The Hermosa Beach Neighborhood Association
City Council Candidate Debate Questions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11
Three Debate Questions from Kevin Cody, Owner and Publisher of the Easy Reader
The 2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate
takes place on Thursday, April 8, 2021
From 7 pm to 9:30 pm on Zoom
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The 2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate is Live on Zoom
Here is the Zoom weblink for this debate:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3381346090?pwd=dHBMdnFCSXVFSnJySzdYM05rR0pUUT09
The Passcode is 4 Letters in All CAPs : HBNA Zoom Passcode: HBNA
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This Debate is Available on The City of Hermosa Beach YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaiZxw06ue-Tgc8DmXYzh2Q
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2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate Format:
City Council Candidate Debate Questions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11
Three Debate Questions from Kevin Cody, Owner and Publisher of the Easy Reader
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The 2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate will proceed as follows:
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7:00 pm - Introduction of 2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidates
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Start of the 2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate
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Opening Statements: 2 minutes for each Candidate’s Opening Statement
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2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate Questions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11
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2021 Debate Question 1:
If you are elected to be a Hermosa Beach City Council member, your term of office will be 22 months long.
What are your top 3 priorities that you want to address and complete, during the 22 months that you have to serve?
What are the actions you will take to address these goals?
2 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 2:
Give us your list of the 3 or 4 problem areas that can be addressed by City of Hermosa Beach enforcement, that you will want to change or improve upon during your time in office?
What are the actions you will take to address these problems?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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Debate Question 1 from Kevin Cody:
Are you in favor of the Beach Cities Health District's proposed Healthy Living Campus?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 3: Background Information
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Agenda Item From: Hermosa Beach City Council Meeting of January 12, 2016
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DOWNTOWN CORE REVITALIZATION STRATEGY - PARKING STRATEGY
The Downtown Core Revitalization Parking Strategy includes proposals for building large multi-level public parking structures in 3 possible areas, in order to service visitor car parking for the Hermosa Beach downtown area.
1. The first multi-level parking structure for the public is proposed to be at the City’s Parking Lot A, which is a City owned surface parking lot directly south of Pier Plaza, on the corner of 11th Street and Hermosa Avenue, in the downtown area. [BOLD Added]
2. The second multi-level public parking structure, possibly constructed underground, is to be part of a proposed newly constructed Civic Center, at the current location of City Hall, 1315 Valley Drive, outside the downtown area. [BOLD Added]
3. The third multi-level public parking structure is proposed to be located on the City owned land, directly west of the Hermosa Beach Community Center building on the corner of Ardmore and Pier Avenue, outside the downtown area. [BOLD Added]
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Parking Strategy:
The most relevant parking information from the Strategy is provided below.
There are two primary aspects of the parking strategy - first, the development of a public parking supply that is publicly managed with demand pricing to help control the distribution and availability of parking.
The public parking can be provided for by using in-lieu fees and parking charges to help pay for the program, and a specific financing plan for these will need to be developed. New public parking structures should be located to help alleviate peak loading on thoroughfares and for better traffic management.
[UNDERLINE Added]
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City of Hermosa Beach:
PLAN Hermosa - Adopted August 22, 2017
PLAN Hermosa - Integrated General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan – pdf page 91
http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=9872
– pdf page 91
Downtown District
The Downtown District is a primary social and commercial activity center in
Hermosa Beach, serving as a centralized location for social gatherings and the
recreational activities of residents and visitors.
Pier Plaza serves as a popular venue for outdoor events and dining, connecting
Downtown to the beach, pier, and The Strand.
The “pedestrian scramble” at the intersection of Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue
is a unique pedestrian amenity that reinforces the pedestrian-oriented nature of Downtown.
Public Realm Design
The pedestrian orientation of Downtown streetscapes should be
improved through provision of:
• Special paving or signage at the Pier Ave/Hermosa Avenue
intersection.
• Additional palm trees on Hermosa Avenue to emphasize its
importance and enhance the character of its streetscape
• Café and recessed outdoor seating opportunities.
• Arts and cultural activities focused in and around the
Downtown.
• Café/seating spaces, plazas, parklettes, and other landscaping
features are woven into the design of streets and buildings.
• Once Downtown, walking and bicycling are the primary
means for traveling around Downtown while vehicles are
accommodated through consolidated parking lots and
metered street parking. [BOLD Added]
• Traffic speeds along Hermosa Avenue should be managed
through traffic calming, signalization, and streetscape enhancements.
Downtown Parking Design
• A park-once district that allows centralized, shared parking
facilities providing pedestrian connections at multiple
destinations should be provided in Downtown. [BOLD Added]
• Parking should be provided off-site through public or private
shared parking facilities, with any on-site parking situated to the
rear of the buildings and/or hidden and screened. [BOLD Added]
• Real-time parking supply signage should be added to major
City lots/structures to improve circulation and access to the
beach and The Strand.
PLAN Hermosa - Integrated General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan – pdf page 92
Civic Center District
At the physical center of town, the Civic Center area is the civic hub of services
and activities for the community. The Civic Center provides efficient and
accessible services to the community, but is in need of modernization, repairs,
and additional space.
Future Vision
The intent is to transform the building orientation and design in the Civic Center,
while enhancing the streetscape and circulation of all modes and users.
The Civic Center facilities will be modernized to accommodate the range
of functions and services provided by the City, and will be expanded to provide
consolidated parking facilities in well designed or underground parking structures
to serve commercial uses both along Pacific Coast Highway and Downtown. [BOLD Added]
Streetscape enhancements will provide an important connection between the main
thoroughfares of Pacific Coast Highway, Downtown, and the residential neighborhoods.
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Draft Executive Summary - From the Economic Development Committee Meeting of March 1, 2021
Hermosa Beach Market and Economic Development Study - Update March 1, 2021
http://hermosabeach.legistar.com/gateway.aspx?M=F&ID=226fdceb-e963-4fbf-a173-d3bf0015ccf2.pdf
Page 6
3. KEY TRENDS: ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Parking
• Many interviewees noted that parking requirements in Hermosa Beach often prove to be a major barrier to economic growth, smart urban design, and maintaining the vitality of the historic downtown area. [BOLD Added]
• One suggestion for off-site parking is converting the tennis courts at Civic Center to structured parking. [BOLD Added]
Error Noted: The “Civic Center”, where City Hall is, does not have “tennis courts”.
“The Hermosa Beach Community Center” does have “tennis courts” and this is the likely location of the parking structure, described in the above bullet point.
The City’s in lieu parking fee could be used to help finance parking on this site [The HB Community Center tennis courts] instead of on Lot A, north of 11thStreet between Hermosa Avenue and Beach Drive. [BOLD Added]
Several interviewees stated that this site [Parking Lot A is the surface lot just south of Pier Plaza and north of 11th Street] would be better used for mixed-use development and/or civic uses in light of its proximity to the Strand and frontage on Hermosa Avenue.
• Parking uphill from the downtown commercial district would facilitate foot traffic passing by businesses. This juxtaposition has contributed to the vitality of the retail district in Manhattan Beach.
• It is generally agreed that onerous parking requirements likely made the hotel proposed on the Mermaid site financially infeasible.
On-site parking requirements were also often cited as a major impediment to the rehabilitation and re-tenanting of older buildings that were built without off-street parking. [BOLD Added]
• Alternative parking and TDM (Transportation Demand Management) strategies could alleviate the financial burden of on-site parking. TDM measures may include valet parking, shuttles, off-site employee parking, and the encouragement of bicycle and pedestrian access, for example.
• Some business owners commented that fewer parking spaces can be beneficial to their bottom line, as it sometimes translates to lower lease rates.
• Interviewees were mixed in their assessment of the existing garage. While a some noted that it removed demand for street and surface lot parking in the Downtown, and praised the public art component, others noted that it remains largely empty during off-peak periods and occupies a valuable piece of real estate adjacent to the Strand.
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2021 Debate Question 3:
What is your opinion regarding the financing and construction of large multi-level public parking structures, in order to service visitor car parking for the Hermosa Beach downtown area?
How would the City finance the construction of a multi-million dollar parking structure?
Could this money be better spent on other projects in the City?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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Debate Question 2 from Kevin Cody:
Post COVID, are you in favor of keeping the bike lanes on Pier Ave and Hermosa Ave?
Are you in favor of keeping the Hermosa Avenue car traffic lanes, reduced to one lane in each direction?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 4: Background Information
There are many existing single story commercial buildings that were built in the 1910’s, the 1920’s, into the 1950’s, in the Hermosa Beach Downtown area.
Some people believe that these 60 to 100 year old single story commercial buildings provide a unique character and scale to the Hermosa Beach downtown area.
PLAN Hermosa and the Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy is proposing numerous “special incentives and provisions to minimize the impact of parking” requirements, for the redevelopment of single-story commercial buildings and to provide incentives to open new restaurants with outdoor dining/seating.
Reductions in parking requirements are also proposed as incentives to build new multi-story mixed-use buildings.
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From the: PLAN Hermosa - Integrated General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan – pdf page 91
http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=9872
Building Design and Orientation
“Development along Pier Avenue and Hermosa Avenue
should conform to recommendations of the Downtown
Revitalization Strategy . . .”
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Hermosa Beach City Council Study Session of January 12, 2016
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DOWNTOWN CORE
REVITALIZATION STRATEGY - PARKING STRATEGY
Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Confirm Council’s previous direction to continue to implement the Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy as a top priority, and provide input on the 11 proposed code amendments outlined in the Parking Strategy.
Parking Strategy:
During Spring 2015 the Planning Commission commenced consideration of potential parking-related code amendments to implement to Strategy, taking into account the results of the January 2015 Beach Access and Parking Study commissioned by the City
The most relevant parking information from the Strategy is provided below.
There are two primary aspects of the parking strategy - first, the development of a public parking supply that is publicly managed with demand pricing to help control the distribution and availability of parking.
The public parking can be provided for by using in-lieu fees and parking charges to help pay for the program, and a specific financing plan for these will need to be developed. New public parking structures should be located to help alleviate peak loading on thoroughfares and for better traffic management.
The second component of the parking strategy involves modifications to the existing zoning requirements for new development in support of a pedestrian-oriented district where the continuity and quality of the pedestrian experience is given a priority and a certain amount of walking to parking facilities is part of the experience of place.”
Parking Strategy:
The Strategy identified 11 potential code amendments to encourage a more pedestrian-oriented district.
2. All parking in the pedestrian-oriented district should be allowed to be provided off-site, rather than the current 25% of parking for buildings with greater than a one floor-to-area ratio (FAR). This is only currently allowed in the SPA-11 zone (Pier Avenue east of Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) as an incentive to conserve iconic buildings (Section17.38.550(D)).
3. There should be a reduced amount of required parking for commercial (office and retail) uses within the pedestrian oriented district. Currently one space per 250 SF is required for these uses, however, the Coastal Commission recently provided for a reduced standard of 1/333 SF, which is more consistent with other beach communities, contingent on a parking evaluation from the City which should be undertaken.
4. There should be a reduced amount of required parking for restaurant uses within the pedestrian-oriented district. Currently, one space per 100 SF is required. Cities such as Redondo Beach utilize a one space per 250 SF for pedestrian-oriented districts, which should be considered in Hermosa Beach as well.
5. Outdoor seating should be encouraged for the creation of a more sociable environment within the pedestrian oriented district. The determination of the appropriate amount of outdoor seating within the public street right-of-way should be based on lot frontage length, maintaining adequate space for pedestrian circulation and considerations related to adjacencies and public safety. These are to be determined on a case-by-case basis at a staff level by the Community Development and Public Works Director. Parking requirements for outdoor seating should be reduced appropriately to encourage the diversity of types of establishments within the downtown district and in particular within the Downtown Core. For example, in Redondo Beach, no additional parking is required for the first 12 seats of outdoor seating.
6. Parking requirements should be reduced for mixed use buildings on a single lot that generate parking demand during different times of the day without the need for a discretionary action by the City. There are currently a variety of conditions upon which the amount of parking reduction may be allowed or a fee paid in lieu of providing parking, but a discretionary review is required.
7. Upper level office use should be encouraged to attract a lively downtown environment and provide a greater daytime population that supports retail and restaurant uses. Parking for upper level office use should be reduced and located off-site in shared parking and public parking facilities.
8. Vehicular parking requirements should be reduced in exchange for the provision of additional bicycle parking, beyond what is already required by the City. This provision is currently limited to development along Pier Avenue. An equivalence of 4 bicycle spaces for one car space, up to 20% of the parking required for non-residential projects should be considered (which is the provision allowed in the City of Los Angeles and other cities’ zoning codes). This includes the required bicycle parking and any additional bicycle parking.
9. For an existing non-restaurant use that is converting to restaurant use and whose parking requirements are met in common facilities within the pedestrian-oriented district, a credit against the future parking requirements should be allowed, based upon the zoning requirements of the existing use. Currently this is not allowed for some types of restaurants in the downtown district.
10. Parking requirements for commercial uses within the pedestrian- oriented district should be allowed in common facilities within a quarter mile walking distance. This is currently only allowed for second floor office space as an incentive to conserve iconic buildings in SPA-11 zone along Pier Avenue.
11. Parking requirements for commercial uses within the pedestrian- oriented district should be based on a net usable building square footage basis, that is, not including for example, bathrooms, hallways, lobbies, service, storage and mechanical rooms.”
[UNDERLINE Added on #1 to #11]
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From the: PLAN Hermosa - Integrated General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan – pdf page 91
Downtown District
Future Vision
“The intent is to enhance the building form and orientation, and
maintain the pedestrian realm along Pier Ave while transforming
the realm on Hermosa Avenue.” [BOLD Added]
“The Downtown District will continue to offer an array of uses
for residents and visitors, and any new buildings should pay close
attention to and contribute to the high quality pedestrian environment
provided throughout Downtown.”
Desired Form and Character
Building Design and Orientation
“Development along Pier Avenue and Hermosa Avenue
should conform to recommendations of the Downtown
Revitalization Strategy to realize a town-scale Main Street
environment that supports pedestrian activity and local
serving commerce.” [BOLD Added]
“Many of the unique buildings, streetscape features, and
public spaces are iconic or historic in nature, and new
buildings should be carefully integrated to retain the town’s
eclectic charm.” [BOLD Added]
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Draft Executive Summary
Hermosa Beach Market and Economic Development Study
http://hermosabeach.legistar.com/gateway.aspx?M=F&ID=226fdceb-e963-4fbf-a173-d3bf0015ccf2.pdf
Update 3/1/2021
Page 6 and 7
Business and Land Use Mix
• As a means of identifying the appropriate tenanting strategy for Downtown, multiple interviewees suggested an organized means of obtaining residents’ input on their desired category of establishments. [BOLD Added]
• It was overwhelmingly agreed that the public safety concerns associated with a late-night bar scene have subsided significantly in the past decade, though the problem remains to some degree, particularly late at night. [BOLD Added]
• While some hope for a continued trend away from Hermosa’s image as a nightlife destination, others view the City’s drinking culture as integral to its identity and heritage. [BOLD Added]
It was also noted that some restaurants/bars depend on the post dining hours drinking to make sufficient revenue to cover their costs. [BOLD Added]
• While Hermosa Beach has historically not been a strong location for Class A office space, it is in a unique position to capitalize on certain office trends given its demographic characteristics and quality of life. [BOLD Added]
It was noted that the desirable environment, ample food and business services, and the trend toward business decision-makers wanting to work closer to home are supportive of the demand for Class A office space. [BOLD Added]
• The likely ongoing trend of increased work from home could be augmented by coworking office space that offers an alternative to the home office some of the time.
The development of mixed-use residential on infill sites downtown would add “rooftops” to support downtown restaurant and retail businesses, and activate the streets in the downtown core, as well as provide more ground floor commercial space. [BOLD Added]
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The recent Hermosa Beach Market and Economic Development Study, describes the concept of “smart urban design” and “the rehabilitation and re-tenanting of older buildings”, suggests the demolition and redevelopment of older single story buildings, to be replaced by new buildings in the downtown area.
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2021 Debate Question 4:
Plan Hermosa states: “Development along Pier Avenue and Hermosa Avenue should conform to recommendations of the Downtown Revitalization Strategy,” which calls for reductions in parking requirements for the construction of new development in the downtown area.
How large of an area in the Hermosa Beach downtown zone, should implement reduced parking requirements, in order to demolish older commercial buildings and construct new modern multi-story buildings?
What area of the downtown area would you try to protect iconic and historic buildings, from demolition and any future development?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 5:
What are your short and long term goals for the Hermosa Beach Downtown area?
Does the City staff and the City Council spend too much time and effort on the Downtown area, to the detriment of the rest of the City.
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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Debate Question 3 from Kevin Cody:
Post COVID, are you in favor of keeping the restaurant dining decks, located on public parking spots?
And should the City charge the restaurants rent for the use of these public parking spots?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 6: Background Information
The next block of Debate Questions 6, 7 and 8 use information from the following 4 documents:
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1. PRESS RELEASE: “Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County” - 2011 – 2 page pdf
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2. “Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County” –
A Cities and Communities Health Report - Released December 2011 – 16 page pdf
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/sapc/resources/AODFinalRevised13012.pdf
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3. ICMA Police Operations Report for the Hermosa Beach Police Department
Released August 2013 – 56 page pdf
http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?event_id=333&meta_id=145053
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4. UPDATE ON THE CITY COUNCIL'S DOWNTOWN SUBCOMMITTEE AND "DOWNTOWN ENHANCEMENT PLAN" - 10/10/2017
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This debate question is based the following:
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Report:
“Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County - A Cities and Communities Health
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/sapc/resources/AODFinalRevised13012.pdf
The report, "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County," examines the density of alcohol outlets in 117 cities and communities across the County and highlights the relationship between alcohol outlet density and alcohol-related harms.
"Excessive alcohol consumption, which includes binge drinking and heavy drinking, not only has devastating personal effects, but also takes a tremendous toll on families and communities," said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer.
"Increased alcohol availability contributes to abuse, leads to serious medical illnesses and impaired mental health. Drinking too much also results in increased motor vehicle crashes and violent crime, family disruptions, and impaired performance at work and school - costing Los Angeles County nearly $11 billion dollars a year."
Key findings from the report include:
--- 16 percent of county adults are binge drinkers, and one in five Los Angeles-area high school students reported binge drinking at least once in the past month
--- Communities with a high density of restaurants, bars or stores selling alcohol were much more likely to have increased rates of violent crime
Determining Alcohol Outlet Density
Information on alcohol outlets within Los Angeles County was obtained from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). ABC categorizes alcohol outlets as:
- on-premises - outlets where alcohol is served to be consumed on site, e.g. bars and restaurants.
- off-premises - outlets where alcohol is sold to be consumed off site, e.g. liquor stores and grocery stores.
A total of 16,039 alcohol outlets in LA County were identified and included in the analysis. The densities (number of outlets per 10,000 residents) of on-premises and off-premises alcohol outlets were calculated separately, and categorized into teriles of "low," medium," or "high" density.
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Data compiled from the:
“Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County” report showed that:
- Hermosa Beach had 4 times the On-Premises alcohol outlet density compared to all of Los Angeles County. [BOLD Added]
- Hermosa Beach had the 4th highest alcohol outlet density for On-Premises [On-Sale] establishments, comparing the 117 cities and communities in the "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County" report.
["On-Premises Establishments" or On-Sale Outlets are; Restaurants, Bars or Nightclubs, with a On-Sale ABC Alcohol License]
- Hermosa Beach had the 9th highest alcohol outlet density for Off-Premises [Off-Sale ABC License] establishments, comparing the 117 cities and communities in the "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County" report.
["Off-Premises Establishments" or Off-Sale Outlets are; Liquor Stores, Markets or Grocery Stores, with a Off-Sale ABC Alcohol License]
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- Among the 7 South Bay cities bordering the ocean, from El Segundo south to Rancho Palos Verdes,
Hermosa Beach ranked number 1 in the rate of violent crime, among these 7 South Bay cities.
- Hermosa Beach had more than 2 times the rate of violent crime, compared to Manhattan Beach.
- Hermosa Beach had more than 3 times the rate of violent crime, compared to Rancho Palos Verdes.
- Hermosa Beach had more than 10 times the rate of violent, crime compared to Palos Verdes Estates.
Violent Crime includes; Rape, Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Homicide.
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The following is a ranking of the violent crime rate for the:
7 South Bay Cities that border the ocean, from El Segundo south to Rancho Palos Verdes.
Compiled from the: "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County" report: data on pdf pages - 8, 9, 10
Ranked 1. Hermosa Beach number 1, in Violent Crime Rate 3.5 per 1,000 / pop.
Ranked 2. Redondo Beach number 2, in Violent Crime Rate 3.1 per 1,000 / pop.
Ranked 3. Torrance number 3, in Violent Crime Rate 2.3 per 1,000 / pop.
Ranked 4. El Segundo number 4, in Violent Crime Rate 2.1 per 1,000 / pop.
Ranked 5. Manhattan Beach number 5, in Violent Crime Rate 1.4 per 1,000 / pop.
Ranked 6. Rancho Palos Verdes number 6, in Violent Crime Rate 0.9 per 1,000 / pop.
Ranked 7. Palos Verdes Estates number 7, in Violent Crime Rate 0.3 per 1,000 / pop.
Violent Crime includes; Rape, Robbery, Aggravated Assault and Homicide.
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The following Crime Data was obtained from:
State of California Department of Justice
Bureau of Criminal Information and Analysis
Criminal Justice Statistics Center – CJSC
Searched: "Jurisdiction" - Example Search; “Hermosa Beach” and "Misdemeanor Arrests"
CJCS Statistics Homepage: https://oag.ca.gov/crime/cjsc/stats/arrests
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The "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County" report was released in December 2011:
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From 2011 to 2014, Hermosa Beach has experienced the following crime statistics:
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For 48 months, 2011 thru 2014:
Hermosa Beach had 2.4 times the Part 1 Rape crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 48 months, 2011 thru 2014:
Hermosa Beach had 1.9 times the Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 48 months, 2011 thru 2014:
Hermosa Beach had 2.2 times the Misdemeanor Arrest rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 48 months, 2011 thru 2014:
Hermosa Beach had 2.59 times the Misdemeanor Arrest rate,
compared to Redondo Beach.
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For 48 months, 2011 thru 2014:
Hermosa Beach had 3.5 times the Misdemeanor Drunk Arrest rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 48 months, 2011 thru 2014:
Hermosa Beach had 2.9 times the Misdemeanor Drunk Arrest rate,
compared to Redondo Beach.
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Hermosa Beach City Council Meeting – February 23, 2016
Study Session: Downtown Cost/Benefit Finance Analysis - 6:00 PM
Staff Report 16-0149 - DRAFT COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS, DOWNTOWN
Quotes From:
Staff Report 16-0149: DRAFT COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS, DOWNTOWN
Background:
"On June 9, 2015, staff presented the Council with a report on downtown revenue and expenses for 2013-14. The report was not an in depth analysis but more of a quick attempt to quantify expenditures as had been presented previously."
"Staff recommended that an independent third party be engaged to do a more in depth study, to include late night establishments, if Council was interested. The City Council directed staff to proceed with the study."
"Staff engaged the firm of Kosmont Companies to prepare the study, as they had prepared the cost benefit analysis for the oil project."
"The conclusion of the report is that businesses in the downtown area likely generate approximately $6.8 million in direct municipal revenue and result in approximately $6.5 million in direct municipal expenditures."
"Late night establishments within downtown generate approximately $1.3 million in direct municipal revenue and approximately $1.6 million in direct municipal expenditures."
Attachments:
1. Draft Downtown Cost Benefit Analysis Report 2-8-16.pdf
https://hermosabeach.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&ID=4255398&GUID=939F4470-609F-4487-B136-E4EA4B4FB5B1
2. Downtown Cost Benefit Public Comments and Responses.pdf
https://hermosabeach.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&ID=4259174&GUID=17588F92-8FED-4FBF-973D-96A7BA71DD76
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2021 Debate Question 6:
Do you agree with the findings and recommendations in the "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County" report, regarding the relationship of alcohol outlet density to increased violent crime in a city?
Pre-COVID, how significant of a problem has alcohol-related crime and violent crime been in the downtown area?
What changes would you implement, to make sure that violent crime in Hermosa Beach stays under control or should everything stay as is?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 7: Background Information
FBI Uniform Crime Report (UCR) Program – UCR Offense Definitions:
http://www.ucrdatatool.gov/offenses.cfm
As defined by the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the seven major Part I offenses are used to measure the extent, fluctuation, and distribution of serious crime.
Part I crimes are the seven most serious offenses in two categories (violent and property crime).
Part 1 - Serious violent crime is defined as murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Part 1 - Serious property crime is defined as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft.
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PART 1 VIOLENT CRIME STATS FROM THE HBPD:
Hermosa Beach Police Department
Monthly Crime Statistics
http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=634
Hermosa Beach Part 1 Violent Crimes of Rape, Robbery and Aggravated Assault
Hermosa Beach has experienced the following Part 1 Violent Crime statistics from 2013 thru 2015:
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Part 1 Rape
[Part 1 Rape: Listed as “Sex Crimes” in HBPD Monthly Reports]
http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=634
5 - YTD December 2013
7 - YTD December 2015
40% Increase in Part 1 Rape in Hermosa Beach
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For 24 months, 2014 thru 2015:
Hermosa Beach had 2.5 times the Part 1 Rape crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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Part 1 Robbery
6 - YTD December 2013
12 - YTD December 2015
100% Increase in Part 1 Robbery in Hermosa Beach
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For each year, 2011 and 2012,
the Hermosa Beach Police Department per capita Calls for Service
exceeded the Manhattan Beach PD Calls for Service by more than 2.5 times.
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Part 1 Aggravated Assault
17 - YTD December 2013
25 - YTD December 2015
47% Increase in Part 1 Aggravated Assault in Hermosa Beach
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For 24 months, 2014 thru 2015:
Hermosa Beach had 1.75 times the Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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Hermosa Beach Police Department
HBPD 10 Year Crime Statistics
Manhattan Beach Police Department
MBPD 20 Year Crime Statistics
https://www.citymb.info/home/showpublisheddocument?id=42050
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Pre-COVID 10 Years – 2010 to 2019
Part 1 Aggravated Assault – Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach per capita Comparison
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2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 10 Yr Total
Hermosa Beach
Aggravated Assault 15 38 27 17 19 25 22 17 22 35 237
Manhattan Beach
Aggravated Assault 20 28 26 25 15 26 13 24 21 17 215
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Part 1 Aggravated Assault
Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach Ten Year per capita comparison – 2010 to 2019
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For 120 months, 2010 thru 2019:
Hermosa Beach had 2 times the Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 60 months, 2015 thru 2019:
Hermosa Beach had 2.18 times the Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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Hermosa Beach had a 105% Increase in Part 1 Aggravated Assault from 2017 to 2019,
during the same period Manhattan Beach experienced a 41.1 % Decrease in Part 1 Aggravated Assault.
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For 48 months, 2013 thru 2016:
Hermosa Beach had 1.89 times the Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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Pre-COVID 10 Years – 2010 to 2019
Part 1 Rape – Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach per capita Comparison
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2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 10 Yr Total
Hermosa Beach
Rape 6 7 9 4 7 7 10 4 3 7 64
Manhattan Beach
Rape 6 6 7 5 2 8 8 11 8 5 66
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For 120 months, 2010 thru 2019:
Hermosa Beach had 1.76 times the Part 1 Rape crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 48 months, 2013 thru 2016:
Hermosa Beach had 2.17 times the Part 1 Rape crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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Hermosa Beach had a 75% Increase in Part 1 Rape from 2017 to 2019,
during the same period Manhattan Beach experienced a 45 % Decrease in Part 1 Rape.
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Hermosa Beach had a 133% Increase in Part 1 Rape from 2018 to 2019,
during the same period Manhattan Beach experienced a 37.5 % Decrease in Part 1 Rape.
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2021 Debate Question 7:
Numerous Pre-COVID crime statistics and research studies have Hermosa Beach ranked as having higher rates of violent crime than other comparable California cities listed in the research reports.
In particular, Pre-COVID Hermosa Beach has had a 10 year history of significantly higher crime rates for the violent crimes of Part 1 Rape and Part 1 Aggravated Assault, when compared to Manhattan Beach.
Yet both Hermosa and Manhattan are ranked as having a similar high density of alcohol outlets, as reported by the "Reducing Alcohol-Related Harms in Los Angeles County" report.
To what do you attribute the Pre-COVID 10 year history of higher crime rates for Part 1 Rape and Part 1 Aggravated Assault in Hermosa Beach, when compared directly to Manhattan Beach?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 8: Background Information
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ICMA Police Operations Report for the Hermosa Beach Police Department, released in August 2013.
http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?event_id=333&meta_id=145053
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UPDATE ON THE CITY COUNCIL'S DOWNTOWN SUBCOMMITTEE AND "DOWNTOWN ENHANCEMENT PLAN" - 10/10/2017
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The ICMA Police Operations Report for the Hermosa Beach Police Department, quotes:
Excerpts from pdf page 13 or Report page 5 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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Uniform Crime Report/Crime Comparisons
As defined by the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the seven major Part I offenses are used to measure the extent, fluctuation, and distribution of serious crime. Part I crimes are the seven most serious offenses in two categories (violent and property crime).
Serious violent crime is defined as murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Serious property crime is defined as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft.
As can be seen in Table 2, Hermosa Beach reported in 2011 a UCR Part I violent crime rate of 314 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. For UCR Part 1 property crimes, the rate in Hermosa Beach was 3,066 property crimes per 100,000 residents.
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Excerpts from pdf page 14 or Report page 6 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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TABLE 2: 2011 UCR Crime Comparisons
Looking at community crime rates, we took information from the FBI UCR Program on Crime in the United States and compared Hermosa Beach with neighboring communities and other California jurisdictions of similar populations.
For this analysis La Canada Flintridge, South El Monte, Marina, American Canyon, Arvin, and Chowchilla were used as population comparators, and Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Lawndale, and El Segundo were used as neighboring comparators.
This analysis is meant as an illustration of communities in California and how they compare with respect to rates of crime. [BOLD Added]
Examination of the comparisons presented in Table 1 indicates that Hermosa Beach has a comparably high crime rate. [BOLD Added]
Out of the seven jurisdictions with similar population, Hermosa Beach has the 4th highest violent crime rate and the highest property crime rate. [BOLD Added]
When compared with neighboring communities regardless of population, Hermosa Beach has the second highest rate of both violent and property crime. [BOLD Added]
[Note: The 6 neighboring communities include: Lawndale, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, El Segundo Torrance and Manhattan Beach]
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The following crime data for the Violent Crime Ranking for the 6 Neighboring South Bay Communities is compiled from:
ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD: - TABLE 2: 2011 UCR Crime Comparisons: on pdf page 14
From ICMA Report: Violent Crime Ranking for the 6 Neighboring South Bay Communities
Ranked 1. Lawndale number 1 in Violent Crime Rate 528 per 100,000 pop.
Ranked 2. Hermosa Beach number 2 in Violent Crime Rate 314 per 100,000 pop.
Ranked 3. Redondo Beach number 3 in Violent Crime Rate 249 per 100,000 pop.
Ranked 4. El Segundo number 4 in Violent Crime Rate 226 per 100,000 pop.
Ranked 5. Torrance number 5 in Violent Crime Rate 126 per 100,000 pop.
Ranked 6. Manhattan Beach number 6 in Violent Crime Rate 124 per 100,000 pop.
“ . . . Hermosa Beach has a comparably high crime rate.” HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 14
“When compared with neighboring communities regardless of population, Hermosa Beach has the second highest rate of both violent and property crime.” HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 14
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Excerpts from pdf page 17 or Report page 9 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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Issues Raised by Stakeholders
Staffing
• Every stakeholder group we spoke with mentioned the issue of staffing. The issue manifests itself in several ways. The greatest concern was expressed with respect to the Pier Plaza area. The feeling is that there are insufficient personnel to deal with the alcohol-related issues in the area, particularly after 10:00 p.m.
• There is a feeling, particularly among community members, that there is no police presence east of Pacific Coast Highway unless there is a call for service.
• There is a feeling among all of the sworn ranks that enforcement should be avoided in order to prevent officers being taken out of the field. Minimum staffing for patrol is described as two officers and a sergeant.
• All ranks described feeling tired and overburdened. Captains and lieutenants work overtime details to help lessen the staffing burden.
• Community members praised the department’s responsiveness and level of caring. All community members talked about lack of resources.
• Several community members noted the lack of traffic enforcement; both for moving violations and parking violations. These observations were validated by the sworn personnel.
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Excerpts from pdf page 18 or Report page 10 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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The Pier Plaza Area
• All stakeholders agree that the single biggest challenge facing the city is the alcohol-related issues being generated by the Pier Plaza bars. The Pier Plaza area is perceived as being out of control and stakeholders also perceive that there are not adequate resources to deal with the situation.
• A very common phrase, again used by all stakeholders, was that the city had created the “beach party culture” downtown and now doesn’t want to provide adequate resources to deal with this issue.
• A brief review of the daily logs suggests that alcohol abuse and other related issues are the greatest drain on patrol resources.
• There are two downtowns; one before 10:00 p.m. and one after.
• There does not seem to be any type of strategic approach to dealing with this situation.
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Excerpts from pdf page 39 or Report page 31 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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Spatial Representation of CFS Demand [Note: CFS is “Calls for Service” Demand]
The figures presented above provide a thorough examination of the service demands placed on the HBPD during different times of the day and week.
In addition to these “temporal” demands, it is also possible to illustrate the “spatial” demands on the HBPD. Examining the spatial demands permits the exploration of where incidents are occurring.
According to Figure 9, there are three distinct “hot spots” in Hermosa Beach.
The first and largest should come as no surprise, and this is the area of Pier Plaza. Clearly, this area accounts for an overwhelming amount of service demands placed on the HBPD. [BOLD Added]
The second is in the vicinity of police headquarters. Undoubtedly, this hot spot is generated due to CFS from the police station house and the higher level of vehicular and foot traffic in this vicinity.
Third is the hot spot in the vicinity of Pacific Coast Highway and 11th Street in the vicinity of Greenwood Park and Clark Park and Ralph’s Grocery Store.
These observations point to two conclusions that support issues raised during the site visit.
First, the downtown area and the beach consume the lion’s share of resources from a service demand
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Excerpts from pdf page 40 or Report page 32 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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perspective through CFS. [Note: CFS is “Calls for Service” Demand]
Conversely, the remaining areas of the community see low levels of CFS volume and support the contention that the non-downtown area is underserved with respect to police resources.
Indeed, the areas of the community that are NOT along major arteries or the downtown and beach areas show almost no concentrations of call volume at all.
On the positive side, the argument can be made that there are no problems in these areas in general, thus a police presence is not required.
On the negative side, in a department where almost 38 percent of the call volume is self-initiated (6580/17,381), officers are initiating a small amount of calls in these “other” areas, which undermines a community policing philosophy that is clearly central to the HBPD approach to policing the community.
FIGURE 9: Spatial Representation of CFS Demand [Note: CFS is “Calls for Service” Demand]
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JPEG Picture of "Spatial Representation of CFS Demand" is available on pdf page 40 or Report page 32 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?event_id=333&meta_id=145053
This JPEG Picture is an Overhead View of the CFS [HBPD's Calls for Service Demand] with 3 Hot Spots, or Hight CFS Demand areas in Hermosa Beach pictured in Red on the JPEG Picture.
NOTE: The 3 CFS, [HBPD's Calls for Service] Demand, Hot Spots in Hermosa Beach are:
1. The first and largest should come as no surprise, and this is the area of Pier Plaza. Clearly, this area accounts for an overwhelming amount of service demands placed on the HBPD. [BOLD Added]
2. The second is in the vicinity of police headquarters. Undoubtedly, this hot spot is generated due to CFS from the police station house and the higher level of vehicular and foot traffic in this vicinity.
3. Third is the hot spot in the vicinity of Pacific Coast Highway and 11th Street in the vicinity of Greenwood Park and Clark Park and Ralph’s Grocery Store.
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Revisiting the Rule of 60
Pulling all of these factors together, it appears that there are sufficient resources available on patrol to meet the CFS demands from the community.
ICMA contends, however, that the shift schedule in the HBPD needs to be reevaluated to make it more efficient and responsive to the needs of the community.
Restructuring the schedule and adding two officers to patrol will create a more efficient and effective patrol function which, in turn, will deliver better services to the community.
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Excerpts from pdf page 41 or Report page 33 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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Community Lead Sergeant (Nightclub Enforcement)
The downtown area is an important part of Hermosa Beach. Identified explicitly in the city’s strategic plan, an “eclectic downtown” in Hermosa Beach is envisioned as a unique and well-maintained focal point of the community, with a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere and locally owned retail and dining establishments.
Anecdotal evidence obtained during meetings with stakeholders in the community and members of the HBPD indicate that this vibrant public space often takes on a different character than the one desired by the community.
Numerous accounts were given about the raucous and rowdy nature that the downtown area exhibits during the evening hours due to the bar and nightclub scene.
Essentially, it appears that the “friendly” atmosphere sought by the community degrades into a disorderly location due to this nightlife.
The downtown area is an important part of Hermosa Beach, and the dining, shopping, and nightlife experience available in this area brings a vibrant social scene to the area and, along with the beach, is one of the “signature” characteristics of the community. [BOLD Added]
However, the area demands a substantial amount of attention.
From a strategic, tactical, and resource allocation perspective this area must be a high priority and the HBPD must have the resources available to maximize the positive and minimize the negative aspects of the area. [BOLD Added]
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Excerpts from pdf page 42 or Report page 34 of the ICMA Police Operations Report for the HBPD:
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Examination of CFS [Calls for Service] volume reported by the HBPD indicates that more than 20 percent of the entire CFS [Calls for Service] volume can be attributed to the downtown area.
Additionally, of all the CFS [Calls for Service] logged in the downtown area, more than 22 percent of those calls are “disturbance” calls of various types. [BOLD Added]
Essentially, one out of every twenty calls received by the HBPD are disturbance calls downtown. [BOLD Added]
Currently, the HBPD dedicates one sergeant to the downtown area. This “Community Lead Sergeant” works a shift of 1500 hours x 0300 hours, and follows the 3 on-4 off schedule, working every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening.
Complementing this position, the HBPD staffs three overtime shifts every Friday and Saturday night from 1900 hours to 0300 hours.
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The Part 1 Rape, Part 1 Robbery and Part 1 Aggravated Assault data is from the following stories from:
The Beach Reporter - March 16, 2016 - Crime is up in beach cities from 2014
The Beach Reporter - March 1, 2017 - Beach city crime trends downward, except for Redondo Beach
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Hermosa Beach has experienced the following Part 1 Violent Crime statistics:
Hermosa Beach Police Department – Monthly Crime Statistics
http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=634
City Of Hermosa Beach Monthly Department Activity Reports
http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=712
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Hermosa Beach – YTD 2013 to 2018 – 72 Months
Part 1 Rape – Part 1 Robbery – Part 1 Aggravated Assault
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2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 YTD August 2019
Hermosa Beach Jan to August 2019
Part 1 Rape 5 7 7 10 4 3 7 Rapes in 8 months
A 100% Increase in Part 1 Rape from 2013 thru 2016
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2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 YTD August 2019
Hermosa Beach Jan to August 2019
Part 1 Robbery 6 11 12 15 7 5 5 Robberies in 8 months
A 150% Increase in Part 1 Robbery from 2013 thru 2016
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2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 YTD August 2019
Hermosa Beach Jan to August 2019
Part 1 Agg. Assault 17 19 25 22 17 23 24 Assaults in 8 months
A 29.4% Increase in Part 1 Aggravated Assault from 2013 thru 2016
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For 48 months, 2013 thru 2016:
Hermosa Beach had 2.17 times the Part 1 Rape crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 48 months, 2013 thru 2016:
Hermosa Beach had 1.89 times the Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
compared to Manhattan Beach.
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For 24 months, 2014 thru 2015,
Hermosa Beach had a Part 1 Rape crime rate,
that was 2.5 times that of Manhattan Beach.
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For 24 months of, 2014 thru 2015,
Hermosa Beach had a Part 1 Aggravated Assault crime rate,
that was 1.75 times that of Manhattan Beach.
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From the ICMA Police Operations Report for the Hermosa Beach Police Department:
http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?event_id=333&meta_id=145053
"All stakeholders agree that the single biggest challenge facing the city is the alcohol-related issues being generated by the Pier Plaza bars." - HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 18
“Also, the HBPD handles a large number of “disturbance” CFS [Calls for Service], undoubtedly originating from the downtown area.” - HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 24
“ICMA recommends that the HBPD establish a committee that includes all the principal stakeholders, including representatives from all ranks within the department along with community members.” - HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 24
“This process, combined with an dedicated team in the downtown area, can have a substantial impact on reducing CFS handled by the HBPD and can free officer time on patrol to deal with quality of life and other important community problems.” - HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 24
"Thrid, it is clear that a large number of CFS are related to disturbances. Properly dealing with disturbances requires long-term problem solving and resources.” - HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 25
ICMA Report Recommendation: - HBPD ICMA Report Pdf Page 25
• Empanel a calls for service committee in order to evaluate service demands and attempt to reduce nonemergency responses.
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Honorable Mayor and Members of the Hermosa Beach City Council
Regular Meeting of October 10, 2017
Title
UPDATE ON THE CITY COUNCIL’S DOWNTOWN SUBCOMMITTEE
AND “DOWNTOWN ENHANCEMENT PLAN”
(Assistant to the City Manager Nico De Anda-Scaia)
Body
Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that City Council:
1. Receive and file staff’s update on the subcommittee’s proposed “Downtown Enhancement Plan”;
2. Discuss and provide general direction or affirmation on the subcommittee’s approach, priorities and strategies for improving the general environment of - and enhancing City operations associated with - the downtown district; and
3. Affirm the Planning Commission’s recommended modification to the Conditional Use Permit review process.
Body
Background:
The City’s downtown district has seen many changes throughout its history. Currently, the high concentration of several late-night alcohol establishments located on Pier Plaza brings large numbers of people to the area on a nightly basis. Weekends bring even larger crowds, creating a significant strain on City resources to maintain public safety and quality of life - including ensuring local ordinances such as “no smoking” and “no drinking in public” are consistently enforced.
The Downtown Subcommittee was established in November 2016 after a high profile incident occurred on the plaza that resulted in injury to three Hermosa Beach Police Officers. Following that incident, a security company was brought in to supplement the police presence on the plaza. The incident highlighted the finite number of City employees available to interact with and control the often rowdy and intoxicated patrons regularly found in the downtown area during late night hours. A more comprehensive solution needed to be developed, so the Subcommittee has embarked on a review of prior strategies employed downtown and is tasked with identifying and expanding what works, developing new ideas and strategies to enhance the environment and leveraging technology where appropriate to assist with enhancing safety and security.
The downtown district is the heart of Hermosa Beach and should be enhanced so that it becomes a more attractive, safe and welcoming focal point for all patrons. The area should be a place that allows a diversity of groups to mutually co-exist - not a place that is dominated by one group at the expense of another, and future development should maintain a seamless transition between daytime uses, family-oriented events and ensuring nighttime activities are enjoyed in a manner compatible with the area. It is the subcommittee’s opinion that the betterment of the downtown in all aspects will reflect positively on the quality of life in the community as a whole.
Analysis:
To achieve these qualities, the Downtown Subcommittee has drawn from the City’s past Sociable City assessment (Responsible Hospitality Institute, 2014), Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy (Roma Design Group, 2014) and Late Night Action Plan (2012) in proposing a comprehensive four-pronged strategy for improving the downtown’s overall environment and mitigating negative impacts of late night activities. The following is a summary of the subcommittee’s initial strategies for the downtown (outlined herein as ‘Tracks’), which include a combination of data collection, application of available legislative tools, smart deployment of resources, and public realm/environmental design improvements. To this end, the sections below list past and present efforts associated with improving the environment, safety and general ambiance of the City’s downtown - seeking policy clarification and direction on key strategies as necessary.
TRACK 1: Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) (Public Realm Design)
This initiative centers on the importance of the built and maintained environment in shaping public attitudes and local behaviors. Through the enhancement of design components such as beautification elements, lighting, cleanliness and overall landscape of key areas, cities have shown the ability to curb negative behaviors of patrons (reduce opportunities for criminal activity) while creating an atmosphere that is inviting to a broader range of visitors and potential businesses.
As an example, in 2010, the City invested in improvements to upper Pier Avenue that have had significant benefits on the character, quality and business make-up of that corridor. In order to nurture positive change in our more central downtown core, the City should take a more targeted/deliberate approach to enhancing the public realm in the downtown core.
Lighting
The Subcommittee has identified the need for new lighting in the downtown area to increase safety and security, as well as to enhance the ambiance of the district in order to create a more inviting atmosphere and stimulate economic growth. A complete lighting overhaul of the existing downtown lighting scheme is necessary to correct for current deficiencies. Some of these strategies include:
• Enhanced and appropriate downtown lighting and visibility - safety/security (Pier Plaza, Downtown Parking Lots, Beach Drive, The Strand and Pier, Hermosa Avenue).
• Integration of aesthetic lighting (extension of string lights across Hermosa Ave.)
• Partnership with downtown businesses to ensure additional/adequate lighting behind private establishments.
• Automate safety/security lighting (e.g. Pier Plaza flood lighting on a timer).
Cleanliness
• Review of cleaning schedule/Athens contract (assess efficiencies, porter system w/ equitable pricing structure, etc.).
• Modify street sweeping cleaning schedules (2:30am cleaning of Pier Plaza).
• Increase power washing of Plaza, Strand and parking lots.
• Reinstitute porter service (parking lot compactor).
• Hiring additional ‘ambiance ambassadors’ for improving consistent cleanliness of downtown areas.
Sustainability and Conservation
• Parking Lot D Improvement Project
• Healthy Air Hermosa: maintaining high quality outdoor and public spaces in Hermosa Beach through the Healthy Air Hermosa program, and/or subsequent programs which aim to reducing cigarette smoke and litter.
Parking
• Explore linking parking strategies being studied for Coastal Zone Parking Management Study and Downtown Revitalization with objectives of the Downtown Enhancement Plan.
• Implementation of Demand-based parking strategies (i.e. reduced rates in lots, increased night-time rates throughout downtown).
• Real-time parking supply signage added to major City lots/structures to improve circulation and access to the beach and The Strand.
• Phase 3 parking meter technology upgrades.
Additional Public Realm Improvements
• Increased way-finding signage for public restrooms in downtown.
• Coordination with rideshare companies; explore designated drop-off/pick-up locations similar to LAX.
• Downtown public restroom improvements.
• Plaza built-environment renewal (consider: artificial grass spaces/tiles, public art installations, fountain, mobile library, kiosks, child-friendly structures, outdoor seating, etc.).
• Continued downtown enhancements (i.e. trash bin receptacles, tree grates, light posts, way-finding signage, etc.).
• Special paving or painted crosswalk at the Pier Ave/Hermosa Ave Intersection.
• Repaving of parking lots A and B.
TRACK 2: Enhanced Enforcement Presence/Prevention through Education
Although enforcement alone has proven not to deter negative behaviors in the long-run, it remains a critical component of any effective strategy for setting acceptable standards of behavior, changing perceptions of community safety and promoting a welcoming atmosphere.
Public Safety
• Circulating designated HBPD officers more effectively throughout the downtown for proactive/targeted policing. PD bicycle patrols, training and deployment.
• PD to explore further operational/enforcement opportunities with multi-jurisdictional task forces.
• Contracting with neighboring/regional law enforcement agencies for additional downtown support such as coordination of regular DUI checkpoints.
• Utilization of smart surveillance technology and communication systems to improve crime prevention and inform the community regarding actions to take in case of an emergency.
• Renovation of office area in Municipal Parking Structure to serve as a downtown sub-station.
• ‘Shoulder Tap’ program/ABC grant (detection/deterrence of alcohol sales to minors).
• Set standard for consistent restaurant/bar security uniforms on the Plaza.
• Evaluate and modify private security plans for establishments (PD to create/provide a standard security plan for businesses who haven’t implemented these).
• Tracking of ‘over-serving’, occupancy loads and other violations at downtown establishments.
• Crime reporting: tying incidents to establishments of origin.
Code Enforcement
• Ramped-up Enforcement: open containers, smoking, public intoxication, trash behind businesses, urination, noise and other violations.
• Explore expansion of CSO responsibilities (without reducing parking enforcement and other responsibilities).
• Enhanced cross-training for staff across departments (PC 832 Training).
• ABC training workshop for employees of alcohol-serving establishments.
Homelessness
• Mental Health Evaluation Team (Partnership between cities of HB, MB, RB).
• Regional PATH services funded through FY2017/18.
• Ongoing partnership with LA County on County Homeless Strategy, annual homeless counts and other programs.
• ‘Home for Good’ Homeless Prevention and Strategic Planning Grant.
TRACK 3: Land Use/Economic Vitality and Incentives
Diversifying Uses Downtown
As Hermosa Beach has matured as a community, the downtown has evolved as well. Still, the downtown businesses do not serve a broad cross-section of the population and provide less in the way of diverse retail and fine dining than would be expected, given the demographics of the community and the high quality assets of the area.
Within the downtown as a whole as well as within the core, there is a need to increase the day-time population to add life and vitality that goes beyond the typical recreationally-oriented uses that have been historically attracted to the beach setting of Hermosa Beach (Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy, 2014).
The Subcommittee recognizes the need to balance visitor-serving and local-serving uses as a key to preserving character and the economic vitality of the community.
• Fostering/encouraging retention and attraction of a greater diversity of business uses downtown (e.g. Updated parking standards/requirements,
• Develop plans and programs for underutilized spaces, such as vacant buildings, utility corridors, parkways, etc., for temporary retail, restaurant, and community-promoting uses (e.g. pop-up art gallery).
• Strategic community event scheduling to attract desired demographic. Arts and cultural activities focused in and around the Downtown, Farmer’s Market, etc.
• Enhance the area’s role as a visitor destination by facilitating catalyst projects, such as boutique hotels that provide specific benefits to the community.
Short Term Entertainment Permit (STEP)*
A need has been identified for incentivizing diverse entertainment options in the City that are both a desirable public benefit and present no-to-low impact on city resources, residents and the business community. THRIVE Hermosa - a community based organization designed to utilize and activate local talent and resources - has approached City staff with a proposal for a six-month pilot program aimed at facilitating and simplifying the permitting process for desirable “low impact” entertainment options for local businesses in the downtown.
Via an affordable, easy-to-understand and streamlined permit - along with recommendations for improving the website and revising the HBMC - the ultimate goal of STEP is to help create a more vibrant downtown while attracting visitors during what are typically non-peak/”slow” hours. Attachment 8 of this report outlines STEP in detail.
*The City’s Community Development Department is in the process of vetting this proposal. If viable as presented, the recommendations will then need to be considered by the Planning Commission.
TRACK 4: Compliance Mechanisms/Legislative Tools
Late night alcohol serving and live entertainment businesses are required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), and to operate in compliance with the conditions of their CUP which are intended to ensure compatibility with the downtown district and mitigate adverse impacts.
The Planning Commission conducts periodic reviews of all Late Night Establishment (LNE) CUPs, and based on review of crime, code enforcement and incident data, the Commission may hold hearings to consider modifying or revoking a CUP to resolve problems, based on evidence of violations of CUP conditions, violations of ABC law, violations of the HBMC, or evidence of adverse impacts indicative of a lack of adequate management and security.
The Planning Commission established a bi-annual CUP review approach and policy, approved by City Council in 2011, and following its July 18th meeting is recommending increasing these periodic reviews from two to three times a year, and including more data collection and evaluation of responsible alcohol beverage service as an indicator in the CUP review process.
Attachments 9 & 10 of this report delineate the modifications that are being recommended by the Planning Commission for the process and standards of review for on-sale alcoholic beverage Conditional Use Permits. Council is being asked to review these and affirm the recommended modifications.
Additional possible legislative tools and compliance approaches for curbing negative impacts in the downtown may include, but are not limited to:
• Setting interior illumination standards for LNEs.
• Holding problem LNEs accountable for added security demands (requiring establishments that are responsible for 'extraordinary policing’ demands to absorb these costs).
• Requiring standard ‘Security Plan’ with PD approval for downtown restaurants/bars (incorporate in CUPs).
Looking Ahead:
While some observers note that our downtown has improved gradually over time and Pier Plaza is a safer/better/more-pleasant destination than just five years ago, addressing the diverse and evolving needs of our community while leveraging finite municipal resources continues to be a struggle and requires a comprehensive strategy along with a consistent vision among our policy leaders.
This draft plan is therefore intended as a living document with the expectation that it will evolve as issues change in both gravity and priority throughout our downtown. Furthermore, as the business community and other stakeholders are ultimately engaged in this process, the City’s role may also adjust as partnerships are formed to tackle some of these issues.
It is therefore the subcommittee’s intent to receive general feedback and affirmation from the City Council body on the broader scope/direction of these initial strategies prior to moving forward. The subcommittee and/or staff expect to return to Council with periodic updates of this plan as needed.
Immediate Next Steps:
Over the coming months, staff will be returning to Council for adoption of a revised Athens Contract (more-closely reflecting Council’s feedback and priorities as a result of this meeting), and approval of a lighting design plan for the downtown by Environ Architecture, Inc.
Following Council’s input on the downtown lighting design plan, staff will move forward with the purchase and installation of lighting systems/structures.
For a status update on other completed, in-progress and ongoing projects associated with general downtown enhancement, please refer to the tracking document included as ‘Attachment 3’ to this report.
Financial Implications:
No immediate fiscal implications associated with the downtown enhancement plan update. Staff will return to Council with detailed financial information on individual projects requiring formal direction and approval by the Council body.
Attachments:
1. Downtown District/Core Area Map
2. Strategic Plan Goal 1 with Actions (2016)
3. Downtown Enhancement-Related Project Tracking Document
4. ‘Sociable City’ Evaluation of Nighttime Social Activity Report (2014)
5. Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy (2014)
6. Late Night Action Plan (Revised, 2017)
7. HBPD Downtown Plaza Business Guidelines (2017)
8. Short Term Entertainment Permit - THRIVE Hermosa
9. Process and Standards for Review of On-Sale Alcoholic Beverage Conditional Use Permits
10. Planning Commission CUP Review Process Staff Report (7/18/2017)
11. Written Communication from Robert Reiss
Respectfully Submitted by: Nico De Anda-Scaia, Assistant to the City Manager
Concur: Sharon Papa, Police Chief
Concur: Ken Robertson, Community Development Director
Approved: Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager
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2021 Debate Question 8:
Do you agree with these quotes from the ICMA report? “ it is clear that a large number of CFS [Calls for Service] are related to disturbances.” and “ Properly dealing with disturbances requires long-term problem solving and resources.”
Do you agree with this ICMA report’s recommendation to: “Empanel a Calls for Service committee, that includes all the principal stakeholders, including representatives from all ranks within the department along with community members”?
What steps would you take to the establishment of this Calls for Service committee?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 9: Background Information
This debate question is based the following City webpage and City Notice:
Parking and Sidewalk Access Reminders – City of Hermosa Beach
http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=914
PARKING EXAMPLES: DO'S AND DON'TS OF PROPER PARKING FOR SIDEWALK ACCESS
California Vehicle Code Section 22500 states that it is illegal for a vehicle to block access to a sidewalk.
The code states:
“No person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle whether attended or unattended, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the directions of a peace officer or official traffic control device, in any of the following places:
(f) On any portion of a sidewalk, or with the body of the vehicle extending over any portion of a sidewalk, except electric carts when authorized by local ordinance, as specified in Section 21114.5.
Lights, mirrors, or devices that are required to be mounted upon a vehicle under this code may extend from the body of the vehicle over the sidewalk to a distance of not more than 10 inches.”
If your vehicle is blocking sidewalk access, handicapped persons and other pedestrians are forced into our City streets.
If your driveway is not long enough to accommodate your vehicle, consider parking perpendicular to your garage so that sidewalks are accessible.
Did you know the City has designated “Safe Routes to School?”
These are streets and sidewalks that children walk along every day. Take a look at your street. Do you live on a designated "Safe Route?"
The way you park in your driveway and in front of your residence impacts access to the sidewalks on these streets.
Please remember to BE AWARE & PARK WITH CARE.
Always park responsibly and keep sidewalks clear so that children and pedestrians are not forced to walk in the streets.
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NOTE: 8th Street is a Safe Route to School
Notice of Upcoming 8th Street Construction
Posted Date: 6/19/2019 6:00 PM
http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?recordid=1364&page=28
NOTICE OF UPCOMING 8th STREET CONSTRUCTION
June 19, 2019
Subject: 8th Street Improvements (Capital Improvement Project 14-173)
Dear Occupant/Property Owner:
This notice is to let you know that the City of Hermosa Beach will begin construction for the 8th Street Improvement Project the week of July 8th. The project will be led by Gentry General Engineering and construction improvements along 8th Street between Valley Drive and Hermosa Avenue will include:
Creation of a continuous, accessible sidewalk on the north and south sides of the street
Removal of encroachments from the public right of way as necessary
Refreshing of crosswalks and striping along the corridor
What to Expect During Construction
Once the project begins construction, it is expected to take approximately 10 weeks to complete the work, pending weather delays and other unforeseen conditions. To minimize inconveniences, the construction work will be split into phases. Work will begin on the north side of the street beginning and estimated to begin at Valley Drive working toward Hermosa Avenue, before shifting to the south side of the street.
Construction hours are limited to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Monday through Friday. As the project work is scheduled to begin in your immediate neighborhood, additional updates and notifications will be posted on the City website, and fliers will be provided to residents that will provide details for:
Street sweeping and trash collection schedule changes
Temporary parking restrictions posted at least 72 hours in advance
Sidewalk and street closures or detours
Parking and Encroachments
During the project construction and at all times following the completion of the project, residents must make arrangements to ensure vehicles or equipment are not parked across or hanging over the sidewalk (or location where sidewalks are to be constructed). Please make arrangements now to clear space in your garage, schedule a bulky item pick-up, or obtain a parking permit for the permitted area to avoid citations or towing of vehicles. [ Underline and Bold added ]
Additionally, please be advised that the project construction will involve the removal of unpermitted encroachments into the public right-of-way by the contractor including fencing, bricks, steps, and landscaping. If you are unsure whether your improvements are located on your property or within the right-of-way, please contact us.
Community Meeting
A community meeting will be held on Wednesday June 26th from 3:30 to 4:30 PM
at the Clark Building located at 861 Valley Drive.
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Parking and Sidewalk Access Reminders
https://www.hermosabeach.gov/our-government/police-department/parking-and-sidewalk-access-reminders
Please remember to be aware and park with care! Maintaining access to sidewalks ensures that everyone can safely travel without stepping into traffic.
The City of Hermosa Beach maintains a Safe Routes to School program and has identified multiple safety corridors throughout the city where crossing guards can assist at the most congested intersections. Please use the "Contact Us" link for more information.
California Vehicle Code Section 22500 specifically provides that:
No person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle whether attended or unattended, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the directions of a peace officer or official traffic control device, in any of the following places:
(f) On any portion of a sidewalk, or with the body of the vehicle extending over any portion of a sidewalk, except electric carts when authorized by local ordinance, as specified in Section 21114.5. Lights, mirrors, or devices that are required to be mounted upon a vehicle under this code may extend from the body of the vehicle over the sidewalk to a distance of not more than 10 inches.
Did you know the City has designated “Safe Routes to School?”
These are the streets that children traverse on their wat to schools.
They include:
Valley Dr. 2nd St.
Pier Ave. 5th St.
Ardmore Dr. 8th St.
Monterey Blvd. 14th St.
Prospect Ave. 16th St.
The Strand 21st St.
Morningside Dr. 27th St.
Longfellow Ave.
Artesia Blvd.
Gould Ave.
If your vehicle is blocking sidewalk access, handicapped persons and other pedestrians are forced into our City streets.
Is the vehicle in your driveway or the front of your residence blocking sidewalk access?
The way you park in your driveway and in front of your residence impacts access to the sidewalks on these streets.
Please remember to BE AWARE & PARK WITH CARE
Always park responsibly and keep sidewalks clear so that children and pedestrians are not forced to walk in the streets.
Check to make sure your sidewalk is accessible to ensure our children’s safety.
Are you sharing the road with young pedestrians?
--- Don’t block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic.
--- In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection.
--- Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign.
--- Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas.
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2021 Debate Question 9:
The following statement is from the City of Hermosa Beach, NOTICE OF UPCOMING 8th STREET CONSTRUCTION:
“During the project construction and at all times following the completion of the project, residents must make arrangements to ensure vehicles or equipment are not parked across or hanging over the sidewalk “
Should Safe Routes to School sidewalks be available for all Hermosa Beach school children and residents to use without parked cars obstructing the sidewalks, at any time of day and 365 days a year, just like 8th Street?
Should California Vehicle Code Section 22500 be strictly enforced in Hermosa Beach on Safe Routes to School or not?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 10: Background Information
https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/vehicle-code/veh-sect-21368.html
Whenever a marked pedestrian crosswalk has been established in a roadway contiguous to a school building or the grounds thereof, it shall be painted or marked in yellow as shall be all the marked pedestrian crosswalks at an intersection in case any one of the crosswalks is required to be marked in yellow.
Other established marked pedestrian crosswalks may be painted or marked in yellow if either (a) the nearest point of the crosswalk is not more than 600 feet from a school building or the grounds thereof,
There shall be painted or marked in yellow on each side of the street in the lane or lanes leading to all yellow marked crosswalks the following words, “SLOW--SCHOOL XING,” except that such words shall not be painted or marked in any lane leading to a crosswalk at an intersection controlled by stop signs, traffic signals, or yield right-of-way signs. A crosswalk shall not be painted or marked yellow at any location other than as required or permitted in this section.
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Note: The rear entrance/exit of the Valley School exits on to Loma Dr. near 16th St.
This rear entrance of the Valley School, at one time had an established marked School Crosswalk crossing Loma Dr.
This marked School Crosswalk more than a decade ago, was paved over or seal coated over and the School Crosswalk was never replaced.
This marked School Crosswalk at the rear of the Valley School was established at one time, and was paved over or seal coated over and this marked School Crosswalk and should have been replaced because, CVC 21368 states: “Whenever a marked pedestrian crosswalk has been established in a roadway contiguous to a school building or the grounds thereof, it shall be painted or marked in yellow…”
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2021 Debate Question 10:
Should the City of Hermosa Beach follow the guidelines of California Vehicle Code Section 21368 and upgrade or install new School Crosswalks on intersections up to 600 feet from a school building or the grounds thereof?
And should the traffic lanes leading to all School Crosswalks be marked with “SLOW--SCHOOL XING” ?
Should the marked School Crosswalk on Loma Dr. at the rear of the Valley School that was established at one time, now be replaced with a new yellow marked School Crosswalk?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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2021 Debate Question 11:
To what do you attribute the following ongoing threats to public safety in Hermosa Beach?
These 3 problems have been allowed to exist for decades in Hermosa Beach, and all efforts that have been directed to address the problems has had little or no effect on the outcomes.
Is there a common thread of neglect or willingness to look the other way in Hermosa Beach, that allows these problems to continue?
What are your thoughts?
1 minute response from each City Council Candidate
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Closing Statements: 2 minutes for each Candidate’s Closing Statement
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End of the 2021 Hermosa Beach City Council Candidate Debate
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