HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/22/2025 - Regular MeetingCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Meeting Minutes
Regular Meeting
July 22, 2025
I. ROLL CALL — 4:01 p.m.
Present: Mayor Joe Stapleton, Mayor Pro Tem Lauren Kleiman, Councilmember Noah Blom,
Councilmember Robyn Grant, Councilmember Sara J. Weber, Councilmember Erik Weigand
Absent: Councilmember Michelle Barto
II. CURRENT BUSINESS
III. INVOCATION — Dave Manne, Pastor Emeritus - Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa
IV. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE — Councilmember Weigand
V. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Interim City Clerk Molly Perry read the notice for Public Comments.
VI. PRESENTATIONS
History of the Wedge by Tim Burnham and John Karam
Mayor Stapleton introduced Tim Burnham and John Karam, who provided an extensive
historical PowerPoint presentation on the Wedge including how the Wedge was formed; the
evolution of the Wedge's culture including the tight -knit "Wedge Crew" community; the various
improvements related to surfboards, body boards and fins; and highlighted the implementation
of "blackball" rules in 1993 to manage overcrowding and conflicts between different types of
wave riders.
Recognition of Outgoing Board, Commission and Committee Members
Mayor Stapleton noted that Scott Cunningham (Harbor Commission) and Barbara Gladman
(City Arts Commission) were unable to attend the meeting but thanked them for their service.
Mayor Stapleton recognized Maureen Flanagan for her service on the City Arts Commission and
Lee Lowrey, for his service on the Planning Commission.
Both Ms. Flanagan and Mr. Lowrey expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to serve on
their respective commissions.
Councilmember Weigand personally thanked Mr. Lowrey for his dedication and service on the
Planning Commission and noted that he and Mayor Pro Tem Kleiman had served on the
Planning Commission together.
VII. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ORAL REPORTS FROM CITY COUNCIL ON
COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
Oral reports provided by the following Councilmembers:
Councilmember Weigand:
• Reported that Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District was not meeting this month.
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• Will be attending an Orange County Sanitation District meeting the following day (July 23,
2025).
Councilmember Grant:
• Attended a presentation by Sean Levin, Director of Recreation and Senior Services, at Speak
Up Newport about the "gems of Newport Beach."
• Attended an elected official roundtable discussion for the Measure M2 10-year review offered
by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA).
• Attended the Association of California Cities Summer Legislative Reception at Wild Rivers
where local officials got together to discuss issues in their communities.
• Attended the Second Anniversary celebration of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter.
Mayor Stapleton:
• Attended the Ben Carlson Scholarship Awards Dinner at the Balboa Yacht Club, that
highlighted three scholarship winners. He praised the foundation's work and the promising
youth as represented by the scholarship recipients.
VIII. MATTERS WHICH COUNCILMEMBERS HAVE ASKED TO BE PLACED ON A FUTURE
AGENDA (NON -DISCUSSION ITEM)
There were none.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
Interim City Clerk Perry read the notice regarding public comments on the Consent Calendar.
X. CONSENT CALENDAR
Before voting on the Consent Calendar, and as required by California law, City Manager Leung provided
an oral report on Agenda Items six through eight, (Agenda Item 6: Resolution No. 2025-45. To Adopt
Revisions to the City of Newport Beach Key and Management Compensation Plan; Agenda Item 7.-
Resolution No. 2025-46.• Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding with the Newport Beach Fire
Management Association (NBFMA) and Associated Salary Schedules; and Agenda Item 8. Resolution
No. 2025-47.• Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Newport Beach and the
Newport Beach Lifeguard Management Association (NBLMA) and Associated Salary Schedule) which
included the following:
• City Manager Leung made an announcement regarding the salary schedules including changes
related to the City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, Department Heads, and other key and
management employees to accommodate an increase in each of their base salaries by 5% effective
July 12, 2025; 4% effective July 11, 2026; and 3% effective July 10, 2027.
• The salary schedule regarding the Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief included an increase in each
of their base salaries by 9% for the Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief, and 6% for the Assistant
Chief and Lifeguard Operations, effective July 12, 2025; 4% increases for all three positions effective
July 11, 2026; and 4% increases in all three positions effective July 10, 2027.
• Changes to the Ca1PERS percentage contributions included 8% for non -safety, Tier 1 and Tier 2
employees; 13.6 % for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Police and Lifeguard Safety Employees; and 13.5% for Fire
Safety Employees.
Tier 3 employees will pay the statutorily required 50% contribution of total normal costs but not
less than any other members.
• Cafeteria allowances would be increased by $300 to $2,205; holiday pay and closure for non -safety
employees, the Fire Chief and Police Chief holiday leave will be full day pay on December 24, 2025,
and December 31, 2025; holiday closure pay for up to three days between December 25, 2025, and
December 31, 2025.
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• Holiday closure safety allowances for the Assistant Police Chief and Assistant Chief Lifeguard will
be 3.7 hours per pay period that will be paid for holiday compensation pay; and the Assistant Fire
Chief will receive 5.6 hours per pay period.
Continuing review of the Consent Calendar included City Staff requesting approval of amendments on
Agenda Item 1; the continuance of Agenda Item 3; and corrections to Agenda Item 6, Exhibit B.
The City Council noted the following Conflicts of Interest related to the Consent Calendar:
Agenda Item 3: Councilmembers Weber, Grant, and Mayor Pro Tem Kleiman
Agenda Item 5: Councilmember Blom
Agenda Item 15: Councilmember Weber
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Jim Mosher spoke on Agenda Item 18, FY 2024-25 Annual District Discretionary Grant Report and the
Grants and Donations Report for the Quarter Ending June 30, 2025, noting the City of Newport Beach
has a reasonably long history of providing limited financial support to important institutions and groups
that provide public benefits to all. Mr. Mosher further noted that he believed the staff report
mischaracterizes the particular component of gift giving which was added to the City Policy in 2001.
City Council Policy A-12 allows the City Council to direct funds for worthy projects or programs that
they deem beneficial to the residents of Newport Beach's qualify of life. His understanding is that the
seven elected officials are to make a decision, not individually but to act collectively, and feels the policy
is contrary to that. As part of the policy, originally in 2001, the Councilmembers were supposed to
acknowledge to the public, what contributions they had made at the meeting closest to the time they
had made the donations. In 2010, it was reduced to this annual report which was to summarize and
provide the public benefit for each donation. Some of the allocations in the staff —report indicate the
public purpose, but about half of the entries say, "donation." Mr. Mosher further felt that "donation"
does not provide the public purpose. In closing Mr. Mosher thanked Councilmember Blom for not
exhausting his entire $6,000 allotment.
Adam Leverenz provided brief comments on Agenda Item Nos. 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 that are reports related to
employee benefits and salaries and expressed concern over the total expenditures from FY 2025-2028;
noted that employees are generously compensated and benefited, which can be further reviewed on the
Transparent California website; provided additional comments on Agenda Item No. 14 (expressed
appreciation for the restroom improvements); Agenda Item No. 16 (importance of the seasonal operation
of a live bait barge in Newport Harbor); Agenda Item No. 19 (would note his comments on the Grand
Jury response to short-term rentals later in the meeting); and Agenda Item 20 (noted reduction of the
City's homeless numbers after the implementation of the City's camping ordinance, which has resulted
in the pushing of the homeless into other communities), but thanked the City Council for their efforts.
Todd Priest spoke on Agenda Item 19 (Response to Grand Jury Report: "Long -Term Solutions to Short -
Term Rentals) on behalf of the Newport Beach Short Term Rental Alliance. Comments included the
response to the Grand Jury report on short-term rentals; noted the City's long history with vacation
rentals; explained that the alliance aims to work with the City on best practices, including streamlining
the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) collection and auditing provisions; and addressed the waitlist issue.
Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Klein seconded by Councilmember Grant, and unanimously carried
by those members present (Councilmember Barto absent), to approve the Consent Calendar including
amendments to Agenda Item 1; staff requested continuance of Agenda Item 3; amendment to Agenda
Item 6, Exhibit B; and with noted recusals on Agenda Items 5 and 15.
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XI. READING OF MINUTES AND ORDINANCES
1. Minutes for the July 8, 2025 Special City Council Meeting and July 8, 2025 Regular 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.
XII. ORDINANCES FOR ADOPTION
3. Ordinance No. 2025-11: Amending Section 9.04.470 (Local Agency Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zone) To Adopt the 2025 Moderate, High, and Very High Fire Hazard Severity
Zones, As Designated by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and
Pursuant to California Government Code Section 51178
a) Continue to the August 26, 2025, City Council meeting.
XII. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION
4. Ordinance No. 2025-12: Revision to Municipal Code Chapter 14.10 Cross -Connection
Control Program
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) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, and introduce Ordinance No. 2025-
12: An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Replacing in its
Entirety Chapter 14.10 (Cross Connection Control Program) of the Newport Beach Municipal
Code to Comply with State Law; and pass to a second reading on August 26, 2025; and
c) Receive and file, City of Newport Beach Cross Connection Control Management Plan.
5. Ordinance No. 2025-13: Amending Title 21 (Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan)
of the Newport Beach Municipal Code to Update Commercial Parking Requirements
(PA2021-104)
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-
13, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving a Local
Coastal Program Amendment to Title 21(Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan) of the
Newport Beach Municipal Code Related to Commercial Parking (PA2021-104); and pass to
second reading on August 26, 2025.
Councilmember Blom recused himself from Agenda Item 5 citing a real property conflict of
interest.
XIV RESOLUTIONS FOR ADOPTION
6. Resolution No. 2025-45: To Adopt Revisions to the City of Newport Beach Key and
Management Compensation Plan
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. 2025-45: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Adopting the 2025 Key & Management Compensation Plan, which shall be effective
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from July 12, 2025 through June 30, 2028 and Amending the Salary Schedule for Key &
Management Employees, the City Manager, the City Attorney, and the City Clerk;
c) Approve Budget Amendment No. 26-012, appropriating $1,341,837 increased expenditures in
various City division salary and benefit accounts from unappropriated General Fund balances;
and
d) Approve and adopt the revisions to the Citywide salary schedule for those employees who tie to
the Key and Management group for cost -of-living and/or salary adjustments.
7. Resolution No. 2025-46: Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding with the Newport
Beach Fire Management Association (NBFMA) and Associated Salary Schedules
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 2025-46, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Newport Beach and
the Newport Beach Fire Management Association and Amending the Salary Schedule for the
Association Unit Members, Fire Chief, and Assistant Fire Chief;
c) Approve Budget Amendment No. 26-011, appropriating $230,058 in increased expenditures in
various City division salary and benefits accounts from unappropriated General Fund balance;
and
d) Approve and Adopt the revisions to the Citywide salary schedule for those Key and Management
safety employees who tie to the Newport Beach Fire Management Association for cost -of -living
and/or salary adjustments.
8. Resolution No. 2025-47: Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of
Newport Beach and the Newport Beach Lifeguard Management Association (NBLMA)
and Associated Salary Schedule
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. 2025-47, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Adopting a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Newport Beach and
the Newport Beach Lifeguard Management Association and Amending the Salary Schedule for
the Association Unit Members and Assistant Chief, Lifeguard Operations;
c) Approve Budget Amendment No. 26-010 appropriating $233,595 increased expenditures in
various City division salary and benefit accounts from unappropriated General Fund balances;
and
d) Approve and adopt the revisions to the Citywide salary schedule for those Key and Management
safety employees who tie to the Newport Beach Lifeguard Management Association for cost -of -
living and/or salary adjustments.
9. Resolution No. 2025-48: Resolution of Intention to Amend the City's Contract with
Ca1PERS to Eliminate Section 20516(a) Cost Sharing for Citywide Miscellaneous Tier I
Employees
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. 2025-48, A Resolution of Intention to Approve an Amendment to Contract
Between the Board of Administration of the California Public Employees'Retirement System and
the City Council of Newport Beach.
10. Resolution No. 2025-49: A Procedure to Challenge Property Related Fees, Charges and
Assessments in Accordance with Assembly Bill 2257
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
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b) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-49; A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Adopting a Procedure to Challenge Property Related Fees, Charges and Assessments
in Accordance with Assembly Bill No. 2257.
11. Resolution No. 2025-50: Approving Side Letters of Agreement with the Newport Beach
Fire Association Related to Move Up Pay and the Holiday Benefit Conversion Ratio
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. 2025-50, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Approving Side Letters of Agreement with the Newport Beach Firefighters Association
Related to Move Up Pay and the Holiday Benefit Conversion Ratio.
XV. CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
12. Tentative Agreement with the Part Time Employees Association of Newport Beach
(PTEANB)
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) Receive and consider the Tentative Agreement between the City of Newport Beach and the Part
Time Employees Association.
13. Approval of Additional Construction Contingency with Jilk Heavy Construction, Inc.,
and Amendment No. Six to the Professional Services Agreement with Burns & McDonnell
Inc. for the San Diego Trash Interceptor Project (Contract No. 7127-3)
a) Find the requirement for environmental review under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) is satisfied by the September 25, 2018 Council adoption of Resolution No. 2018-67,
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Adopting Mitigated
Negative Declaration No. ND2018-002 (SCH No. 2018081013) for the Newport Bay Water Wheel
Project (PA2018-153), pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, State CEQA
Guidelines and City Council Policy K-3;
b) Approve Budget Amendment No. 26-009 appropriating $307,645 of increased expenditures in
Account No. 16001-980000-17X12 (Newport Bay Trash Wheel) from the Environmental Liability
Fund unappropriated fund balance;
c) Increase the construction contingency by $270,163 for the Jilk Heavy Construction, Inc.
Contract No. 7127-5 for a total contingency of $668,163 (approximately 17% of the contract
award) for the San Diego Creek Trash Interceptor project; and
d) Approve Amendment No. Six to the Professional Services Agreement with Burns & McDonnell
Inc. (Attachment B) for construction services to increase the Agreement amount by $25,482 for
a total not -to -exceed amount of $913,692 and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the
Amendment.
14. Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Restroom Rehabilitation Phase 2 -Notice of Completion for
Contract No. 8905-3 (24F02)
a) Accept the completed work and authorize the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the
project.
15. Concrete Replacement Program Fiscal Year 2024-25 - Notice of Completion for Contract
No. 9715-1 (25R06)
a) Accept the completed work and authorize the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the
project.
Councilmember Weber recused herself from Agenda Item 15 citing a real property conflict of
interest.
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16. Amendment No. One to Agreement for Lease of Submerged Public Trust Lands with San
Pedro Bait Co. for Seasonal Operation of a Live Bait Barge in Newport Harbor
a) Determine this action exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant
to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect
physical change in the environment) and Section 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as
defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14,
Chapter 3, because this action will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly
or indirectly;
b) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute Amendment No. One to Agreement for
Lease of Submerged Public Trust Lands with San Pedro Bait Co ., for seasonal operation of a
live bait barge in Newport Harbor and use of City -managed submerged public trust lands, in a
form substantially similar to the agreement attached to the staff report; and
c) Approve a waiver of City Council Policy F-7 - Income and Other Property based on the findings
contained in this staff report and the Agreement, that conducting an open bid process or
changing the tenant would result in excessive vacancy, and the use of the property provides an
essential or unique marine related service to the community and is of a public benefit, and might
not otherwise be provided were an open bid be required.
17. Amendment to Maintenance Services Agreement with SECSOL, Inc., dba Security
Solutions for Fire and Access Monitoring and Maintenance Services
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. One to the Maintenance Services Agreement with SECSOL, Inc., dba
Security Solutions, for fire and access monitoring services, to increase the contract amount by
$100,000, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.
XVI. MISCELLANEOUS
18. FY 2024-25 Annual District Discretionary Grant Report and the Grants and Donations
Report for the Quarter Ending June 30, 2025
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) Receive and file.
19. Response to Grand Jury Report: "Long -Term Solutions to Short -Term Rentals"
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 direct or indirect physical change to the environment; and
b) Approve the City's response to the 2024-2025 Orange County Grand Jury Report, "Long -Term
Solutions to Short -Term Rentals" and authorize the Mayor to submit the response to the
Presiding Judge of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange County pursuant to Penal
Code Section 933.05(a) and (b).
20. Homeless Outreach Services Update
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) Receive and file the homeless outreach services update and data reports for the period from July
1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.
21. Planning Commission Agenda for the July 17, 2025 Meeting
a) Receive and file.
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XVII. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
None.
XVIII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON -AGENDA ITEMS
Interim City Clerk Perry read the notice regarding public comments on non -agenda items.
Miles Patricola spoke on national issues; issues related to the residents who donated to President
Trump's campaign; and requested the City Council inform said donors of the negative public policy
efforts by the current administration, creating political and economic turmoil.
The following individuals, representing the Newport Terrace community, spoke on the devastating goat
herding issues in that community: Doug McClain, Terry Blake, Sarah Zimmerman, and Leslie Bailey.
The consensus of the speakers was that the goat vendor continues to trespass and harass residents even
with police intervention. Dale Wilcox, who was hired for goat grazing services in early May, has refused
to leave the property, despite termination notices. Speakers requested the City Council's assistance in
removing the trespasser from the property.
City Attorney Harp acknowledged the issues associated with the goat vendor and stated that the City
has several criminal cases pending against the individual and is working on a comprehensive approach
to address the situation.
Mayor Stapleton noted that with the support of the Police Department and the City Attorney, the City
would continue to help find a resolution to bring peace to the community.
XIX. PUBLIC HEARINGS
22. Resolution No. 2025-51: Community Development Block Grant - 2025-29 Consolidated
Plan, 2025-26 Annual Action Plan, and Citizen Participation Plan Amendment
a) Conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the Draft 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, Draft
2025-26 Action Plan, and Draft Citizen Participation Plan Amendment;
b) Find the approval of the 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, 2025- 26 Action Plan, and Citizen
Participation Plan Amendment exempt from the National Environmental Policy Act NEPA
pursuant to 24 CFR Part 58, Section 58.34;
c) Find the approval of the 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, 2025- 26 Action Plan, and Citizen
Participation Plan Amendment are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably
foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a
project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations,
Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the
environment, directly or indirectly;
d) Adopt Resolution No. 2025- 51, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Approving the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, 2025- 2026 Annual Action Plan, and
Citizen Participation Plan for the Federal Community Development Block Grant Program;
e) Authorize the City Manager to:
1. Submit the 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, 2025-29 Action Plan, and Citizen Participation
Plan Amendment to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD);
2. Execute the 2025-26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Grant
Agreement and all related documents on behalf of the City;
3. Execute the sub -recipient agreements with the nonprofit organizations receiving
allocations of CDBG funds in the Action Plan; and
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4. Authorize the community development director, or their designee, to be the official
representative of the City of Newport Beach, and to submit required environmental
documentation for CDBG projects; and
f) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute a five -year Professional Services
Agreement with Michael Baker International, Inc. for CDBG program administration and
affordable housing monitoring.
Mayor Stapleton opened the public hearing at 4:55 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mr. Mosher spoke on the following concerns related to the Community Development Block Grants:
Noted that the staff report was cryptic; the staff report shows allocations funds that were received from
the federal government, but it is unclear exactly how much money we have to spend and if we do not
spend, what are the City's options. Mr. Mosher further noted that it is unclear whether we have
$402,000 or $315,000 to spend; reviewed historical loan and payoff funding for the improvements in
Balboa Village that appears to have gone away; noted an administrative fee from MicroBaker
International and questioned how they were chosen; noted that under "Capital Projects" there is an
amount that seems to exceed the limit and questioned whether it was a typographical error; additiona;ly
under "Capital Projects" there is an application from Trellis who works in senior home maintenance and
it appears that would have been a good project to fund; and noted the Consolidated Action Plan is
provided in the staff report by a link and is incomplete due to the inclusion of appendices one of which
explains the public survey process.
Councilmember Grant requested clarification about a discrepancy in the header that noted a limit in
the administration budget. Lauren Wooding Whitlinger, Real Property Administrator, explained that
program income would cover the amount that exceeded the administration budget.
Mayor Stapleton closed the public hearing at 4:59 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Weber, seconded by Councilmember Blom, to a) Conduct a
public hearing to receive comments on the Draft 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, Draft 2025-26 Action
Plan, and Draft Citizen Participation Plan Amendment; and b) Find the approval of the 2025-29
Consolidated Plan, 2025- 26 Action Plan, and Citizen Participation Plan Amendment exempt from
the National Environmental Policy Act NEPA pursuant to 24 CFR Part 58, Section 58.34; c) Find
the approval of the 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, 2025- 26 Action Plan, and Citizen Participation Plan
Amendment are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to
Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect
physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in
Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because
it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; d)
Adopt Resolution No. 2025- 51, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Approving the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, 2025- 2026Annual Action Plan, and Citizen
Participation Plan for the Federal Community Development Block Grant Program; e) Authorize the
City Manager to: 1.) Submit the 2025-29 Consolidated Plan, 2025-29 Action Plan, and Citizen
Participation Plan Amendment to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD); 2) Execute the 2025-26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Grant
Agreement and all related documents on behalf of the City; 3) Execute the sub -recipient agreements
with the nonprofit organizations receiving allocations of CDBG funds in the Action Plan; and 4)
Authorize the community development director, or their designee, to be the official representative
of the City of Newport Beach, and to submit required environmental documentation for CDBG
projects; and f) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute a five -year Professional
Services Agreement with Michael Baker International, Inc. for CDBG program administration and
affordable housing monitoring.
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ACTION
The motion carried unanimously by those members present (Councilmember Barto
absent).
23. Ordinance No. 2025-14: Amending Title 21 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code Related
to Comprehensive Municipal Code Amendments (PA2022-0219)
a) Conduct a public hearing;
b) 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
c) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-
14, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving a
Local Coastal Program Amendment to Title 21 (Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan)
of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the California Coastal Commission
Related to Comprehensive Municipal Code Amendments (PA2022-0219), and pass to second
reading on August 26, 2025 and b) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only,
introduce Ordinance No. 2025-14, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport
Beach, California, Approving a Local Coastal Program Amendment to Title 21 (Local Coastal
Program Implementation Plan) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the
California Coastal Commission Related to Comprehensive Municipal Code Amendments
(PA2022-0219), and pass to second reading on August 26, 2025.
Mayor Stapleton opened the public hearing at 5:00 p.m.
Hearing no requests by the public to speak, Mayor Stapleton closed the public hearing at 5:00 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Mayor Stapleton, 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) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by
title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-14, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport
Beach, California, Approving a Local Coastal Program Amendment to Title 21 (Local Coastal
Program Implementation Plan) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the California
Coastal Commission Related to Comprehensive Municipal Code Amendments (PA2022-0219), and
pass to second reading on August 26, 2025 and b) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by
title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-14, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport
Beach, California, Approving a Local Coastal Program Amendment to Title 21 (Local Coastal
Program Implementation Plan) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the California
Coastal Commission Related to Comprehensive Municipal Code Amendments (PA2022-0219), and
pass to second reading on August 26, 2025.
ACTION
The motion carried unanimously by those members present (Councilmember Barto
absent).
24. Ordinances Nos. 2025-15 and 2025-16: Newport Beach Municipal Code Amendments
Related to Short Term Lodging (PA2023-0116)
a) Conduct a public hearing;
b) Find this project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to
Section 15060(c)(2) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division
6, Chapter 3, which states that an activity is not subject to CEQA if "[t]he activity will not result
in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment";
c) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-15,
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving a Code
Amendment to Chapter 5.95 (Short Term Lodging Permit) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code
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to Ensure Consistency with the Local Coastal Program Amendment Related to Short Term
Lodging (PA2023- 0116), and pass to second reading on August 26, 2025; and
d) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-16,
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving a Local
Coastal Plan Amendment Amending Title 21 (Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan) of
the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the California Coastal Commission Related
to Short Term Lodging (PA2023-0116), and pass to second reading on August 26, 2025.
Councilmember Blom noted his need to recuse himself from the dais citing a conflict of interest due
to real property interests.
Mayor Stapleton opened the public hearing at 5:01 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Adam Leverenz expressed concern that a short-term lodging permit would require twenty or more
units; having this requirement restricts any person or small business from obtaining a permit, which
appears to be catering to big business. Mr. Leverenz asked whether the City Council would consider
five or seven units as an alternative.
Jim Mosher reviewed the approval process of the proposed ordinance including the recent Coastal
Commission review; noted the allowance of short term lodgings in mixed use areas; did not
understand the restriction of 20 units; reviewed the Coastal Zone cap for short term lodgings (1,550)
and the entire City cap (also 1,550); and and requested the City Council review the proposed
numbers to ensure the City is not shorting itself.
An unidentified speaker noted he is an investment property owner whose unit is between 22nd and
23rd Streets; spoke against the 20-unit short-term lodging permit requirement, stating it was unfair
to small investors who work hard to maintain their properties; and felt the policy discriminated
against individual owners in favor of corporate interests.
Mayor Stapleton closed the public hearing at 5:09 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Weber, seconded by Mayor Stapleton, to a) Find this project is
exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2) of
the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, which states
that an activity is not subject to CEQA if "[t]he activity will not result in a direct or reasonably
foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment"; b) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk
to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-15, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City
of Newport Beach, California, Approving a Code Amendment to Chapter 5.95 (Short Term Lodging
Permit) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code to Ensure Consistency with the Local Coastal Program
Amendment Related to Short Term Lodging (PA2023- 0116), and pass to second reading on August
26, 2025; and c) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance
No. 2025-16, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving
a Local Coastal Plan Amendment Amending Title 21 (Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan)
of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the California Coastal Commission Related to
Short Term Lodging (PA2023-0116), and pass to second reading on August 26, 2025.
ACTION
The motion carried by the following vote (5-0-1-1)
AYES: Grant, Kleiman, Weber, Weigand, Stapleton
NOES: None
ABSENT: Barto
RECUSED: Blom
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City of Newport Beach
July 22, 2025
25. Ordinance No. 2025-17: Third Amendment to Development Agreement No. DA2012-003
for the Uptown Newport Planned Community located at 4251 Jamboree Road (PA2025-
0010)
a) Conduct a public hearing;
b) Find that all significant environmental concerns for the Project have been addressed in the
previously certified Environmental Impact Report No. ER2012-001 (SCH No. 2010051094), First
Addendum No. ER2012-001, and Second Addendum No. ER2020-001; and
c) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-17,
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving the Third
Amendment to Development Agreement No. DA2012-003 for the Property at 4321 Jamboree Road
Located Within Uptown Newport Planned Community (PA2025-0010), and pass to second
reading on August 26, 2025.
Mayor Stapleton and Mayor Pro Tem Kleiman noted the need to recuse themselves citing real
property conflict of interests. Councilmember Blom conducted the public hearing on their behalf.
Councilmember Blom opened the public hearing at 5:11 p.m. and hearing no requests by the
public to speak, closed the public hearing at 5:11 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Councilmember Weber, to a) Find that
all significant environmental concerns for the Project have been addressed in the previously
certified Environmental Impact Report No. ER2012-001 (SCH No. 2010051094), First
Addendum No. ER2012-001, and Second Addendum No. ER2020-001; and b) Waive full reading,
direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-17, An Ordinance of
the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Approving the Third Amendment to
Development Agreement No. DA2012-003 for the Property at 4321 Jamboree Road Located
Within Uptown Newport Planned Community (PA2025-0010), and pass to second reading on
August 26, 2025.
ACTION
The motion carried by the following vote (4-0-1-2):
AYES: Blom, Grant, Weber, Weigand,
NOES: None
ABSENT: Barto
RECUSED: Kleiman and Stapleton
26. Ordinance No. 2025-18: Amending Title 21 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code Related
to the Tennis and Pickleball Club at Newport Beach Located at 1602 East Coast Highway
(PA2021-260)
a) Conduct a public hearing;
b) Find that all significant environmental concerns for the proposed project have been adequately
addressed in the Addendum to Mitigated Negative Declaration No. 2010-008 (SCH 2O10091052),
previously approved by City Council Resolution 2023-69; and
c) Waive full reading, direct the City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-18,
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Amending Title 21
(Local Coastal Implementation Plan) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by
the California Coastal Commission Related to the Tennis and Pickleball Club at Newport Beach
Located at 1602 East Coast Highway (PA2021-260), and pass to second reading on August 26,
2025.
Mayor Pro Tem Kleiman citing a real property conflict of interest, recused herself.
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City of Newport Beach
July 22, 2025
Mayor Stapleton opened the public hearing at 5:12 p.m. and hearing no requests to speak, closed
the public hearing at 5:12 p.m.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Councilmember Weber, to a) Find that
all significant environmental concerns for the proposed project have been adequately addressed
in the Addendum to Mitigated Negative Declaration No. 2010-008 (SCH 2O10091052),
previously approved by City Council Resolution 2023-69; and b) Waive full reading, direct the
City Clerk to read by title only, introduce Ordinance No. 2025-18, An Ordinance of the City
Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Amending Title 21 (Local Coastal
Implementation Plan) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code as Modified by the California
Coastal Commission Related to the Tennis and Pickleball Club at Newport Beach Located at
1602 East Coast Highway (PA2021-260), and pass to second reading on August 26, 2025.
ACTION
The motion carried by the following vote (5-0-1-1):
AYES:
Blom. Grant, Weber, Weigand, Stapleton
NOES:
None
ABSENT:
Barto
RECUSED:
Kleiman
XX. CURRENT BUSINESS
27. City Manager Employment Agreement
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. 2025-52, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach,
California, Appointing Seimone Jurjis as City Manager Effective December 27, 2025;
c) Approve and authorize the Mayor to execute an Employment Agreement between the City of
Newport Beach and Seimone Jurjis, subject to the terms and conditions approved by the City
Council; and
d) Approve Budget Amendment No. 26-013 appropriating $40,104 from unappropriated General
Fund balance to various salary and benefit accounts to implement the terms of the Agreement
for FY 2025-2026.
City Attorney Aaron Harp presented the staff report and provided the following summary of the
City Manager employment agreement:
• Term to begin December 27, 2025 (at the end of current City Manager's term)
• Annual Base Salary: $363,071.
• Adjustments to Base Salary - Cost of Living: Same as Key & Management which includes
4% in 2026 and 3% in 2027.
• Performance Bonus: Beginning in calendar year 2026, an annual lump sum bonus of 2.5%
of base salary, as adjusted, payable on the next normal payday that includes December 27.
Deferred Compensation: Beginning in calendar year 2026, an annual City contribution to
his 401(a) defined contribution plan of $51,000, which increases by $5,000 per calendar year
thereafter.
• Annual Physical Exam: Reimbursement for an annual physical exam up to $2,500.
• Phone Allowance: A phone allowance that is equal to the phone allowance provided to
Management Employees.
• Auto Allowance: An auto allowance of $750 per month.
• Attorney's Fees: Reimbursement for attorney's fees of up to $5,000 to review the Agreement.
• CalPERS Contribution: An initial Ca1PERS contribution of 8% (tied to the same formula or
percentage contribution as is applied to the Tier I non -safety members of the Key &
Management Group covered under the Compensation Plan and for the same duration).
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City of Newport Beach
July 22, 2025
• Administrative Leave: Beginning in calendar year 2026, 120 hours of administrative leave
per year.
• Flex Leave Cap: 450 hours.
• Severance Benefit: A severance of up to 12 months of the adjusted base salary and 6 months
medical.
Councilmember Weigand requested City Attorney Harp speak to the concerns relayed by the
public concerning the process used by the City Council in the hiring of a City Manager.
City Attorney Harp spoke that the City's Charter provides a process, the City has followed that
process; and that confidentiality related to personnel matters is required.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Jim Mosher noted that residents may have different opinions from the City Attorney; noted that
there was no announcement of an appointment at the last City Council meeting; voiced his
objection to the process especially because there is no urgency about this matter; noted the City
Council has five months before needing to appoint a City Manager; explained that hiring
processes should be followed per the City Charter; noted that the Charter requires the screening
of applicants but to his knowledge there was no application process; reviewed the two previous
City Manager appointments that had included a nationwide search; and stated what he thought
were ethical lapses with the proposed City Manager appointee.
Adam Leverenz acknowledged his positive interactions with Mr. Jurjis but echoed concerns
about the process and the financial implications, noting that in 2026, the City would be paying
close to one million dollars for two City Managers; noted the concerns in the community
pertaining to the recruitment process; and expressed concern related to business interests being
prioritized over constituents.
Councilmember Blom, noted the need for the right people to be in charge of the City; recognized
the amazing efforts of City Manager Grace Leung; stated that Mr. Mosher's comments on Mr.
Jurjis are incorrect; explained that these are never easy decisions; emphasized there were more
state housing mandates for the City that will require leadership as the City progresses forward;
noted the need for a strong negotiator; rejected conspiracy theories; and stated that promoting
from within was the best solution.
Mayor Stapleton expressed gratitude to City Manager Leung for her service and congratulated
Assistant City Manager Jurjis on his appointment.
Motion by Councilmember Blom, seconded by Mayor Stapleton, 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. 2025-52, A
Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport Beach, California, Appointing Seimone
Jurjis as City Manager Effective December 27, 2025; c) Approve and authorize the Mayor to
execute an Employment Agreement between the City of Newport Beach and Seimone Jurjis,
subject to the terms and conditions approved by the City Council; and d) Approve Budget
Amendment No. 26-013 appropriating $40,104 from unappropriated General Fund balance to
various salary and benefit accounts to implement the terms of the Agreement for FY 2025-2026.
ACTION
The motion carried 6-0-1 (Councilmember Barto absent).
XXI. MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION — None
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City of Newport Beach
July 22, 2025
CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS (CONT.)
Mayor Stapleton updated his announcements to highlight the upcoming Figure-8 Demolition Derby at
the Orange County Fair on July 30. The Mayor will be joined by Fire Chief Boyles, Councilmembers
Weigand, Blom, and Weber, for the purpose of raising money for Children's Hospital of Orange County
(CHOC).
NMI. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION
Jim Mosher spoke on Item A, 2 items of litigation and questioned whether there could be a brief sentence
on the agenda to assist the public in understanding the context of the existing litigation.
XXIII. CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Harp read the titles to the Closed Session items.
RECESS
Mayor Stapleton recessed the meeting to Closed Session at 5:29 p.m.
A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
(Government Code § 54956.9(d)(1)): 2 matters
1. Newport Coast Community Association v. City of Newport Beach
Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2024-0137558-CU-BC-CJC
2. Rachel Roberts et al. v. City of Newport Beach
United States District Court Case No. 8.24-cv-00149-FWS-4DE
B. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
(Government Code § 54957.6): 1 matter
Agency Designated Representatives: Grace K. Leung, City Manager, and Jonathan
Holtzman, Esq., Negotiators.
Employee Organizations: Newport Beach City Employees Association.
RECONVENE
Mayor Stapleton reconvened the meeting at 5:52 p.m.
XXIV. CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Harp noted there was no reportable action from Closed Session.
XXV. ADJOURNMENT — Adjourned at 5:52 p.m. 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 July 17, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
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City of Newport Beach
July 22, 2025
Joe St plet n
Mayo
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