El Segundo, City of

This document, titled 'State of the City 2019 Highlights', provides an overview of the City of El Segundo's accomplishments and strategic focus areas. Key priorities include leveraging technology for more nimble and responsive communications, enhancing community safety and preparedness through predictive analytics, fostering a performance-based workforce culture, and executing a 20-year roadmap for quality infrastructure development. The city's significant economic impact, particularly in aerospace, and its leadership in professional sports, media, and biotech are highlighted, positioning El Segundo as a vibrant and exceptional community for living, working, and recreation.

The Planning Commission meeting addressed the Smoky Hollow site plan review for a property at 216 Standard Street, which involved the proposed construction of a 2,500 square foot L-shaped two-story commercial building, replacing a former surf shop structure. Key discussion points centered on granting adjustments to reduce required parking spaces (a 17.8% reduction was requested and staff found the design reasonable given site constraints) and waiving the loading space requirement due to site limitations preventing proper screening and circulation. Concerns were raised regarding handicapped parking being located behind a lockable door. The commission also discussed the complexities arising from differing parking code requirements between the existing duplex/apartment units and the new commercial addition, particularly concerning non-conforming status and future use implications. The applicant provided context on their business needs, emphasizing security for company vehicles and limited customer traffic.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the introduction and presentation of Battalion Chief Deana Lee, who was recognized as the first female chief officer promoted in the South Bay area, detailing her extensive experience and commitment to mentorship. The Council also addressed a proclamation for National Public Works Week, recognizing the critical role of public works professionals, including their status as first responders. Additionally, the Hawthorne Police Chief presented an award to the El Segundo Police Department and Fire Department for their mutual aid assistance during critical events on April 7, 2019. The final segment involved recognizing the accomplishments of the AYSO Girls All-Star soccer team. During public communications, a resident advocated for revisiting the moratorium on dockless shared micro mobility providers (bikes and scooters) to support first-mile/last-mile transit solutions.

The meeting involved calling the session to order and conducting the pledge of allegiance. The primary agenda item reviewed was a request for a Community Benefits Plan for the property at 140 Sheldon Street in the Smoky Hollow West District. This request involved a deviation from the permitted floor area ratio (FAR) standard, requiring Tier 1 review by the Planning Commission. The proposed benefits offered by the applicant include the installation of two public benches accessible to the general public and providing bicycle parking beyond minimum code requirements, both situated in the front yard setback. Furthermore, the design incorporates layered landscaping with shade trees and solar-powered up lighting under the trees to enhance usability and appearance. The discussion clarified that the applicant proceeded with construction of the second-floor addition (912 square feet) at risk while awaiting the Community Benefits Plan approval process conclusion, noting that this newly added area was not part of previous adjustments approved by the commission. The presentation detailed that the project exceeds the permitted FAR by 0.14, moving from 0.86 to 1.0 FAR. Staff recommended the adoption of draft resolution number 2883 to approve the Community Benefits Plan.

The special budget session included a presentation by the Chief Financial Officer on the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget update and the proposed fiscal year 2022-2023 budget, with further review scheduled for a future session. The council recognized outstanding achievements, including a high school student's success in the LA Marathon and an AYSO boys soccer team winning the Western States Championship. A senior building inspector's retirement after 32 years was recognized. The Firefighter of the Year award was presented to Captain Tony Del Castillo. The council proclaimed May as Older Americans Month and highlighted the return of the Elderfest celebration. Regarding operations, the authorization for a public works sewer inspection contract was deferred, while other consent calendar items were approved. Representatives reported on a proposal to implement a travel network funded by Measure M funds, aimed at promoting safe routes for zero-emission slow-speed vehicles; staff was directed to move forward with implementation. The results of the fifth annual resident and business satisfaction surveys were presented, showing high engagement and net promoter scores. Discussions on outdoor dining led to directing staff to amend the city's agreement with RRM Consulting regarding permanent outdoor dining options, parking requirements, and the development of a potential business improvement district. The use of Richmond Street as an outdoor dining promenade was extended to the end of the year. Finally, terms and conditions for the commercial cannabis regulatory initiative ordinance, scheduled for a public vote, were presented, and an ad hoc committee was formed to study establishing a sister city relationship with a city in Eastern Europe (Slovakia or Hungary).