Laguna Beach City Council Regular Meeting - May 19, 2015

May 19, 2015

Executive Summary

- The Laguna Beach City Council held a budget workshop from 3:00 PM to 5:20 PM, continuing the discussion during the regular meeting to provide direction on budget priorities. - The Council approved funding for critical public safety initiatives, including fuel modification in Nice Canyon ($768,000 one-time), paramedic service expansion, and increased pension liability payments to save approximately $25 million over 30 years. - The Council directed staff to return with a proposal for an emergency preparedness coordinator position (potentially full-time), acknowledging that the city lacks a compliant emergency management plan approved by the California Office of Emergency Service. - One-time funding was approved for Laguna Canyon Creek restoration, Jairus Park improvements, senior services ($100,000-$125,000), and Bob Barthwick's environmental stewardship project. - The Council approved a new open space fund allocation of $300,000 (one-time), with guidance that funds should be available for both acquisition and maintenance of open space properties. - Commercial and multifamily recycling rates will increase 4.97% (or spread over two years at 4.085% and 3.285%) to fund a permanent foo

Key Decisions

- Directed the City Manager to bring back proposed fee increases for building, planning, and zoning to maintain cost recovery rates (estimated $336,000 in ongoing revenue). - Approved funding for fuel modification in Nice Canyon at the full estimated amount ($768,000 one-time), with direction to pursue potential grant funding or assistance to reduce costs. - Approved funding for paramedic service expansion on one basic life support engine, upgrading it to advanced life support to address the 15% of emergency calls requiring county mutual aid. - Approved funding for unfunded pension liability (