Laguna Beach City Council Public Hearing - January 26, 2021

January 26, 2021

Executive Summary

- Laguna Beach City Council held a virtual meeting on January 26, 2021, via Zoom due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions - New Police Chief Robert Thompson was introduced to the council - Council addressed COVID-19 relief programs including grants for businesses, restaurants, cultural organizations, and hotels - An ordinance to regulate wireless telecommunications facilities in public rights-of-way was introduced - Public participation was enabled through phone, email, and online platforms - Key financial items included over $4 million in warrants and payroll - COVID relief funding was reallocated to support local businesses - Council considered extending public art programs and downtown tree lighting initiatives - Infrastructure improvements discussed included decorative paving replacement on Ramona Avenue Alley

Key Decisions

- Introduction and recognition of new Police Chief Robert Thompson - Adoption of ordinance amending commercial parking regulations per Local Coastal Program Amendment 18-1938 - Approval of 2021 Records Retention Schedule update - Establishment of temporary public art donor program ("Embracing People and Place through the Arts") - Adoption of 2021 State and Federal Legislative Platform - Withdrawal of appeal approved for 515 Alta Vista Way project - Reallocation of $116,000 from LB CARES Restaurant/Bar funds to qualified retail businesses - Reallocation of $60,000 to Cultural Arts Grant funding