City Council - Regular Meeting

So all you guys are here to see me. Whatever I did, I got to do more of it.

Um, uh, before we start though, I'm telling everybody we got a lot of people here for a lot of different things. So, we're probably going to change the time limits for speakers so that we can get everybody here before midnight. All right. So, madame clerk. Oh, can everybody stand for the pledge of allegiance? Place your right hand over your heart. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. But if he doesn't

cover it. Okay. Now, madame city clerk, could you call the role? Yes, Mayor Corm is present for the city council successor agency housing authority and joint powers authority.

Okay. So due to the uh number of attendees which we love to see uh we're going to cut first general comment about anything on the agenda except for the public hearings to two minutes. So, is there anyone that wants to speak uh to the city council successor agency housing authority joint powers authority on any item on the agenda other than the public hearings may do so at this time for two minutes hearing no general public comment will go to item one CSA1 and H1 warrant register

receive and file now madam city clerk what's the next scheduled item. Yes, mayor. The next scheduled matter is a p is a is a public hearing uh to consider general plan amendment [clears throat] number 2022-00001 to amend the land use element map of the Inglewood general plan from industrial to commercial residential. Has the uh notice of hearing been given in a time form and manners required by law and do you have the affidavit on file? Yes, mayor. Notices have been given and an affidavit is on file. Have any communications been received on this matter?

Yes, mayor. Communications have been received and passed out to everyone on the dis. Is there a staff report? Mr. Mayor, there is. Uh the community development director is Mr. Bernard McCr. Welcome, Bernard.

Good afternoon, mayor, members of the council. Um, as mentioned, um, the applicant has requested a general plan amendment to change the existing industrial land use designation, um, to commercial residential to facilitate the development of a hotel mixeduse project, mixeduse hotel development. [snorts] Under state law, every city is required to maintain a land use map. This map may be amended by the city council in the interest of the public in the best interest of the public. As requested, the GPA meets the public interest standard by the following. One is allowing the creation or facilitating the opportunity to develop 11 forale condo units which which will create a pathway to home ownership for local renters and help the city meet its RENA um obligation uh as required by the state of California's department of housing and community development. This will also introduce a contemporary land use of an extended stay hotel that is consistent with the current land use designation of C2A. Um this this general plan amendment will um provide the city the opportunity to bring consistency between our existing zoning and our land use designation. Currently, our uh as mentioned, our existing land use designation is industrial, and I'll get to a a slide that shows that um shortly. The proximity of this proposed project to the sports and entertainment district will benefit residents and visitors alike by providing retail, entertainment, and activities in a walkable

mixeduse mixeduse structure. And lastly, the opportunity to develop a hotel will expand local employment opportunities and generate toot or transit oriented taxes that will support the city's general fund operations. So, as mentioned before, um the existing general plan designation is industrial, which is highlighted by all of the gray. Now, I want everyone to understand that we're the city is currently in the process of updating its comprehensive land use general plan, which is going to align um with what the proposed general plan designation is. And so, as we move through the the process of the general plan update, the area you see in gray will ultimately be the same color as what's being proposed today. So, as we move forward with this general plan amendment, what will it allow the applicant to do? Well, the applicant is proposing um a hotel with 11, as I mentioned, with 11 um four cell units along with an a pretty substantial amount of commercial um use at the bottom floor. Um [snorts] the applicant will be required if this general plan amendment is approved today to then file for a planned assembly development which essentially is a special use permit. Um they would need to go before the planning commission. Um, sandwiched in between the plan, assembly, development is their site plan review application. And of course, then they would need to subdivide the property um via track map and um a parcel map to consolidate all the applicable part parcels.

[snorts]

Um the the request is also asking the council to affirm um a mitigated negative declaration that uh was reviewed by a third party peer review by a third party consultant agency um and it and confirmed that with mitigation um appropriate mitigation as as proposed that the uh project would not have an impact um a substantial impact on the community. [snorts] And then lastly, as I mentioned before, we're looking to continue to to bring consistency between our general plan and our zone existing zoning, which um we're in the process of doing comprehensively, but this will um help us to facilitate that. As mentioned, um, one letter of in support, uh, was received, um, at the time that this presentation was prepared. Um, and that concludes Stal's presentation. Be happy to answer any questions you may have um, in the interest of time. Just wanted to be short and sweet.

Thank you very much for that. Now, uh, we're at the public comment portion. because there's a lot of interest in this. We're going to maintain the three minutes and so that doesn't mean you have to use it, but you have three minutes. So, anyone that has any comment on this item may do so at this time.

Go ahead, sir. Hello. Hello. Oh. Um, hello. My name is Vetto Basuto. I am with the Anchor Church. Our ministry is happy to support projects like this one with clear community benefits for the people in our congregation who work and live in the in Englewood and surrounding communities. We ask today that you vote yes in support as well to give those in need of a second chance an opportunity to improve their lives. Thank you.

Thank you. Next. Good afternoon. My name is Corey Crocker. I am a member of Carpenters Local 323. I've been a carpenter for the last 29 years. Um, this development is a great development. Um, we hope that you approve this general plan amendment. So, this development can happen. Um, we have a lot of members and apprentices that live in the local area and this project will benefit those apprentices tremendously. It'll allow folks to start a career, finish a career, and just all in all um make a pathway to the middle class and improve the lives of local Englewood residents. Thank you.

Thank you. Uh good afternoon, mayor, council members. My name is Salvador George. I'm one of the representatives of with the Carpenters Union representing 93,000 members in the 12 western states. This project is uh being built by a responsible developer who understands the success that starts with accountability. That means hiring a reput reputable general contractor, ensuring subcontractors are properly licensed and compliant. making sure the workers are paid on time, the correct wage rates, and with benefits. This chain of responsibility is critical. When every level plays by the rules, projects run smoothly and communities benefit. What happens without responsibility? When irresponsible contractors are allowed in cities often see wage theft and mclassification, workers left unpaid or underpaid, lawsuits, leans, and project delays. taxpayers ultimately absorbing the cost. Responsible contractors like the one we have here today prevents those outcomes before from ever happening. This project represents more than just a development. It represents opportunity. Opportunity for local residents to work close to home, families to earn stable incomes, workers to receive health care and retirement benefits. While people who live in Iglwood get the chance to work in Iglwood, those wages circulate locally. That strains neighborhoods, support small businesses, and builds long-term economic stability. At the end of the day, responsible development means everyone wins, workers are treated fairly, projects are

delivered on time, the city avoids unnecessary risk, and the community grows stronger. I urge the council to support this project and continue prioritizing responsible contractors and responsible development. Thank you for your time. Thank you, sir. Next speaker.

Hello. My name is Jesus Kamargo. I'm with the Western States Carpenters. Um, I support this bill. Uh, good evening, mayor. Uh, council. Uh, my name is Jesus Kamargo. I'm here to support this hotel project and the importance of the responsible construction. The responsibility developer. A responsible developer hires a responsible general contractors who then hires responsible subcontractors. The chain of responsibility ensures everyone stays by the rules. Responsibility. Responsible contractors prioritize priorize job site safety, proper training and compliance with labor laws so workers go home safely every day. They also provide position uh pension contribution allowing the people who build this project to one day retire with dignity. And that's a big thing. We all want to retire with good money. You know, we don't want to

retire with nothing. Uh this project can be built safely, responsibility, uh responsible, and in a way that benefits the workers and the community. Uh having trained workers right here on this job site, it's going to get guys that that built it right. Um, and that that's the big ticket for us, you know. Uh, when you get trained workers over there, you won't have no problems with with the community, with the traffic and all that. And that's a big push for us, you know. So, I support this. Thank you. Thank you. Next speaker.

Afternoon everyone. My name is Richard Cow and I'm with Smart Local 105. We support this project and we ask for your support by voting yes. We believe in projects like this one. We commend this developer for committing to pay union level wages so that the workers and community are supported. Housing has become so expensive and accessible. But thanks to this developer, local trades people will be able to afford better living conditions and a chance of working in the Englewood community. We support this project and all that it will do for the community. Please support this project with your vote by voting yes. Thank you for your time. Thank you, sir. [clears throat]

Good evening. My name is Roger Croner. I'm a carpenter member. I'm here to speak about uh the importance of this project. First of all, I want to thank you council people for allowing us to speak on this matter. I'm in support of this project, but I'm here to briefly uh talk about the importance of the union healthcare that this projects like this will provide. Also, we're responsible contractors involved. Um many of the times we think about job wages and uh how fast we can get the project built, but we don't talk about the health care that comes along with those great benefits that these union wages and union uh labor provides. Um tell you a small story about what happened to me uh two years ago and my wife. um after no more morning on Monday morning I was getting dressed to go to work and my wife was uh uh talking to me on the way out and um she started complaining about some upper uh chest pain and back pain and you see being a carpenter or a construction worker we don't complain too much about anything we don't not the kind of people that go to the doctor or anything so when she started talking about that we started thinking okay well it's just pain but uh knowing my wife since high school we've been together since high school uh home of the Colts of Carson Um, I know it was something that not not something to skip over. She was making some uh comments about it. So, I said, "Hey, you know what? Let me skip work. Take it to the doctor." Well, when we were at the doctor, we discovered that she was having a major heart attack. Uh, if it weren't for us that had that healthc care, uh, I don't know if I would be standing here today as still as a new member. Um, she, uh, they put two stem cells. They, uh, saved her life. Um, if it weren't for that health care, I don't know. So, now we're still dealing with one:00 lottery, uh, going to constant doctor visits every month, uh, dealing with medication and hoping that, um, it'll cure it the third one. So, I'm here to point out sometimes that we talk about, hey, uh, getting this project built and how we're going to

save money and stuff like that. We need to focus on the importance of the other stuff, the healthcare that carpenters and union members working on these projects have a healthcare that we don't become a burden to the societ to our uh healthcare our cities with emergency rooms already overcrowded and healthcare being out the window. Um we need to think about that. So I urge you to also think about those moments that we just wake up on a Monday morning and are getting dressed and you hear something. Um, I ask you to please support this project. We have a responsible contractor on board and let's get it built the right way the first time. Thank you for your time.

Thank you, sir. Are there any other speakers? Are there anyone downstairs? There's nobody downstairs. Okay, there's one more. I think the whole line is Okay, go right ahead.

Okay, sorry. Thank you. Good afternoon. My name is Andrea Romero and I'm proud member of Unite Care Local 11. I urge you to require a real transportation demand management uh plan for uh 4200 uh century project. The project is quite significant. It is a 13story building with 11 condos, 118 service apartments and 175 hotel rooms as well as a broadcast studio, rooftop pool, health club, food hall and bar/cafe. Transportation mitigations suggested are very modest, including a 75 cent per day transit subsidy to 30% of employees, which would not even cover the cost of a single ride on a metro bus. Please do more to mitigate these impacts by including uh deed restricted affordable housing, achieving leed uh platinum standards, and including a mandatory commuter reduction program that Sorry, that could include meaningfully subsidized transit passes for hotel workers, a shuttle service for hotel patrons to visit nearby destinations, and more. Thank you.

Thank you. Uh, do we have any other speakers out in the hallway that are waiting to speak? So, hold on one second, ma'am. Okay. So, here's what we got to do. We have fire regulations, you guys. So, if you've had the opportunity to speak, could we have five people agree to go outside because we we can't fill overfill the room. Is there anybody that's spoken?

Okay. Okay. So, so how many people more people in the room want to speak on this item? Raise your hand, please. Okay, so you guys are the volunteers to Okay, go ahead, ma'am. construction. Mayor, would you like me to translate the comment? Go right ahead.

Hi, my name is Graciella and I live here in Englewood. I am also a member of Unite here local 11. I'm in a housing crisis. The sing city of Englewood should not be considering approval of a general plan amendment and a change to the zoning code to allow the construction of the project at 4200 Century Boulevard with zero affordable housing units. I believe the inclusion of affordable housing would provide a significant community benefit and serve to miticate mitigate some of the environmental impacts of this project. Please do not approve the project as is. Thank you. Thank you. Next speaker.

Greetings honorable mayor, council members. My name is Jordan Sison. I'm a land use attorney here speaking on on behalf of local 11 heard him earlier asking you to deny the project approvals. We raised several concerns uh last year in December and unfortunately the response to comments that we received recently does not address those issues. Here you're leaving off feasible mitigation measures. U these were also outlined in our comments submitted earlier today as well as expert GHG comments also included therein. For my limited time, I just want to highlight a couple of those issues. First, the MND claims that these are 118 service apartments. That is not a term in your code. These are hotel rooms. That could be a potential uh project description issue. Um second, your construction emissions modeling is outdated. Um that has not been updated. Furthermore, in terms of your land use consistency, this project is 13 stories, 150 ft. This is in no way consistent with the adjacent properties, largely one to two stories um and limited under the code to seven stories. That is not addressed, nor is it explained how the airport land use plan uh consistency is going to be made here. [snorts] In [clears throat] terms of solar panels, the M andd does not discuss whether or not 100% of the energy needs can be accommodated. They're actually very non-committal. Um case law is very clear that considering whether or not renewable energy can be incorporated is a relevant topic. Furthermore, when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions, uh we give ample opportunity to uh consider robust and conservative thresholds. The response to comments simply says the city doesn't have to. Unfortunately, it can explain with substantial evidence why that threshold is proper. Um that is also demonstrated by our expert comment

letters not only critical of the threshold but also the qualitative and quantitative analysis provided therein. Furthermore, the VMT study provides minimal uh traffic demand management uh strategies as you heard minimal subsidy and with the release of the staff report, it was announced or disclosed for the first time that there are single family homes and multifamily units that will be replaced. That's nowhere discussed in that end. That's significant new information. There's been no analysis whether or not the replacement housing program that's in the housing element is going to be complied with. Um this is all reasons why an M andd is not appropriate here. In my concluding comments, this is not an EI. This is an M andd subject to a low fair argument standard. Here there is substantial evidence that there will be a reasonable impact. There are feasible mitigation measures that we urge you to consider through a proper review. Thank you for your time and council members.

Thank you sir. Next speaker.

Good afternoon. My name is Jose Delgado. I'm a proud member of Here Local 11 and I live in District 1. Englewood currently needs more affordable housing so working people are not pushed out of the city that we helped build. Development should serve our community. I am disappointed that during the housing crisis, the city of Inglewood is considering major zoning changes to allow developer to build 13tory project at 4200 Century Boulevard with service departments, condos, and a hotel, but no affordable housing and inadequate environmental protections. I urge you to require this project to fully address its impacts by including affordable housing, meaning lead platinum standards and implementing a strong commuter reduction program such as subsided strateg guests. Please do not approve this project as is. Thank you for your time.

Thank you. And please, I appreciate it. as we speak, if we could exit in the hallway so that we can bring other people in. Go ahead, sir.

Good afternoon. Uh, my name is Manny Cabera. I am with Unite Here Local 11 representing over 32,000 hotel and stadium workers. I do not believe this project adequately evaluated its greenhouse gas impact. The project would generate 4.88 hit 8 metric tons of carbon carbon dioxide per person per year, which exceeds the South Coast Air Quality Management District threshold for 3.0 metric tons. This project needs stronger mitigation measures, including affordable housing, lead platinum standards, and mandatory commuter reduction programs with subsidized transit passes for workers and shuttle services for hotel guests. An environment impact report should be prepared with an updated greenhouse gas analysis and enforcable mitigation measures to reduce emissions as as much as possible before the project is approved. The EIR should also demonstrate a commitment to the implementation of these measures. Please do not approve this project as is. Thank you.

Thank you, sir. Good evening everyone. Uh my name is Jose Ro. I am a proud member of LANA International Union of North America. And on behalf of my hardworking men and women out there, we fully support this project moving forward. This this project will create so many jobs for our members and residents who live here in the city. Um projects like these will fair wages with great benefits, but also it will great it will give second chances and it would give it will help break the cycle of recidivism. 23 years ago a project similar to this one gave me that second chance and now um it made a tremendous change in my life. Luna has an apprenticeship program that enables us to to to obtain the skills needed to succeed in today's economy and society. Uh projects like these uh give hope and that's what we need here in the city, jobs, um good careers, a retirement plan. Projects like these um it's it's a positive for the city um for working men. Um our apprentichip program certifies us to uh build with the higher standards so you could assure that this project will be built safely on time and and to the higher standards. Please approve this project. Thank you for your time.

Thank you sir. Next speaker.

Good afternoon council members. Uh my name is Todd Nelson. Um here on behalf of the applicant team um In consideration of the number of speakers that you still have, I want to keep these remarks brief. I wanted to quickly respond to some of the environmental review comments that were made by some prior speakers. Um, as Mr. McCroy noted in his staff report, the uh California Environmental Quality Act document that was prepared for the general plan amendment that was in front of you was prepared by an expert consultant and reviewed by a third party consultant retained by the city to verify its conclusions. Some of the concerns that have been raised today include saying that additional mitigation should have been imposed but the M andd mitigated negative declaration document demonstrates that with the identified mitigation no environmental impacts will occur. Um there was a comment regarding the height exceedence and FAA concerns the FAA has reviewed the proposed project height and granted its approval. The project will also be going before the airport land use commission when the actual project plans move forward. So that will all be subject to a reconfirmation of that approval. Um there were some comments about energy use, greenhouse gas emissions. Again, these comments were made previously by some of these same commenters. Um detailed responses were provided and are part of the staff report that's before you today. Um there is substantial evidence in the record supporting the um the environmental documents conclusions. Um and finally, I believe that's it. Thank you very much for your time.

And sir, you're an attorney? Yes, I am. So, we're one in one on attorneys. 141. Okay, got it. Try to keep it. We don't want Okay, next speaker.

Good afternoon. My name is Gus Torres and I'm here on behalf of UA Local 255 fitters, welders, and apprentices representing 6,700 members and we're in full support of this project and we and we ask you to also support it by voting yesterday. The developer has worked hard from the beginning to make sure that they're committed to hire local skilled workforce and by doing so giving back to the local econom economy. therefore securing not only the city's present but also its future. Thank you for your time and God bless. Thank you sir. Next speaker.

Hello mayor and city council. I noticed that a lot of people that are speaking are not from the community. I am for the project but it seems like it needs some more information especially regarding traffic. We've been under 10 years of constant construction here in Inglewood and the traffic is terrible and it seems like a project this large will cause more traffic issues and I don't hear enough about the traffic. Thank you. Thank you.

Hi honorable mayor, council members and staff. My name is Larry Butos and I am a 20-year member of Labor's International Union of North America. In Southern California alone, we have over 30,000 members. many of which whom live right here in this area. Uh this project we are in full support of because it will bring uh local economy and local jobs to our union members. Good responsible developers like this believe in strong wages and good benefits to support working families like ours. These tough economic times along with high gas prices and inflation exactly why we need this project right here. Many of our members travel many hours to get eight hours a day. Most of our members have to work anywhere from 14 to 16 hours because of travel time and which takes away from uh their families and the local community. To summarize, this project not only makes sense, but it'll help our local economy at this critical time. For those reasons, I am asking you that you approve this project, not only for our members, but for our community as well. Thank you for your time.

Thank you. Next speaker. Good afternoon everyone. My name is Samuel Neto and I came here today because I wanted to see yes votes on this project. The city of Inglewood deserves positive new development projects that will bring new vibrancy to the area. With this project location being so close to the new init dome, I think this will be a huge economic boost overall. From the hotel aspects that will allow visitors to come and visit for both short-term and long-term stays to the restaurant and event space. This is a great fit in every aspect plus all the jobs that will be created from the construction all the way through the operations of the building. Thank you very much and please vote yes.

Welcome.

Uh good afternoon. My name is Juan and I'm here today to ask for your vote uh your yes vote and support this project. Development in this Englewood community signals to me that the economy is recovering from the pandemic as well as creating new options for upcoming Olympics. This this project is located just right to be in the commendations for the Olympic visitors. Plus hotel and restaurant will bring will bring money back into the area that will lead to more growth and jobs. This is a great opportunity for the city of Inglewood and a positive step in the right direction. Vote yes and thank you so much for your time. Thank you. Thank you sir. Next speaker.

Sorry. Good afternoon. Uh my name is Godfrey Washira and I'm with Credle Coalition for Responsible Equitable Development and we are here in support of the project and I'll keep it simple. A new edition is coming to town next month. Boys, two men are coming and so is Tony Braxton and I can't wait for that event. I can't wait for the concert. I already have my tickets. But uh by keeping we can keep the dollars the tourist dollars local by uh providing opportunities uh by let me put it this way. Let's keep all these dollars local. all the money is from such events and money from the the venues and a project like this does provide that opportunity to keep the the tourist money within and so we ask that you support the project. Thank you.

Good afternoon honorable mayor council. My name is Ernesto Pantoa here on behalf of Sergio Rascoan, business manager of labors local 300 and a resident of Englewood. I live on on Fifth Street and 76th Street. Um, what can I say? We're here because obviously this project is going to create a lot of jobs for our members, but a lot of people don't realize it's also going to create new opportunities for people within this community. We right now we have over almost 300 members that live in Englewood alone, just in Englewood. the project uh we had the Sofi stadium into a dome brought a lot of people uh into a lot of the different trades. Why? Because we give opportunities to service veterans returning whose skill sets don't translate into civilian life. Females were trying to grow the females in the trades and most importantly formerly incarcerated. The trades are an opportunity for formerly incarcerated individuals to be able to find a career path and a way into building a home, right? Be being able to get married, being able to afford a place to live. They got benefits for themselves and for their family members. For us, it's important. And like I said, I've heard residents here complain of the traffic. I I understand that. My wife and I have to figure out what times on Sundays we leave and come back because of of the games. But what I will tell you, I also understand that we need this type of development. We need our people in this community getting the wages that our members get. These these are not cheap jobs. These are career jobs. People can live on, can get to a retirement, but we need this investment. and I'm willing to deal with it because I understand what the endg game is. This isn't my first time living in a community that's under development, understanding that it's going to help us build a better future in this city. And for my son who's who's growing up participating in sports in the

community, I will tell you does a fantastic job of taking care of the kids in this community and providing different programs for for us. It's I've lived in ve very many different communities from the San Frernando Valley to West LA and nobody has ever provided the type of benefits that the city of Englewood has which is kind of ironic for me because I lived in West LA. So for me this is gamechanging for this city and for the residents as well as for those who need that second chance. We ask you to please support this project. Thank you. Sir, did you say you lived at 76 and 5th?

So So you live around the corner from me. So, you know, we only take Vaness and Florence during games, right? All right. All right. I just want to make sure that you you didn't mention that. Okay. Next speaker.

Uh, good afternoon. My name is Brenda Campus and I'm here today to support this project and ask to you say yes today. Why am I here? Because I really love the city and I like everything that we have to uh this project seems like a big positive development for the community and I think it's really important to develop hotel space in the area to bring that tourism and as well as the restaurants and [clears throat] event space that we out to the neighborhood dining options and socio are all all the reason I should ask you to go in this I have enough Any other speakers?

Couple more right now. Okay. Hello. Oh, I have to speak with hear you. Just into the microphone. Okay. Can you hear me? You hear you fine.

Okay. Hi. First of all, I want to say thank you for hosting this. I know it's been a little bit problematic for stakeholders of Englewood to get information. So, thank you for hosting. A lot of people in our community have gotten this. I'm part of the CRDC coalition um in Englewood. We are not in favor of this. Um, moving forward, as the gentleman stated before me, there are infrastructure problems in regards to a lot of the traffic. Um, some of the things that the stakeholders and residents of Englewood have received in regards to the map, they're seeing that they feel like they're being pushed out in a sense and that they won't have an opportunity to regain what they've already gotten. Residents who have been here for 20 years, residents who have been here for 15 years and longer. So, I'm asking that I understand progress does need to be made. There's been a lot of progress that has been made in Englewood and you guys really do a great job of when people come here. You guys do make a difference because you did it for our neighborhood and our coalition and we appreciate that. I'm just asking that a little bit more thought be put in into just pushing something. A lot of construction workers are here supporting this, but we all know being a independent contractor, even if you're in a union, there are jobs all over. Um, and I'm not sure how many of the people who came and spoke are actually stakeholders. We live literally right behind the stadium and the infrastructure is chaotic and the hotel that is on the corner. Um, there was some things that were sent out and our houses are gone. So, we're just a little bit um We would just like a little bit more communication in the sense of being a part of the vote before you guys make that decision. Thank you.

Okay. Quick question. Did you say our houses are gone? Well, in the community, they're they're in the area. So, we got two I really want to understand this now. Yes. So, there were two um there were two flyers that were sent out. There was the yellow flyer in regards to today's town hall meeting. And then we received something else with a uh what is it like a 3D development portion of a structure that is going to be on Century and I can't remember the side street but it's right next to the stadium and within Century and Freeman. Say it again. Centry and Freeman. What were we talking about? Right next to the stadium. She saying

okay the Cali Hotel on Sofi property. Yeah. So, some of the community members had came and showed them. I have a couple and they had came and spoke with us and they were like, "Hey, our house is in here. What's going on?" And then they received this and they were like, "What is going on?" I was like, "There's transparency with the with the Okay, so that's why I wanted to make this clear. There are no houses by the Cali Hotel and this this project is going to replace what was the Trade Winds Hotel at Century and Freeman." Okay. I just want to make that clear. There's no residential housing or apartments that are being sacrificed for this project. Just want to make that clear.

No, I appreciate that. So, you're saying they don't need to be alarmed for that. They're not intermingled is what you're saying. Exa. Exactly. That's what the confusion was coming from. Okay, great. And I want you to take that back to the neighborhood. No, that's perfect. I appreciate it. All right. Thank you.

Next speaker. My name is Diane Sbrano and yes, I am back and I'm not choked, haven't choked myself and don't plan to be choked. So, here's the deal. We have horrendous traffic already. And while those of you who work in the construction trades, I understand you want jobs. Yes, very good friends with Sergio Ramos local 300. The thing is we have to consider the residents of this community and we already know that infrastructure has not been well thought of. That's why we're having so many problems that we do have. As you yourself said, you can only use certain streets on certain days. That's horrific. And yet the residents are stuck with that reality. Sadly, we are paying the price for developers to become wealthy and for a few people to have temporary jobs to make some tourists happy. And I wish that you would consider the residents of this community because we have in fact lost a lot of services behind a lot of these projects. Someone mentioned the about our students. I encourage everyone to go out and view US News and World Reports and see how well our students just because we have stadium and a dome and entertainment. Our students are not doing well. Is that city council's problem? No. But let's not confuse those. Our students don't do well because billionaires add money to their pockers. Please don't confuse those. We need to take care of the people who have

actually invested their lives here for 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and in many cases 80 years. They should not be disregarded for someone who's coming in with a truckload of money. Thank you. Respond. I'll wait. Thank you. Next speaker, please. Boy, I have uh missed the old days, but go ahead. Um with that, we'll uh close. Is there one more? [clears throat] One more. Go. Go ahead, sir.

Mayor, city council. Uh my name is Caesar Lamas. I am a proud member of Labour's International Union North America. uh we come in full support for this project in regards to the amendment of the land the land usage right I could go into a full technical spill about defending the developer in this aspect about how the is prepared you know I could go into the full union spill but in reality I got to put food on the table so I'm here to make sure I push this project so I could get to work [laughter] I think the biggest part of it is uh you know we have everything kind of coming up it's going to it's going to be kind of clustered in these upcoming So building projects like this definitely is not only in regards to beautifification but it also helps the aspect of people you know coming into these communities like Englewood buying properties using them for Airbnbs. Next thing you know it becomes too too into that aspect.

Building projects like this prevents stuff from like that happening. It definitely pushes the initiative on having more people coming for tourists so that they could bring their dollars here where their dollars are used in reality for Englewood for the residents fixing it, you know, building it. Like I was telling everybody else, Rome wasn't built in a day. So this is definitely a big part to it, you know. Um don't [snorts] really have anything else to say besides that. I got a quick question for you. Yeah. So what would you say to people say it doesn't matter if your members get temporary jobs? What would you say to that? Work harder, right?

Work harder. That be a big aspect when it comes to being a union member. When it comes to the working class, if you work and you definitely dedicate it, our our plan, our pension plan is in regards to the 25 year and done plan. It's a very big portion to it. Definitely helps us out for the long run. I'm I'm 28. I already have seven years with the union. By the time I'm 40ome, I'm going be retired. I was able to buy my mom a house last year. So, these jobs matter. They matter. They they It's not just about the younger generation. It's about the old the older generation that's about to retire. In order for them to keep prospering, workers like me have to continue to work.

We have to continue pushing the initiative. And it's jobs like these that kind of really help us push that initiative. All right. Thank you very much. Of course. Okay, with that we'll uh close the public hearing the comments and uh here I'll move item two and three second. Madam city clerk, council members Padilla I. Morales I. Fog I. Mayor Buds I. Um

Madame Clerk, what's the next scheduled matter? Yes, Mayor. The next scheduled matter is a public hearing to consider approval of the draft fiscal year 2000, excuse me, fiscal year [snorts] 2024 through 2025 consolidated annual performance evaluation report. Has the notice of the hearing been given in the time form of matters required by law? And do you have the affidavit on file? Notice has been given and an affidavit is on file. Have any communications been received on the matter? No communications have been received, mayor. Um, welcome, Roberto. Is there a staff report on the matter? Yes, there is, Mr. Mayor. HUD program manager Roberto Chavez will be giving it.

Mr. Chavez, you saw Mr. McCroy, you saw how he was. There you go. All right, so let's go. You didn't even use words. [laughter]

Good afternoon. Okay. Good afternoon, Mayor and Council. Thank you um for your time and attention. Members of the public, thank you. Uh yes, today we're here for the fisc year 2425 consolidated annual performance evaluation report, also referred to as the caper. Next slide. We'll be going through uh the background, some types of funding, and the programs that are offered through this um report. Little background. In accordance with title 24 of the code of federal regulations part 91, jurisdictions receiving funds from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, also referred to as HUD, must complete the caper within 90 days of the close of the jurisdiction's fiscal year, which ended on September 30th of 2025. The 2024 caper represents the third year of the city's 5-year 2022 through 2026 consolidated plan which describes the city's accomplishments in attaining the goals and objectives identified in the city's fiscal year 24 to 25 annual action plan covering the period as earlier mentioned October 1st 2024 through September 30th of 2025. [clears throat] types of funding. I'll highlight the totals and I'll continue on through the screen. So for CDBG the total funding available was 2 point just over 2.3 million. For CDBGCV carryover CV stands for corona virus just over 1.1 million. And now on to the home program. The total resources available were just over 4.6 six bringing the total of the CDBG and and home program total just over 8.1 million available. Types of programs or activities

uh public improvement services park facilities improvements, restroom rehab, minor home rehabilitation program. Under public services we have senior nutrition program, fair housing counseling program. Also, CDBG administration is paid through this. CDBGCV program funds will be used for the Ingwood main li HVAC program, which is the um heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Moving right along, funding amounts broken out and just as a description of what the percentages of what the funds can be used for. So 15% can be used for public services, administration 20% and non-public services we have 65%. Moving right along for the CV program, administration can be used 20% uh for non-public services we have 80%. Moving right along, home investment partnership act. This is another large program for the u for the cities called the home program. The purpose of the program is to expand the supply of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing with primary attention to rental housing for very low and low-income families. We heard a lot of a lot of talk earlier about providing affordable housing. Starting in the calendar year 2026, the city will leverage its available home funds and surplus carryover funds to new affordable housing developments. The first being a 60unit 100% affordable housing new development tenatively scheduled to break ground in early spring of 2026. We've been working on this for about two years, but we're scheduling a groundbreaking here shortly. Funding amounts for the home program. These are the percentages that can be allocated. 10% to administration,

15% for the CHTO, which is the um community housing development organization, and for eligible activities, you have about 75%. I won't go through every line item here, uh but these are just some of the amounts that were budgeted, and I'd be happy to share this presentation with anyone, but it shows the budgeted amount and the expended amount for the 24 25 year. Um, and I will just make that available to anyone that wants to have a copy of that. With that, that concludes my report. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to take those.

Okay. Are any members of the public who would like to give public comment? Go right ahead.

Hello, Mayor Buds. My name is Josie Scott. Um, I am a homeowner from Los Angeles, Englewood, California to be exact. But I wanted to come in today and I wanted to talk about um some things as far as the water. So, hold on one second. See, this is a public hearing about the career. So, Oh, for the for the home program. Yes. Oh, okay. I I still have to talk about the home program, but I'll just come back. Well, no, you can talk if you want to talk about the home program, you can right now. No, I'll just wait for the water. Important to me. All right. Okay. Sorry. No problem.

So, we're a few years out of COVID and we still have $1.1 million left over, sir. And are we going to be using those funds for people who are still having issues with housing? Hold on one sec, ma'am. Right now, this is your time to make your comment. It's not an open question. Well, he said if you had a question, so that's my question. He he I think he said he would give you the the um the presentation, but he this is not a question and answer right now. Okay. Well, we the community needs to know why the $1.1 million wasn't spent on people who needed rental assistance. Okay. Thank you.

Okay. with that. Ma'am, did [clears throat] you have a comment, ma'am? No. Okay, then we're going to close public comment. Is there um a motion from motion to move? Second. Madam city clerk, council members Padilla I. Fog I. Mayor Buds I. And now, Madame Clerk, what's the next scheduled matter? Yes, Mayor. The next scheduled matter is a public hearing to consider adoption of a resolution [clears throat] approving proposed increases to the city's water, sewer, and recycled water rates in accordance with the requirements of Proposition 218.

Has the noticees hearing been given in a time form of matters required by law? And do you have the affidavit on file? Notice has been given and an affidavit is on file, mayor. Have any communications been received on the matter? Yes, mayor. Communications have been received and turned into all of our mayor, council members, and everyone on the dis. All right. Is there a staff report on the matter? There is, Mr. Mayor. The public works director, Tony Almos, will be giving it. Welcome, Mr. Almost. Could you give us this long awaited report? [laughter]

Thank you, city manager. Good afternoon, mayor, mayor, city council. Tony, your director of public works. The item [clears throat] before you as mentioned is a public hearing to consider the adoption of water sewer and recycle rate adjust recycle water rate adjustments. I'll provide a brief overview and background for the item and I'll turn it over to our subject matter expert who'll walk you through the rest of the presentation. So why are we bringing this item to you now in the big picture? The current revenues are not sufficient to cover the full cost of the operating and ma and for operating and maintaining the city's water and sewer system as it is. We have been relying on the fund reserves to cover the operating costs and those reserves are being depleted and will run out next year. More specifically for water and recycled water. There are three primary factors that affect the budget. It's inflation, the rising cost of water and aging infrastructure. On the inflation side, postcoid inflation has been the highest since 1981, increasing the cost of material, labor, equipment, and services. For cost of water in Englewood, we purchase about 75% of our water from Metropolitan Water District. Roughly half of our operating costs is the cost of imported water. Since our last water rate adjustment in 2023, MWD has increased its rates by about 25%. These increases are usually passed through to the to our customers, but the current rates do not account for them as we speak. on aging infrastructure. Many of our water much of our water system is 60 70 years old. The water manes in the street and are in need of replacement. So the proposed rates will allow the city to increase the amount of water man replacements we do each year and will allow us to make improvements to our treatment plant to improve system reliability and being able to respond to emergencies. Investments are also needed to rehabilitate our groundwater wells, allowing us to pump more lower cost local groundwater, which will help reduce future rate increases. Even after accounting for the proposed

project, the city's total water infrastructure needs still exceeds 25 million. So, this rate increase only addresses the most critical needs. On the sewer side, briefly, we have similar pressures that are affecting the budget. inflation as well, insufficient revenue and aging infrastructure. Inflation is the same as water and the sewer the sewer rates have not been adjusted since 2012 and have not kept up with rising operational capital costs. On the infrastructure side, there's a need to invest into into repairing our deficient lines and establishing a sewer lining sewer relining program to minimize leaks and extend service life. So with all this um and to help us to formally analyze our budget and our needs, we hired a renowned expert in the field, Rafelis to help us prepare a water, sewer, and recycle water rate study. And here to walk you through a summary of the study and recommendations, Mr. Steve Gion. He's vice president of fortellis. Mr. Gan has been doing this work for 17 years and has prepared and presented hundreds of studies for local agencies and utility districts. So, at this time, mayor and council, if you want the presentation, I'll be happy to call Mr. Canyon up to the

Please call him. Yes.

Thank you, Tony. Good afternoon, mayor and council members. Again, my name is Steve Gangan with a firm called Rafelis, and here is a summary of your water and sewer rate study. So, first, why would the city do a utility rate study? In summary, it's because the rates that you charge your customers must keep up with the city's cost to serve water and collect sewage. It's important to know that the water and sewer utilities are enterprise funds, which means they stand on their own two feet and they cover their costs by the by the revenue from your customers. This is that's to mean that it's not like other city services such as police and fire and libraries which is funded by general fund. The sewer and water utilities stand on their own two feet from customer revenue. [clears throat and cough] As part of the water rate study, we did what's known as a financial plan. A financial plan is nothing more where we project the future revenue and expenses of the water utility and the sewer utility. Your expenses include operations on&m costs, capital and reserve funding, which you'll see in a second. If there's not enough revenue, we suggest revenue increases so that you can cover your costs. As part of the financial plan, we plan for reserves. Any good utility, any util, all utilities have reserves. And this is what we're targeting for your reserves for the city. You should have an operating reserve, this is by your policy, an operating reserve of 20% of O and M and a capital reserve equal to one year of your average capital expenses. So you can see the targeted reserve at the bottom of the table. It's about $12 million you would hold in reserve. Part of the financial plan, we include your capital projects. This is a list of the capital projects that the city would like to do. You can see it's around $8

million shown at the bottom of the table. So, the city would like to invest around $8 million a year in its water system to repair pipes. The graph on the left shows what we [clears throat] project would happen to your reserve balances if there were no rate increases and you spent your full water budget and you spent the capital projects that you would want to do. You can see your reserve balances go negative. Therefore, we're we're proposing revenue increases so that your reserves are shown on the right hand graph. Th that red bar is your reserve target. So, by the end of the study, which is 2030, you could see you would be near your reserve target, which is the red line with these revenue increases. Just a reminder that your water rate structure has a fixed charge which is charged regardless of how much water you use. And then there's a volutric charge which is based on the volume of water that you use. So for example, currently the fixed charge is $18 and change. If a customer uses 900 cubic feet of water and 100 cubic feet of water is 748 gallons, the volutric charge would be $41 and change. So the total water bill would be currently around $60. I just wanted to point out there's that there's a fixed charge and a volutric charge in the prior slide. So this table shows the fixed charge the proposed fixed charges as part of the study. You're current and by the way around 70% of the meters in the city are the 3/4 inch at the top of this table. That charge is currently 1838. It would go it would actually go down a few pennies to 1835. And then the table shows the charges for the remaining four years of the study. The bottom table shows private fire charges. This is mostly paid for by commercial businesses. A

typical single family home would not pay this charge. Then this table shows the volutric rates by tier. There's a current column and then it shows the the volumetric rate that you pay per 100 cubic feet of water for the next five years. This is probably the most important slide. It shows what the typical bill impact will be for a typical single family home. That's shown on the chart on the left. And in the red box for your average single family home, the expected increase is $18.25 monthly. That's for the average customer. If you use a little less, for instance, if you use five HCF, which is common for someone who's living alone or somebody or a household that just doesn't use a lot of water, the bill impact would be $10. And then if you use much more than that, on the right, you see there's 15, the bill impact would be $32. So your bill impact depends on how much water you use. And then on the right, these are for non-residential customers. You have typical commercial, industrial, and municipal customers, which use a lot more water. So, their bill impacts are higher. This chart shows where you currently fall compared to a lot of your neighboring cities. You're in the yellow. You are currently in the yellow on the left side. If you were to accept this proposal, you would move to the center yellow uh bar, if you will. So, you would be about in the middle compared to your neighboring agencies. I just want to point out, you see the arrow on the right there? Some of the city of Englewood is served by Golden State Water. So, if you are served by Golden State Water, that's what you're paying underneath the arrow there. It's uh $99. So, if you're served by the city, you would pay $78.

So, now I'm just going to go through the same thing except for the sewer utility. This is the reserve targets for the sewer utility about 2, let's call it $2.5 million a year. These are the capital projects the sewer utility would like to do around uh let's call it $1.5 million a year in sewer projects. This shows on the left what would happen to your reserves if you did nothing. And on the right it shows what would happen to your reserves with the revenue increases. And this chart shows uh in the red box the bill increase for your typical single family home. As you can see it's only 20 cents. The reason why it's only 20 cents is because based on data from the city um by annualizing winter water use, we we've calculated that the contribution of sewage to the sewer system from single family homes is actually lower than previously thought. So therefore, their share of the sewer system is lower than previously thought. That's why for your typical single family home, it's only going up 20 cents. On the right there, you have some other, you know, commercial customers. they're going up a little bit more because they contribute more to the sewer system. And this comes from your data. This simply shows the wastewater rates and charges. Uh so a single family home currently pays $7.50 a month for the sewer system. It would go up, as you can see, 20 cents there next year. This shows where you fall with your neighboring agencies. You're currently on the left. You would move to the middle left. We also did a study for your recycled water rates. This table shows the uh recycled charges. Again, this is mostly for city accounts and commercial

accounts. Most single family homes do not get recycled water. And your typical recycled water bill customer would go up just shy of $900. But this is for a lot of water use. This is 600 cubic feet of water use. So, this is a big water user. So, just to summarize everything, rate increases are needed to keep up with the rising cost to serve water. I don't think Tony mentioned it, but your sewer system hasn't had a rate increase since 2012. And we all know your costs have gone up since 2012. The proposed rate increases would fund the needed capital reinvestment that was shown in the tables. And that concludes the presentation and be here for questions.

Okay, Mr. Gag or Tony, neither of you were here in 2012, but uh Council Morales and I were on the council when we raised the rates. I want to ask you, what happens when you don't spend money on capital improvements for your water and sewer system? What happens to the pipes?

Yeah. So, so with deferred maintenance and actually we're experiencing some of that now where you have a lot of water mane breaks. When your system is not as reliable as it should be, the pipes are old and they start breaking. So, for the water system, it can be water main breaks. It can lead to sink holes and then it can lead to lack of reliability like what happened with the fires over in LA and and in Pasadena. Some of the water system was deficient. So, they weren't able to have a reliable water system in some areas. So for us it's trying to improve improve the reliability. Now on the sewer side if you have any kind of breaks in the sewer system what happens then is you can have a lot of these spillages that would then go into a storm drain system that's actually illegal.

Okay last question. Um some people seem to believe that the residents would be required to subsidize the commercial stadium and uh arena cost for water. But that's not true is it? No. No. the all the venues, all the customers in the city pay for their water just like we just shared. All right. Is there a differential in the in the rate [clears throat] increase for stadiums versus homes or do they just pay more money because they use more water? They pay more water based on their meter size. So the the fixed cost will be higher because of their bigger meter. Then obviously what the volumetric cost for using that much more water, they pay more.

So there is no subsidy for the arenas of the stadium. No. by residential customers. Okay, with that, um, we're going to o open public comment.

I don't see my clock, so I'll wait. That's okay. We'll let you go until the clock starts. Oh, I appreciate that. Mayor, go right ahead. Appreciate your generosity.

Good afternoon, honorable mayor, council, esteemed guests. My name is Maya Walker. I'm a resident and a homeowner here in the great city of Inglewood. Thank you to the gentleman perfor who gave us a a very nice presentation. Um, and it helps me to understand helps us to understand that uh water problems in our city is nothing new. It's an infrastructure issue and I don't think any of us are here um against infrastructure. I think what the problem is is that we don't get enough notice and we don't believe that there's enough planning. We are not guests here. We are residents. We live here. So the idea that somehow this study is just coming about because you you didn't know that we've had an infrastructure issue with water is just not the case. We have known that. So in this tough economy, especially for our seniors and those who rely on a fixed income, 20 cents, 50 cents is more sense than we have. So we need to make sure that when we're considering these kinds of increases that we think about our residents first. We're always talking about, at least these residents are talking about making us the priority. And what seems to be the priority in this city is not us. So, with that, I'm asking [cough] on behalf of a number of my neighbors that in this tough economy that you would um not increase our rates for water and that you would go back to the drawing board and determine another route um as we deal with these increasing costs in our city. I thank you for your time and thank you for your attention.

Thank you so much. Next speaker. Hello, my name is Josephine Scott and I only have so much time, so I'm just gonna go quickly. Um, good evening, Mayor Buds and council members. Um, I am a property owner and my grandparents were a part of the great migration that came to Inglewood fleeing Jim Crow looking for opportunity, looking for a place where they could own something peacefully for generations to come. And they found it here. I was raised in the same home I own. Do you care about history at all? Two generations later, you're systematically pricing us out so corporate hedge funds can buy up our homes collectively. I'm here to tell you that I'm really done being exploited nickel and dime to death while Sofi Stadium prints money in my backyard. I can hear the noise from every concert and I'm in district 2. Let's talk about what's already been taken. Edison raised my electricity 7.2% in March 2024, then 13% in October two months ago. And now you want to raise my water bill 12% today and another 10% next year. At what point do you think people like me just break because that's what you're doing systematically breaking us while Sofi Stadium makes millions? Let's talk about what I've gotten in return. Being a good neighbor for your ill epicenter entertainment district, consider this collectively. Years of construction noise that shook my house, laid waste to our roofs, filled our lungs with debris. Traffic so bad I can't get home on game days. What used to be 5 minutes distance is now 45 minutes. more diversified crime that didn't exist before. Car breakins, property theft, more petty theft, and you charged me to park on my own street so stadium goers can profit off of my neighborhood. Mayor Buts, I remember in 2021 when you passed that Airbnb ordinance that was facilitated in the manner of tricking participants into into submitting their Airbnb income so you could retroactly tax it. You know what you told us after you collected that information? You suggested those of us who wanted to fully benefit should create a group, meaning an entity, and profit that way. So, let me get this straight. First, you took us into

revealing our income. Then, you taxed us retroactively and you didn't advise us on how to do it. You didn't allocate resources to help us uh create this collective ownership. You just suggested it and then kept right on creating policies that favor corporate entities over individual homeowners. Where's the equity study, Mayor Buts? Show me the data on commercial versus residential water usage. Show me that Sofi Stadium and the Clipper Stadium, Hollywood Park Casino, all new upcoming hotels are paying their proportionate share because from my position, this looks like the same playbook. Trick residents, extract wealth, call it progress. That's all I have to say. Ma'am, we're at time.

Okay. So, so really quick, we just showed you all of those things about the proportionality and how it was paid. Next speaker,

Elijah Woodson is a protocol has already been established. I got a letter today talking about 30%. So $18.30 is that I'm not a math teacher. I'm retired anyway. It just sound like it sounded less than 30%. Was that just a camouflage to just to get you guys to buy into it? Another thing you're talking about all these stadiums and I I live 89 1311. Three houses from 90th. I can't think of the new name they call it, but it it's it's impacted us uh severely. I think you guys should let them pick up the tab. They flushing more toilets. the sewer is impacting our water going in and out. So, I'm a man of few words. So, I think we should let them pick up the let them absorb the inequities and things that we are experiencing because of all this entertainment, this sports stuff that you and when they get off when they get here, they get the hell out of here. They not spending no money. And I can approve because I'm there. I see it all the time. That's all I got. And thank you for this form. Elijah Woodson 891311.

Thank you, Mr. Woodson. And they're paying for every toilet they flush. She needs the 7:00 meetings again. So the other ma'am, we don't we don't we don't we don't we don't do that. Sir, go ahead.

Hello, mayor and city council. My name is Yolanda Davidson. I'm a lifelong resident of Inglewood, California. I oppose this rate increase. I think it is unfair that renters here were not able to oppose this increase. They pay water bills here. They're not being represented here. I don't think that is fair to the renters in the city. This is a predominantly renter city. We have seniors that rent. We have single mothers. We have people on fixed incomes. We have already had our trash go up. Edison bill now the water. And yes, we can say that the the stadiums pay their fair share. I'm sure they do. They're billionaires. They have enough money to pay everybody in Los Angeles County's water bill. However, we have a 100,000 residents here in Inglewood and now we have 100,000 people visiting us every weekend. So you can't say that we would the chart would not have been different if we didn't have these extra people using water. So to say that they're paying their fair share, that's fair that they are paying it. But they're putting the onus on us as usual. You tell us that our city is making all this money, but you're always digging money out of our person pockets and we don't have it. We cannot pay an extra 30%, not 20 cent, not 30 cent, no more cent. Inglewood residents have paid enough. Pollution, noise, traffic. What more do you want from the residents of Inglewood? You are supposed to support us. You are not supporting us. You are supporting our billionaires. And it's not fair. You think about the residents. Think about the people who were not able to come here today and oppose this. People who never saw that little piece of paper that you just might have not seen that just by chance I opened and saw what it said. It was two pieces of paper. This is something that's going to go on for years and years and years. And you need to think about the residents of this community and stop thinking about the billionaires. Let them pay extra. We don't have it.

Okay. Uh uh we can't we can't do that. It's not a rally. Hey, so real quick you guys re real quick real quick before the next speaker speaks. Renters do get to vote as long as they pay their water if they pay a water bill. That they do get to vote. And then secondly, secondly, no resident pays one dime for the water bill of sofi into it, YouTube theater, the forum, yola, nothing. No resident pays any part of their water bill. Go ahead, sir. Thank you. Thank you, honorable, council members.

Um, [clears throat] my name is Brent Stallic. I'm the chief executive officer of Englewood Park Cemetery. Uh joined here today by my colleagues, uh Monica Bro, Kazzy Burns, and Kevin Brown. Uh we uh we've been part of the Englewood community since 1905. So, uh we we like to joke that we were uh we were part of Englewood before Englewood was incorporated and as a cemetery, we will be here uh long after Sofi has collapsed and and forum is uh form is no more. Um, we can't hear you, sir. Can you can you speak closer to the mic? That better? Okay. Can you hear me? Yes.

Okay, good. Um, we I was reminded uh heading to the uh Chargers Eagles game and seeing the blimp also that not only are we about the most permanent part of Englewood, but our cemetery also and our 291 acres of green space, we are part of how the world sees Inglewood. Every blimp photo you see our our green space right here in the heart of the city uh is uh is part of how the world sees the city of Englewood. So to do that, water is our lifeblood at the cemetery. It is next to what we pay our 300 employees. Water is our largest expense. We are probably your largest customer for reclaimed water. Um and when I look these increases will do to our expense budget is a multiple of the numbers that you cite in your uh in your letter uh that the increment the incremental charges that you get from West Bas water district will cost will cost the city and I'm already running out of time um so impact impact on us we are a public benefit corporation so this doesn't come out of any profits to shareholders for us it comes out of what we spend to maintain our green space and it comes out of what we can pay our uh our employees uh at our cemeteries, one of the largest employers in this uh in this city. Um I would also I would also point out reclaimed water in 1995 we switched to reclaimed water. It's the right thing for the environment and also on the promise that it would save us money. In the time since then, our reclaimed water rates have increased at twice the rate of utility inflation, over 6% a year since then. So the

promise that we received in 95 has not come true. Now with these now with these increases, uh you want to charge uh we want to see we will see another increase of 63% between now and 2029. again with significant impact to our budget as a public benefit corporation. And if it's impacting us this much, we're gonna have to wrap it up. Go ahead. Thank you. I appreciate your uh your patience with my uh comments going over.

Hey, hey, real real quick, let you go over. Most of our parents are there at Ingwood Park Cemetery, so we're very respectful. But I would ask you this, to your knowledge, does any resident pay any of the water bill for Ingwood Park Cemetery? Thank you very much, sir. And I I I asked that to make a point. The point is residents don't pay for large water users. Next speaker. You guys, if you're going to talk, we have to go out in the hallway. Go ahead. Good evening and

Okay. Thank you. Um I'm one of the renters that happened to moved five years ago into an investment apartment building that you guys allowed to come in here. And there were 10 of them with global integrity and now they've changed their names because Better Business Bureau uh got on them. But to make the all of the people that live in there, most of the people that live in my apartment building are seniors. They are 90, they are 80 and all of them. And we're having to pay for our water separate from our uh rent. Our rent is uh uh due to the rent control. So, they knew they couldn't put the water and utilities into our rent. So now they have our rent, our utilities, our sewage and our trash all together and we have to pay that along with our rent and it gets it, you know, when you're on a fixed income, this it this is terrible. So I'm here with the homeowners about a rental having with these investment companies buying property here and making us pay water. I've never paid water. I've been in Englewood 40 years and I've never had to pay water. It was included in my rent. I mean, the landlord took care of it. But when you have investment people, you have management companies and they do what the heck they want to do. And I just feel like this is wrong because we have seniors that can't afford it. And you're they're steady making us pay that and they keep going up every month. One minute is $35, the next month is $40ome

dollars. The next month the water alone, not the sewage in the trash. Then it's 50. I'm at 50 now. So $100 is really what I pay along with my rent. People that have more than one person in that apartment, they pay 200 and 300 extra for their water and sewage and and what have you. And I'm sure you guys aren't aware of it. That's the reason I'm here to tell you about. Okay. Okay. Ma'am, there's some something I'd like you to do. Yes, sir.

I would like you to call the [sighs] housing uh department about this issue that you speak of about them raising your water bill every year. I mean, if there's anything ma'am, ma'am, you your time's up. Let me just going to tell you this. Okay, go ahead. And so, so I it doesn't sound right. And so we will look into that. Secondly,

we have an annual application for senior and handicapped citizens for water and refuge rates discounts. The city of Englewood requires that in order to be eligible for this discount, you must be a resident of the city, 62 years of age or older, or have a handicap with a household income not to exceed $34,840. and all information that's provided herein is subject to verification by a tax return are the appropriate documents. So we do care about seniors. Uh and in fact this application I'm going to have uh somebody give it to you right now. Okay. So Mr. Mr. Cortez, could you come and take this and give this to her right now?

We have extras, mayor. We have extras. Okay. Outside. Okay. Yes. Right there. So, as you go outside on the on the little table, there's this application. Gentlemen, Thomas Lee right there. Okay. And and and take some take some for your neighbors as well. Thank you, ma'am. Uh Mayor, I wanted to thank Miss Thompson because she told me that I could uh I came down to the office and she told me that I could get I didn't know I could get the water bill to see how much is 50 years. Absolutely, you can. Said that it's public knowledge. So, so, so we we will look into that. Thank you very much, ma'am.

And take a couple for your neighbors, too.

Good evening, mayor, council people. My name is O, and I oppose this increase because they allow so much water per unit in units and you can't tell the tenant how many showers to take, how many times flush the toilet and I'm paying right at 100 to $125 each building cycle per unit. The cost of building materials and everything has went up insurance and they make it hard for excuse me a small landlord is almost getting to the point you better off leave your place empty and pay for what you use yourself and not take care of the tenant. I just like them. I have a family to feed, too. Thank you.

Okay. Okay. We we we need everybody to speak directly into the mic who has some people online that are reporting trouble hearing you. All right. Good evening. Lift it up a little bit because it's pointed down. There you go. Well, I guess that's it. Good evening. My name is Jose Carjo. Speak a little closer to the mic.

Good evening. My name is Jose Carneo. As the legal owner of the resident of 615 East 67th Street in Louisville, California, I hereby submit my written protest to the proposed utility increase. This proposed this proposed increase justified and will be in financially harmful to homeowners like myself who already have navigating inflation, rising housing costs, years long constructions and permitting roadblocks all while working at a near minimum wage job. I simply cannot afford the increase of work two jobs [clears throat] to be to barely afford my cost of living. I've been in Englewood resident for decades. Now I am addressed by the city affordability. I am a low income earner yet still not able to be eligible for any low income benefits but living check to check it because of the rising inflation rate of the world around the wrong please I ask you to consider this proposed increase. Thank you my name Jose.

Thank you sir. Next speaker.

Good afternoon, Mayor and Council. My name is Aldine Sly, and I've been a resident of this community for 64 years, more. Anyway, I hope that every resident in Englewood votes against this increase. Please. I kind of think and um Mayor, you said I would would be wrong to think this, but I believe we're subsidizing many of the new entertainment centers and we're not really aware of it. It's going into different entities, but we are subsidizing. I really believe that. electricity, water, gas, you name it. And so I pray that every resident in Eng please vote against this increase. Even though they say that it's not going to affect us, it's going to affect us somewhere down the line. Thank you. Uh,

hi. Good afternoon. I hope everyone in the waiting room downstairs can hear. Um, I'm a representative of District 4 and I oppose the uh increase in any of the in infrastructure, the water, the sewage. I just received a notice yesterday [snorts] [clears throat] from the trash company. They're going up again and we don't get better service. I don't understand. But um you know I would hope this meeting is at two o'clock and most of the people who have purchased new homes or you know condos etc in Englewood are probably at work right now and cannot attend the meeting at two. So maybe in the future if you could consider holding a meeting like this maybe a supplemental meeting uh in the evening or on the weekend so that other people who are also concerned about the infrastructure can voice their opinion. Um there are many people downstairs who are here today not realizing that the um that they should have submitted a letter etc. You know if you could just give a little more attention to um the Englewood residents and when you send notices out um like this if you could also include an infographic. Most people may not know how much one um HCF is. If that's 700 gallons of water, no one pictures what that's like. looking at a business chart, that's one thing, but make things relatable to the people. Um, and that's all I have to say. I just hope you will reconsider um um the proposed rates. If somehow you could delay it and get more participation from our community members, I think that would be ideal. Thank you.

Thank you so much,

council members. My name is Diane Sbrano. One of the most important things I think you should take care of and fix staff over here. This microphone is not working well. Many of the videos that are on your channel cannot be heard. It's a falsehood to suggest there's transparency when no one can hear anything that's going on. Having said that, I'm going to move on to this water issue because you have confused some people by saying that we get to vote on it. We don't get to vote on it. We get to write the checks to pay for it. The only people voting on it are you four because Gloria, our District 1 representative, already voted at the West Basin where she also is a voting member. So don't pretend that we don't know that you are the ones voting as opposed to us. And for the renters, please understand that if you had not been paying your water, we the owners would not know until our property taxes arrive and all that back thing would be on the property tax bill. And guess who had to do with that? Oh yes, our city council. So there's a lot of issues that have been created to make sure that the small property owners who do not have the same funding as the large property owners cannot absorb those frozen rents. We cannot continue to be having a city council raise rates because in case you hadn't noticed, you're not just paying those increases, you're paying the tax on top of those increases. Look at your bill the next

time. It's not just $6 more in a base in a little while. It's $6 plus the 10%. Pay attention people to every jot and tit and every single line. If you look at the thing out there, the red and the blue lines, it's all black and white. Thank you, Mr. Brono.

Good afternoon. I'm Leonard Redway, a resident of District 1. I had actually planned to come here today to say that uh you weren't in compliance with Proposition 218. However, we did get the cost of service study that we just saw here today, which thank you. I appreciate that. And I think that if more people saw it, they would actually understand what's going on. Um, so it's about transparency here. Uh, Proposition 218 requires that uh it be made public and as of last night when I first when I had last checked, um, the public was not able to see that. So, um, if the public was able to see, they would see why the rates have to go up, why the city has not, maybe they don't know why the city hasn't, uh, raised the rates along with Metropolitan who raises it every um, January 1st, but I think the people need to know so that they can uh, you know, like everything else,

Mr. Redway, because we've used the reserves to cover it. That's why

that's fine. I just say everyone needs to know. I'm just out here, you know, researching. Called the U public works office and found out that the uh study had been done, but the study has still not been made public as required by Proposition 218. And then lastly, you've said several times here tonight asking different people this afternoon uh that the stadium, no one pays for the stadiums uh water. It's actually incorrect because the infrastructure that they are on the water main that provides them water, they use that more than anyone else. And then the sewer main that comes from that building, they use more than anyone else. So sort of they might not not pay for the actual usage, but they do pay for the infrastructure.

Well, that's a stretch. But go ahead.

Not a stretch at all. The last 30 years doing a stretch. Thank you. Thank you. It's a stretch. Good afternoon. My name is Alina Cindy Jardina. Previous uh uh member of this board and it's an amazing thing to live in Lewood to see Inglewood grow, watch what's going on. But somehow the people that come in here that have the money, that speaks volumes over the people that live here. Because what we see now is is that planes come in anytime they want. They just cut across anytime they want. They're throwing jet fuel anytime they want. So when you start talking about the problems we have in Inglewood, water is is vital to us for life. So water is life. If we don't have water, we're not going to live. So if we start talking about all of the things that we're doing, we're not trying to protect us. These planes are landing every two minutes. They're throwing jet fuel right on the top of our house. Now, people might say, "Well, Jordina, you're outside washing your house down." Well, yeah. I don't really want to inhale that jet fuel that's landing on my roof. So, we have issues here that we really should talk about because it's inherent to our health, but we're not talking about that. We get distracted with this foolishness about some water or some this or some that. But the truth of the matter is, we have to have water to exist. And this board's been here long enough. You people understand this game. It's It's insulting to us as adults, intellects, people here that have college degrees and you talk to us like we're like dumb dogs or muts. So, it's really something if we really wanted to have some realistic dialogue and you were serious about doing what you're supposed to do, we could really come here and and transact some business. So,

it's insulting. I used to sit up there and it's insulting to think that you talk to us as though we're morons when uh I'd say every time you make one point at me there's three more back at you. So I see like um that might really be the the number of what's up happening up there. Just think about this because in reality this is really serious stuff you're talking about. This is jet fuel. These planes are landing every two minutes. Their wheels are down. Mr. You're at You're at time. I understand. The other people got 30 seconds, so I'm just going to try. You're at time. You're at time. You're talking about planes. This is a water hearing. We are. And that's why the only thing we have in our houses,

Miss Jardina. Thank you.

Good afternoon, uh, Mr. Mayor. Kevin Brown from Inglewood Park Cemetery. Good afternoon, city council. Um, I was here in 1995. I installed the system at Englewood Park Cemetery and uh like Brent told you uh we were spending $350 an acre foot. Now we're up to $2,600 an acre foot. Uh big expense for the cemetery. Not only that, you know, the cemetery is a green space. We have 2800 trees in the cemetery. We are a class one arburedum, one of 1700 in the world. Let that sink in. When this park starts going brown and the and the state comes to find me because I'm the cemetery manager because the park is brown, they will they will come out and they'll they'll sight us. I got cited once by the state because a valve broke and the grass was brown. and you know like they they sent me a hey we didn't find you this time but we're going to give you a warning okay but when we can't afford to pay the bill it's just going to get passed on to the residents you know you we talk about hey the sofi doesn't pay their you know their people don't pay or whatever but it's going to reflect in in in uh pricing some way or another unfortunately Hey sir, let me make this clear and I I'll give you your time. You're not suggesting that if you don't pay your bill, it's going to be passed on to the water bill of the residents. You're not suggesting that, are you?

People who pay for the property that we sell. So you for people that pay for the product that you sell? Yeah, of course. Okay. Okay. But it makes sense. Okay. That's what I want to make clear. It's not going to go to their water bill. But go ahead [clears throat] with that. You know, I was here with West Basin. I was on on several board meetings with West Basin when we were installing pipe. West Basin actually owns the pipe that brings the water to here. I don't know who maintains it, who pays for the maintain maintenance of that pipe, but I I think uh you know, your consultant is a little misguided. That's all I can say. Thank you very much. Thank you, sir.

Rory Fischer, first district here to uh say to begin with, if you would have this major how to vote the residents. Uh they certainly would have voted no. So that's the first thing you should have did. You should have had it out there and uh it would have told you them that uh if you're going to be charging us all this money, then we're going to get rid of you because too too many of you have been here for too too long anyway. You know, you you uh

Okay, we we we can't interrupt Mr. Fischer, so please stop the cross talk. Go ahead. Too many of you uh uh have sat there and sucked money away from us, but you continue to do. Uh and uh we should uh have votes that uh you know [clears throat] be able to sit there and be there forever. And so people want to vote you off. But uh you know the the whole thing of this is is that uh these rates are being increased and uh you know people don't uh have the water the monies to pay you know all you salaries and all this extra money that we have to pay. And it's, you know, you got the stadiums and we got you and pay and it's just a shame that uh you them sit there and suck up this city the way you do for all the uh reason to to not even uh be here for the way you supposedly treat of this city. you're not uh doing anything right but sitting there sucking up tax dollars. We the rest of the city all need to go home and find something else to do because you sure ain't doing enough for us.

Okay, next speaker, Mr. Fisher, you're gonna Mr. Fiser.

Mr. Fischer, you're going to be removed if you keep this up. And I mean that. All right. Go ahead, ma'am.

Uh, good afternoon. Jessica Lesley here again. So, initially I did have a type statement like a lot of representatives here. However, I can see the contempt and anger in a lot of the residents and stakeholders of the community. Um, just sitting down, I saw several people state their remarks and walk out. I'm not sure if they did that because they feel that the council has already made up their mind or if they did that just out of frustration and respect to the council because they know that they would be talking and not be fully present. Um, with that, Prop 218 says that there should be a vote. it is for local governance and price adjustments. Um I work in several sectors, but most importantly when we're talking about graphs and we're talking about fiscal responsibility, let's be honest. Um Jeranda, I believe just stated a lot of people don't understand this language. And then another gentleman said, "Well, when did you send it out? It's not made public." So, my concern here is that a decision has already been made and I'm not in on the joke because a lot of residents are leaving. And I really would hope that the senior that left and she was almost in tears because she can't afford her water bill and my husband who was a vice president of a very very highstanding finance company can't be here at 2:00 in the afternoon because he is working to pay for our bills that are high in our properties in Englewood and in Ply Vista. So that being said, if we're really here to, as we all said, coalate and and have a vote and follow the rules and regulations that were put into place for Prop 218, Chapter 1, then this should really not go through and we should go ahead and maybe hold off and have a conversation with more stakeholders, whether it be the cemetery, residents, coalitions, or whatever. And um Mr. Buts, I did have a

question because somebody did ask a question and it seems like a concern for everybody is the subsidizing of the stadiums and everything else. I don't have anything to prove that. I just wanted to ask your time's up and this is about water. I could research it is water. I understand it, but your time's up. Okay. Is there a place I can get that information? Your time's up. Okay. Thank you. Thank you. and any questions that you might have about the city, you can call in and speak to the city manager's office. Give them your question and we'll get you an answer. All right.

Good afternoon, mayor uh and city council members and staff. My name is Kazzy Burns and I am a longtime resident of the city of Inglewood and I'm also part of Ingwood Park Cemetery. Um I'm here to oppose this uh water rate increase. I mean, just because since this notice came out, I got to learn a lot about water and I got to learn that we use a lot of water and how this can affect the everyday person, me as a resident, and how it can affect our business. these raise increases is just I mean how it would go up for us as a business but as a as a resident also I I just I can't see how we keep getting taxed on things and getting less get more inconvenience. Yes, I love the fact that we are an entertainment hub but I mean we got a check last year for being inconvenienced. I'm feeling with this raise and so forth of of the uh fees that's just like a loan that we're going to have to give back with these increases and so forth. I mean it's just at some point we have to be able to stop just like the lady said we have to pay for our parking our cars and everything. I have a swimming pool and if that it's just I'm not trying to brag but then you know the air you know the air air fuel jet fuel she was talking about I may have to change my water or treat it more often than that. I'd hate to see what that's going to be if I got to drain that pool and redo it. So, I mean, I'm just I would like some more consideration on this increase uh as opposed to a personal aspect and as far as the businesses as well because we are one of the largest water usage in the cemetery of city of Inglewood and that would have a tremendous effect on us, let alone residents. That's all I have.

Okay, sir. Real quick, um this is a fee. A fee is a charge. It's passed for a service. It's not a tax. These This is not going to the city. This is not a tax. Secondly, I've heard people mention um planes. To my knowledge, [clears throat] planes have been flying over the city of Inglewood for the last 60 or 70 years. So, why does that make a difference right now? Makes a difference. as she said, uh, jet fuel being spilled into our properties and so forth and, uh, if I have to rinse down or or redo my pool, I've had to redo my pool first. Okay. So, you you haven't had to do that before now until this

I have, but my point being So, how does that make Well, hold on, sir. Because you're at time. So, how does that make a difference right now as far as the fee? That's what I'm I'm I'm really trying to understand this because the increase in the water that will that that is due to come will have a significant effect on you washing down your pool watering down anything. Okay, I got all right. Thank you. I I just want to make sure I understood that. Thank you. Uh with that, we'll close the public comment. I got a motion. Mayor, uh I move adoption with comment. I I would like to comment. Go right ahead with your comment. Is there a [clears throat] second? Is there a second for us?

Second.

All right. [snorts] All right. So, um this has been quite the issue uh going back and forth. Some residents called uh and obviously this is something we don't like to do, right? Raise the water rates. I was here was it 2012 when we raised them. At the time we had not raised them in something like 10 years. During those 10 years, the city of LA had raised their weight 70% and we had raised them nothing. You know, we whoever was here before that, we were just kicking it down the road. It caught up to us and we were at the time subsidizing it a ridiculous amount per month that was costing all of the residents through our our reserves, through our whatever it is we had available. So now we're at a point where, you know, we raised them in 2023 and now we're at a point where if we don't raise them, we will be subsidizing water again. our partners here at the Englewood Park Cemetery, which of course we're we're very proud to have them here. Uh but if they don't get their rates uh raised and they uh obviously mentioned they would pass it on to their their clients, uh if we don't do that, then who's going to pick up the bill? It's our residents from what I understand because we would obviously have to pay the bill.

So the cost would go up for everybody. Uh that's unfair. That's unfair. Now, at this point, you know, this is not a something where we're we're charging an amount of money. We're taking it and we're spending it on other things. This is kind of like a pass through where, you know, this is what it costs us to provide water to our residents. And so when that's what it cost um you know if we don't do it it wouldn't be responsible for us not to do it. Now from what I understand and you can clarify Mr. Almost currently you know we do have the right to pump our own water but our infrastructure is not allowing us to do so because our wells are not uh our infrastructure is not prepared to do that. Right.

That's correct. We're working on improving the wells. So we are in turn having to purchase water and then resell it to our residents. So we are basically stuck with whatever we get charged in order to do that. Now once we we um fix our infrastructure and we would be able to get wells that are operating, we would be able to I'm not saying it would never cost more because inflation would hit us, but we would be able to stabilize kind of the cost. Is that correct? You're correct.

So in investing in our infrastructure, it's probably the most important part about this. We have old infrastructure. We have infrastructure which we cannot use to pump our own water rates and that's costing us money. Now the gentleman who is our consultant, he brought forward the fact that you know the responsible thing would be to um you know collect reserves throughout the the period that that's available to us that we're asking for. And even so we would be going up to uh it would be only 5% of the the portion would go to reserves. Is that correct? Well for for operational maintenance it'll be 20% of our operating budget going to reserves.

Okay. And so but right now how much are we raising the water rates overall? Well the overall water rate is 30%. But that's overall revenue but the individual increases is based on their water use and the size of their meter. Okay. So the 30% is just based on on use. It's not necessarily across the board. Well, revenue is the overall customer mix. Okay. Yes.

Okay. So what I wanted to point out is that um you know with making these type of decisions we're we're in a place where if we don't make this decision to increase the water rates we're make we're taking an irresponsible step because the truth of the matter is that the money has to come from our general fund our reserves in order to cover that cost. what we're trying to do is put ourselves in a position where we can take care of our infrastructure to the degree where we could stabilize the cost as much as we can. So that's what we're doing here today. Now in regards to um what gets said out there that you know now people look around and every time somebody uh feels the pinch or feels the cost we point at the the the venues, right? We point at Sofi Stadium. We point at Into a Dome, the Forum, because they believe that that's why it costs a lot of money. That's why we're getting an increase. That's just not true. You know, everybody pays their own water. And that's something that was new to me that came out here that people thought, "Oh, we're paying there because they're they're using the water, so it's increasing our cost." And while the mayor has done a good job of clearing it up four or five times right now, I just want to make it clear one more time. There's no time in the future that that could happen as well. Mr. Omos,

that's correct. Okay. So, with that, you know, the motion's on the floor. Mayor, those are my comments. Well, I think Council Padilla wants to

Yeah. Yeah. Thank [clears throat] you, Mayor. Again, I just want to reiterate. So, I get it. There's never a right time, never a right time when we have to increase any fees. It doesn't matter what it's for. Could be child care. It could be uh whatever. It doesn't matter. There's never a right time. But as elected officials that are responsible for moving this city forward and progressiveness uh and and putting uh you know an infrastructure in place that's going to last longer and fix some of these repairs that are in dire need. We need to do these changes. We need to make these increases. If not, it'll be like it was back in 2011, 2012 when folks were upset because there was pipes bursting. There was sink holes everywhere and it was like, you know, we got to fix these. And so we they made a move in 2012 to increase the water rates and we find ourselves back in a position again to have to try to keep up with the costs that are being absorbed by the city. And now we have to make a decision on what direction we're going to go. We can't continue to absorb these costs. And so we have to make these changes. Is it a popular change to make? No, it's not. But again, we don't make these changes based on being reelected or elected. And people try to make that seem that way. We make these changes as we make a lot of improvements in Ingwood based on what's the right thing to do for our community. What is the best thing to do? And at this point, this is one of those best moves that we have to

make. And you may agree or disagree, but until you sit on this end and you understand the totality of what these decisions mean and how they're going to benefit the community, I get it. And I've got to reiterate and even Ingwood Park Cemetery said, "Nobody else pays their water bill. Nobody else is paying the water bill for the sofi stadium, the into a dome, the forum, any of these folks. Just like nobody else is paying your water rate at home, we all have to pay ours. We have to pay what we owe. And this is again part of that is to make sure that we do these increases to allow us to make changes to the infrastructure, the sewer, the water lines. All of that needs to be improved and that's what we're trying to do. Now, I do want to say people talk about, you know, one lady talked about, well, I've lived here and I live in the house that my parents lived in and it's getting ridiculous this and that. Property values have gone up substantially. Why? Because of the changes that we've made here in Englewood, you know. So, if you're a property owner and your parents bought this property 40, 50, 60 years ago, congratulations. You have generational wealth. It's now up to you how you spend it and what you do with it. Nobody's putting a gun to your head to sell your properties. Keep them. Things are only going to get better. You know, when we talk about uh you know, using general fund money, that's not what we do. That's not how it's done. these water rates are on a standalone funding source. So, we got to make sure that we have a balance in that. So, with that, thank you and I appreciate everybody's comments. Truly, I take them to heart

because nobody wants to get an increase. None of us do. Okay. Thank you. Uh before we go on to U Councilman [clears throat and cough] Faulk, I want to clarify something. The monies that we have used to stay afloat, very appropriate. That's correct, mayor. It has not been from the general fund. Is that right? That's correct, mayor. It's an enterprise fund. Are we allowed to subsidize this water enterprise fund with the general fund? You could, but that's not something that's typical.

Okay. Now, I want to go on to Councilman Faulk and then I'm gonna finish up. Go ahead, Council.

Okay. Thank you, Mayor. I um won't take up too much time. I just want to echo what my council member colleagues have said and just kind of um say that, you know, hearing a lot of the the comments here, um we empathize with everyone. We understand. We're with you. We all live in Englewood as well. Our bills will go up in our households as well. We don't want to do it, but it's like our colleague said, we have to make the responsible decision because it's what needs to be done. We cannot keep pushing this buck down the road. We can't do it anymore. We have to make this decision now. Um, we don't want to leave our kids with a more expensive decision that they have to deal with in 10 to 15, 20 years. That's not responsible. It's just not. So, I mean, um, for me, I I hate it. And I know that our colleagues at Ingua Park Cemetery will probably feel a lot of pain. You guys will feel a lot of pain. So um hate to see that happen. So um it's difficult. It's difficult decision. Uh sometimes it's very difficult being on in on the deis. It really is. It is. But um we have to make responsible decisions for the city of Englewood and sometimes they're not liked by our residents, but it is sometimes what needs to be done. So I just wanted to make that um those comments to you.

Thank you, Mayor. Thank you. Really quick again, Mr. Omos, the rate raised only puts us in the middle of cities. Is that right? That's correct. Okay. So, here to four, we've been very much on the low end of the rates that are paid for water. Now, we don't live in a vacuum. Is that right? That's right. Everybody pays for water. And so, what we're doing, this increase only puts us, if we vote for it, because we're about to vote, puts us in the middle of cities. That's correct. Thank you. Okay. With that, we'll uh call for the vote. Madam city clerk, council members [clears throat] Padilla I. Morales

I. Faulk. I. Mayor Buts I. Mr. Mayor, we have to mention one.

Oh, there's and there's one more point. We I wanted to tell everybody that um you know, we did receive protests. Okay. and and the um standard or the the benchmark is if we get 50% plus one of the rate payers that that protest then this rate has not cannot go into effect. We got 3% 3% of the rateayers that protested the rate increase. So we would need another 47%. All right. And so with that, we'll go on to the next item. [sighs]

We'll go to the consent calendar. Items two through 18. So moved. Second. Second. Madam city clerk. Council member Padilla. I. Morales. I. Faulk. I. Mayor Butts.

I. DR1 and H3. Staff report recommending the mayor and council members approve a permanent local housing allocation loan agreement with 304 East Spruce Street LP for $2 million from the city's permanent local housing allocation fund to provide a second city sponsored loan to the developer to fund in part certain pre-development expenses incurred by its for the proposed construction of a new 60 unit affordable rental housing project located at 310 East Spruce Avenue, Inglewood, California 90301. Move approval. Second, Madam City Clerk. Council members Padilla, I. Morales, I.

Faulk, I. Mayor Buts I, SPH1, staff report requesting the mayor and council members set a public hearing to introduce an ordinance designating certain portions of the city as an event zone in order to regulate certain activities in connection with the FIFA World Cup and related events. Set the public hearing for January 13, 2026 at 2 p.m. We're on to reports A1 from the city attorney.

Uh, yes. Thank you, mayor. We had a close session today. Present were the mayor and members Padilla Morales and Faulk. Uh CS1 was the workers compensation claim of Nicholas Scanland. And by a 40 vote they the council moved to approve a settlement authority. CS2 was pulled. CS3 was the case of Bernett v. City of Englewood. There was discussion held direction given to staff and CS4 was the claim of Wilshshire Nebat LLC and by a 40 vote the council approved settlement authority for settlement to be made. [snorts]

Um we have to approve that in in public. So yeah we have to do that one in public. Yeah. So with Wilshshireette I have a motion for settlement authority. So second, madam city clerk. Council members Padilla. Hi. Morales. Hi. Fog. I. Mayor Buds. I. A2. Uh, no comments. Thank you. All right. CM1. Mr. Mayor. Just a reminder that city hall will be closed starting this Friday and we'll be back on the 5th of January. However, city services, field services will continue unabated. CC1.

Yes, Mayor. Thank you so kindly. Uh, first I would like to uh thank Councilman Morales and our city treasurer for joining me this past weekend for the um sitting and eating with the city clerk. And so that's going to be coming out. So encourage our residents to, you know, be on the lookout for that. We went to the 675 bar restaurant and bar lounge. It was off the chain. Really nice. It was [clears throat] It was really nice. And I got the councilman out at night time. So, I'm really thankful for that. So,

thank you, Councilman Morales. Secondly, I would like to um you know, just want to let our councilwoman, Gloria Gray, know that we're with her and um council uh the city treasurer and myself uh are standing with her in in a full recovery. And then lastly, happy holidays to everyone. Thank you, mayor. Thank you very much. Let's see. So CT1 monthly treasures report for the month ending September 3rd, 2025. Receive and file the successor agencies in session CSA2. Monthly treasury report for the month ending September 30th, 2025. Receive and file adjourn the successor agency. The housing authorities in session H2.

Monthly treasures report for the month ending September 30th, 2025. Receive and file H3 and DR1. Mayor, we did that on the the council side so desire. Okay. Well, we've already approved that DR through DR1. We'll adjourn the housing authority. The JPA is in session. A monthly charge report for the month ending September 30, excuse me, September 2025. Receive and file. Adjourn the JPA. And I would do appointments to um commissions and committee committees. I'm going to call all these together. And then if anybody wants me to pull one, I'll pull it.

Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint Anna Christensen to the Arts Commission. Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint Rita Bernett to the Aviation Commission. Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint WG Howard Jr. to the Construction Appeals Board. Councilwoman Dion Faul nominates and I appoint Janu Clark to the library board. Councilwoman Deion Faulk nominates and I appoint Venice Brown to the rental housing board. Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint Cheryl Shaw Williams to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint Lois Hail living in the Renaissance to the parking and traffic commission. my former neighbor. Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint Christopher Beck to the parks and recreations committee commission. Councilwoman Dion Faulk nominates and I appoint Dolly Morrison to the naming and renaming commission. Is there a second?

Second. Second. Madam city clerk. Council members Padilla. Hi. Morales. Vog. [snorts] Hi, Mayor Buds. Hi. [laughter] Okay. Now, uh public comment. Any person wish to address the council on any item connected with city business not elsewhere considered on the agenda may do so at this time for one minute.

Thank you for this moment to speak, but um I'm a little concerned by what I'm hearing today from my council uh elected members. It sounds like a lot of what you guys want in this mass. We're not idiots. That water bill, we wouldn't have that situation if these three arenas weren't put in place with the additional hotels, the additional people and everything. This infrastructure wouldn't be a problem. But the problem that I have is the the Krenshaw project that added irrigation. That's water that's being added to the bill. What I don't like is this new tree trimming service that just comes up out of middle of December where we don't have a say about what goes on in our community. You're having parking now on Crenshaw Boulevard between 108 and Imperial where that flows with the mess with the flow of traffic. We can't enter the shopping centers anymore because there's yellow poles up that would now cause traffic on Krenshaw. Game days cause traffic for people in our neighborhoods. What I'm seeing is with the new businesses is causing more of a negative impact for the residents in the long haul and then we're told that we have to with it and deal with it.

You're at time. Oh, but I do want to speak to my district. you're you're you're you're at time and you welcome to talk to your district for councilwoman. That'd be great. Okay, now we'll go to council and mayor remarks. Councilman Alex Padilla, District 2.

Great. Thank you, Mayor. Just real quick, a couple of things. I had an opportunity to do a welcoming at the uh this past weekend for the disabled American veterans. Uh so, I want to thank uh Mr. Richard Cooks, who's there in the picture with me. uh he's actively involved with the DAV as well as AMV vets and so it's always good to attend these events to show our support for what the veterans are doing uh first of all for their sacrifice serving our country and second for everything they do for our veterans here in uh in California. [clears throat and cough] Uh, number two, again, I want to now thank our uh community for coming out and supporting our District 2 toy and can food drive. Uh, overwhelming success. Uh, and that's only because of the kindness and generosity by the community that came out in force so that we can provide a smile on the kids' faces and and a smile on the parents' faces as they were gifted with some toys and some food for their family. So, I want to thank the Inglewood community for coming out and showing their support. Uh, Santa Slay. So, Santa the Santa Slay is going to be coming out to each one of our communities uh here in the next couple of uh weeks. And so if you would please uh get on the uh social media for the city or the Instagram for the police officers association or in Ingwood Police Department's Instagram. It'll have on there where they're going to be in different parts of the community and kind of give you a time frame. They have to give you a window, right? Like about 30 minutes because that sleigh's got to make those rounds and those turns. So it's going to take a little longer than a regular car coming up. And so when they get there, you'll be able to take a photo and and sit there or the kids will be able to sit on Santa's lap and uh kind of visit with Santa. So I just want

to thank the Ingwood Police Department and the Ingwood POA for providing this for our residents. Um and I think that about does it. I know the city manager talked about city hall being closed and our next meeting won't be till after uh we get back from uh vacation. Well, vacation or being closed, vacation for some folks will still be around running the city business. Uh, but I want wish everybody a happy holidays, merry Christmas and feliss navidida and also have a wonderful new year. Uh, enjoy being with your family and your friends. God bless you. Thank you, Councilwoman Faulk, District 4.

Thank you, Mayor. Um, I'd like to acknowledge uh my commissioners that are here, board members um for their reappointments to their positions and they're going to be sworn in today. Congratulations to all of them. And I'd like to see if my colleagues would take a quick picture with all of them at the flag after the um after our council meeting really quickly. Um also, I want to uh invite district 4 out. We have a Santa visit and a um it's going to be happening at the Crunch Omperial Branch Library from 4:00 to 6:00 tomorrow and there will be hot cocoa for the kitties and then uh there will be like pictures with Santa Claus and the Grinch and lots of fun for the babies. So come on out on Perio um library tomorrow from 4 to 6. Also, I'd like to congratulate um my sorority sister Brittany Murray. Uh she and some of our other Ingua residents are producing and have produced a film that is launching tomorrow night and um it will be airing um and some of our friends here, some of our city clerk, city treasurer, some others are going to go to the pink carpet event. So it's going to be a very nice event, but congratulations to some of our Ingual residents who are involved in that film. So, um, hopefully [clears throat] we can get more people to go out and celebrate this wonderful independent film. Uh, lastly, mayor, I want to congratulate Lois Hail, who recently just had a birthday, parking traffic commissioner for District 4. And then also, Clineta Gory, one of our long-term District 4 residents, who've been such a fun and active District 4

resident. And so with that said, I want to wish everyone a very, very merry Christmas, happy new year, be safe, and we'll see you in 2026. Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, Councilman Ella Morales.

Thank you. Just some brief uh comments. I want to start with thanking uh Mr. Tony Omos and Bernard McCri who were the staff members in charge of two huge events today, huge items today on the agenda. The uh uh first one was the hotel being built and how you know there's a certain part of the process that takes place. I mean we're building a community we're building a city and with it with the venues and everything that we can capitalize on requires us to build out this city in a certain manner. Hotels being one of them. uh in order to get this this type of uh development, you know, we had to make this change, this zoning changed. And with it, it allowed uh the gentleman to build the 11 units on top. And during that conversation, it came out that, you know, there was a need for affordable housing and how the city is is not paying attention to that. I want to say that that that's not correct. The city actually has been addressing uh the affordability on housing for a while. During during the time where we were uh making all of these major kind of developments here in the city of Inglewood, uh a lot of rent was going up extremely quickly. Uh we addressed it with rent control immediately. It took a while, but we are at a point where we had stabilized the rent. But aside from that, all of our developments have the required uh city uh and state requirements for affordable housing. And going beyond that, still I know that there's a few projects in the pipeline that are going to be 100% affordable. This is unlike many cities you have around here. uh we are uh making the responsible decisions because we know that not only is that a requirement by the state but there's a huge need and we we want our residents to have those

options. We want our seniors to make sure that uh we take care of them as best we can. So I just wanted to point that out. Those are going to be coming up. Now, um, in regards to the the hotel that's going to be developed, that will allow us to, you know, take advantage of the tourism that comes in uh, for the next how many years with all these major events, the Olympics, the Super Bowl, FIFA. So, those are the type of decisions that we're making that can be spun in so many different ways, but at the end of the day, we're moving the city forward. And I won't spend a lot of time on on the water thing. I just want to say that, you know, um, in order for a city to move on responsibly, these decisions are so necessary and the fact that we have extremely capable staff all the way across the board at the top. And thank you, Mr. travel uh makes it, you know, I don't want to say easy for us to kind of address it, but the truth of the matter is that, you know, we rely heavily on our staff and they've proven to be extremely capable and so those decisions are made with a huge amount of of that reliance and we're very proud of that. So, uh moving on, I would like to just say happy holidays to everyone. Merry Christmas. you know, this is a time that we get to kind of pause and spend with family. I'm looking forward to it. I'm sure everybody else is. Uh we'll miss you for a few weeks, but we'll be back in January. Thank you.

Thank you. So, real quick about the closure of city hall. Real quick. Thank you, Aisha. All right. Go ahead. [laughter] I don't want any problems. Yeah, I know you guys. I missed Aisha last week and I wanted to apologize publicly. I feel very chagrined for having done that. All right, Aisha, I apologize to you publicly.

Uh let's talk about this closure thing, though. The reality is is that we will still have all of our 24-hour services every day of the week. Uh myself and the council people are available every day of the week. I will be here in the office every day of the week. So while we are while we are have staff, you know, off taking their holiday pay, they're all taking approved leave. Uh that's something that we do. Okay. Uh I want to remind everybody that we have the lowest average rents in the South Bay. I want to thank Bernard McCumbry, McCumbry, Tony Almos, Roberto Chavez for giving us [snorts] three great reports. This is the longest meeting we've had in a very long time, but it was so productive and worthwhile. I want to clarify once and for all the venues have nothing to do with the residential water rates. Period. No matter what anybody wants to want to couch that, they pay for the water that they use. And when I heard someone come up with this preposterous supposition that because we put water manes under the venues that somehow we're subsidizing uh the venues. Did you know that every time housing developments built in Englewood, the city pays to do the roadways and the water systems? You know why we do that? Because we have the expectation that that housing will be occupied and we'll get property tax from it. The same thing with the venues. We did that because you know why? We're going to get admissions tax from it. So, we make much more in admissions tax than we will ever pay for those sewage system that we put there. That's something that we do. And it's it's just unfortunate some people don't understand the economics of running a progressive and

viable city, period. Um, Inglewood has always had traffic when it was prosperous. When we had the racetrack doing 43,000 people a day, six days a week, we had the forum doing 175, the city was doing pretty good. When those two venues died, the city died. The city died. We were four months away. We were four months away from bankruptcy when I took office. And now we got oursel to a point where we could give a property tax rebate last year. That's that's where that's never been done anywhere in the United States of America. And so yes, we do have traffic, but we had traffic before when we prospered. So if somebody's going to tell me I want to choose no traffic, low property values, torn up streets, untrimmed trees, sidewalks torn up. I'm telling you, I don't agree with that. So, it's it's funny how at this point we have people trying to rewrite history and make it as seem as though the good old days were when we had high crime and no infrastructure renewal. I just don't buy that. So, with that, we're going to go take this picture with Dion and her commissioners, [laughter] and we're journ