Laguna Beach City Council Return to Open Session Regular City Council Meeting - February 10, 2026

February 10, 2026

Executive Summary

- The City Council conducted a closed session on February 10, 2026, to discuss two existing litigation cases (Edward B. Riahi v. City of Laguna Beach and David Dyrnaes v. City of Laguna Beach) and one potential litigation case regarding 31774 5th Avenue, with no reportable action taken. - The Council unanimously denied an amendment to an easement agreement at 31131 Monterey Street that would have allowed private parking in a public right-of-way, instead directing staff to improve the trail for emergency access and public safety. - The Council referred review of the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) to the Environmental Sustainability Committee with direction to develop a comprehensive work plan including legal and financial analysis before making any commitment. - The Council heard extensive discussion about establishing a permanent Emergency Operations Center (EOC), with options presented for both City Hall and the Community Recreation Center, but made no final decision, requesting additional analysis. - The Council approved consent calendar items including minutes, general warrants, records retention schedule updates, Recreation Committee 2026 work plan, public art installatio

Key Decisions

- Unanimously denied the requested amendment to an easement agreement at 31131 Monterey Street that would have allowed two private parking spaces in a 30-foot public right-of-way. - Directed Public Works to return to Council with recommendations for maintaining and improving the trail at Monterey Street that serves as an emergency egress route for approximately 193 homes. - Affirmed Council direction to refer Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) review to the Environmental Sustainability Committee with direction to develop a work plan including necessary studies. - Declined to authorize a no-c