Council Latest

The Hermosa Beach City Council convened on Tuesday evening, for a meeting that focused heavily on revenue generation through parking meter adjustments, amid mounting concerns about the city's fiscal outlook and infrastructure needs.

Parking Meter Rate Increases Approved

In the evening's most contentious decision, the Council voted 4-1 to increase parking rates across the city. On-street meters will rise from $2 to $3 per hour, while beach parking lots A, B, and C will increase from $2.50 to $3.50 per hour. The new rates eliminate the previous time-based pricing structure in favor of flat rates regardless of time of day.

Administrative Services Director Brandon Walker explained that the city faces significant fiscal pressures, particularly the renegotiation of fire and lifeguard contracts with Los Angeles County in fiscal year 2027-28, with potential cost increases up to 25%.

Council Member Michael Keegan dissented, advocating for a more modest 25-cent increase, citing concerns about business impacts during economically uncertain times. Several business owners and residents expressed opposition during public comment, worried about reduced patronage and spillover parking into residential neighborhoods.

Lot E Metering Decision Postponed

The Council voted 4-1 against installing parking meters in Lot E, a 25-space parking area between 2nd and 3rd Streets off Pacific Coast Highway. This decision followed passionate testimony from nearby business owners and residents who argued the lot serves essential functions for local establishments including Hermosa Saloon and Domino's Pizza. Councilmember Jackson was the only vote in favor last night.

Staff had projected the metered lot could generate $50,000 annually, though public comment questioned these figures, suggesting revenue comparable to the underutilized Lot G across PCH might be more realistic—closer to $12,500 annually. Concerns about enforcement challenges and parking displacement into surrounding neighborhoods ultimately swayed the majority.

Community Recognitions and Proclamations

The meeting opened on a celebratory note with recognition of local business owners Kathy Knoll and Jeff Bonafede, co-founders of Uncorked and The Deck, for their community contributions. The Council also issued proclamations recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15) and California Clean Air Day (October 1).

Kelly Courts Renovation Approved

After postponing the project in February, the Council unanimously approved a $826,000 contract with All American Construction Solutions for Kelly Courts improvements.

The decision came with a moment of accountability when resident and Public Works Commissioner Scott Hayes reminded the Council that their February delay cost the city approximately $30,000—the exact amount by which the current bid exceeds the previous one. "I told you so," Hayes stated matter-of-factly, though he encouraged Council to approve the current proposal.

The project will resurface tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, update lighting and fencing, and restore all four pickleball courts (two are currently closed). Construction is expected to begin in November with completion by February 2026. Council Member Detoy requested coordination with HB Youth Basketball to provide alternative practice facilities during construction.

Public Works Commission Oversight Discussion

An informational item examining the Public Works Commission's role in Capital Improvement Program oversight generated significant discussion. The commission currently meets bi-monthly and reviews all CIP projects.

Council Member Detoy successfully moved to establish a subcommittee—comprising the Mayor and Council Member Jackson working with two Public Works commissioners—to clarify roles and responsibilities and improve coordination between the commission and Council.

Looking Ahead

The meeting concluded with announcements of upcoming community events, including the special screening of "Carrie" at the Community Center Theater on October 10 and Pumpkins in the Park on October 11.