings with 22 docking bays and 95 trucks per day (including overnight operations). They requested a taller wall (14 feet instead of 9 feet), better landscaping, and a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Several speakers noted that the site is adjacent to a church, preschool, senior living, and residential homes. Some expressed support for development but argued the project as designed is incompatible with the neighborhood. - Election Integrity: One speaker criticized the council’s support for voter ID laws and the SAVE Act, calling them “disenfranchisement by design.” Another speaker defended the council’s opposition to state overreach, praising the city’s legal battles to preserve local control. - Miscellaneous: Dr. Olivia Chang requested improved pedestrian signage and speed reduction on Saybrook Street near Harbor View Elementary School. Others spoke in support of item 27 (Colby Aipa plaque), thanked the council for pulling the fluoride item, and raised concerns about the proposed nighttime truck activity at the Redondo Circle project. Discussion Items - Public Hearing: Appeal of CUP 23-014 (HBCSD Maintenance Building): The council heard extensive testimony from residents and experts. The applicant, the school district, proposed a 7,500-square-foot maintenance building at 8750 Dorset Drive (former Kettler Elementary site). Residents argued that the project’s CEQA categorical exemption was invalid due to the site’s proximity to the Canary Street landfill and the Ascon Superfund site, shallow water table, and methane migration. The city’s staff and the district’s CEQA consultant defended the exemption, noting that all required environmental testing (soils, methane, geotechnical) would occur during the building permit phase. After a substitute motion to continue the item for further CEQA analysis failed (2-5), the council approved the original motion (4-2-1) with a condition to remove the mechanic bay from the plans. - Public Hearing: 2026-2027 CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan: The council adopted a motion to reallocate $15,000 from the All for Kids program (Oakview) to Save the Brave (veterans mental health support) and $5,000 from Robin’s Nest to Pathways to Independence. The total allocation of approximately $1.1 million in CDBG and $517,000 in HOME funds was approved 6-0-1 (Councilmember Williams abstained). - Public Hearing: 2025 Urban Water Management Plan: Unanimously adopted (7-0). The plan projects a 10% decline in water demand through 2050 and no projected shortages. - Public Hearing: Weed Abatement Program: Unanimously authorized (7-0) to proceed with abatement on 121 properties. - City Manager’s Report: Proposed FY 2026-2027 Budget: The budget totals $590 million (all funds) with a $327 million general fund. A projected $15.6 million budget deficit (use of fund balance) is attributed to flat revenues and rising pension costs. The council will hold a study session on May 19, 2026, with adoption expected June 2. - Treasurer’s Report: The city’s investment portfolio earned $11.7 million in the first three quarters of FY 2025-2026, with a 3.71% return. The treasurer announced new digital platforms for business licenses and municipal services, and expanded financial literacy programs. Key Outcomes - Appeal of CUP 23-014 (HBCSD Maintenance Building): Approved 4-2-1 (Councilmember Gruel and Williams voted no; Councilmember Vandermark abstained). The council directed staff to include a condition that the mechanic bay be removed from the building plans. The project remains subject to all environmental testing and mitigation during the building permit process. - CDBG/HOME Action Plan: Adopted 6-0-1, with funds shifted to Save the Brave and Pathways to Independence. - Urban Water Management Plan: Adopted 7-0. - Weed Abatement Program: Authorized 7-0. - Treasurer’s Report: Received and filed 7-0. - Consent Calendar (Items 20-23): Approved 7-0. - Item 24 (Pier Plaza Flagpole Plaque): Approved 7-0. - Item 26 (Sunset Beach Plaque): Approved 7-0, directing staff to install a plaque on the rock under the elbow tree by May 29, 2026 (Erica’s birthday). - Item 27 (Colby Aipa Tower Zero Plaque): Approved 7-0, with private funds covering costs. The Aipa family will return within 90 days with a proposal. - Item 28 (America 250 Hats): Approved 7-0, accepting a donation of 250 hats from Mayor McKeon and Mayor Pro Tem Twining for sale or giveaway at city facilities and events, with proceeds to the city.

This meeting featured a donation ceremony for new rescue boats, a Toys for Tots event promotion, and a historical presentation on Huntington Beach from the 1940s to the 1960s. No formal votes or decisions were taken. Donation Ceremony for Rescue Boats - Marine Safety Division Chief Trevor McDonald thanked Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for donating two new rescue boats to the Huntington Beach Fire Department. The boats are intended for Swiftwater rescue, flood response, and dive operations, and can be operated with a motor, paddles, or by hand. McDonald emphasized that this investment increases public safety and protects both residents and first responders. - Joe Pena, district representative for Supervisor Janet Wynn, presented certificates of appreciation and congratulations on behalf of the supervisor. - An unnamed speaker noted that such events raise community awareness and help generate further donations. Toys for Tots Event and Bakery Promotion - A speaker introduced the Porsche Club Orange Coast Region’s Toys for Tots drive, now in its 14th year, held in partnership with the Huntington Beach Police Department and the 5th Battalion 14th Marines from Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station. The event featured a howitzer, Humvees, and artillery. - Monica, an organizer, provided background on the annual toy drive. - The transcript then shifted to an interview with a local bakery owner who described the bakery’s products: cookies made from puff pastry, filled pop tarts with various icings, cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing, and dog treats. The owner stated everything is made fresh daily on-site. Historical Presentation: 'Your City, Your Issues' - Dwayne and Dave Wentworth, great-grandsons of Huntington Beach’s first mayor, introduced a clip from the 1990s series Your City, Your Issues. Their mother, Alicia Wentworth, was the city’s first female city clerk and first city historian. - The episode featured host Blint Morrison, Alicia Wentworth, and then-City Clerk Connie Brockway. They discussed historical photographs of Huntington Beach, including: - The first traffic signal at Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street in 1942. - World War II civil defense preparations, including a disguised lookout and a bunker at Bolsa Chica. - The 1944 Huntington Beach lifeguard staff, including notable figures Bud Higgins and Elmer Coombs. - Early surfing contests and the appearance of Duke Kahanamoku and Johnny Weissmuller. - The evolution of oil drilling equipment and the old city hall complex. - The construction of Golden West College (now estimated at 35 years ago from the time of the episode). - The original Pier Plaza amphitheater and early community events. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions, votes, or directives were made during this meeting. The primary outcomes were the receipt of donated rescue boats, recognition of community partnerships, and the sharing of local history.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on April 28, 2026, at 1:45 PM to consider two major agenda items: an appeal of a zoning administrator's approval for a warehouse development at 7600 Redondo Circle, and a zoning map amendment and conditional use permit for an 18-unit condominium project at 4861 Pierce Drive. The meeting included public testimony, commissioner discussion, and votes on both items. Redondo Circle Industrial Project (Conditional Permit 24-011) - Proposal: Demolish an existing lumber yard and construct two industrial warehouse buildings (98,360 sq ft and 87,552 sq ft, 40 ft tall) on a 9.59-acre site. A Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) was prepared. The project was appealed by Council Member Burns (regarding wall height) and SAFER (regarding environmental review); SAFER later withdrew its appeal after additional mitigation measures were agreed upon. - Staff Recommendation: Approve the conditional use permit and MND with conditions, including raising perimeter walls to 9 feet (from existing 7 ft) along Taylor Drive and the east side. - Public Comments: 13 speakers total. Residents expressed concerns about noise, 24-hour operations, truck traffic, air quality, and health impacts. Some noted existing noise and that the neighborhood is quiet at night. Supporters (including labor union representatives) emphasized economic benefits, job creation, and modernization of an outdated site. - Discussion: Commissioners questioned the noise study, which assumed one truck per hour but allowed up to six trucks per building per hour (12 total) between 10 PM and 7 AM. The applicant offered a 50% reduction in nighttime truck traffic (from 6 to 3 per building per hour) to address concerns. A motion to continue the hearing for a new noise study and site plan redesign failed (2-4). A motion to approve with the 50% reduction also failed (3-3-1). A final motion to approve the project as presented (without additional truck restrictions) passed 4-2, with Commissioners Thenis and Palmer dissenting. - Key Outcomes: The appeal was denied. The project is approved with staff-recommended conditions, including a 9-foot wall, restrictions on truck routes, and a limit of six trucks per building per hour overnight (10 PM–7 AM). The decision is final unless appealed to the City Council within 10 days. Pierce and Green Condos (Zoning Map Amendment 19-001, Tentative Tract Map 16295, Conditional Use Permit 19-003) - Proposal: Rescind a precise plan of street alignment, create a one-lot subdivision, and develop 18 three-story condominiums (33 ft tall) on a 1.23-acre site. A conditional use permit is needed for two units with private backyard walls encroaching into the front yard setback (applicant requested 6 ft 6 in; Design Review Board recommended 5 ft; staff recommended 44 in). - Staff Recommendation: Approve the zoning map amendment, tentative tract map, and conditional use permit, but with a 44-inch wall height for the two units. - Public Comments: 7 speakers. Adjacent property owners objected, citing interference with a private easement, traffic increases, and lack of prior communication. One resident supported the project, noting it would improve the area and address blight. A nearby property owner expressed general support but raised concerns about parking and the wall height. - Discussion: Commissioners debated the wall height. Some preferred the staff recommendation (44 in) to avoid a precedent, while others supported the Design Review Board’s 5-ft (60 in) compromise for safety and privacy. The applicant indicated rotating the units was not feasible due to prior staff guidance on curb cuts and landscaping. - Key Outcomes: A motion to approve the project as requested, but with the Design Review Board’s recommended 5-ft (60 in) wall, passed 6-0. The zoning map amendment is a recommendation to the City Council; the tentative tract map and conditional use permit are final unless appealed within 10 days.

The Huntington Beach City Council/Public Financing Authority held a special meeting on April 28, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The sole purpose was to recess into Closed Session to discuss labor negotiations with the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association (HBPOA) and the Police Management Association (PMA). Prior to the recess, the City Attorney made announcements regarding ongoing mediation and litigation. No public comments were received, and no other agenda items were considered. The meeting adjourned after Closed Session, with the next regular meeting scheduled for May 5, 2026. Closed Session Items - 26-3891 – Conference with labor negotiators for the Huntington Beach Police Officers’ Association (HBPOA). Designated representatives: City Manager Travis Hopkins, Assistant City Manager Marissa Sur, City Attorney Mike Vigliotta (noted as absent for mediation), and Acting CFO Zack Zithisakthanakul. - 26-3902 – Conference with labor negotiators for the Police Management Association (PMA). Same designated representatives. Announcements by City Attorney - The City Attorney (identified as Paul Delessandro in the transcript, whereas the agenda lists Mike Vigliotta) reported that he was representing the city in an all-day labor mediation, explaining his absence from the meeting. - He also reported that at the previous City Council meeting, the council unanimously approved initiating litigation against Surf City Partners LLC for the recovery of unpaid rent. This was the report-out from the prior Closed Session. Key Outcomes - The City Council recessed to Closed Session to conduct labor negotiations. No action was taken in open session beyond the recess and subsequent adjournment. - The meeting adjourned after Closed Session, with the next regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the same location. Note: The agenda listed City Attorney Mike Vigliotta, but the transcript repeatedly refers to “City Attorney Delessandro” (Paul Delessandro) as the reporting official. This discrepancy is not resolved in the available materials.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on April 21, 2026, at 11:45 AM. The meeting included presentations, public comments, and votes on several key items, including the Huntington Club remodel appeal, the establishment of ad hoc committees, and a discussion regarding the Wolfhouse audit and contract. The council also approved a resolution declaring Theodore Roosevelt Day and received updates on e-bike safety and a $500,000 county grant for the navigation center. Awards & Presentations - Orthopedic Fast Track Program: Recognized for saving $1.2 million in 2025 by reducing on-duty injury costs for police. - Adoptable Pets: OC Animal Care presented dogs Zion and Gucci; an adoption event is scheduled for April 25. - Fireworks Lottery: Winners were drawn for high school booster clubs, youth sports, and civic organizations. - Business Spotlight: Stoney's Pizza and Huntington Academy of Dance were highlighted. - Sugar the Surfing Dog Memorial: A painting was unveiled to honor Sugar; the new puppy Sweet was introduced. Consent Calendar - Items 18–24 were approved as a block, with items 18 (minutes) and 19 (navigation center grant) pulled separately. Item 18 was approved with a correction; item 19 (acceptance of $500,000 from Orange County for the navigation center) was approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Luann Nichols Shoop: Supported the council's work on homelessness and crime reduction, citing a 40% drop in homelessness and 26% decrease in crime. - Kathy Ryder: Opposed agenda item 27 (ad hoc committee for RFP) and requested changes to political sign regulations. - Pat Goodman: Opposed items 26 and 27, arguing ad hoc committees undermine transparency. - Ginny Paris: Thanked the council for progress on homelessness and crime, supported exploring branding and revenue opportunities. - Ann Palmer: Discussed budget concerns, urged careful financial planning, and supported the branding initiative. - Andy Einhorn: Criticized the SAFE Act as voter suppression and opposed the Wolfhouse contract. - Ken Inoue: Requested more transparency on lawsuits and criticized the city's handling of the air show settlement. - Andrew Hart: Raised concerns about a boat rental business operating without permits, asked for enforcement. - Rory Bevins: Expressed interest in taking over the Parkbench Cafe. - Brother Stephen Gerard Sidlovsky: Advocated for a pre-born personhood resolution. - Shana Breslow: Urged the city to support an organic-first approach to herbicide use in county waterways. - Tim Gaddis: Criticized lack of transparency on closed session litigation and the Wolfhouse process. - Paula Schaeffer: Opposed item 27, saying the RFP process reeks of cronyism. - Patricia Pappas: Thanked the council for the Celebration Committee and its work on local history. - Russell Neal: Proposed splitting the branding procurement into two parts: a directed contract for July 4th and an RFP for long-term strategy. - Larry Sloan: Opposed item 27, citing lack of impartiality and the need for resident involvement. - Multiple speakers: Expressed concerns about the Wolfhouse contract, citing lack of transparency, cronyism, and the consultant's business license issue. Discussion Items - Item 15 – Huntington Club Remodel Appeal: Council approved the conditional use permit 5-0-2 (with recusals). Added conditions: illuminated crosswalk warning signs, differentiated materials, and commitments to resurface tennis/pickleball courts and hold workshops with members. A motion to require a deed restriction was withdrawn. - Item 25 – Theodore Roosevelt Day: Approved 6-0-1 (Councilman Groel recused). Designates May 7, 2026, as Theodore Roosevelt Day in Huntington Beach. - Item 26 – Lease Review Ad Hoc Committee: Approved 7-0 as amended to first develop a process for lease review, then bring recommendations to the full council. - Item 27 – Creative Strategy RFP Ad Hoc Committee: Approved 4-3. Members appointed: Councilmembers Kennedy, Twine, and Burns. The committee will review RFP proposals and provide recommendations. - Item 28 – Wolfhouse Audit and Contract Discussion: A motion to terminate the RFP failed 3-4. Council debated the legality and transparency of the process. City Attorney stated no 1090 violation occurred per outside counsel. The RFP process continues. Key Outcomes - Huntington Club Appeal: Approved with enhanced safety conditions and commitments to court improvements. - Theodore Roosevelt Day: Resolution to be prepared for May 5, 2026 council meeting. - Lease Review: Ad hoc committee to develop a transparent bidding process for high-value leases. - Creative Strategy RFP: Ad hoc committee of Kennedy, Twine, and Burns will evaluate proposals; RFP closes April 27. - Wolfhouse Discussion: No action taken; RFP process remains active. - E-Bike Safety: Police department reported a 175% increase in crashes since 2022, but praised the city's leading education and enforcement programs. A symposium is planned for May 13. - Navigation Center Grant: Accepted $500,000 from Orange County. Councilmember Reports - Councilmember Burns highlighted the council's financial management, noting the adopted budget deficit has been avoided. - Councilmember Kennedy reported that the city has allocated $140 million for capital improvement projects over the last three years, the highest in any three-year period. - Councilmember Vandermark promoted the pet adoption expo. - Councilmember Groel discussed Olympic preparation efforts and the city's partnership with the Orange County Sports Commission.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on April 14, 2026, to consider an appeal of the Zoning Administrator's approval of Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 25-027 for Distractions Lounge, located at 16612 Beach Boulevard, Unit C. The requested upgrade from a Type 42 (beer and wine) to a Type 48 (full alcohol) license sparked debate over public safety, proximity to Westmont Elementary School, and neighborhood impacts. After public testimony and deliberation, the commission voted 4-2 to deny the appeal, approve the CUP with 26 conditions, and add a requirement to upgrade restrooms. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the previous meeting as submitted (6-0, with Commissioner Goldberg absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Keith Farrow (Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, Ocean View School District) opposed the license upgrade, citing the 600-foot proximity to Westmont Elementary School and concerns that adding hard alcohol would be detrimental to children and residents. He noted the area already has 10 existing alcohol licenses and requested denial or a condition prohibiting alcohol on any future patio. - Peter Blyde (Representing Distractions Lounge) supported the upgrade, arguing the business has operated since the 1980s and the current owner has been there for 13 years. He highlighted the 26 police-recommended conditions and a one-year review as safeguards, and noted that the CUP would give the city more oversight than the current grandfathered operation. Discussion Items - Appeal of CUP 25-027 – Distractions Lounge: - Staff presented the request, noting the site is 600 feet from Westmont Elementary School (as measured to the closest property line), the police department reported a decline in calls for service since 2020 with no juvenile incidents, and 26 conditions were recommended including security personnel, surveillance, and a one-year review. - Commissioners questioned the police data: Commissioner McGee noted that calls for service in 2026 had increased (four incidents through April) compared to 2025 (four total), though the police investigator clarified that only three were directly tied to Distractions Lounge (two thefts and one disturbance). - Commissioner Palmer raised concerns from neighboring tenants about nuisance issues (bodily fluids, noise, difficulty leasing vacancies) and asked about adding a condition to upgrade restrooms due to past nefarious activity. - Commissioner Thenis expressed a personal dislike of bars but acknowledged the CUP would provide more regulatory authority. He supported denying the appeal but suggested a continuance to clarify police report interpretations and research density of alcohol licenses. The chair noted that no new information would likely change votes, so the commission proceeded to a vote. - Staff Report on Future Items: Staff announced the next meeting (April 28, 2026) would include an appeal of an industrial project on Redondo Avenue and a residential project at Pierce and Green. Key Outcomes - Motion to Deny the Appeal and Approve the CUP: Commissioner Palmer moved to deny the appeal, approve the CUP with conditions from the Zoning Administrator, and add a condition requiring restroom upgrades. Commissioner Clifford seconded. The motion passed 4-2 (Commissioners Babineau, Thenis, Palmer, Clifford voted aye; Chair Bush and Commissioner McGee voted no; Commissioner Goldberg absent). - Action Final: The approval is final unless an appeal is filed with the City Clerk within 10 calendar days. - Commissioner Comments: Commissioner Thenis requested follow-up with City Council on potential code amendments regarding proximity of alcohol licenses to schools and undue concentration. No further action was taken at this meeting.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on April 7, 2026, for a regular meeting. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, closed session report, councilmember comments, mayor's spotlight, business highlights, community events, public comments, and action on consent calendar and other agenda items. Notably, agenda item 22 (professional services contract with Wolfhouse) was pulled from the agenda by the mayor and will proceed through an RFP process after public concern and council discussion. The council also approved other items and authorized settlement discussions in a lawsuit. Consent Calendar - Items 16-21 were approved unanimously (5-0-2, with Twining and Vandermark absent) after Councilmember Gruell pulled item 19 for explanation. Item 19 involved a $700,000 contract for on-call CEQA and environmental consultants, which is reimbursed by developers and aimed at streamlining the development process. The item passed 5-0-2. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 40 speakers addressed the council on various topics. Many spoke about item 22, the Wolfhouse contract. Some criticized the contract as vague, lacking transparency, and potential cronyism, noting that Wolfhouse had no business license, no website, and a phone number that redirected to a sex line. Others supported the mayor's vision for a brand ecosystem and revenue generation. Several speakers defended the Surf City Store owners against misrepresentations in Wolfhouse's audit. - Speakers also commented on code enforcement fairness, the state audit of the Pacific Airshow settlement, the need for an RFP process, the city's reputation due to culture wars and lawsuits, and support for autism acceptance. A few speakers raised concerns about the invocation and religious remarks. - Specific speakers: Dom McGee questioned Wolfhouse's credentials; Sally Westcott and Tina Vere (Surf City Store owners) corrected misrepresentations about their business; Stephanie Dufour advised on conflicts of interest and missing business license; Ann Palmer supported the need for a brand agency; others like Ben Davis and Kayleigh McHugh criticized the council's policies. Discussion Items - Item 22 (Professional Services Contract with Wolfhouse): The mayor announced the item would be pulled from the agenda and go through an RFP process, stating that Wolfhouse is confident in their abilities and that the city deserves transparency. Councilmember Kennedy noted that an RFP does not guarantee success. The mayor outlined the scope of services needed. - Item 19 (On-Call CEQA Consultants): Councilmember Gruell explained the $700,000 contract is not an upfront allocation but a framework to hire specialized environmental consultants, with costs reimbursed by developers. The item passed. - Item 23 (State Audit Discussion): Councilmember Gruell moved to authorize legal counsel to enter into settlement discussions with the state auditor regarding the Grant Parks case, aiming to end legal fees. The motion passed 5-0-2. - Closed Session Report: The city attorney reported that the council voted 5-0 (Twining and Vandermark absent) to authorize entering into settlement discussions in Grant Parks v. City of Huntington Beach. Key Outcomes - Item 22 pulled and will be subject to a public RFP process; no further action taken. - Consent calendar items 16-21 approved (5-0-2). - Item 23 passed authorizing settlement discussions with the state auditor for the Grant Parks lawsuit. - Councilmember Comments included a religious discourse by Councilman Williams and an update on landscape maintenance. Note: The mayor clarified that Visit Huntington Beach is funded by hotels, not the city, and corrected a misconception about a $50,000 monthly fine for housing element non-compliance.