Public Meetings - Huntington Beach, California

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on November 20, 2025, to consider a major commercial development at the southeast corner of Golden West Street and Garfield Avenue. The project, which included a general plan amendment, zoning text amendment, tentative parcel map, conditional use permit, and environmental assessment, was approved unanimously after a public hearing. The commission also handled consent calendar items and received updates on future meetings. Consent Calendar - August 5, 2025, Minutes: Approved 6–0–1 (Commissioner Pellman voted no). - October 2025 Minutes: Approved 6–0–1 (Chair Thenis abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Vance Shannon (Quick Quack Car Wash): Expressed support, showed a promotional video emphasizing fast, clean, and community-oriented service. Stated the company would accept a condition for no-parking/towing signage after hours. Promised a new design more congruous with Huntington Beach. - Eric Fitzer (Ralph’s fuel center): Supported the project, thanked the commission, and confirmed coordination with Quick Quack on elevations. - Crinted Pickens (Northwest Huntington Beach resident): Opposed the project, requested denial, citing environmental impacts, light pollution (“disintegrating the night celestial object atmosphere”), and alleged company misconduct. Also requested that doors and windows be opened for oxygen during the meeting. Discussion Items - Golden West and Garfield Commercial Project (GP Amendment, ZTA, TPM, CUP, EA) - Project Description: The applicant proposes to redevelop a vacant 1.32‑acre industrial site into a commercial corner with a 14‑pump fuel center (two canopies, 19 ft) and a drive‑through car wash (30 ft high, six vacuum stalls). Access from Golden West and Garfield. A 15‑ft landscape buffer is planned along street frontages. The project requires a general plan amendment from Industrial to Commercial Neighborhood, a zoning text amendment within Specific Plan No. 9 (Holly Seacliff), consolidation of eight lots into two parcels, and an addendum to the existing EIR. - Staff Report: Staff recommended approval, finding the project consistent with the general plan, compatible with surrounding uses, and less impactful than industrial use. One late public comment about signage on an adjacent property was noted; staff will assist that property owner. - Design Review Board (DRB) Comment: The DRB did not approve elevations but forwarded the project with conditions to enhance materials and colors prior to building permits. Commissioner Goldberg, a DRB member, noted the rendering was not architecturally pleasing but that there were no fatal site plan flaws; the applicant agreed to return to DRB for final design review. - Commission Questions: Concerns about parking (potential overnight car dwellers) were addressed. The applicant agreed to post no‑parking/towing signage. Fire department confirmed soil contamination was remediated through testing and compliance. The well abandonment plan was verified as designed for unobstructed future access. - Public Hearing: No other speakers beyond those listed above. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Palmer moved to approve the entire project (GP Amendment, ZTA, TPM, CUP, EA) with the added condition that the applicant install no‑parking/towing signage for overnight vehicles. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Bush and passed unanimously (7–0). - Effective Dates: The planning commission’s action on the general plan amendment, zoning text amendment, and environmental assessment is a recommendation to the city council for final action. The tentative parcel map and conditional use permit are final unless appealed to the city council within 10 calendar days. - Other Planning Items: The November 25, 2025, meeting was canceled. The December 9, 2025, meeting will include an appeal of a three‑story home in Huntington Harbor. Commissioner comments included wishes for a happy Thanksgiving and a brief discussion about potential code changes regarding roof designs, but no formal action was taken.

The Huntington Beach City Council and Public Financing Authority met on November 18, 2025, at 12:15 p.m. The meeting included a study session on election security with Orange County Registrar of Voters Bob Page, a treasurer’s report, public comments, and multiple action items. Key topics included the potential closed-session discussion of Michael Gates’ appointment, voter ID, Edison Park redevelopment, and an energy conservation performance contract. Consent Calendar - Items 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 were approved unanimously (7-0). - Item 13 (Parks and Recreation Master Plan update) was pulled by Councilmember Williams for discussion. A motion to exclude the Edison Park portion from the master plan failed (1-6, Williams dissenting), and the item was approved as recommended (6-1, Williams dissenting). - Item 16 (budget reconciliation report) was pulled by Councilmember Kennedy for a brief presentation; it passed unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Monica Asbury (HB resident) announced a toy drive on December 13, 2025, at Central Park with HBPD and Marines. - Andrew Salazar requested assistance regarding a disc golf course lease stuck with the city attorney; council advised him to fill out a blue card. - Andy Einhorn (40-year resident) criticized the council for wasting taxpayer dollars on lawsuits, book banning, voter ID, housing, and the air show settlement, urging balance rather than extremism. - Don Thomas and others spoke in favor of voter ID and hand-counted paper ballots, citing distrust in mail-in voting and citing a dog-voting incident. - Multiple speakers expressed support for voter ID and criticized the current system (e.g., Pat Goodman, Mark Tonkovich, Ken Inouye, Tim Geddes, Kathy Carrick). - Kenny Noway (50-year resident) asked the council to apply Mayor Burns’ request for Congressman Garcia to “not put agenda before people” to their own actions. - Calvin, Ernst, and others expressed concerns about voter roll maintenance and the complexity of the system, urging community-based elections. - Chris Cloey and Harry McLaughlin thanked the council for inviting Bob Page and defended the integrity of Orange County’s elections, accusing the council of eroding trust. - Several speakers urged the council not to hire Michael Gates as chief assistant city attorney, citing prior costly litigation and a hostile work environment (e.g., Jan Midnick, Paula Schaefer, Beth Culver, Patricia Pappas). - John Ridelli and Robert Tarazo (and others) presented an alternative plan for Edison Park (Option Three) with 506 signatures, calling for moving pickleball courts away from residences and keeping more existing amenities. - Sarah Cassius (PFLAG Huntington Beach) urged the council to honor the library election result by restoring the teen section and reconsider Michael Gates’ appointment. - Tammy shared a personal story about a 5150 hold and seizure of firearms by HBPD, alleging deception; council directed her to fill out a blue card. - Butch and Roger Noah also spoke on the same incident, criticizing police conduct. - Other speakers addressed the need for transparent elections, ballot drop box monitoring, and expressed support for voter ID. Discussion Items Closed Session Discussion (Procedural Dispute) - Councilmember Williams made a motion to go into closed session to discuss an “emergency matter” concerning Michael Gates’ employment and potential litigation, citing a letter from Gates’ attorney received that day at 2:33 p.m. - City Attorney argued that the item was not on the agenda and that the Brown Act requires immediate need for action to depart from 72-hour notice. He stated that no facts justified immediate action and that a special meeting could be called. He cited Government Code §54956.9. - Councilmember Williams read a portion of the Brown Act regarding potential litigation, but the City Attorney maintained that immediate action was not required. - Councilmember Gruel offered a substitute motion for a special meeting on Friday, November 21, at noon instead of closed session that evening. The substitute motion passed 7-0. Study Session – Orange County Registrar of Voters Presentation (Bob Page) - Bob Page presented on election security, covering physical measures (seals, drop boxes), technical measures (encrypted rosters, paper ballots, air-gapped voting systems), and process measures (daily voter file maintenance, signature verification, post-election audits). - Page stated that Orange County processed 1.9 million voters, with only one-tenth of 1% flagged for missing proof of identity under HAVA. He noted that 1.7% of mail ballots were returned undeliverable in the general election, below state and national averages. - Page discussed the “dog voting” case in Costa Mesa, where a woman created a fictitious registration for her dog; the ballot was accepted in the 2021 recall (state election) but rejected in the 2022 primary (federal election) due to lack of identity proof. She was charged by the DA. - Councilmembers questioned Page about voter ID, cost of the Save Act, signature verification challenges, ballot harvesting, and drop box security. Page maintained a neutral policy stance, stating his role is to implement laws, not advocate. - Councilmember Twining questioned Page on the number of referrals to the DA: 345 in 2024 general and 437 in 2024 primary for suspected double voting, but only two prosecutions since 2022. - Councilmember Williams expressed concern about potential fraud at scale, particularly with signature verification and ballot harvesting, and emphasized the need for voter ID. - The presentation lasted approximately 90 minutes. City Treasurer’s Report (Jason Schmidt) - First presentation as new treasurer. Reported that city reserves have increased by $150 million over five years to over $400 million, ranking among top five in Orange County. Long-term obligations are about $400 million (75% pension liabilities). - Investment returns have increased from 1-2% to 3-4%, generating an extra $10 million per year. Portfolio has never experienced a loss. - Proposed 2026 Investment Policy: Shortened maximum maturities on CDs, limited long-term investments (≥4 years) from 50% to 25% of portfolio for liquidity. Policy benchmarked against seven largest OC/LA cities and reviewed by peer treasurers with positive informal feedback. - Quarterly performance: 3.6% return (record high), $90 million in buy-sell activity, average maturity 2 years. - Councilmembers praised the report and approved the policy unanimously (7-0). Edison Park Master Plan (Item 13) - Councilmember Williams sought to exclude the Edison Park portion from the Parks and Recreation Master Plan update to allow residents to present an alternative conceptual plan (Option Three). He argued that approving the master plan would create administrative inertia toward the RGM design, which has faced community pushback. - Councilmembers McKeon and Kennedy noted that the master plan is a recommendation only, does not commit funding, and that the Edison Park specific plan will come back for separate approval. The EIR is already evaluating both the RGM plan and the alternative. They opposed delaying the master plan. - Motion to exclude Edison Park failed (1-6, Williams dissenting). Motion to approve the item as recommended passed (6-1, Williams dissenting). Energy Conservation Performance Contract (Item 25-879) - Public Works Director presented a $7.36 million project with Alliance Building Solutions (ABS) and Metro Futures, funded through a 15-year tax-exempt lease, budget-neutral via guaranteed energy savings of $626,000/year. Includes LED lighting, HVAC replacements, solar panels, and transformer replacements at 20+ sites. - The contract contains an early payoff option after year eight with no prepayment penalty. Rebates (e.g., $528,000 solar incentive) go to the city. The contractor assumes all performance risk. - Councilmembers praised the proposal and noted the solar rebate deadline and ability to accelerate capital improvements. Approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Closed Session Motion: Substitute motion passed 7-0 to hold a special meeting on Friday, November 21, at noon to discuss Michael Gates’ employment and potential litigation. - Study Session: No formal action taken; information received. - City Treasurer’s Report: Resolution 2025-68 approving the 2026 Investment Policy and quarterly report received and filed; approved unanimously 7-0. - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update (Item 13): Approved as recommended 6-1, with Councilmember Williams dissenting. Edison Park plan will return for separate approval. - Budget Reconciliation (Item 16): Approved unanimously 7-0. - Energy Performance Contract (Item 25-879): Resolutions 2025-70 and 2025-71 approved unanimously 7-0. - Strategic Plan Update (Item 8): Tabled to the second meeting in January (motion passed 7-0). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025.

The City Council and Public Financing Authority met on November 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The meeting included a closed session to discuss a recent Court of Appeal decision, a study session on Archer Aviation's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, adoption of updated building and bicycle codes, and council member items on pedestrian/bike safety and real estate holdings. All votes were unanimous (7-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Item 5 (Memorandum of Understanding with Art League of Huntington Beach) was pulled by staff and will be brought back at a future date. - Items 4, 6, 8, and 9 were approved 7-0. - Item 7 (CalOptima VRRP Program) was pulled by Councilman Kennedy for explanation. Chief McCoy explained the program is an intergovernmental transfer that returns $1.7 million to the city for a $722,000 investment. Approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Ron Duplantis criticized the council for focusing on partisan culture wars (voter ID, sanctuary laws, pride flags) instead of local issues like streets and public safety. - Jason Serafin (with daughter Hannah) proposed installing public hydration kiosks along the beach boardwalk for water and beverage sales, citing lack of facilities and missed business opportunities. - Charles Jackson objected to partisan political activity (canvassing for No on 50 and voter ID petition) during city-sponsored constitutional classes, calling it a violation of non-partisanship. - Heather Grode Jennings and Victor Chaffa supported the Light the World Giving Machines at the pier, noting donations benefit local charities like Boys and Girls Club, CHOC, and OC Food Bank. They requested city promotion and signage. - Nadia Sacker requested assistance for a 72-year-old unhoused man with medical needs, asking for non-congregate shelter options. The mayor directed her to fill out a blue card for the homeless task force. - Sean thanked Councilman Twine for his TEFRA vote and criticized other council members for ideological opposition. - Amory Hanson spoke in support of Item 12 (pedestrian and cycling projects). - Russell Neal expressed support for the council's fight against state overreach, stating "we have no king but Jesus." - Eddie Osborne requested reinvestigation of the 2021 oil spill settlement funds ($5.25 million from Amplify Energy) and questioned the city's payout to Kevin Elliott. - Kane Durham listed food resources available in Huntington Beach, including food banks and meal programs. Discussion Items - Closed Session (Emergency Item): City Attorney Vig explained that on November 3, the city received a Court of Appeal decision in People and Bixby vs. City of Huntington Beach (cases G065589, G065461, G065499). Council voted 7-0 to recess to closed session under Government Code §54954.2(b) to confer with legal counsel. A second closed session item on existing litigation was also noted. - Archer Aviation Study Session: Representatives George Cavork and Melissa McCaffrey presented Archer's eVTOL aircraft, which is 100 times quieter than a helicopter, has a 100-mile range, and carries 4 passengers plus a pilot. They discussed the FAA's Integration Pilot Program (deadline December 11, 2025) and proposed Huntington Beach as a lead city. Council asked about noise, safety redundancies, charging infrastructure, exclusivity, and economic benefits. No action was taken; staff will bring back a proposal for council to consider being the lead applicant. - Ordinance 4343 – 2025 California Construction Codes: Fire Marshal Janice Van Molen presented the triennial adoption of Title 24 building codes, including local amendments (e.g., valet trash regulations, fire hydrant supply connections). Council approved introduction 7-0, with a public hearing set for December 16, 2025. - Ordinance 4344 – Bicycle Regulations: Lieutenant Toby Archer presented amendments to HBMC 10.84 to allow enforcement against dangerous riding on sidewalks in business districts and near schools. The ordinance also corrects a typo. Council approved introduction 7-0. - Council Member Item – Pedestrian and Bike Safety (Item 12): Councilman Twine, Gruel, and Williams proposed continued advocacy for safer bike lanes on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from Bolsa Chica to the river jetty, citing a recent fatal crash involving a fire captain's cousin. Council approved 7-0. - Council Member Item – Real Estate Holdings Spreadsheet (Item 13): Councilman Kennedy, Burns, and Williams directed staff to continue developing a comprehensive spreadsheet of city real estate assets to improve transparency and revenue management. Council approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Closed Session: Council voted 7-0 to recess to closed session to discuss the appellate opinion and litigation. - Consent Calendar: Items 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 approved 7-0; Item 5 pulled. - Ordinance 4343: Introduced 7-0; public hearing December 16, 2025. - Ordinance 4344: Introduced 7-0. - Pedestrian/Bike Safety: Approved 7-0; staff to continue advocacy and grant applications. - Real Estate Spreadsheet: Approved 7-0; staff to finalize and present to council. - Next Meeting: November 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Civic Center Council Chambers.

This special meeting was called to continue the public hearing on the TEFRA (Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act) request for Pelican Harbor Apartments, a 43-unit affordable housing complex for low-income seniors and disabled residents. The council ultimately approved the tax-exempt bond financing with a substitute motion reducing the affordability covenant from 99 years to 60 years. The vote was 4-3. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers expressed support for approving the tax-exempt bonds, arguing that the project already houses vulnerable seniors and that the city should honor commitments made by previous councils. Speakers criticized the council majority for considering withdrawal of support while spending on other projects like the Pacific Air Show. - Father Nathan Bjornstad (St. Wilfred's Episcopal Church) spoke in favor of granting the tax-exempt bonds, urging quick approval to support housing for those in need. - Kathy Ryder, a homeowner since 1985, criticized the special meeting at 4 p.m. as limiting public participation and questioned the council's plan for the 46 seniors if the measure failed. - Joel Bruce, a 78-year-old resident, shared his personal experience with homelessness and expressed support for the project. - Michelle Kearns, a 25-year resident and former Jamboree employee, vouched for Jamboree's reputation and urged support. Discussion Items - Councilmember Williams outlined concerns about the financial structure of affordable housing projects, including the use of tax credits, property tax exemptions, and high executive salaries at Jamboree (noting $635,000 and $526,624 annual compensation for top executives). He argued that voting yes would violate campaign promises against government subsidies. - Councilmember Kennedy echoed concerns about setting a 99-year precedent for property tax loss and criticized the developer's missed deadlines. - Councilmember Burns expressed concerns about fiduciary duty and questioned how approving the bonds financially helps Huntington Beach, given that the project is built and no seniors would be evicted even without approval. - Councilmember McKeon supported the project, noting the site had been vacant for 70 years and was undevelopable by the private sector due to parking and access constraints. He emphasized that the project houses seniors who were previously homeless, reducing city costs for emergency services. - Councilmember Vandermark shared feedback from nearby residents who reported the development improved the area (removed blight, reduced crime). She argued that since the project already exists, rejecting it would not displace seniors but would affect Jamboree's margins. - Councilmember Twine highlighted that a no vote could risk the city's $3 million subordinate loan in case of default, whereas a yes vote guarantees affordability and concessions (interest rate increase from 3% to 5%, $5,000 annual payment). - Jamboree representatives (Mike Massey, Kelsey Brewer, Pete Mitchell) assured that seniors would not be evicted if the TEFRA were denied; they could bridge the funding gap. They noted the project is unprofitable but that they are committed to operating it. Key Outcomes - Substitute Motion Passed 4-3: Councilmember Kennedy moved to reduce the affordability covenant from 99 years to 60 years while approving the TEFRA bond financing. The motion passed with Mayor Pro Tem McKeon, Councilmember Kennedy, Councilmember Vandermark, and Councilmember Twine voting yes; Mayor Burns, Councilmember Williams, and Councilmember Gruole voting no. - The decision approves the tax-exempt bonds for Pelican Harbor Apartments with a 60-year affordability covenant (original term), maintaining the project's affordable status for seniors and disabled residents. - Meeting adjourned; next regular meeting scheduled for November 4, 2025.

The Huntington Beach City Council convened on October 21, 2025, addressing a nitrous oxide sales prohibition, a TEFRA hearing for Pelican Harbor Apartments, infrastructure updates, a U.S. Navy presentation, and public comments on various issues. Consent Calendar - Items 8 and 9 were approved unanimously via the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers expressed full support for the nitrous oxide ordinance (Item 11), emphasizing protection for youth and reduced substance misuse. - Speakers criticized Mayor Burns for reducing public comment time and alleged bullying behavior, with one reading an op-ed titled 'Huntington Beach Leaders Are Abusing Their Power and Silencing the Public.' - Support was voiced for inviting Orange County Registrar of Voters Bob Page to present on election security (Item 12), with some speakers expressing confidence in current election procedures. - Other comments included promotion of local events like the Miss Huntington Beach scholarship pageant, support for Proposition 50, and concerns about immigration enforcement and civil disorder. Discussion Items - Pelican Harbor Apartments TEFRA Hearing: Staff and Jamboree Housing Corporation representatives presented on maintaining tax-exempt bond status for the affordable senior housing project. Council members debated financial terms, including a $5,000 annual payment and extended affordability covenants, leading to a decision to continue the hearing for further negotiation. - Nitrous Oxide Ordinance: The council discussed Ordinance number 4342 to prohibit the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide, with exceptions for commercial, medical, and vehicular uses. The Huntington Beach Police Department reported a significant increase in related arrests. - Infrastructure Updates: The Public Works Director presented completed projects, including Zone 2 overlay and 17th Street Arterial Rehabilitation, highlighting on-time and under-budget delivery. - U.S. Navy Presentation: Commander Gilligan and colleagues celebrated the Navy's 250th birthday, discussed recruitment challenges in Orange County, and requested support for access to schools. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously voted to appeal the Aloncia vs. City of Huntington Beach case and provided direction to initiate litigation in two potential cases, with outside counsel working pro bono. - The TEFRA hearing for Pelican Harbor Apartments was continued to a special meeting on October 28, 2025. - Ordinance number 4342, prohibiting the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide, was approved for introduction with a second reading scheduled for November 4, 2025. - The council unanimously approved inviting Orange County Registrar of Voters Bob Page to present on election security at a future meeting. - Consent calendar items passed 7-0.

The Huntington Beach City Council meeting on October 7, 2025, covered a debrief on the Pacific Air Show, a comprehensive county update from Supervisor Janet Nguyen, extensive public testimony, and votes on key ordinances including a nitrous oxide ban and a resolution supporting election integrity. Consent Calendar - Items 9 through 15 were approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Critics of the council's management expressed opposition to city spending on lawsuits and the air show contract, citing financial mismanagement. - Rebecca Groot promoted the Alzheimer's walk and requested city support for the event. - Multiple speakers opposed the presentation by United for Freedom, arguing that Orange County elections are secure and that voter ID laws would suppress votes. Others supported election integrity measures. - Rosalinda Price, co-founder of Bug Angels, supported the nitrous oxide ban, highlighting risks to youth from substance abuse. - Other comments included concerns about infrastructure in Parkside Estates, proposals to ban artificial food dyes, and criticisms of military equipment procurement. Discussion Items - Supervisor Janet Nguyen's County Update: Nguyen reported on county budget, election security issues including dog voting, embezzlement cases, animal shelter reforms, and collaborative efforts with the city on banning Kratom and nitrous oxide. She expressed support for city initiatives and emphasized transparency. - Presentation by United for Freedom: The group presented data alleging election irregularities and advocated for stricter voter verification to ensure election integrity. - Downtown Business Improvement District (BID): Staff presented the annual assessment for the BID, recommending approval. Councilman Twine suggested retooling the district to be more effective, possibly involving property owners. - Prohibition on Nitrous Oxide: Councilmembers Vandermark and Twining introduced the ordinance, citing a 400% increase in arrests and health risks. Discussion focused on closing loopholes for recreational use, with unanimous support from the council. - Resolution Supporting Election Integrity: Mayor Burns introduced the resolution to ensure a legally valid 2026 election, emphasizing the need for public confidence in electoral processes. Councilmembers expressed support for secure elections regardless of political affiliation. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved with a 5-0 vote. - Resolution for the Downtown BID annual assessment adopted 5-0. - Ordinance prohibiting the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide for recreational use passed 5-0. - Resolution in support of election integrity measures passed 5-0. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2025.

The Huntington Beach City Council convened a special meeting to discuss a proposal to create a mural as an artistic expression honoring freedom of speech and memorializing Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was assassinated. The council heard extensive public testimony and deliberated on the item, resulting in a vote to form an ad hoc committee for further exploration. Public Comments & Testimony - Thirteen members of the public spoke, with divided positions on the mural proposal. - Supporters expressed that the mural would celebrate free speech and honor Charlie Kirk's legacy. For example, Mr. Amory Hansen urged the council to authorize the mural as a support for freedom of speech, and Kathy Haas advocated for exploring the creation to honor free speech. - Opponents argued that the mural is divisive, inappropriate for public funding, and perpetuates a harmful narrative. Speakers cited concerns about violence, the short notice for the meeting, and Charlie Kirk's controversial views. For instance, one speaker stated that the mural would deepen wounds in the city and be a rallying point for hate groups, while others emphasized that taxpayer funds should not be used for such a partisan tribute. Discussion Items - Councilman Chad Williams presented the item, sharing photos from a vigil for Charlie Kirk and framing the mural as a reminder of core American values like free speech and a deterrent to violence suppressing discourse. - Council members discussed the proposal, with general support but suggestions for amendments. Councilman Donald emphasized Charlie Kirk's impact and proposed that the project use private funds only to avoid taxpayer expense. - Amendments were proposed to expand the scope to include alternatives like monuments or plaques, consider additional locations and artists, and ensure final council approval. Councilman Gruel suggested including other figures like peacemakers in the exploration. Key Outcomes - The council voted 6-0 (with Councilwoman Vandermark absent) to approve a motion to work with staff to explore the creation of a mural, monument, or plaque honoring freedom of speech and memorializing Charlie Kirk. - An ad hoc committee was formed, comprising Mayor Burns, Councilman Gruel, and Councilman Williams, to identify a location, artists, and artwork. - The committee is tasked with returning to the council for a final vote on the proposal, with an emphasis on using private contributions and avoiding city funds.

The Huntington Beach City Council Public Financing Authority convened on September 16, 2025, with a strong focus on community responses to the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Council members denounced hate groups and false accusations, while also handling routine city business including e-bike safety regulations, homeless services contracts, housing permit appeals, and various administrative ordinances. Consent Calendar - Items 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 14 were approved unanimously, covering routine approvals such as updated memos, agreements with Tee It Up for the Troops, and the adoption of ordinance 4339 pertaining to Kratom. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 40 public speakers addressed the council. Many expressed support for Councilman Butch Twining, refuting false claims of association with white supremacists at a vigil for Charlie Kirk. Speakers like Brett Busch and Tom McGee shared personal stories defending Twining's character. - Several speakers opposed Proposition 50, calling it a gerrymandering power grab. - Support was voiced for USA Surfing's recertification as the Olympic governing body, emphasizing local leadership. - Concerns were raised about e-bike lawlessness, with calls for increased enforcement and infrastructure improvements. - Residents of Huntington Harbor expressed worries about oversized homes compromising aging seawalls and infrastructure, citing the city's D-grade report card. - Some speakers criticized the council's rhetoric and called for unity, while others defended the council's actions. Discussion Items - Proposition 50 Opposition: Council members unanimously condemned the proposition, arguing it undermines fair elections and represents political retaliation. - Mercy House Agreement: Approved a contract extension for homeless navigation center operations after discussions on costs, effectiveness, and efforts to offset expenses with grants. - Housing Permit Appeals (Items 15 & 16): Debated compatibility and seawall safety for proposed three-story homes at Malden Circle and Somerset Lane. Item 15 was approved with modifications, and Item 16 was approved as amended to reduce building height from 35 to 30 feet. - Group Home Ordinance Amendment: Approved a zoning text amendment to prohibit operators with denied or revoked permits from reapplying for five years, aiming to curb unlawful sober living facilities. - Lifeguard MOUs: Introduced and approved memoranda of understanding with the Surf City Lifeguard Employees Association and Marine Safety Management Association, covering salary adjustments and benefits. - Police Forensic Lab Expansion: Approved a report to pursue grants for developing in-house DNA and computer forensic laboratories, highlighting the need for faster evidence processing. - Independence Day Board Dissolution: Approved an ordinance to dissolve the advisory board and transition to a task force model for increased community involvement. - E-bike Ordinance: Discussed potential regulations for e-bike use on sidewalks; directed staff to research best practices for a future ordinance. - Business Development Ad Hoc Committee: Established a committee to improve business services, streamline permitting, and attract new investments. - Symphony of Flowers Event: Directed staff to explore steps to terminate the contract for this event due to cost and community fit concerns. Key Outcomes - Proposition 50 opposition resolution: Passed 7-0. - Mercy House agreement: Passed 7-0. - Kratom ordinance: Passed 7-0. - Malden Circle permit appeal: Approved 6-1 with modifications. - Somerset Lane permit appeal: Approved 6-1 as amended (height reduced to 30 feet). - Group home zoning amendment: Passed 7-0. - Lifeguard MOUs: Passed 7-0. - Forensic lab expansion report: Approved 7-0, with direction to seek grants. - Independence Day Board dissolution: Passed 7-0. - E-bike ordinance research directed. - Business development ad hoc committee established. - Symphony of Flowers termination exploration directed.

The Huntington Beach City Council met on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, starting with a closed session at 4:00 PM and reconvening for the regular meeting at 6:00 PM. The agenda included public hearings on the Pacific Airshow Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Event Agreement, an appeal for alcohol sales at the Huntington Beach Sports Complex, a Kratom ban ordinance, voter identification requirements, and council member items on parking fine allocation and a resolution opposing the Governor's redistricting special election. The meeting was extended past 11:00 PM to complete the agenda. Consent Calendar - Items 8, 9, 10, 13, 14: Approved 7-0 (Minutes, legislative advocacy contracts, council liaison list update, Downtown BID annual report, and HBPD aerial flashbangs/inert blast balls for critical incident response). - Item 11: Withdrawn. - Item 12: (Five Points Senior Villas affordable housing covenant extension) Pulled by Councilman Kennedy; passed 6-0-1 after extending affordability covenants by three years. Public Comments & Testimony Over 45 members of the public signed up to speak, with time reduced to one minute per speaker due to volume. Key themes: - Alcohol at Sports Complex: Dozens of speakers opposed the sale of beer and wine at the Huntington Beach Sports Complex, citing public safety risks, inconsistency with the facility's youth-focused origins, increased liability, and the message it sends to children. A few supporters (including the applicant and a planning commissioner) argued it would allow better control of existing alcohol use and improve the experience for adult leagues. - Pacific Airshow: Speakers were divided. Supporters highlighted economic benefits ($120 million regional impact, $4 million annual contribution to the general fund) and patriotism. Opponents criticized the settlement terms, waived fees, environmental costs, and questioned the economic data, calling the deal a giveaway to the promoter. - Patriot Academy / Constitutional Course: Several speakers expressed concern that the city was allowing a faith-based, Texas-based organization to use the library rent-free, violating separation of church and state and using taxpayer resources to promote a single political viewpoint. - Voter ID: A speaker expressed strong support for implementing voter ID as passed by Measure A. - Other: Comments on parking fines, flashbangs, the city's deficit, and general criticism of council decisions. Discussion Items - Surfside–Sunset Sand Replenishment Project: Staff presented the need for Stage 14 of the federally authorized project, noting 17 miles of coastline benefit, 1.8 million cubic yards of sand on average per stage, and a current cost estimate of $68 million (2/3 federal). The timeline is tight; permits take years, and funding is uncertain. The project helps prevent erosion and protects PCH from winter storm damage. Council emphasized the need for continued federal lobbying. - BreatheSafe HB – Community Opioid Response Initiative: Fire department and medical officer introduced a three-pillar program (education, Narcan accessibility, advanced treatment) funded through opioid settlement funds. In 2025, the fire department administered Narcan 100 times (about 15-18 times per month). The program provides free Narcan kits and training. Council members expressed full support. - Kratom Ordinance (Item 18, taken out of order): Ordinance No. 4339 prohibiting the sale, distribution, and possession of synthetic kratom (7-hydroxy mitragynine) was introduced and passed 7-0. Police noted kratom is linked to psychotic episodes and deaths, is sold at gas stations, and is not federally regulated. The ordinance makes it a misdemeanor. - Pacific Airshow EIR and Event Agreement (Public Hearing): The council certified the EIR (with revised findings and a statement of overriding considerations for significant unavoidable impacts: air quality, noise, hazardous materials) and approved the 10-year event agreement (with three 5-year renewals, up to 25 years total). The city will cover about $253,000 in personnel and waived fees; parking revenue goes to the promoter for the first five years, then the city receives $10/space with CPI increases. Councilman Williams made a substitute motion to postpone for an audit, but it failed for lack of second; he then proposed a 25-year term with year-one deal points only, but that failed 2-5. The main motion passed 6-1 (Williams dissenting). Supporters emphasized $120 million regional impact, international recognition, and 260% ROI on city costs. - Appeal of Planning Commission’s Approval for Alcohol at Sports Complex (Public Hearing): The council considered an appeal of the CUP for beer and wine sales at two locations in the Sports Complex. After extensive testimony and debate (with council members citing Measure C, Measure L, voter intent, parental rights, and safety), a motion to deny the CUPs failed for lack of second. A motion to approve as recommended (with conditions including full table service) passed 5-2 (Gruel and Williams dissenting). The facility must be a full table service restaurant before alcohol service begins, and security measures will be enforced. - Voter Identification and Requirements (Item 17): Council directed the city manager to work with staff to obtain cost estimates for implementing voter ID (as approved by Measure A in 2024) for the 2026 municipal elections. Motion passed 7-0. - Oversized Vehicle Parking Regulations (Item 19): Ordinance No. 4338 was introduced, simplifying the oversize vehicle definition to 22 feet long or 84 inches wide. It passed 7-0. - Council Member Item 20 – Parking Fine Revenue to Public Safety: Councilman Williams proposed allocating all revenue from the 2025 bail schedule update (estimated $1 million/year) 70% to police and 30% to fire for specific needs. After debate, the council voted 6-0-1 (Williams abstaining) on a substitute motion: the money goes to the general fund, and the city manager is directed to find funding for the second administrative fire captain position and to bring back cost estimates for police forensic/tech labs for future consideration. - Council Member Item 21 – Resolution Opposing Redistricting Special Election: Councilwoman Van Der Mark’s resolution opposing Governor Newsom’s special election on redistricting (estimated $250 million cost) was passed 7-0, with direction to draft a resolution for the next meeting and explore legal action. Key Outcomes - Kratom Ban (Ord. 4339): Introduced and passed 7-0. - Pacific Airshow: EIR certified and event agreement approved 6-1. The city will pay about $253,000 annually in services, plus $250,000 for EIR costs; promoter collects parking revenue for first five years. - Sports Complex Alcohol: CUP approved 5-2. Alcohol service limited to full table service restaurant areas, with strict conditions and enforcement. - Voter ID: Staff directed to report on implementation costs (7-0). - Oversized Vehicle Parking: Ordinance introduced (7-0). - Parking Fine Revenue: Revenue goes to general fund; city manager directed to fund fire captain position and prepare PD lab proposals. Motion passed 6-0-1. - Redistricting Resolution: Council approved a resolution in opposition and will consider legal action (7-0).