Public Meetings - Huntington Beach, California

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on March 10, 2026, to consider an appeal of the Zoning Administrator's approval of Conditional Use Permit No. 23-014 for the Huntington Beach City School District's proposed maintenance and operations building at 8750 Dorset Drive. The meeting also included a consent calendar to approve minutes and closing comments from commissioners. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a vote of 6 ayes and 1 abstention (Commissioner Clifford, who was not in attendance at that meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made for items not on the agenda. Discussion Items - The primary item was the public hearing on the appeal of Conditional Use Permit 23-014. The project proposes a 7,510 square foot, 17.5-foot-tall metal maintenance building on the former Kettler Elementary School site, now used as the school district office. The site is zoned Public/Semi-Public (PS) and is surrounded by single-family residential parcels. The zoning administrator approved the permit in June 2024, and the appeal was filed by then-Commissioner Butch Twining. The Planning Commission continued the item in July 2024 to allow for a noise study and soil contamination documentation, both of which were submitted. - Staff reported that the building meets all zoning requirements (setback of 22.5 feet vs. required 10 feet, height of 17.5 feet vs. allowed 18 feet) and that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA under Section 15303 (new construction under 10,000 sq ft). - Public speakers in opposition (7 of 9 speakers): Residents Robert Granger, Evan Sorensen, Linda Minko, Becky Granger, and John Gurgen argued that the district illegally changed the use from an administrative office to an industrial maintenance yard without permits, that the building is industrial in nature and inappropriate for a residential neighborhood, and that the district's claims of exemption from local zoning through the Division of the State Architect (DSA) are false. They expressed concerns about noise, visual impacts, property values, and safety. John Gurgen, while noting the district has been a good neighbor, asked for a larger setback and insulation. - Public speakers in support (2 of 9 speakers): Mark Mansoff (Executive Director of Operations, Huntington Beach City School District) and James Torres (AYSO safety director) supported the project, stating that the maintenance work is currently done in outdoor connex boxes, which is less safe and more unsightly, and that the new building would improve operations and be less impactful. Mr. Mansoff noted that the district has considered alternative sites but none are available within the district. Jeremy Brust (attorney for the district) and Brian Whitmore (architect) also spoke, clarifying that the CEQA exemption was filed in 2023 and the time for challenge has passed, and that the building will be insulated. - Commissioner deliberation: Several commissioners acknowledged the neighbors' concerns but noted that the project meets all code requirements and is an improvement over the current situation. Commissioner Goldberg expressed strong opposition, stating the building should be in an industrial area and that the district had circumvented proper processes. Commissioner McGee and others noted that the building will be better than the current connex boxes and meets code. Commissioner Palmer asked about alternative sites, and the district responded that no viable alternatives exist. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission voted 6-1 to approve Conditional Use Permit 23-014, finding the project categorically exempt from CEQA and consistent with the zoning code. Commissioner Goldberg voted no. The decision is final unless an appeal is filed to the City Council within 10 calendar days. - The consent calendar was also approved as noted above. - The meeting was adjourned to the next scheduled meeting on March 24, 2026.

The Huntington Beach City Council and Public Financing Authority met on March 3, 2026, at 11:45 AM. The meeting included public comments, discussion and votes on a mid-year budget adjustment, a license agreement to relocate the International Surfing Museum to the Main Street Branch Library, approval of the Edison Park Reconfiguration Conceptual Plan (Option Two with community conditions), introduction of an ordinance on cross-connection control, and a resolution declaring February 22nd as USA Hockey Day in the city. All votes were 6-0-1 (Councilman Burns absent). Consent Calendar - Items 14 through 18 were approved unanimously. Item 19 (mid-year budget adjustments and second quarter forecast) was pulled for discussion and subsequently passed 6-0-1. Public Comments & Testimony - Edison Park Reconfiguration: Multiple speakers supported Option Two with conditions (e.g., irrigation upgrades, tree preservation, sound mitigation). Nancy Bucos requested preserving larger shade trees and a modern irrigation system. Robert Trazzo presented 674 signatures in favor of moving pickleball courts southeast. Richard Harden advocated for starting with Phase B (parking lot and basketball courts). Betty Flynn supported Option Two but opposed pickleball placement behind the fire station. Ding Joe Curry and Mark Curry (Edison Park Community Group) requested approval of Option Two with 14 specific conditions. - Surf Museum License Agreement: Speakers expressed mixed views. Some opposed, citing missing exhibits, low rent ($500/month), and concerns about library impact. Others supported, noting synergies and cultural benefits. Elaine Keely (Friends of the Library) urged acceptance with standard business terms. Amory Hanson supported the move. Chris Cluey opposed, arguing the museum should have its own space. - Other Topics: Speakers addressed housing element compliance, voter ID, library privatization, and city litigation costs. One speaker supported the small business digital grant program. Another thanked the city for Read Across America. Discussion Items - Mid-Year Budget and Forecast (Item 19): Acting CFO Robert presented a second quarter forecast showing a projected surplus of $9.5 million due to stronger revenues and managed hiring. The $1.47 million mid-year requests are one-time costs funded from existing balances. Council discussed the surplus, litigation wins (e.g., $38 million waterfront settlement), and the importance of transparent financial reporting. The motion passed 6-0-1. - Surf Museum License Agreement (Item 20): Staff presented a proposal for the International Surfing Museum to occupy 1,200 square feet at the Main Street Library for $500/month with utilities included. The museum would gain 20-foot-high display walls for surfboards. Council members supported the move as a temporary collaboration, citing Surf City identity, increased library traffic, and a 60-day termination clause. The motion passed 6-0-1. - Edison Park Reconfiguration Conceptual Plan (Item 21): After five years of community outreach, staff presented two options. Option Two moves pickleball courts west of the fire station, adds bocce courts, and preserves open space. Councilmember Williams moved to approve Option Two with 14 conditions from the Edison Park Community Group (e.g., modern irrigation, larger replacement trees, shade structures, pit widening, sound mitigation). Council discussed each condition; most were already part of the plan. The motion passed 6-0-1. - Cross-Connection Control Ordinance (Item 22): Staff introduced Ordinance No. 4347 to update municipal code for compliance with state drinking water regulations. The motion passed 6-0-1. - USA Hockey Day Resolution (Item 23): Mayor McKeon proposed declaring February 22nd annually as USA Hockey Day to honor the U.S. men's and women's gold medal wins at the 2026 Olympics. The resolution passed 6-0-1. Key Outcomes - Approved: Mid-year budget adjustments and second quarter forecast (6-0-1). - Approved: License agreement with Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum for Main Street Library space (6-0-1). - Approved: Edison Park Reconfiguration Conceptual Plan – Option Two, with 14 community conditions (6-0-1). Staff directed to proceed with phased design and construction. - Approved (First Reading): Ordinance 4347 – cross-connection control program (6-0-1). - Approved: Resolution declaring February 22nd as USA Hockey Day (6-0-1). - Directive: City manager to explore a financial dashboard for public transparency and a tree memorialization program at Edison Park.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Civic Center Council Chambers. The meeting included council member comments celebrating the city's 117th birthday, an adoptable pet presentation, business highlights, community event announcements, public comments, a treasurer's report, a city clerk's report on the 2026 Safe and Sane Fireworks Lottery, a discussion on a water testing contract extension, and introduction of an ordinance adjusting city treasurer duties. Votes were 6-0-1 on most items, with Councilman Gruell absent with permission. Council Member Comments - Mayor Casey McKeon, Mayor Pro Tem Twine, Councilman Kennedy, Councilman Williams, Councilman Burns, and Councilwoman Vandermark offered remarks celebrating Huntington Beach's 117th anniversary. Councilman Williams shared a personal story about the Fourth of July parade. Councilman Kennedy praised the Huntington Beach Board Riders for placing in the semifinals of a worldwide competition in Australia, with Bailey Turner scoring a 9.37. Councilman Burns thanked outgoing Finance Commissioner Billy Hamilton for his service. Adoptable Pet of the Month - Jonathan Volski from OC Animal Care introduced two dogs: Leona (4-year-old Australian cattle dog mix) and Ozzy (5-year-old husky). He noted that two previously featured dogs were adopted before the meeting. The adoption process includes Foster to Adopt and direct adoption options. Business Highlights - Mayor McKeon recognized winners of the Chamber of Commerce "Best of Huntington Beach 2025" awards: Assistance League of Huntington Beach (Community/Non-Profit of the Year), Love and Bloom Flower Shop (Small Business), Rip Beer Company (Best Sips), HP Credit Union (Medium Business), HP Quarter Market (Trailblazing Women and Minority Leaders), Capone's Italian Cucina (Best Bites), Simple Green (Large Business), and John Etheridge (Heart of HB). - Two "Minute with the Mayor" videos highlighted Precision Stitches (custom embroidery and engraving) and We Vitalize (wellness services including infrared saunas, IVs, and compression therapy). Community Events Announcements - Pam Smart (Huntington Harbor Art Association) announced a fiber art exhibition at the Huntington Beach Art Center from February 24 to May 9, 2026, in honor of the nation's 250th anniversary, including a "yarn bombing" installation at the Art Center and Triangle Park. The opening reception is February 24 at 5:00 PM. - Jason Schmidt (City Financial Literacy Program) promoted upcoming workshops: a romance scams class on February 18 at 6:00 PM at Central Library, free tax prep on February 21 from 1-6 PM, and a Chamber of Commerce breakfast on February 20 with the Orange County Treasurer on business taxes. He noted over 60 sign-ups for tax prep and urged turnout to help secure a permanent free tax prep location. Public Comments & Testimony - Nick Torres (candidate for Assembly District 72) identified himself as a "MAGA candidate," criticized Councilwoman Vandermark and Assemblymember Diane Dixon on immigration and voting records, and invited attendees to his March 9 town hall. He expressed support for ICE and opposition to "Zionist rhinos." - Cindy Tracy (President, LA and SoCal Chapter of Promise to Live) requested a $10,000 startup investment to establish a Huntington Beach suicide prevention chapter. She noted that over 300 lives are lost annually in Orange County to suicide and argued that prevention costs less than tragedy. - Amory Hansen expressed support for the 2026 legislative platform (Item 17), specifically endorsing local control, infrastructure and mobility improvements, public safety, and e-bike safety legislation. - Russ Neal delivered a patriotic speech urging self-government under God and condemning lawless behavior, including misuse of public comment time. - Brother Steven Gerard Sidlovsky promoted a California pre-born personhood advisory petition and requested that the council agendize a pre-born personhood resolution before Mother's Day. He listed 15 residents who signed the petition. - Tim Geddes accused the council of lacking transparency on board and commission cuts, the pride flag decision, library changes, and voter ID. He claimed the council suffers from "transparency derangement syndrome." The mayor responded that the flag and voter ID policies were approved by voters. - An unidentified speaker accused the council of voter suppression, citing a January 2025 Orange County grand jury report that elections are secure and District Attorney Todd Spitzer's statement that few voter fraud cases are referred. He questioned the cost of voter ID litigation. - An unidentified speaker criticized the council for pursuing voter ID lawsuits without evidence of fraud and for placing the annual audit report on the consent calendar without discussion. He requested a study session on the city's financial report. - Roger Noor raised concerns about Flock Safety surveillance cameras, asserting they collect license plate and pedestrian data without court orders and share data with Ring. He criticized the contract with Flock and urged the city to stop using the technology. Reports - Treasurer's Report (Jason) : Presented strong Q2 FY26 results: 3.63% portfolio return, $7.5 million in investment income for the first six months (up $1.7 million year-over-year), and a projected $15 million record for FY26. The portfolio is fully compliant with safety, liquidity, and yield priorities. New broker dealers were onboarded, a three-bid requirement was instituted, and a predictive AI system is auditing short-term rentals and hotel TOT payments. Council members commended the treasurer's performance. - City Clerk's Report: Outlined the 2026 Safe and Sane Fireworks Lottery process: 16 permits divided among civic organizations (excluding schools and sports), youth sports, high schools (4 public + 1 private), and a city partnership organization. The application window is March 1-31, with in-person submission required. The lottery drawing will occur at the April 21 council meeting. Consent Calendar - Items 16 through 18 were approved 6-0-1 (Councilman Gruell absent). Item 19 was pulled for discussion. Discussion Items - Item 19 – Water Testing Contract Extension: Councilman Kennedy pulled the item, noting the three-year contract with Sierra Water (the sole bidder) had expired. He and Councilman Williams expressed concern that staff did not begin an RFP process earlier, leaving the city with no competitive options. Councilman Kennedy made a substitute motion to approve a six-month extension at $60,000 (reduced from the requested $120,000) and to begin an RFP immediately, with the option for staff to return if more funds are needed. He also suggested staff proactively identify and solicit vendors for future RFPs. Councilman Twine supported the motion, noting many qualified water testing labs exist. The city manager confirmed staff already use a hybrid approach (in-house sampling). The substitute motion passed 6-0-1. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Votes: Items 16-18 passed 6-0-1. - Item 19 Vote: Substitute motion (approve six-month extension up to $60,000, start RFP, and improve future procurement processes) passed 6-0-1. - Ordinance Introduction: Ordinance 4346, amending the municipal code to centralize administration of business license taxes, oil well taxes, and municipal services fees under the city treasurer (reverting duties to pre-2006 structure), was introduced. Councilman Kennedy noted 58 typos in the draft and requested corrections. The motion to adopt the ordinance with those corrections passed 6-0-1. The ordinance title was read for the record. - Council Committee Appointments: Councilman Kennedy appointed John Boom Garden to Finance; Councilwoman Vandermark appointed Tracy Palman to Finance; Councilman Williams appointed Jignesh Padier to Public Works and David Clifford to the Planning Commission. - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on February 3, 2026, for a regular meeting that included closed session, presentations, public comments, and action on several items. Key actions included rejecting a bid for pool repairs due to excessive costs, approving a change order for a lift station project, and unanimously supporting legislation to allow cities to challenge state housing allocation numbers in court. A controversial proposal to require council members to submit visual presentations five days in advance was withdrawn after debate. Consent Calendar - Items 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, and 23 were approved unanimously (7-0) after items 14, 20, and 22 were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Kenny Noe: Requested a list of discretionary spending over $50,000 and asked for more information on audit findings regarding federal grant compliance. - Tim Geddes: Strongly opposed the city's voter ID ordinance, calling it a waste of taxpayer money and urging the council to abandon ideological litigation. - Bradley Smith (35-year resident, retired ER physician): Suggested adopting a night sky ordinance to reduce light pollution and questioned selective enforcement of noise ordinances. - Mr. Amory Hanson: Expressed full support for item 24 (sponsoring legislation to allow judicial review of RHNA allocation), urging a yes vote. - Andy Einhorn: Criticized the council's governance, citing costly lawsuits on voter ID, sanctuary city, library, and housing issues, and urged focus on infrastructure. - Michael Selna (53-year resident): Supported Senate Bill 868, which would allow plug-in solar units for renters, and requested the city send a letter of support. - Catherine Goddard (Friends of the Library member): Questioned the impasse between the council and the Friends over a license agreement, urging a collaborative approach rather than treating the library as a business. - Pat Goodman: Shared experience volunteering for the point-in-time homeless count, noted all individuals surveyed had local ties, and encouraged moving forward with the Pathways Project. Also requested a study session on the year-end audit. - Eric Schein (via phone): Described a concerning interaction with police after an assault, alleging threats of arrest, denial of video evidence, and improper body camera practices. Called for police accountability. - Roger: Raised concerns about Flock license plate readers, claiming mass surveillance without subpoena and urging the city to stop the program. Discussion Items - Item 14 – City Council Manual Amendment (Visual Presentations): City Attorney Mike Vigliotta proposed requiring council members to submit any visual presentation to the city manager by the Thursday before the meeting to protect the city from liability and allow public review. Councilmembers debated the measure, with some arguing it exceeded Brown Act requirements and could stifle transparency, especially for last-minute developments. Mayor McKeon noted it was a response to recent instances of slides not germane to agenda items. Councilmember Williams offered a substitute motion to delete the Thursday deadline but retain other manual updates. Pro Tem Twining suggested tabling the entire visual presentation issue. Ultimately, the council voted 7-0 to leave the manual unchanged, dropping the visual presentation requirement. - Item 20 – Rejection of Bids for Pool Tile Repairs: Councilmember Gruhl pulled the item to highlight that state prevailing wage laws and procurement rules inflate costs 20% or more, limiting bidders and wasting taxpayer money. He called for legislative reform. The council unanimously rejected the bids. - Item 22 – Change Order for Lift Station Project: Councilmember Kennedy pulled the item to praise Public Works for firing a contractor that failed to foresee issues and is now pursuing litigation. He emphasized the importance of holding vendors accountable. The council approved the change order 7-0. - Item 24 – Sponsorship of RHNA Reform Legislation: The city attorney presented a bill by Senator Strickland to allow cities to challenge regional housing needs allocation numbers in court. Council members strongly supported it as a step toward local control, noting Huntington Beach is 95% built out and received a disproportionately high allocation. The council voted unanimously to sponsor the legislation. - Item 25 – Councilmember Presentation on 21 Main Street Lease: Councilmember Williams delivered a detailed presentation on the lease with Surf City Partners for 21 and 22 Main Street (the former Let's Go Fishing building and adjacent restrooms). He highlighted that the lease was approved silently on the consent calendar on October 1, 2024, with annual base rent of $66,000 (down from $180,000 in the RFP), 15 months of rent abatement, $300,000 in rent credits for restroom improvements, and a 50-year term with extensions. He noted that a Coastal Commission permit had a two-year commencement deadline that appeared to have been met by operating a hot dog cart. He also flagged that a required parking lease had been deferred. Councilmember Kennedy added that the city must better manage its real estate assets and is implementing new tracking systems. No formal action was taken; the presentation was informational. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Items 15-19, 21, 23 approved 7-0. - Item 14: Motion to leave city council manual unchanged (no new visual presentation requirement) passed 7-0. - Item 20: Rejected bids for pool tile repairs 7-0. - Item 22: Approved change order for lift station improvements 7-0. - Item 24: Approved sponsorship of legislation to allow judicial review of RHNA allocation 7-0. - Item 25: No action; presentation received. - Closed Session: Council voted unanimously to file petitions to the U.S. Supreme Court in two cases related to voter ID (People v. State of California v. City of Huntington Beach and Bigsby v. Barnes). - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 17, 2026.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on January 27, 2026, at 1:30 PM to conduct routine business, approve a site-preparation project for the Magnolia Coast development, and, after extensive public testimony, approve a major remodel of the Huntington Club tennis facilities including construction of member-only bungalows. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the November 20, 2025, and December 9, 2025, Planning Commission meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments: None. - Magnolia Coast: No public speakers. - Huntington Club Remodel: 17 speakers registered. The majority (club members and nearby residents) opposed the introduction of overnight lodging (bungalows/lofts) and the removal of four tennis courts. Opponents submitted a petition containing over 680 signatures. Key concerns included: - Inconsistency with Open Space Recreation (OSR) zoning and the city's General Plan. - Inappropriate use of a Class 32 CEQA infill exemption for conversion of recreational space to lodging. - Loss of three lighted tennis courts, reducing evening and tournament capacity. - Potential precedent for other private clubs to add lodging. - Safety issues from a new road cutting through tennis/pickleball courts. - Disparity between club members being allowed short-term rentals while adjacent homeowners are restricted by municipal code 5.120. - Questions about whether the claimed $500,000 annual city revenue is realistic and whether the bungalows would be offered to non-members through reciprocal club networks (e.g., Palmer Advantage). - Several speakers supported the project, citing the need to upgrade aging facilities (40-year-old clubhouse and pool) and noting that similar lodging exists at prestigious private clubs like Augusta National. The applicant and property owner stated the bungalows are essential to fund the improvements and would be restricted to Huntington Club members and their guests. Discussion Items - Code of Ethics Review: Annual presentation by staff; no action taken. - Election of Chair and Vice Chair (2026): Commissioner Brett Bush was nominated and elected Chair, and Commissioner Ken Babineau was elected Vice Chair, based on seniority per Planning Commission bylaws. Motion carried unanimously. - Advisory Board and Committee Assignments: Commissioners opted to retain their previous committee assignments for 2026. - Magnolia Coast (Tentative Tract Map 19331, Conditional Use Permit 25-005, Coastal Development Permit 25-003): Staff presented plans to subdivide the 29‑acre former Magnolia tank farm into seven letter lots (open space, private street) and five numbered lots (medium-density residential), and one lot for commercial/visitor use. The project includes importing approximately 133,000–425,000 cubic yards of soil to raise the site by about four feet to address future sea‑level rise, and constructing a retaining wall (10 ft plus a 7 ft block wall) along the north property line to act as a barrier against contamination from the adjacent Ascon site. No public speakers. Commissioners confirmed that the project implements previously approved entitlements (Specific Plan SP18, General Plan amendment, EIR 17001). Unanimously approved. - Huntington Club Remodel (Conditional Use Permit 22-011, Coastal Development Permit 22-009): Staff presented a proposal to demolish the existing 6,231 sq ft tennis clubhouse (built 40 years ago) and construct a new 12,446 sq ft two‑story clubhouse (height 30 ft 8 in), a junior Olympic-size pool and spa, and four detached bungalows (883–1,865 sq ft) plus two loft units in the clubhouse (3,036 and 1,173 sq ft) for short‑term accommodation limited to club members and their guests. Three existing tennis courts (all lighted) will be removed; the remaining 10 courts (six of which are restricted to daytime use due to lighting conditions) and eight pickleball courts will stay. Parking will increase from 33 to 66 spaces. The project was recommended for approval by the Design Review Board. The public hearing featured extensive testimony. The commission added two conditions before voting: 1. The applicant shall work with staff to pursue lighting of additional tennis courts through the entitlement plan amendment process, subject to neighborhood compatibility and new lighting technology. 2. Bungalow and loft use shall be explicitly limited to Huntington Club members and their guests only – no reciprocal club access. The motion to approve with these conditions carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Magnolia Coast – Approved (unanimous). The Commission action is final unless appealed to the City Council within 10 days. - Huntington Club Remodel – Approved (unanimous) with two added conditions (lighting study, member-only bungalow restriction). Final unless appealed. - Consent Calendar – Minutes approved. - Next Meeting – No items scheduled for February 10, 2026; a cancellation notice will be posted. - Adjournment – The meeting was adjourned at approximately [no specific time given].

The Huntington Beach City Council and Public Financing Authority met on January 20, 2026, at 12:30 PM. The meeting included a closed session, public comments, a strategic plan update, a study session on a potential park redevelopment, and votes on several agenda items, including a completion bond for pier improvements and the naming of Patriot Place at the Civic Center. Consent Calendar - Items 14 through 19 were approved unanimously (7-0). Notable: Item 17 (Colby IPA Day resolution) was amended to include additional language honoring Colby’s family and Ben-IPA. - Item 20 (rezoning at Golden West and Garfield) passed 6-1 with Mayor McKeon recused due to a conflict of interest. - Item 21 (completion bond for pier restaurant improvements) was debated at length. A motion to table for two weeks failed (4-3). The original motion to accept the completion bond passed (4-3). Public Comments & Testimony - Closed Session: Karen Carroll and Tim Geddes urged the council to reconsider the city’s litigation strategy against state housing mandates, citing costs and loss of local control. Dinora Echevera demanded action on her housing application, alleging discrimination and delays. - Agendized Items: Multiple speakers spoke in support of the Patriot Place naming (Item 22) and the MOU with the Art League. Several speakers criticized the council’s adherence to the city’s Code of Ethics, alleging violations. One speaker requested better zoning for permanent supportive housing. Another commended the council for reducing homelessness and crime. - Non-Agendized Items: Tim Geddes criticized the council’s record and called for new leadership. Ken Inouye questioned the cost of the housing element lawsuit. Chris Reney argued against moving the Surfing Museum to the Main Street Library. Noah Rhodes requested traffic safety improvements on Beach Boulevard. Ryan Owens raised concerns about California’s smog laws and enforcement. Discussion Items - City Manager’s Report – Strategic Plan Update: Assistant City Manager Marissa Sir presented the fourth biennial update. Key accomplishments: 62% of tasks completed; 23% increase in business certificates of occupancy; parking revenues up 122% ($1.2M); overall crime down 26%; record homeless reductions (80 people placed in permanent housing in 2025). Council members praised the focused approach. - Study Session – Landify MOU for Central Park: Staff proposed a study session with Landify to explore transforming the old gun range (8 acres) into usable park space at no financial risk to the city. Landify’s President explained the business model of importing clean fill funded by tipping fees. Council members asked about contaminants, timeline, and compatibility with Measures C and L. No vote was taken; the study session was informational. - CIP Updates – Sewer Lining and Lift Station: Public Works Construction Manager David Fate presented two completed projects: a sewer lining project (24,000 linear feet, $1.6M, finished 26 days early) and the Davenport Lift Station replacement ($4.2M, finished 5 weeks early). Both were on time and under budget. - Item 22 – Patriot Place at Civic Center: Councilmember Burns and Mayor McKeon proposed naming the area adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial “Patriot Place at the Civic Center.” Passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Item 21 (Completion Bond): After a failed motion to table (4-3), the council approved the completion bond for improvements at 21/22 Main Street (pier) 4-3. The bond guarantees completion of a new restaurant, bathroom renovations, and other improvements. - Strategic Plan Adoption: Council acknowledged the progress and directed staff to continue tracking key performance indicators. - Patriot Place Naming: Approved 7-0.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on December 16, 2025, for a regular meeting that included ceremonial items, public hearings, study sessions, and consent calendar approvals. The meeting began with an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance led by a veteran, and recognition of new businesses. The council addressed a resolution declaring September 18 as Colby IPA Day, approved a zoning amendment for a commercial development with a car wash, and discussed the potential co-location of the Huntington Beach International Surf Museum at the Main Street Library. Public comments covered a range of topics including the surf museum, traffic safety, and council actions. Consent Calendar - The council approved items 16 through 22 and 24 through 33, including updated versions of items 18, 31, and 32 as amended by supplemental communication. Motion carried 6-0. - Item 23 was pulled by Councilmember Burns for discussion. He highlighted the grant's provision for pre-screening cancer tests for firefighters, noting early detection saves lives. The item was then approved unanimously 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Closed Session Comments (before reconvening): - Russell Neal expressed full support for the city's legal fight for local control over police force and elections, urging a combined legal and political resistance. - Tim Geddes requested a report from the city attorney on all closed-session litigation involving the state of California, including costs and risks. - Community Event Announcements: - Tim Geddes announced the "Longest Night" memorial services on December 21, 2025, honoring unhoused residents who died on the streets of Orange County. - Public Hearing Item 12 (Holly Seacliff Specific Plan Amendment): - Planning Commissioner Brian Thienes spoke in support, noting the planning commission unanimously approved the project and that the design review board conditioned the project to return for final design approval. - Agendized Items (Item 14 - Surf Museum Co-location): - Diane Bentley opposed, citing incompatibility between library quiet study and museum activity, security and liability issues, and the need for a beachfront location. - Chris Byrne (Roz Price) spoke in support, calling it a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the cultural heart of downtown. - Charlie Jackson opposed, questioning the benefits of the downlink technology expenditure (item 15) and the lack of cost-benefit analysis. - David Reinerson opposed, asking why the city would take on liability for private collections, noting the ISM was behind on rent, and questioning the timing before the library master plan was finalized. - Chris Rini opposed, citing the museum's low space utilization (only 20% of current space used), infrastructure costs not accounted for, and that the museum is not unique (one of five in California). - Peter "PT" Townend (Executive Director of ISM) spoke in support, noting that 50% of the library is underutilized and that the move would create a world-class surf museum to attract visitors for the 2028 Olympics. - Pat Goodman asked for more information and urged working within the library master plan. - Perry Clithrow expressed support for honoring Colby IPA but urged action on traffic safety infrastructure; also noted the library property could house a new building for both. - Chris Bryne spoke in support, citing increased foot traffic and cultural hub potential. - Non-Agendized Items: - Christine Browning criticized the council for not listening to voters and for bullying Councilman Williams at a previous meeting; demanded public comments be placed earlier. - Ken Inoue defended Councilman Williams, noting he asked for cost information and consideration of public comments before votes, and urged unity. - Elaine Bauer Keeley (Friends of the Library) offered an $825,000 grant over three years for library collections, asking only to remain in the library to generate funds and let staff buy books. - Diane Carpenter corrected the Library of Congress example used by Councilman Kennedy, noting the library part is not public. - Chris Rini criticized the council for not accepting the Friends of the Library grant and for calling volunteers "old women who knit"; questioned the details of the PT collection and liability. - Tim Geddes thanked the Huntington Beach Fire Department for responding to his wife's fall earlier in the year; supported the mayor's restoration of public comment stability but asked for clarity on time limits. - Brother Stephen Gerard Sidlovsky advocated for a resolution declaring Huntington Beach a "safe pre-born personhood city." - Denora Echevera appealed for support for housing (coastland subsidy) and praised the council's work on public safety. Discussion Items - Colby IPA Day (Item 11): The council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-78, declaring each September 18 as Colby IPA Day in Huntington Beach, honoring the late surfer and his legacy of aloha. The vote was 7-0. - Holly Seacliff Specific Plan Amendment (Item 12): The council held a public hearing for a general plan amendment, zoning text amendment, and environmental assessment addendum to allow a commercial development (fuel station and car wash) at 19026 Golden West Street. Staff presented the project, which was approved by the planning commission. Councilmembers asked questions about water reclamation and design changes. The council voted 6-0 to approve (Mayor McKeon recused himself due to a conflict of interest). - Adoption of 2025 California Construction Codes (Item 13): The council adopted Ordinance 4343 without discussion, voting 7-0. - Study Session: Huntington Beach International Surf Museum Co-location (Item 14): Staff presented a feasibility study for co-locating the surf museum within underutilized space at the Main Street Library. The proposal includes dedicated and shared spaces, with no city funds for relocation (privately funded via Visit HB). Council discussion noted benefits (cultural hub, increased foot traffic) and concerns (noise, parking, compatibility with library function). No vote was taken; this was an informational item. - Study Session: Downlink Technology for Public Safety (Item 15): Lieutenant Archer presented the exploration of downlink technology for streaming real-time video from the police helicopter. The project would equip all three helicopters with Starlink and cellular capability at a total cost of about $310,000, with potential for cost recovery through contracts with other cities. Councilmembers noted the value for fire, marine safety, and police operations. No vote was taken; this was an informational item. Key Outcomes - Closed Session Report: The city attorney was unanimously authorized to file an appeal in the case City of Huntington Beach v. State of California (USDC case 8-25-CV-00026-SPDX). - Adoption of Colby IPA Day: Resolution 2025-78 passed 7-0, establishing September 18 as Colby IPA Day. - Approval of Zoning Amendment (Item 12): Resolution 2025-74, Ordinance 4345, and Resolution 2025-73 passed 6-0, allowing a commercial development with a car wash on Golden West Street. - Adoption of Construction Codes: Ordinance 4343 passed 7-0, adopting the 2025 California Construction Codes. - Consent Calendar Approval: Items 16-22 and 24-33 approved 6-0, with item 23 (fire grant) also approved 6-0 after being pulled for discussion. - No decisions on study session items (Surf Museum and Downlink Technology); these were informational and will be brought back for potential action later. - Councilmember Williams' Rebuttal: He addressed a prior claim that staff were afraid to meet with him, stating the city manager confirmed no such concerns existed. He also criticized moving public comments to the end of the agenda, calling it a disservice to free speech. - Mayor Announced Agenda Changes: New order includes pet adoption, business highlights, public hearings, public comments on agendized items, and then non-agendized comments at the end.

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on December 9, 2025, to consider an appeal of the Zoning Administrator's approval of Conditional Use Permit 24-016 and Coastal Development Permit 24-011 for a new three-story single-family residence at 1674 Carousel Lane. The appeal, filed by Jacqueline Lang on behalf of property owners David and Kimberly Tran, challenged Condition 1B which limited the building height to 30 feet. The applicants sought approval at 34 feet 1 inch. After public testimony and deliberation, the commission voted 5-1 to approve the project with the requested height of 34 feet 1 inch. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Jacqueline Lang (appellant, speaking for her parents David and Kimberly Tran): Expressed full support for the project at 34 feet 1 inch, arguing that the 30-foot height condition was arbitrary and unsupported. She noted that other nearby homes had been approved at heights over 30 feet, including one permit submitted after theirs that was approved at a similar height. She emphasized the family's long history in Huntington Beach (since 1980) and their desire to build a forever home with a third-floor TV room for grandchildren. - David Tran (property owner): Spoke emotionally about his family's immigrant story, their love for Huntington Beach, and their wish to build a home where they can host their children and grandchildren. He requested approval at 34 feet 1 inch. - Perry Clitheroe (speaker): Expressed support for the applicants, stating that other homes in the area had been granted the same height tolerance and that it would be unfair to deny the Tran family. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Associate Planner Marco Cuevas presented the project details. The proposed residence is 5,671 square feet (including garage) on a 5,289-square-foot lot, with a height of 34 feet 1 inch. The Zoning Administrator had approved the project with a condition limiting height to 30 feet, citing compatibility with adjacent residences. Staff noted that 57% of 21 nearby CUP/CDP projects exceeded 30 feet. The commission could uphold the ZA decision (30 feet), approve the alternative (34 feet 1 inch), or continue the item. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioner Palmer asked about potential structures above the height limit (e.g., chimneys). Staff clarified that the code allows exceptions for chimneys and elevators, but the chimney in the plans would be 9 inches above the roof peak, totaling 34 feet 10 inches. Commissioner Bush questioned the arbitrariness of the 30-foot limit given that the zoning code allows up to 35 feet and 57% of nearby projects exceed 30 feet. Commissioner Pellman expressed discomfort with seawall issues but noted a planned study session. Commissioner McGee called the 30-foot condition arbitrary. - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioner McGee criticized the arbitrary condition and praised the family's contribution to the community. Vice Chair Bush argued that the 30-foot limit was arbitrary and that the commission should not override the community-developed code that allows 35 feet. Commissioner Theonis supported the project, stating it exemplified the code's intent for third-story homes with pitched roofs. Commissioner Pellman voted no, but did not elaborate. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Theonis moved to approve the project with the alternative action (Conditional Use Permit 24-016 and Coastal Development Permit 24-011) at a height of 34 feet 1 inch (the applicant's request). Vice Chair Bush seconded. - Vote: 5-1 in favor (Commissioners Theonis, Bush, Babano, McGee, Palmer voted yes; Commissioner Pellman voted no; Commissioner Goldberg absent). - Next Steps: The planning commission's action is final unless an appeal is filed to the city council within 10 days. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 23, 2025, but may be canceled if no items are on the agenda.

The Huntington Beach City Council convened on December 2, 2025, at approximately 6:00 PM (the agenda indicated a 1:30 PM start, but the transcript reflects an evening meeting) for a regular meeting that included election of mayor and mayor pro tem, public comment, and recognition of outgoing Mayor Pat Burns. The meeting drew 60 public speakers, the majority of whom urged the council to follow policy and appoint Councilman Chad Williams as mayor pro tem based on his historic vote count. The council unanimously elected Councilman Casey McKeon as mayor, and after a contentious debate and procedural votes, elected Councilman Butch Twine as mayor pro tem by a 6‑1 vote. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed; the meeting moved directly to public comments and agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - Sixty members of the public signed up to speak; each was given 30 seconds due to the high number. - The overwhelming majority of speakers expressed strong support for Councilman Chad Williams to be appointed mayor pro tem, citing: his receiving 52,335 votes (the highest in city history), policy resolution 6320 that states the member with longest consecutive service or highest votes "shall" become mayor pro tem, his integrity as a Navy SEAL veteran and pastor, and the need to follow tradition and the will of the voters. - Several speakers also thanked outgoing Mayor Pat Burns for his service, congratulated incoming Mayor Casey McKeon, and urged the council to remain unified. - A few speakers raised other matters: Justine Makoff announced Free Rain Foundation’s accreditation at the equestrian center; Isaiah Contois requested an update on a burglary case; Elaine Keeley (Friends of the Library) asked for a response to a $250,000 grant proposal and offered an $825,000 donation to the library with conditions; and a speaker mentioned homeless memorial events. - One speaker criticized Mayor Burns’ handling of public comments; another speaker offered a land acknowledgement of the Tongva and Acjachemen peoples. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Excellence Award: Mayor Burns presented the award to Michelle Hoffman, senior legal analyst, for her eight years of service and leadership in the city attorney’s office. Council members and the city attorney praised her dedication. - Election of Mayor: Councilman Casey McKeon was nominated and unanimously elected (7‑0) as the 88th mayor of Huntington Beach. He was sworn in and gave brief remarks thanking his family and highlighting past achievements (record homeless reduction, crime down 27%, permits up 23%) and his focus on business support and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. - Election of Mayor Pro Tem: A motion to set aside Resolution 6320 (the policy governing selection of mayor pro tem, which calls for the longest‑serving or highest‑vote‑getter to serve) was passed 6‑1, with Councilman Williams voting no. The council then considered nominations for mayor pro tem. A substitute motion to nominate Chad Williams failed 2‑5 (Gruel and Williams voted yes). The original motion to nominate Butch Twine passed 6‑1 (Williams opposed). Councilman Twine was sworn in as mayor pro tem. During debate, Councilman Kennedy stated he could not support Williams due to concerns about behavior and collaboration; Mayor McKeon cited Butch Twine’s leadership experience and availability; Councilman Williams argued the process violated the Brown Act (city attorney ruled it did not) and accused colleagues of a pre‑arranged decision. Key Outcomes - Casey McKeon was elected mayor (vote 7‑0). - Butch Twine was elected mayor pro tem (vote 6‑1, with Chad Williams dissenting). - The council voted 6‑1 to temporarily set aside Resolution 6320 for the purpose of electing the mayor pro tem. - The next regular meeting was scheduled for December 16, 2025. - No action was taken on the Friends of the Library’s donation offer; the item was not on the agenda.