HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/10/2025 - Regular MeetingCITY OF NEWPOR,T BEACH
City Council Meeting Minutes
Regular Meeting
June 10, 2025
I. ROLL CALL — 4:00 p.m.
Present: Mayor Joe Stapleton, Mayor Pro Tem Lauren Kleiman, Councilmember Michelle Barto,
Councilmember Noah Blom, Councilmember Robyn Grant, Councilmember Sara J. Weber
Excused: Councilmember Erik Weigand
II. INVOCATION — Dalia Taft, Merage Jewish Community Center of Orange County
III PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE — Mayor Pro Tem Kleiman
IV. PRESENTATIONS
i History of the Balboa Bay Club — Hollywood's Riviera by Bruce Cook
Bruce Cook utilized a presentation to discuss the Balboa Bay Club's beginnings in 1948 and its
transformation in the 1950s as the center of Newport Beach's social scene and celebrity getaway.
Mr. Cook also discussed the Balboa Bay Club's role in charitable activities and its impact on the
community.
• Proclamation to City Clerk Leilani Brown
Mayor Stapleton read the proclamation and presented it -to -City Clerk Brown in recognition -of her
retirement after over 27 years of dedicated service to the City.
V. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ORAL REPORTS FROM CITY COUNCIL ON
COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
Councilmember Barto:
• Attended the Balboa Island Parade, a Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee meeting, and
Movies in the Park
• Participated in a field trip with the Ad Hoc Refuse Committee to the Material Recovery Facility
(MRF) in Anaheim
Councilmember Grant:
• Attended the Balboa Island Parade and the Newport Beach TV Fest
• Participated in a field trip with the Ad Hoc Refuse Committee to the Material Recovery Facility
(MRF) in Anaheim
Councilmember Weber
• Participated in Fire Ops 101
• Announced the Flag Day ceremony on June 14, 2025 in the Civic Center Green and that the flags
will be displayed until July 4
Mayor Stapleton
• Attended the Balboa Island Parade, the Newport Beach Foundation's Distinguished Citizen
Program graduation, the Newport Beach TV Fest, the City of Hope key ceremony at Irvine Hospital,
the Corona del Mar Scenic 5K, and numerous graduation parties
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VI. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Grant announced that she is on the Board of Directors for Speak Up Newport which
will be receiving a grant (Item 13), but there is no conflict of interest.
Councilmember Weber announced that she is the Treasurer for the Exchange Club of Newport Harbor
which will be receiving a grant (Item 13), but there is no conflict of interest.
Adam Leverenz believed there is a need for legal expertise on the Harbor Commission (Item 16),
discussed some of the nominees, and expressed support for balancing stakeholder interests; emphasized
the scrutiny placed on the City's management of the Harbor (Items 14 and 15), pointing out the
involvement of two State commissions in examining the loss of tidelands funds; raised issues concerning
affordable housing (Item 3) and criticized a development approach that allowed developers to pay a fee
instead of building affordable units, arguing this might delay the City from meeting State mandates;
and questioned whether existing State penal codes could be effectively used instead of creating new
spectator racing laws (Item 4).
Dan Napier, President of the Newport Beach Employees League, thanked Council and the City's
nego is mg team for its productive argauung process regardlffg the new tentative
their understanding of employees' needs (Item 12).
Bernie Svalstad, Chairman of the Newport Beach Historical Society, requested an increase of at least
$5,000 of the community program grant allocation to the Newport Beach Historical Society (Item 13).
VII. CONSENT CALENDAR
READING OF MINUTES AND ORDINANCES
1. Minutes for the May 27, 2025 Special Joint Meeting of the City Council and Finance
Committee and the May 27, 2025 City Council Meeting
Waive reading of subject minutes, approve as written, and order filed.
2. Reading of Ordinances
Waive reading in full of all ordinances under consideration and direct the City Clerk to read by title
only.
ORDINANCES FOR ADOPTION
3. Postponement of Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance Nos. 2025-7 and 2025-8
Approving an Amendment to the North Newport Center Planned Community (PC-56)
This is an informational item only and no action is required.
ORDINANCE FOR INTRODUCTION
4. Ordinance No. 2025-9: Adding Chapter 12.70 (Prohibition on Attending Street Races and
Reckless Driving Exhibitions) to Title 12 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the Newport Beach
Municipal Code to Prohibit Spectators from Being Present at Street Races and Reckless
Driving Exhibitions in Newport Beach
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-9,
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Adding Chapter 12.70
(Prohibition on Attending Street Races and Reckless Driving Exhibitions) to Title 12 (Vehicles
and Traffic) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code, and pass to a second reading on June 24,
2025.
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RESOLUTIONS FOR ADOPTION
5. Resolution No. 2025-26: Annual Measure M2 Eligibility Submittal
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly;
b) Adopt the Measure M2 Seven -Year Capital Improvement Program;
c) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-26, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Concerning the Status and Update of the Circulation Element, Mitigation Fee
Program and Pavement Management Plan for the Measure M2 Program; and
d) Direct staff to submit all necessary materials to the Orange County Transportation Authority
to satisfy the FY 2025-26 Measure M2 annual eligibility requirements.
6. Resolution No. 2025-27: Specifying Uses for FY2025-26 RMRA Funding from the Road
Repair and Accountability Act of 2017
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
Beach,b) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-27, A Resolution of theeityCouncil of the City of Newport
California, Adopting a List of Projects for Fiscal Year 2025-26 Funded by SB 1, the Road Repair
and Accountability Act of 2017.
7. Resolution No. 2025-28: Adoption of Fiscal Year 2025-26 Appropriations Limit
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-28, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Determining and Establishing the Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year 2025-26 in
Accordance with Article XIIIB of the California Constitution and Government Code Section 7910,
in the amount of $273,258,369.
8. Resolution No. 2025-29: Emergency Management Performance Grant Authorization
(C-8075-12)
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-29, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Authorizing Persons Holding Certain Designated Positions to Execute Emergency
Management and Homeland Security Grant Documents for and on Behalf of the City of Newport
Beach for the Purpose of Obtaining Certain Federal Financial Assistance and/or State Financial
Assistance.
9. Resolution No. 2025-30: Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding with the Newport
Beach Police Association and Associated Salary Schedule (C-2056)
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly;
b) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-30, AResolution of the City of Newport Beach, California, Adopting
a Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Newport Beach and the Newport Beach
Police Association and Associated Salary Schedule;
c) Approve Budget Amendment No. 25-069 appropriating $361,588.92 in increased expenditures
in various City division salary and benefits accounts from unappropriated General Fund balance
for Fiscal Year 2024-25; and
d) Approve Budget Amendment No. 26-001 appropriating $4,106,309.00 in increased expenditures
in various City of Newport Beach division salary and benefits accounts from unappropriated
General Fund balance for Fiscal Year 2025-26.
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10. Pulled from the Consent Calendar
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
11. Amendment to Services Agreement with American International Environmental, Inc. for
the Newport Terrace Landfill Gas Control System (C-8734-1)
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Approve Amendment No. Two to the Professional Services Agreement with American
International Environmental, Inc. for Newport Terrace Landfill Gas Control System Operations
and Maintenance Services, which extends the contract for one additional year to June 30, 2026,
and increases the contract amount by $75,000, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to
execute the Agreement.
12. Tentative Agreement with Newport Beach Employees League (C-2065)
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, ec y or m irec y; an
b) Receive and consider the Tentative Agreement between the City of Newport Beach and the
Newport Beach Employees League.
13. Community Programs and Special Event Grants Recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-
26 (C-8281 / C-8082)
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly;
b) Pursuant to. City Council Policy A-12, find that the organizations listed below provide
community services or programs that serve residents and are beneficial to residents' quality of
life and authorize the allocation of $41,100 of the Community Programs Grants in the following
manner:
Community Programs Grants Applicant
Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach
Corona del Mar Residents Assn
Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce
Newport Beach Historical Society
Orange Coast College Foundation Marina Programs
Sherman Foundation
Speak Up Newport
Recommendation
$ 10,000
$ 5,000
$ 3,600
$ 2,500
$ 4,000
$ 10,000
$ 6,000
Total
$
41,100;
c) Waive the requirement in City Council Policy A-12 that $75,000
be expended each fiscal year
for Community Programs Grants;
d) Pursuant to City Council Policy A-12, find that the special events listed below are community,
social or athletic events that are beneficial to residents' quality
of life,
and authorize the
allocation of $300,000 for Special Event Grants in the following manner:
Community & Charitable Events
Recommendation
3rd Thursdays
$
3,610
4th of July Parade and Picnic
$
544
2025 Fourth of July Celebration
$
1,134
Andersen Deans Port of July
$
544
Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk
$
6,804
Annual Corona del Mar Scenic 5k
$
13,630
Annual Easter Egg Hunt
$
544
Annual Newport Classic Surf Contest
$
1,134
Balboa Island Parade
$
10,870
Balboa Island Summer Concert Series
$
1,134
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Balboa Island Tree Lighting and Snow Day
$
544
Baroque Music Festival 46th Season Fall Preview
$
900
CdM Home Tour
$
1,173
Chili Cook -Off and Picnic at the Park
$
544
Corona del Mar Sandcastle Contest
$
544
Field of Honor
$
1,134
Newport Beach Car Fest
$
7,650
Walk for Patrick Turner
$
544
Wooden Boat Festival
$
1,134
World Wildlife Day_ Celebration
$
885
Total
$
55,000
Signature Events
Recommendation
Hoag Classic
$
25,000
Newport Beach 4-Man Volleyball Invitational
$
10,000
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights
$
50,000
Newport Beach Film Festival
$
140,000
Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race
$
10,000
Susan G. Komen More than Pink Walk Orange County
$
10,000
e) Authorize the Recreation & Senior Services Director to sign one-year grant agreements with
Signature Event organizers.
MISCELLANEOUS
14. Confirmation of Appointments to the Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Appoint Peter Belden, Curtis Black, Charles Fancher, and Sharon Ray to fill the unscheduled
and scheduled vacancies on the Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee for terms ending
June 30, 2029.
15. Confirmation of Appointments to the Ad Hoc Committee on Utilization of Lower
Castaways and Aquatic Center Site Options
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Confirm Mayor Joe Stapleton's appointments of himself, Councilmember Noah Blom,
Councilmember Michelle Barto, Harbor Commissioner Rudy Svrcek, Parks, Beaches and
Recreation Commissioner Keira Kirby, Planning Commissioner Jonathan Langford, and Laird
Hayes, as the citizen member, to the Ad Hoc Committee on the Utilization of Lower Castaways
and Aquatic Center Site Options.
16. Confirmation of Nominees for Scheduled and Unscheduled Board and Commission
Vacancies
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Confirm the nominations made by the City Council Ad Hoc Appointments Committee:
Board of Library Trustees [1 vacancy]
Timothy (Chase) Rief (incumbent)
Jennifer Strong
Building and Fire Board of Appeals [2 vacancies]
Charles Allen (incumbent)
K. Dirk Bondy (incumbent)
Andy Boyum
James Sanders
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City Arts Commission [3 vacancies and 1 unscheduled vacancy]
David Anastos
Andy Boyum
Judith Brower
Rita Goldberg
Melissa Kandel (incumbent)
Tiare Meegan
Laurel Tippett
Civil Service Board [1 vacancy]
Taylor Diani
Paul Meyer (incumbent)
Harbor Commission [2 vacancies]
Jon Marlo
Bob Miller
Philip Stemler
Steve Sully (incumbent)
Parks Beaches & Recreation Commission [2 vacancies]
Kelly Denner
Keira Kirby (incumbent)
Travis Pirdy (incumbent)
Planning Commission [2 vacancies]
Jeffrey Bergsma
Michael Gazzano
Greg Reed (incumbent)
Loren Smith
Drew Teicheira
17. Pulled from the Consent Calendar
MISCELLANEOUS
13. Set Public Hearing Date to Adopt Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action
will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and
b) Schedule a public hearing on the City of Newport Beach's Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-
2026 for June 10, 2025, and direct the City Clerk to publish a notice of said hearing in accordance
with Section 1102 of the Newport Beach Charter.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Kleiman seconded by Councilmember Weber, to approve the
Consent Calendar, except the items removed (Items 10 and 17).
With Councilmember Weigand absent, the motion carried 6-0
VIII. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
10. Resolution No. 2025-31: Amending the Structure, Membership, Roles and Responsibilities
of the Aviation Committee
In response to Councilmember Grant's question regarding the appointment process, City Attorney
Harp confirmed that the standard process for board and commission appointments would be
followed, including public notification of the vacancies.
Jim Mosher suggested that all Councilmembers participate in reviewing the applications and
selecting appointees. He also raised concerns about the requirement relative to the removal of the
Newport Coast representative.
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Mel Beale expressed support for restructuring the Aviation Committee but suggested allowing more
time for deliberation about the proposed changes, especially considering the upcoming settlement
agreement discussions.
Councilmember Grant inquired about the Newport Coast annexation agreement's requirement for
representation on the Aviation Committee. City Attorney Harp explained that, while the
pre -annexation agreement mentioned including a Newport Coast representative, the position had
been vacant for an extended period and suggested adding a provision to designate one position for
Newport Coast, but if no one from that area applies, it would be open to others to fill the seat.
Michael Gerro, representing the Newport Coast Community Association, indicated that the
association is planning to have a member on the Aviation Committee.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Kleiman, to a) determine this
action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections
15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action will not result in a physical
change to the environment, directly or indirectly; b) adopt amended Resolution No. 2025-31, A
Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Amending the Structure,
Meinbersh�p, Roles and Responsibilities of the Aviation Gommittee; and e) direet the City Clerk- to
initiate the process for filling the vacancies on the Aviation Committee pursuant to the Maddy Act
and City Council Policy A-2.
With Councilmember Weigand absent, the motion carried 6-0.
17. Proposed Relocation of Newport Beach Fire Station No. 3 to 1550 Avocado Avenue
Councilmember Blom provided an overview of the proposed fire station relocation, explaining that
it was part of a broader effort to improve response times and service throughout the City. He
emphasized that this was the initial step in a long process involving multiple stakeholders.
Councilmember Grant requested more comprehensive data on response times for all communities
served by the fire station. Mayor Stapleton assured that more detailed information would be
provided as the process moves forward.
Jim Mosher questioned whether the proposed location was the most central for underserved areas
in the City and suggested considering alternative sites.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Kleiman, to a) determine this
action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections
15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action will not result in a physical
change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and b) authorize the City Council to submit a letter
to the Orange County Transportation Authority requesting its consideration and support in
facilitating the relocation of Fire Station No. 3 to the proposed 1550 Avocado Avenue site.
With Councilmember Weigand absent, the motion carried 6-0.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON -AGENDA ITEMS
Courtney Rickard, a research assistant with Orange County Coastkeeper, expressed gratitude to the
City for funding the Santa Ana River Mouth monitoring and outreach project. She indicated that the
mobile electronic "no dogs off leash" sign was successful in significantly reducing the presence of
off -leash dogs from July to October 2024, and requested the City to set up the sign again to protect
vulnerable seabird populations.
Adam Leverenz discussed an item on the Harbor Commission agenda related to increasing weights for
shore moorings, expressed concern about who should bear the cost, and advocated for stakeholder
engagement.
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Denys Oberman emphasized the importance of public safety response times and requested that Council
consider public safety resources when increasing development in the City.
An unidentified speaker urged the City to oppose the installation of a battery plant in San Juan
Capistrano and align with the opposition expressed by Supervisor Katrina Foley and San Clemente.
Michael Gerro, representing the Newport Coast Community Association, expressed concerns about the
increase in burglaries in the area and requested additional resources for investigations and deterrence.
Zach, head of security for Newport Coast, suggested the introduction of infrared technology to cover
larger areas and indicated that he would share more information about the technology after he attends
a forthcoming meeting.
Mayor Stapleton highlighted the City's recent investments in security measures, including the use of
Flock cameras and implementation of a new drone program. He offered to set up a meeting with the
Police Chief, Councilmember Weber, and relevant stakeholders.
Lih Daftarian shared her experience with a burglary in Newport Coast, raised concerns about speeding
vebicle.j on Newport eoast Drive, and suggested possibly eondueting traffie stbrveys i � 3nts.
Bruce Albert, President of the Pelican Ridge Homeowners Association, echoed the desire for more
resources to combat burglaries in Newport Coast, but commended the police department for its efforts.
Barbara Keller asked if the new Corona del Mar Farmer's Market will continue to be a certified organic
market, if the operator has a health permit, if a parking plan has been completed, and if having music
and food trucks will be prohibited.
Carmen Rawson requested that any technology that is used in Newport Coast be considered for other
areas in the City, like in the Newport Pier area.
X. PUBLIC HEARINGS
18. Ordinance No. 2025-10 and Resolution No. 2025-32: Approving an Amendment to the
Housing Opportunity (HO) Overlay Zoning and Coastal Zoning Districts and Resolution
No. 2025-33: Overriding Orange County Airport Land Use Commission's Determination
of Inconsistency (PA2024-0205)
Planning Manager Zdeba utilized a presentation to explain that the proposed amendments were
primarily focused on increasing maximum height limits for housing projects in certain areas,
particularly in Newport Center.
Mayor Stapleton opened the public hearing.
Debra Allen expressed her gratitude to Council for respecting Newport Center's view corridors and
offered historical context.
Tom Nicholson, representing St. Michael's and All Angels Episcopal Church, supported the height
increase for their project, clarified misconceptions, and pointed out that the project aligns with the
City's affordable housing goals.
Jim Mosher raised concerns that height increases might hinder affordable housing efforts and
questioned the reduction of units allocated to the current fire and police station site. He also
expressed concerns about the CEQA findings related to aesthetics and view impacts.
Katie Moen emphasized the importance of senior housing in the City and cited her experience
working with seniors through the Meals on Wheels program.
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Hearing no further testimony, Mayor Stapleton closed the public hearing.
Referencing the St. Michael's Church discussion, Councilmember Blom voiced his reservations
about allowing height increases without receiving detailed project plans and impact studies.
Councilmember Grant recognized St. Michael's Church's intentions to meet Housing Element goals
and encouraged them to collaborate with the Community Development Department to improve the
proposal.
Councilmember Blom indicated that his motion will include removing Sites 146 and 147 from the
ordinance and resolutions.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Councilmember Weber, to a) find that all
potential environmental effects for the Amendment have been adequately addressed in the
previously certified Final Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) identified by State
Clearinghouse Number (SCH No. 2023060699) and the City Council of the City of Newport Beach
intends to use said document for the approval of the Amendment; b) waive full reading, direct the
City Clerk to read by title only, introduce amended Ordinance No. 2025-10, An Ordinance of the City
Council of the City of Newport Beach,
(HO) Overlay Zoning Districts) in Title 20 (Planning and Zoning) of the Newport Beach Municipal
Code Related to Implementation of the Housing Element, and pass to second reading on June 24,
2025; c) adopt amended Resolution No. 2025-32, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of
Newport Beach, California, Authorizing Submittal of a Local Coastal Program Amendment to the
California Coastal Commission to Amend Pending Section 21.28.070 (Housing Opportunity (HO)
Overlay Coastal Zoning Districts) in Title 21 (Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan) of the
Newport Beach Municipal Code Related to Implementation of the Housing Element; and d) adopt
amended Resolution No. 2025-33, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
.California, Finding Amendment to Section 20.28.050 (Housing Opportunity (HO) Overlay Zoning
Districts) in Title 20 (Planning and Zoning) and Pending Section 21.28.070 (Housing Opportunity
(HO) Overlay Coastal Zoning Districts) in Title 21 (Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan) of
the Newport Beach Municipal Code Related to Implementation of the Housing Element Consistent
with the Purposes of the State Aeronautics Act and Overriding the Orange County Airport Land Use
Commission's Determination of Inconsistency with the 2008 John Wayne Airport Environs Land Use
Plan (PA2024-0205).
With Councilmember Weigand absent, the motion carried 6-0.
19. Resolution No. 2025-34: Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Adoption, Budget Public Hearing,
Recommendations from the Finance Committee, and Proposed Budget Revision Items
Deputy Finance Director Burguan utilized a presentation to highlight the budget process, proposed
budget revisions, General Fund sources, uses, and status, and reviewed the recommendations. She
reported that the City maintained its triple-A credit rating, noted a surplus of $12.2 million in the
General Fund, and outlined key budget components, including pension liability payments and
increased capital transfers.
Mayor Stapleton opened the public hearing.
Carmen Rawson and Maureen Cotton requested that Project 25R13 (Ocean Front Boardwalk
Expansion) be removed from the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget, citing community
opposition and safety concerns. Ms. Cotton also asked that "adding a second path" be removed from
Project 24H12's description.
Adam Leverenz inquired about the change in job title from "Harbor Service Worker" to "Harbor
Safety Officer" and expressed concerns about potential pension implications.
Finance Director AI -Imam clarified that only the job titles in the Harbor Department are changing
and will not result in the employees receiving public safety pensions.
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Kory Kramer, Finance Committee Member, expressed strong support for the proposed budget,
praising its balanced approach and fiscal responsibility.
Hearing no further testimony, Mayor Stapleton closed the public hearing.
Motion by Mayor Stapleton, seconded by Councilmember Weber, to a) determine this action
is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2)
and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because this action will not result in a physical change to
the environment, directly or indirectly; b) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-34, A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Adopting the Budget for the 2025-26 Fiscal Year;
and c) approve the City Manager's recommended list of position classifications and their salary
ranges as required by the California Public Employees' Retirement System and in accordance with
2 CCR § 570.5 (a)(1).
Councilmember Blom commended the Finance Committee and City staff for their work on the
budget and emphasized the City's strong fiscal position compared to other municipalities.
Mayor Stapleton highlighted the City's tradition of fiscal responsibility, noted there will be a budget
surplus, and commended e efforts made by the V inane Department and City staff.
With Councilmember Weigand absent, the motion carried 6-0.
XI. MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION - None
XII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION - None
City Attorney Harp announced that the City Council would adjourn to Closed Session to discuss the
items listed on the Closed Session agenda and read the titles.
Mayor Stapleton recessed the meeting at 6.05 p.m.
XIII. CLOSED SESSION - Council Chambers Conference Room
A. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
(Government Code § 54957.6): 2 matters
1. Agency Designated Representatives: Mayor Joe Stapleton and Mayor Pro Tem. Lauren
Kleiman.
Unrepresented Employees: Key and Management Group.
2. Agency Designated Representatives: Grace K. Leung, City Manager, and Jonathan
Holtzman, Esq., Negotiators.
Employee Organizations: Newport Beach Fire Management Association (NBFMA); Newport
Beach Lifeguard Management Association (NBLMA); Newport Beach Police Management
Association (NBPMA); and Newport Beach Professional and Technical Employees Association
(NBPTEA).
Mayor Stapleton reconvened the meeting at 6.05 p.m.
XIV. CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Harp announced that no reportable actions were taken.
XV. ADJOURNMENT - Adjourned at 6:53 p.m. in memory of Melinda Seely
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City of Newport Beach
June 10, 2025
The agenda was posted on the City's website and on the City Hall electronic bulletin board
located in the entrance of the City Council Chambers at 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport
Beach, on June 5, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
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