2025-02-13 Planning Commission AgendaAGENDA
CITY OF EL SEGUNDO
PLANNING COMMISSION
5:30 PM
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
350 MAIN STREET
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245
FEBRUARY 13, 2025
LTA 121L1:1210we]0WA_1I10110leyelelLTA IL1�391010
Vacant, Chairperson
Kevin Maggay, Vice Chairperson
Mark Christian
Mario Inga
Vacant
The Planning Commission, with certain statutory exceptions, can only take action upon
properly posted and listed agenda items. Any writings or documents given to a majority
of the Planning Commission, regarding any matter on this agenda, that the City
received after issuing the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the
Community Development Department, during normal business hours. Such documents
may be posted on the City's website at www.elsegundo.org and additional copies will be
available at the meeting.
Unless otherwise noted in the agenda, the public can only comment on city -related
business that is within the jurisdiction of the Planning Commission and/or items listed on
the agenda during the Public Communications portion of the Meeting. Additionally,
members of the public can comment on any Public Hearing item on the agenda
during the Public Hearing portion of such item. The time limit for comments is five
(5) minutes per person. Before speaking to the Planning Commission, please fill out a
speaker card located in the Chamber Lobby. It is not required to provide personal
information in order to speak, except to the extent necessary to be called upon, properly
record your name in meeting minutes and to provide contact information for later staff
follow-up, if appropriate. Please respect the time limits.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS: In compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act and Government Code Section 54953(g), the City Council has
adopted a reasonable accommodation policy to swiftly resolve accommodation
requests. The policy can also be found on the City's website
at https.11www.elsepundo.orp/_povemmentldepartmentslcity-clerk. Please contact
the City Clerk's Office at (310) 524-2308 to make an accommodation request or to
obtain a copy of the policy.
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CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMUNICATION — (Related to City Business Only — 5-minute limit per
person, 30-minute limit total) Individuals who have received value of $50 or more to
communicate to the Planning Commission on behalf of another, and employees
speaking on behalf of their employer, must so identify themselves prior to addressing
the Planning Commission. Failure to do so shall be a misdemeanor and punishable
by a fine of $250. While all comments are welcome, the Brown Act does not allow
action on any item not on the agenda.
A. CONSENT
Approve January 23, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes.
Recommendation - Approve January 23, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting
Minutes.
B. PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. Ordinance Amending El Segundo Municipal Code ("ESMC") Title 15
Chapter 15 (Off -Street Parking and Loading) to Update the Parking
Reauirements for Residential Uses
Recommendation -
Adopt Resolution No. 2954, recommending City Council adopt an
Ordinance amending the ESMC parking requirements for residential
uses.
3. Ordinance Amending El Segundo Municipal Code (ESMC) Title 15 Chapter
34 (Cultural Development) Regarding Requirement to Provide Artwork or
Pav In -Lieu Fee
Recommendation -
1. Adopt Resolution No.2961, recommending City Council adopt an
Ordinance amending ESMC Chapter 15-34 (Cultural Development).
2. Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
C. NEW BUSINESS
4. Election of Planning Commission Chair and Vice Chair for Calendar Year
2025
Recommendation -
D. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
E. REPORTS — COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
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Page 2 of 41
F. REPORTS -COMMISSIONERS
G. REPORTS — CITY ATTORNEY
ADJOURNMENT
POSTED:
DATE: February 7, 2025
TIME: 4:00 P.M.
BY: Jazmin Farias, Assistant Planner
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Page 3 of 41
MINUTES OF THE
EL SEGUNDO PLANNING COMMISSION
Regularly Scheduled Meeting
January 23, 2025
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Hoeschler called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Hoeschler
Present: Vice Chair Maggay
Present: Commissioner Inga
Present: Commissioner Christian
Also present: Michael Allen, AICP, Community Development Director
Also present: Eduardo Schonborn, AICP, Planning Manager
Also present: Joaquin Vazquez, City Attorney
Also present: Paul Samaras, AICP, Principal Planner
Also present: Jazmin Farias, Assistant Planner
Also present: Jillian Glickman, Consultant from RSG Inc.
Also present: Jim Simon, Consultant from RSG Inc.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chair Hoeschler led the pledge.
PUBLIC/WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None.
A. CONSENT
1. Approval of Planning Commission Meeting Minutes:
• December 12, 2024
• January 9, 2025
MOTION: Approve the minutes.
Moved by Commissioner Inga, second by Commissioner Christian.
Motion carried, 4-0, by the following vote:
Ayes: Hoeschler, Maggay, Inga, and Christian
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Page 4 of 41
B. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
C. NEW BUSINESS
2. Affordable Housing Strategic Plan Study Session
Community Development Director Michael Allen introduced Jim Simon and Jillian
Glickman from RSG consultants who are providing on -call housing consulting
services to the city. Michael informed the Commission that RSG is collaborating
with staff to support affordable housing in alignment with the goals outlined in the
Council -adopted 2022 Affordable Housing Strategic Plan. Jim and Jillian
proceeded to lead the study session in which they presented potential funding
opportunities identified to date to help subsidize the costs of affordable housing
development and presented considerations for the development of an affordable
housing local preference policy to further support the City's housing objectives.
• Vice Chair Maggay inquired if the city is required to obtain additional
revenue. Jim advised that the city is not required to do so but it is necessary
if the city wants to partake in SCAG and HCD programs they are qualified
for. Michael added that the ripple effect of positive benefits that can come
out of a continuous stream result in a lot of other things we can do to reach
HCD requirements.
• Commissioners asked staff to clarify what displacement risk is. Jillian
explained that when new development comes in price of housing rises
which limits the ability for tenants within a certain unit to mobilize and move
to a different unit because rent is rising which causes tenants to move
outside the city for rent that is comparable to what they were paying before.
• Commissioner Christian inquired why El Segundo is considered to have a
low estimated renter displacement risk. Jim stated that based on the
research there is a proportionately mush smaller portion of the city's
population that would be impacted by displacement due to the
demographics of the community. Michael added that based on the data
that was pulled essentially in El Segundo it is possible for renters in the city
to find other expensive housing in the same price range and this could
always change based on the development cycle that is being used.
Commissioner Christian added that the formula seems complicated
because it is only being focused on renter displacement due to new
development because the city is constrained on how much new
development is out there.
• Jim explained that the urban displacement project data comes from social
economic data, real estate market data and development trends and
activities. They take this data and identify areas that are more susceptible
to displacement and less susceptible to displacement. He added that he
will provide a summary of that data and share it with staff so that it can be
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Page 5 of 41
passed down to the Commissioners.
• Chair Hoeschler inquired if RSG recommends for the city to take on the
role of managing affordable housing units or if it is best to select a
management company for that role. Jim stated that for a city of this size
and the amount of units it would have he does not believe taking on that
role would be a good use of the city's resources.
• Chair Hoeschler inquired how people find out if they are eligible or a
candidate for affordable housing. Jim advised that if you bring on an
affordable housing developer for a 100% affordable housing development,
they will out that out there and they will have events like fairs to invite
people to submit applications. He added that when the city engages with
other affordable housing developers those are the types of things that are
embedded into any affordable housing agreement which spells out what
that marketing plan is going to be and how it is going to be fair; often they
recommend the use of a lottery system.
• Commissioner Christian inquired if there is a system that gives priority to
certain kinds of workers like teachers, police, fire fighters, city employees
as those are the type of groups of people he thinks of first that he would
like to see live here. Vice Chair Maggay chimed in and added that he would
like to have tiers of employment depending on what they do for the city and
location of employment as he prefers to have people that live and work in
the city to reduce vehicle miles traveled. He would like to see tiers of their
employment and their housing and what they do as a job. Jim advised that
they have worked with cities that are redeveloping their property and
because the land is theirs, they have some special ability to target teachers
for example. He assured the commissioners that there are some
opportunities to do that.
• Commissioner Christian inquired if there is technology that can help
administer the managing of these applications and a way to push out
notifications so that a new department does not have to be created. Jim
said that there is but he thinks the bigger issue is that when someone
applies for that list how much information is going to be requested upfront
and how often will that information be maintained as it can fluctuate. The
burden is updating the information and it really depends on the amount of
units being administered. It comes down to how much the city wants to
spend on administration to justify that work.
Vice Chair Hoeschler invited the public to share comments regarding the
study session. Further communication came from the public.
• Resident John Pickhaver stated that he was present on behalf of Sea
Change who cares a lot about affordable housing. He shared that when he
was looking for information regarding rent cost based on his current
situation the next closest one was $700 more than what he pays now. He
referenced page 8 of the staff report which included a community survey
that included a question that asked what areas the community would like
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to see new housing in. He pointed out that the staff report leaves out the
highest selected answer which was housing East of Pacific Coast Highway
(PCH). Although there was only one option for East of PCH awhile the other
four options were all West of PCH in the survey he thinks it would be
interesting to break that down and if staff were to parcel out spots East of
PCH would that continue to rank higher than those. He is not sure why this
information was left out but is aware that the scope is limited and is asking
that whatever power the Commission has to make a recommendation to
just engage the community more on this issue and see if they can expand
the scope because there is a lot of work going into this right now and it is
all being pushed to one side of the city which seems impossible to hit.
Lastly, he reiterated that he was present at the meeting to remind the
Commissioners that there are residents who wish to see housing East of
PCH and wants to encourage them to see if the scope can be enlarged to
look at all the options.
Vice Chair Hoeschler invited the public to share comments regarding the
study session. Further communication came from the public. Further
communication came from the Commission.
• Chair Hoeschler inquired if the housing type property they recommend for
affordable housing almost always a rental unit versus a for sale unit. Jim
stated that they would not say recommending because his business
partner feels the same way as they know we need to create community
wealth and ownership is a key element to that. He added that unfortunately
there are a few subsidies for ownership affordable housing as it is
extremely difficult to do, and it is specifically difficult to that at the lowest
income levels as you would need HOA's to take care of common area
maintenance and that might be all they can afford to pay.
• Chair Hoeschler inquired if the developers that create these types of
projects are typically very much in the affordable housing space or can a
regular market rate developer become an expert at this with proper
guidance. Jim shared that up until three years ago it was much more the
domain of affordable housing developers and when market rate
construction started to slow down as market rate projects became more
infeasible, he has seen many market rate affordable apartment developers
want to participate. He has advised them that they need to find a partner,
a property manager, and an investor.
• Vice Chair Maggay inquired what the typical minimum number of units to
apply if they do 15%. Jim shared that the minimum project size for
affordable housing development you typically see is in the range of 50 to
100 units.
• Vice Chair Maggay inquired if RSG has examples of reoccurring revenue
generating programs and if the $5 million dollars the city has be able to be
the starting point for that. Jim stated that for the most part they have a few
options such as a trust fund which would require some sort of tax
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mechanism or some other voluntary ongoing contribution of people's
general funds. Another option would be a tax increase, he added that some
states started exploring that on a regional basis. A third option is what they
call a commercial linkage or an inclusionary housing in lieu fee; however,
both options require for development to keep happening to generate those
dollars. Another option would be sort of a community benefit approach
where you do a development agreement, and you negotiate a community
benefit.
• Vice Chair Maggay stated that 15% is a good number and he would like
the units to target preferred renters.
• Commissioner Christian stated that he would like to see a longer time limit
or a way to continue to cycle through. Jim stated that it is something that
can be embedded in a development agreement and the administrative
burden is placed on them. Michael added that that is all part of the
development agreement negotiations. He provided the example of Culver
City which has 12 to 15 staff members including part-timers that administer,
audit, monitor, and they also engage in development agreement where the
burden is on the developer.
• Chair Hoeschler inquired how these units are subsidized and what
encourages a developer to give up some market rate units in order to do
affordable units. Jim stated that the study session has mostly covered
100% of affordable projects but if we are talking about projects that are a
mix of that there is state law that says they can do that, and it is called
density bonus; the motivation is more units gets more income.
• Chair Hoeschler stated that it is hard to understand how to increase density
in this town when you are landlocked and that he understands East of PCH
is not zoned for residential but finds it hard to have this conversation
without talking about East of PCH and wonders why the staff report did not
address that community input. Michael stated that he was not here when
that survey occurred so he cannot speak of the methodology or validity or
invalidity of the survey. He added that he is not agnostic towards the fact
that there are several opinions on where housing should be built and
clarified that the Affordable Housing Strategic Plan does not address where
to build housing rather it is a guide for us to develop policy so that when
housing is built regardless of where it is at there is a policy in place to
facilitate the production of affordable housing. One of the goals identified
was a focus area program and when developing the strategic plan or at
least finalizing the document we could only do so where housing is
currently permitted today. He can only imagine that naturally that
conversation will happen, and it needs to happen at a time when land use
is being updated and housing is a land use. Michael also reminded the
Commissioners that a land use element update is coming down the
pipeline and that would be the adequate time to address where to build
housing as that project would have public hearings, study sessions and
workshops for the public to provide feedback in person.
• Commissioner Inga provided consensus regarding the 15% threshold.
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Page 8 of 41
MOTION: Receive and file study session.
D. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
E. REPORTS — COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR OR DESIGNEE
• Michael provided an update regarding the Land Use Element update and shared
that the selection of the consulting team will occur in the second City Council
meeting in February.
• Planning Manager Eduardo Schonborn reminded the Commissioners to complete
the 700 form and informed them that the fines for not completing them will be
going to them individually and no longer the city.
F. REPORTS — PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
• Chair Hoeschler shared that he will be stepping down from the Planning
Commission as his wife and him will be moving to San Luis Obispo and stated
that this would be his last meeting.
• Commissioners and staff thanked Chair Hoeschler for his service, congratulated
him, and wished him well.
G. REPORTS — CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Joaquin Vazquez thanked Chair Hoeschler for his service and wished
him well.
ADJOURNMENT — the meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for February 13, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.
Michael Allen, Community Development Director
Jay Hoeschler, Planning Commission Chair
Page 9 of 41
,ITV4H Planning Commission Agenda Statement
E L S E G U N D O Meeting Date: February 13, 2025
Agenda Heading: PUBLIC HEARINGS
Item Number: B.2
TITLE:
Ordinance Amending El Segundo Municipal Code ("ESMC") Title 15 Chapter 15 (Off -
Street Parking and Loading) to Update the Parking Requirements for Residential Uses
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 2954, recommending City Council adopt an Ordinance
amending the ESMC parking requirements for residential uses.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
BACKGROUND:
Program 9 of the 2021-2029 Housing Element identifies amendments to the ESMC
covering 12 different topics that aim to facilitate construction of housing in El Segundo
by removing regulatory constraints. Eleven of these amendments were completed in
2024 and the remaining amendment relates to parking requirements for residential
uses. Program 9 of the Housing Element specifically states the following regarding the
subject amendment:
"The City currently requires two parking spaces plus one guest parking space per
[three] unit[s], regardless of unit size. The City will revise its parking standards to a
sliding scale based on unit size, similar to the recently approved Pacific Coast
Commons project which achieved 83 units per acre."
The parking requirements adopted as part of the Pacific Coast Commons Specific Plan
(PCCSP) are presented in Table No. 1 below.
Page 10 of 41
Environmental Assessment No. EA 1367
Zone Text Amendment - Residential Parking Requirements
February 13, 2025
Page 2 of 5
Table No. 1: Pacific Coast Commons Specific Plan Parking Requirements
. - . - • ..
Studio
1 space
One Bedroom
1.5 spaces
Two Bedrooms
2 spaces
Guest Parking
1/3 space per unit
On August 8, 2024, the Planning Commission held a study session to review potential
options for a zone text amendment consistent with Program 9 of the Housing Element.
During the meeting, the Planning Commission considered the current parking
requirements in the ESMC, in Specific Plans and Overlays in the City, the requirements
of other cities, and the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) manual, summarized
in the Discussion below.
DISCUSSION:
A comparison of the various parking requirements considered is presented in Table No.
2 below.
Table No. 2: Parkinq Rate Comparison
urrenMI"W
..
ntown
Housing
-.
Other
W
JrESMC
Commons
Use
Cities (10)
Plan
Resident
2 spaces
Studio: 1
Studio: 1
Studio: 1
2 spaces*
1 space
Parking
space
space
space
per
1-bed: 1.5
1-bed: 1
1-bed: 1
bedroom
spaces
space
space
or
2-bed: 2
2-bed: 2
2-bed: 2
1.7 per
spaces
spaces
spaces
unit
3-bed:2
3-bed:3
spaces
spaces
Guest
1 space
1 /3 space
0
0
1/8-1
N/A
Parking
per 3 units
per unit
space per
unit
* Long Beach was the only city surveyed with a per bedroom requirement. Culver City
has no minimum parking requirements.
Page 11 of 41
Environmental Assessment No. EA 1367
Zone Text Amendment - Residential Parking Requirements
February 13, 2025
Page 3 of 5
During the Planning Commission study session, the Commission reached consensus
that amending the current parking requirements to a sliding scale based on the number
of bedrooms would be appropriate for multiple -family uses. Thus, the Planning
Commission directed staff to incorporate the PCC Specific Plan parking requirement
into the draft ordinance for all multiple -family residential uses. In addition, the
Commission directed staff to consider and address tandem parking for multiple -family
uses. In response to the Commission's direction, staff reviewed the City's tandem
parking regulations and surveyed the regulations of other nearby cities. The current
tandem parking regulations in the City are summarized in Table No. 3 below.
Table No. 3: Current City Tandem Parking Regulations
Maximum
Percentage of
Maximum Depth
Special Conditions
Spaces
Id
Single- and two-
100
2 spaces
Tandem Spaces
family residential
must be assigned to
the same unit
Multi -family
Prohibited
N/A
N/A
residential
Mixed -Use
20
2 spaces
Includes vehicle lifts
w/residential*
PCC Specific Plan
20
2 spaces
Mixed -Use Overlay*
20
2 spaces
The overlay refers to
ESMC Chapter 15-
15, which is silent on
mixed -use projects
Housing Overlay
Prohibited
N/A
The overlay refers to
ESMC Chapter 15-
15, which prohibits
multi -family tandem
Downtown Specific
100
40 feet (2 spaces)
Plan
*On October 17, 2024, the Director made Administrative Determination No. AD 24-01, which determined residential uses in
a mixed -use development be treated as nonresidential uses. This ensures the consistent application of development
standards, including those for tandem parking, for the entire development.
In addition, to the tandem parking regulations in the City's municipal code and specific plans, staff
surveyed tandem parking regulations for residential uses in nearby cities. The regulations vary
widely from city to city, ranging from complete prohibition to allowing between 20 and 100 percent of
required parking spaces to be tandem.
Page 12 of 41
Environmental Assessment No. EA 1367
Zone Text Amendment - Residential Parking Requirements
February 13, 2025
Page 4 of 5
In El Segundo, tandem parking for multiple -family uses is only permitted in mixed -use
development projects pursuant to Administrative Determination AD 24-01, which allows
up to 20 percent of the required spaces to be tandem. Similarly, staff recommends
allowing up to 20 percent of required resident parking spaces for multiple -family
residential uses to be tandem as part of the proposed zone text amendment. Staff
believes a 20 percent limit is reasonable for the following reasons:
1. It provides flexibility in site planning and parking design and, thus, facilitates the
construction of multiple -family housing.
2. It is consistent with the standard for mixed -use and nonresidential developments.
Consistency results in uniform applicability and standardizes regulations.
3. It is a limited step to test the functionality of tandem parking in multiple -family
residential developments, while avoiding significant unanticipated consequences.
Staff also recommends that the maximum depth of tandem parking be limited to two
spaces, and that tandem spaces be assigned to the same unit. These conditions are
consistent with provisions that apply to other uses and will help mitigate potential
negative impacts, such as non-use of tandem spaces and parking spillover onto the
public right-of-way.
CITY STRATEGIC PLAN COMPLIANCE:
Goal 5: Champion Economic Development and Fiscal Sustainability
Strategy D: Implement community planning, land use, and enforcement policies that
encourage growth while preserving El Segundo's quality of life and small-town
character.
PREPARED BY:
Paul Samaras, AICP, Principal Planner
REVIEWED BY:
Eduardo Schonborn, AICP, Planning Manager
APPROVED BY:
Michael Allen, AICP, Community Development Director
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
1. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2954
2. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2954 Exhibit A - Draft Ordinance
3. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Dated August 8, 2024
Page 13 of 41
Environmental Assessment No. EA 1367
Zone Text Amendment - Residential Parking Requirements
February 13, 2025
Page 5 of 5
Page 14 of 41
RESOLUTION NO. 2954
A RESOLUTION OF THE EL SEGUNDO PLANNING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL FIND ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT NO.
24-02 EXEMPT FROM FURTHER ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND
ADOPT AND APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING EL SEGUNDO
MUNICIPAL CODE ("ESMC") TITLE 15 TO IMPLEMENT HOUSING
ELEMENT PROGRAM 9 TO UPDATE THE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
(ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT NO. 1367 AND ZONE TEXT
AMENDMENT NO. 24-02)
The Planning Commission of the City of El Segundo does resolve as follows:
SECTION 1: The Planning Commission finds and declares as follows:
A. On November 15, 2022, the City Council adopted the 2021-2029 Housing Element
of the El Segundo General Plan;
B. Program 9 of the 2021-2029 Housing Element calls for the revision of multifamily -
residential parking requirements to help remove a constraint on additional housing
development;
C. On August 8, 2024, the Planning Commission held a study session on Housing
Element Program 9 and the multifamily residential parking requirements. During
the study session, the Planning Commission gave staff direction to draft an
ordinance amending the multifamily residential parking requirements to a sliding
scale based on the number of bedrooms per unit and to allow the use of tandem
parking spaces.
D. The Community Development Department prepared a draft ordinance amending
ESMC Title 15, Chapter 15 implementing Program 9 of the 2021-2029 Housing
Element to update the parking requirements for residential uses, and scheduled a
public hearing before the Planning Commission for February 13, 2025;
E. On February 13, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to receive
public testimony and other evidence regarding the draft ordinance including,
without limitation, information provided to the Planning Commission by city staff;
and adopted Resolution No. 2954 recommending that the City Council approve
this Ordinance;
F. This Resolution and its findings are made based upon the evidence presented to
the Commission at its February 13, 2025, hearing including, without limitation, the
staff report submitted by the Community Development Department and the totality
of the evidence in the administrative record.
Page 15 of 41
SECTION 2: Factual Findings and Conclusions. The Planning Commission finds that
adopting the proposed Ordinance would result in the following:
A. Amend ESMC § 15-15-5(J) to establish a maximum percentage of tandem spaces
for multiple -family residential and mixed -use residential developments;
B. Amend ESMC § 15-15-6 revising the minimum parking requirement for multiple -
family dwellings to a sliding scale based on the number of bedrooms.
SECTION 3: General Plan Findings. As required under Government Code § 65860, the
ESMC amendments proposed by the Ordinance are consistent with the El Segundo
General Plan as follows:
A. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with Program 9 of the General Plan Housing
Element in that it would remove governmental and other constraints to facilitate
the development of multiple -family residential uses.
B. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan Housing Element in
that the amendments contribute to improving the existing jobs -housing balance in
the City and provide opportunities for new housing construction in a variety of
locations and a variety of densities.
C. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan Housing Element in
that the amendments provide sufficient new, affordable housing opportunities in
the City to meet the needs of groups with special requirements, including the needs
of lower and moderate- income households.
D. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan Housing Element in
that the amendments remove governmental constraints to diversify available
housing opportunities, including ownership and rental, fair -market, and assisted,
in conformance with open housing policies and free of discriminatory practices.
SECTION 4: Zone Text Amendment Findings. In accordance with ESMC Chapter 15-
27 (Amendments), and based on the findings set forth above, the proposed Ordinance
is consistent with and necessary to carry out the purpose of the ESMC as follows:
A. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan in that the
amendments would implement the goals, policies, and programs of the Housing
Element. Implementation of the Housing Element would preserve the existing
housing stock and encourage construction of new residential units, including
affordable housing, without affecting the character of existing single-family
residential neighborhoods.
B. The proposed Ordinance is necessary to serve the public health, safety, and
general welfare in that it would implement the Housing Element Update, which
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Page 16 of 41
includes programs, goals, and policies that help to maintain and improve the
existing housing stock in the City. The proposed amendments would facilitate the
development of additional housing in the community, which contribute to improving
the existing jobs -housing balance and facilitates the development of housing that
is affordable to households of various income levels and thus will provide equal
housing opportunities to all segments of the community.
SECTION 5: Environmental Assessment. Based on the facts set forth in Section 2, the
Planning Commission finds that the zone text amendment is exempt from further review
under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §
15061(b)(3)), because it consists only of minor revisions to existing zoning regulations
and related procedures and does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on
the environment.
SECTION 6: Recommendations. The Planning Commission recommends that the City
Council adopt the Ordinance attached as Exhibit "A."
SECTION 7: Reliance on Record. Each and every one of the findings and determination
in this Resolution are based on the competent and substantial evidence, both oral and
written, contained in the entire record relating to the project. The findings and
determinations constitute the independent findings and determinations of the Planning
Commission in all respects and are fully and completely supported by substantial
evidence in the record as a whole.
SECTION 8: Limitations. The Planning Commission's analysis and evaluation of the
project is based on information available at the time of the decision. It is inevitable that in
evaluating a project that absolute and perfect knowledge of all possible aspects of the
project will not exist. In all instances, best efforts have been made to form accurate
assumptions.
SECTION 9: This Resolution will remain effective unless and until superseded by a
subsequent resolution.
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Page 17 of 41
SECTION 10: The Commission secretary is directed to mail a copy of this Resolution to
any person requesting a copy.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 13t" day of February 2025.
ATTEST:
Michael Allen, Secretary and
Community Development Director
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Mark D. Hensley, City Attorney
la
Kevin Maggay, Vice Chairperson
City of El Segundo Planning Commission
Joaquin Vazquez, Assistant City Attorney
LI
Maggay
Inga
Christian
Page 18 of 41
EXHIBIT "A"
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2954
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING EL SEGUNDO MUNICIPAL CODE
("ESMC") TITLE 15 CHAPTER 15 (OFF-STREET PARKING AND
LOADING) TO UPDATE THE PARKING REQUIREMENTS FOR
MULTIPLE -FAMILY RESIDENTIAL USES
(ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT NO. 1367 AND ZONE TEXT
AMENDMENT NO. 24-02)
The City Council of the city of El Segundo does ordain as follows:
E•yx��[ ]►�ii��iL��:11Pi gHTN OW.iir['[0FTr-Z-7=t]I .[1,
A. On November 15, 2022, the City Council adopted the 2021-2029 Housing Element
of the El Segundo General Plan;
B. Program 9 (Code Amendments) of the Housing Element calls for amendments to
the El Segundo Municipal Code ("ESMC") to remove constraints on and to facilitate
the construction of housing. Specifically, Program 9 calls for amending the current
parking requirements for multiple -family residential uses to a sliding scale based
on unit size;
C. The Community Development Department prepared a draft ordinance amending
ESMC Title 15, Chapter 15 implementing Program 9 of the 2021-2029 Housing
Element to update the parking requirements for multiple -family residential uses,
and scheduled a public hearing before the Planning Commission for February 13,
2025;
D. On February 13, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to receive
public testimony and other evidence regarding the draft ordinance including,
without limitation, information provided to the Planning Commission by city staff;
and adopted Resolution No. 2954 recommending that the City Council approve
this Ordinance;
E. On March 4, 2025, the City Council held a public hearing and considered the
information provided by City staff and public testimony regarding this Ordinance;
and
Page 1
Page 19 of 41
F. This Ordinance and its findings are made based upon the entire administrative
record including, without limitation, testimony and evidence presented to the City
Council at its March 4, 2025, hearing and the staff report submitted by the
Community Development Department.
SECTION 2: Factual Findings and Conclusions. The City Council finds that adopting the
proposed Ordinance would result in the following:
A. Amend ESMC § 15-15-5(J) to establish a maximum percentage of tandem spaces
for multiple -family residential and mixed -use residential developments;
B. Amend ESMC § 15-15-6 revising the minimum parking requirement for multiple -
family dwellings to a sliding scale based on the number of bedrooms.
SECTION 3: General Plan Findings. As required under Government Code § 65860, the
ESMC amendments proposed by the Ordinance are consistent with the El Segundo
General Plan as follows:
A. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with Program 9 of the General Plan Housing
Element in that it would remove governmental and other constraints to facilitate
the development of multiple -family residential uses.
B. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan Housing Element in
that the amendments contribute to improving the existing jobs -housing balance in
the City and provide opportunities for new housing construction in a variety of
locations and a variety of densities.
C. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan Housing Element in
that the amendments provide sufficient new, affordable housing opportunities in
the City to meet the needs of groups with special requirements, including the needs
of lower and moderate- income households.
D. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan Housing Element in
that the amendments remove governmental constraints to diversify available
housing opportunities, including ownership and rental, fair -market, and assisted,
in conformance with open housing policies and free of discriminatory practices.
SECTION 4: Zone Text Amendment Findings. In accordance with ESMC Chapter 15-
2E (Amendments), and based on the findings set forth above, the proposed Ordinance
is consistent with and necessary to carry out the purpose of the ESMC as follows:
Page 2
Page 20 of 41
A. The proposed Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan in that the
amendments would implement the goals, policies, and programs of the Housing
Element. Implementation of the Housing Element would preserve the existing
housing stock and encourage construction of new residential units, including
affordable housing, without affecting the character of existing single-family
residential neighborhoods.
B. The proposed Ordinance is necessary to serve the public health, safety, and
general welfare in that it would implement the Housing Element Update, which
includes programs, goals, and policies that help to maintain and improve the
existing housing stock in the City. The proposed amendments would facilitate the
development of additional housing in the community, which contribute to improving
the existing jobs -housing balance and facilitates the development of housing that
is affordable to households of various income levels and thus will provide equal
housing opportunities to all segments of the community.
SECTION 5: Environmental Assessment. Based on the facts set forth in Section 2, the
City Council finds that the zone text amendment is exempt from further review under the
California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §
15061(b)(3)), because it consists only of minor revisions to existing zoning regulations
and related procedures and does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on
the environment.
SECTION 6: El Segundo Municipal Code ("ESMC") § 15-15-5(J) (Tandem Spaces) is
amended as follows-
J. Tandem Spaces: All tandem parking spaces, where allowed, must be clearly
outlined on the surface of the parking facility.
Use
Maximum
Percentage of
Required Spaces3
Maximum Percentage
of Required Spaces in
Smoky Hollow
Maximum
Depth
Single- and two-
family residential
100
n/a
2 spaces'
Multiple -family
residential
Pre h,terJ220
n/a
n/a2 spaces'
Mixed -use
20
n/a
2 spaces
Retail and
services
Prohibited
30
2 spaces
Industrial
20
85
2 spaces
Office
20
85
2 spaces
Restaurant
Prohibited
10
2 spaces
Page 3
Page 21 of 41
Notes:
1. Tandem spaces for single_ and two-farnil , dwell' ng-sresidential uses must be assigned to the same unit.
2. Tandem parkingis d for multiple -family residential developments involving density bonuses may
exceed the above limits, pursuant to Government Code section 65915.
3. Parking provided in excess of the required number may be tandem in configuration.
The Director may approve adjustments to the required number and standards for
tandem parking spaces as provided in Chapters 22 and 23 of this title, subject to
conditions. The conditions may include recording of a covenant agreement, requiring a
parking attendant, requiring valet service, and other operational conditions. The Director
may also approve tandem parking in excess of the above limits for permitted temporary
uses and/or special events.
SECTION 7: ESMC Subsection (A) of § 15-15-6 (Automobile spaces required) is
amended as follows:
A. Automobile Spaces Required
Use
Number Of Parking Spaces Required
Residential uses:
Accessory dwelling units
Refer to nhaptor it artinlo E of this titleNone
Caretaker Units
1 snare for oonh i ni+
Live/work units
2 spaces for each unit plus 1 space per 350 square
feet of commercial/work area
Lodging houses, rooming
houses, and guesthouses
1 space for each guestroom
Multiple -family dwellings
2 spaGes „nit 1 visitor spaee for ever„ 3
per plus
- s 6 snit — `)
snits — 1 visiter sspaGe
(3
units —�rrrr �—z
�
yisitE* spuG5, etG.4
1 space for studio units
1.5 spaces for 1-bedroom units
2 spaces for 2-bedroom units or larger
1/3 quest space per unit
Single-family and two-family
dwellings
2 spaces for each unit and 1 additional space for
dwelling units exceeding 3,500 square feet of
gross floor area
Page 4
Page 22 of 41
SECTION 8: Construction. This Ordinance must be broadly construed to achieve the
purposes stated in this Ordinance. It is the City Council's intent that the provisions of this
Ordinance be interpreted or implemented by the City and others in a manner that
facilitates the purposes set forth in this Ordinance.
SECTION 9: Enforceability. Repeal of any provision of the ESMC does not affect any
penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred before, or preclude prosecution and imposition of
penalties for any violation occurring before this Ordinance's effective date. Any such
repealed part will remain in full force and effect for sustaining action or prosecuting
violations occurring before the effective date of this Ordinance.
SECTION 10: Validity of Previous Code Sections. If this entire Ordinance or its
application is deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, any repeal or
amendment of the ESMC or other city ordinance by this Ordinance will be rendered void
and cause such previous ESMC provision or other the city ordinance to remain in full
force and effect for all purposes.
SECTION 11: Severability. If any part of this Ordinance or its application is deemed
invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City Council intends that such invalidity
will not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions or applications and, to this
end, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable.
SECTION 12: Recordation. The City Clerk, or designee, is directed to certify the passage
and adoption of this Ordinance; cause it to be entered into the City of El Segundo's book
of original ordinances; make a note of the passage and adoption in the records of this
meeting; and, within 15 days after the passage and adoption of this Ordinance, cause it
to be published or posted in accordance with California law.
Page 5
Page 23 of 41
SECTION 13: This Ordinance will go into effect and be in full force and effect 30 days
after its passage and adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this day of , 2025.
Chris Pimentel, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Mark D. Hensley, City Attorney
ATTEST:
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS
CITY OF EL SEGUNDO )
I, Susan Truax, City Clerk of the City of El Segundo, California, do hereby certify that the
whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. was duly introduced by said City Council at a regular meeting
held on the day of 2025, and was duly passed and adopted by said City
Council, approved and signed by the Mayor, and attested to by the City Clerk, all at a
regular meeting of said Council held on the day of 2025, and the same
was so passed and adopted by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Susan Truax, City Clerk
Page 6
Page 24 of 41
MINUTES OF THE
EL SEGUNDO PLANNING COMMISSION
Regularly Scheduled Meeting
August 8, 2024
A. Call to Order
Chair Keldorf called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m.
B. Pledge of Allegiance
Chair Keldorf led the pledge.
C. Roll Call
Present: Chair Keldorf
Present: Vice Chair Hoeschler
Present: Commissioner Christian
Absent: Commissioner Inga
Absent: Commissioner Maggay
Also present: Michael Allen, AICP, Community Development Director
Also present: Eduardo Schonborn, AICP, Planning Manager
Also present: Joaquin Vazquez, City Attorney
Also present: Paul Samaras, AICP, Principal Planner
Also present: Venus Wesson, Senior administrative Specialist
D. Public Communications
None.
E. Written Communications (other than what is included in Agenda packets)
None.
F. Consent Calendar
1. Approval of Planning Commission Meeting Minutes:
• June 27, 2024
MOTION: Approve the minutes.
Moved by Vice Chair Hoeschler, second by Commissioner Christian.
Motion carried, 3-0, by the following vote:
1
Page 25 of 41
Ayes: Keldorf, Hoeschler, Christian
G. Continued Business —Public Hearing
None.
H. New Public Hearings
2. Presentation and Study Session on a Potential Amendment to the City's
Parking Requirements for Residential Uses. (PS)
Principal Planner Paul Samaras presented and led the study session regarding
Housing Element Program 9 which calls for an amendment to the El Segundo
Municipal Code (ESMC) Title 15 parking requirements for residential uses. In
the session Paul presented options for amending ESMC parking requirements
for multi -family residential uses.
• Chair Keldorf inquired what area (zone) this amendment would affect.
Paul stated that specifically it would affect the R-3 multi -Family zone
only.
• Cahir Keldorf inquired what would occur or be required for 3-unit sites?
Paul stated that we would need to decide what we want to do; for
example in the Pacific Coast Commons (PCC) plan 2 spaces was the
max required.
• Vice Chair Hoeschler inquired if the state is requiring the city do make
these changes or is it up to the city. Paul stated that the state and the
city is requiring itself to transition to a sliding scale as it is in the Housing
Element; a city goal.
• Chair Keldorf shared that she was surprised with the survey data as she
was anticipating other cities to have a lower parking requirement than
what our current zoning code requires. She thinks this may have some
community push back.
• Community Development Director Michael Allen shared that the premise
of why this is being explored now is because HCD challenged the city
with state legislation. In which the city needs to remove barriers to
housing production. The number one cost contributor to housing
production or any development is parking, and it is a very common
strategy that the state accepts for cities to use. Ultimately, the state is
looking to see if the city is making an active effort to reduce the cost for
constructing housing and one of those factors is parking.
• Commissioner Christian asked how the city came to the sliding scale
template we are analyzing and for PCC. Paul stated that for PCC project
the developer produced the parking demand study and hired someone to
look at similar developments to study parking and assess. The parking
demand study was reviewed by a city consultant, and they concluded
that even less parking was required for the development they were
Page 26 of 41
proposing. However, based on the feedback and concerns received by
the community the city came to an agreement with the developer to do
the rate of one space per studio, one and a half per one bedroom, and
two spaces for two bedrooms. The idea was to be more conservative.
• Michael explained what International Traffic Engineers Manual (ITE) is
and how it is implemented in studies.
• Commissioner Christian inquired if we have a sense of where other cities
are landing when it comes down to this update and is there an
advantage to El Segundo being first or early movers in adopting this
scale versus another one. Paul stated that we don't know where each
city is in the implementation of their housing element and we don't know
if every city that we surveyed has that action item in their housing
element as other cities may have chosen other ways to achieve the state
goal. The advantage would be that we would be the first to incentivize
more housing development in the city and be more competitive in
resects to making it cheaper to build more housing in the city.
• Chair Keldorf stated that she like the scale but her cautionary tail would
be in positioning it up to Council and community using PCC as the
standard for something that is significantly less dense because panic
might ensue. Paul stated that perhaps staff can look at smaller
developments the city has approved like 10 unit condominium projects
amongst others that are similar to what we might see in the R-3.
• Michael asked if there is an appetite to allow for other modes of
transportation and commitments to other types of transportation to
subsidize required parking. Vice Chair Hoeschler advised that being
close to transit is a thing, he would imagine that there is an appetite.
• Commissioners suggested for staff to study post covid trends pertaining
to parking trends. In the near future they would like to analyze a parking
scale for commercial uses; Paul stated that in the near future it is
something that perhaps can be investigated.
• Chair Keldorf inquired if we can investigate tandem parking for R-3 zone.
Paul stated that it is something we can look into. Vice Chair Hoeschler
added that it is a good idea as we offer different configuration
alternatives.
I. New Business
None.
J. Report from Community Development Director or designee
Staff welcomed Commissioner Christian.
K. Report from City Attorney's Office
Joaquin Vazquez welcomed Commissioner Christian.
Page 27 of 41
L. Planning Commissioners' Comments
Commissioners welcomed Commissioner Christian.
M. Adjournment —the meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for August 22, 2024 at 5:30 pm.
k �-J 0 '
Michael Allen, Community Development Director
►I�if[•7T1Ra: !"^ � r� ` Ll • O u • el
4
Page 28 of 41
,ITV4H Planning Commission Agenda Statement
E L S E G U N D O Meeting Date: February 13, 2025
Agenda Heading: PUBLIC HEARINGS
Item Number: B.3
TITLE:
Ordinance Amending El Segundo Municipal Code (ESMC) Title 15 Chapter 34 (Cultural
Development) Regarding Requirement to Provide Artwork or Pay In -Lieu Fee
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt Resolution No.2961, recommending City Council adopt an Ordinance
amending ESMC Chapter 15-34 (Cultural Development).
2. Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
BACKGROUND:
The City of El Segundo ("City") established an art in public places fee through the City
Council's adoption of Ordinance No. 1594 on November 19, 2019. The City's Cultural
Development Program (CDP) applies to commercial or industrial development projects
where the project cost exceeds $2 million. Residential development projects are exempt
from the CDP. For a development subject to this fee, the developer has the option to
install artwork onsite equal to 1 % of the project's construction cost or contribute an
equivalent dollar amount as an in -lieu fee to the CDP.
At the November 19, 2024, City Council Meeting, the City Council directed staff to return
with an analysis of the CDP funding and information on similar programs in surrounding
municipalities.
On January 21, 2025, staff presented to the City Council a comprehensive analysis of
the CDP funding, along with information on similar programs implemented in
surrounding municipalities. The City Council directed staff to (1) update the ordinance to
include the ability to split funds between projects, (2) cap the CDP fee at $1,000,000,
Page 29 of 41
ZTA - Cultural Development
February 13, 2025
Page 2 of 3
and (3) update the timing of when in -lieu fee payments are made.
DISCUSSION:
Proposed Modifications to the Cultural Development Program
In accordance with City Council direction at the January 21, 2025, City Council meeting,
the following aspects of the program have been raised for further deliberation to be
considered:
ESMC 15-34-3A: introduced a cap for the maximum fee contribution of
$1,000,000.
ESMC 15-34-3E: provided an option to provide the combination of on-onsite art
and pay the difference in fee.
• ESMC 15-34-413: permitting the deferral in timing of in -lieu payment to final
inspection or issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.
The proposed amendments do not modify the original purpose of the Cultural
Development Program. Rather, the amendments are intended to provide greater
flexibility to developers when programming the funds or electing to provide public art.
CITY STRATEGIC PLAN COMPLIANCE:
Goal 5: Champion Economic Development and Fiscal Sustainability
Strategy C: Implement strategic initiatives to attract new businesses and foster business
to business networking and collaboration to retain and grow existing businesses.
Strategy D: Implement community planning, land use, and enforcement policies that
encourage growth while preserving El Segundo's quality of life and small-town
character.
PREPARED BY:
Eduardo Schonborn, AICP, Planning Manager
REVIEWED BY:
Eduardo Schonborn, AICP, Planning Manager
APPROVED BY:
Michael Allen, AICP, Community Development Director
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
1. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2961
Page 30 of 41
ZTA - Cultural Development
February 13, 2025
Page 3 of 3
2. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2961 Exhibit A - Draft Ordinance
Page 31 of 41
RESOLUTION NO. 2961
A RESOLUTION OF THE EL SEGUNDO PLANNING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL FIND ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT NO.
25-01 EXEMPT FROM FURTHER ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND
ADOPT AND APPROVE AMENDING TITLE 15 (ZONING REGULATIONS)
OF THE EL SEGUNDO MUNICIPAL CODE MODIFYING THE PUBLIC
ART OR IN -LIEU FEE REQUIREMENT AND A CULTURAL
DEVELOPMENT FUND
(ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT NO. 1367 AND ZONE TEXT
AMENDMENT NO. 24-02)
The Planning Commission of the City of El Segundo does resolve as follows:
SECTION 1: The Planning Commission finds and declares as follows:
A. Courts have recognized a public art requirement as a lawful exercise of a city's
traditional planning and zoning police power; such a requirement for either
public art or in -lieu fees are not a development impact fee that is subject to the
California Mitigation Fee Act, but instead is considered a development standard
allowed by the City's zoning and police powers, provided the requirement is
reasonably related to a constitutionally permissible public purpose (Ehrlich v.
City of Culver City (1996) 12 CalAth 854; Ca/. Bldg. Industry Assn, v. City of
San Jose (2015) 61 CalAth 435);
B. The City of El Segundo is 5.46 square miles and has distinct areas throughout
the City that are zoned for commercial and industrial uses, including the
Downtown area, Smoky Hollow, and the portion of the City east of Pacific Coast
Highway. Because the City is surrounded by other cities (Manhattan Beach,
Hawthorne), the Los Angeles International Airport and the Pacific Ocean, and
because the City is almost entirely built out, existing opportunities to expand
public art within the community are scarce;
C. As commercial and industrial development and revitalization of the real
property within the City continues, urbanization of the community results, and
the need to develop new artistic and cultural resources to enhance the
environment, image, and character of the City increases;
D. Cultural and artistic resources enhance the quality of life for individuals living
in, working in, and visiting the City; public art increases cultural awareness,
stimulates imaginations and provokes creative dialog among community
members;
E. The development of artistic and cultural resources promotes the general
welfare of the community, by preserving and improving the quality of the urban
environment, increasing property values, and resulting in a positive economic
Page 32 of 41
output;
F. Artistic and cultural assets should be either provided or financed by those
whose commercial and industrial development and revitalization increase the
community's demand for cultural resources;
G. The proposed public art requirement is a requirement of general application
for voluntary development within the City, and the optional in -lieu fee will be
used for providing artwork, cultural services, performing arts and arts events
to the public, as described in this ordinance;
H. On December 18, 2018, the City Council directed the Arts and Culture Advisory
Committee and City staff to develop a Cultural Development Fund proposal for
its consideration;
L The Planning Commission of the City of El Segundo held a noticed public
hearing on October 10, 2019, to review and consider the staff report prepared
for the project, receive public testimony, and review all correspondence
received on the project; the Planning Commission reviewed and considered
the proposed amendments, and adopted PC Resolution No. 2875
recommending the City Council adopt the ordinance; and
I. On July 16, 2019, and November 5, 2019, the City Council, after giving notice
thereof as required by law, held a public hearing concerning the proposed
ordinance and carefully considered all pertinent testimony offered in the case,
approved the Ordinance;
J. At the November 19, 2024, City Council Meeting, the City Council directed staff
to return to the City Council with an analysis of the CDP funding and information
on similar programs in surrounding municipalities;
K. At the City Council Meeting held on January 21, 2025, Staff conducted a
comprehensive review of the CDP and received directives from the City Council
to amend the ordinance including the ability to split the funds between projects,
establish a fee cap of $1,000,000, and update timing of the in -lieu fee payments.
L. On February 13, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to receive
public testimony and other evidence regarding the draft ordinance including,
without limitation, information provided to the Planning Commission by city staff;
and adopted Resolution No. 2961 recommending that the City Council approve
this Ordinance;
2
Page 33 of 41
M. This Resolution and its findings are made based upon the evidence presented
to the Commission at its February 13, 2025, hearing including, without
limitation, the staff report submitted by the Community Development
Department and the totality of the evidence in the administrative record.
SECTION 2: General Plan and Zoning Consistency. The City Council finds as
follows:
A. The proposed ordinance is compatible with, and will not frustrate, the goals and
policies of the City's General Plan. Furthermore, the proposed ordinance would
directly advance Goal LU2 and Objectives LU2-1 and LU2-2, which seek to
preserve and enhance the City's cultural resources. The proposed ordinance
would also advance Objective LU2-3, which encourages the development of
public programs and facilities that will meet the cultural needs of the City's
various age, income and ethnic groups. The proposed ordinance is intended to
require developers of industrial and commercial projects to either provide public
art or pay a fee which will be used for public art and cultural activities. The
proposed ordinance establishes a dedicated source of funding for projects and
programs to meet and exceed the cultural needs of the City's residents.
B. The proposed ordinance is consistent with the Zoning Code which recognizes
works of art and establishes certain standards to distinguish them from
commercial signs (ESMC § 15-18-3(H)).
SECTION 3: Environmental Assessment. Based upon the findings of fact set forth
in Sections 1 and 2, the proposed zone text amendment is exempt from further
environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (California
Public Resources Code§§ 21000, et seq., "CEQA") and CEQA Guidelines section
15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that
adoption of the proposed ordinance will have a significant effect on the
environment.
SECTION 4: Recommendations. The Planning Commission recommends that the City
Council adopt the Ordinance attached as Exhibit "A."
SECTION 5: Reliance on Record. Each and every one of the findings and determination
in this Resolution are based on the competent and substantial evidence, both oral and
written, contained in the entire record relating to the project. The findings and
determinations constitute the independent findings and determinations of the Planning
Commission in all respects and are fully and completely supported by substantial
evidence in the record as a whole.
SECTION 6: Limitations. The Planning Commission's analysis and evaluation of the
project is based on information available at the time of the decision. It is inevitable that in
3
Page 34 of 41
evaluating a project that absolute and perfect knowledge of all possible aspects of the
project will not exist. In all instances, best efforts have been made to form accurate
assumptions.
SECTION 7: This Resolution will remain effective unless and until superseded by a
subsequent resolution.
GI
Page 35 of 41
SECTION 8: The Commission secretary is directed to mail a copy of this Resolution to
any person requesting a copy.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 13t" day of February 2025.
ATTEST:
Michael Allen, Secretary and
Community Development Director
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Mark D. Hensley, City Attorney
la
Kevin Maggay, Vice Chairperson
City of El Segundo Planning Commission
Joaquin Vazquez, Assistant City Attorney
5
Maggay
Inga
Christian
Page 36 of 41
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 15 (ZONING
REGULATIONS) OF THE EL SEGUNDO MUNICIPAL CODE
ESTABLISHING A PUBLIC ART OR IN -LIEU FEE
REQUIREMENT AND A CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT FUND
The City Council of the City of El Segundo does ordain as follows:
SECTION 1: The City Council finds and declares as follows:
A. Courts have recognized a public art requirement as a lawful exercise of a
city's traditional planning and zoning police power; such a requirement for
either public art or in -lieu fees are not a development impact fee that is
subject to the California Mitigation Fee Act, but instead is considered a
development standard allowed by the City's zoning and police powers,
provided the requirement is reasonably related to a constitutionally
permissible public purpose (Ehrlich v. City of Culver City (1996) 12 Cal.4th
854; Ca/. Bldg. Industry Assn, v. City of San Jose (2015) 61 CalAth 435);
B. The City of El Segundo is 5.46 square miles and has distinct areas
throughout the City that are zoned for commercial and industrial uses,
including the Downtown area, Smoky Hollow, and the portion of the City
east of Pacific Coast Highway. Because the City is surrounded by other
cities (Manhattan Beach, Hawthorne), the Los Angeles International
Airport and the Pacific Ocean, and because the City is almost entirely
built out, existing opportunities to expand public art within the community
are scarce;
C. As commercial and industrial development and revitalization of the real
property within the City continues, urbanization of the community results,
and the need to develop new artistic and cultural resources to enhance
the environment, image, and character of the City increases;
D. Cultural and artistic resources enhance the quality of life for individuals
living in, working in, and visiting the City; public art increases cultural
awareness, stimulates imaginations and provokes creative dialog among
community members;
E. The development of artistic and cultural resources promotes the general
welfare of the community, by preserving and improving the quality of the
urban environment, increasing property values, and resulting in a positive
economic output;
Page 37 of 41
F. Artistic and cultural assets should be either provided or financed by those
whose commercial and industrial development and revitalization
increase the community's demand for cultural resources;
G. The proposed public art requirement is a requirement of general
application for voluntary development within the City, and the optional in -
lieu fee will be used for providing artwork, cultural services, performing
arts and arts events to the public, as described in this ordinance;
H. On December 18, 2018, the City Council directed the Arts and Culture
Advisory Committee and City staff to develop a Cultural Development
Fund proposal for its consideration;
L The Planning Commission of the City of El Segundo held a noticed public
hearing on October 10, 2019, to review and consider the staff report
prepared for the project, receive public testimony, and review all
correspondence received on the project; the Planning Commission
reviewed and considered the proposed amendments, and adopted PC
Resolution No. 2875 recommending the City Council adopt the
ordinance; and
I. On July 16, 2019, and November 5, 2019, the City Council, after giving
notice thereof as required by law, held a public hearing concerning the
proposed ordinance and carefully considered all pertinent testimony
offered in the case, approved the Ordinance;
J. At the November 19, 2024, City Council Meeting, the City Council directed
staff to return to the City Council with an analysis of the CDP funding and
information on similar programs in surrounding municipalities;
K. At the City Council Meeting held on January 21, 2025, Staff conducted a
comprehensive review of the CDP and received directives from the City
Council to amend the ordinance including the ability to split the funds
between projects, establish a fee cap of $1,000,000, and update timing of
the in -lieu fee payments.
L. On February 13, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to
receive public testimony and other evidence regarding the draft ordinance
including, without limitation, information provided to the Planning Commission
by city staff; and adopted Resolution No. 2961 recommending that the City
Council approve this Ordinance;
M. On March 4, 2025, the City Council held a public hearing and considered the
information provided by City staff and public testimony regarding this
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Ordinance; and
N. This Ordinance and its findings are made based upon the entire
administrative record including, without limitation, testimony and evidence
presented to the City Council at its March 4, 2025, hearing and the staff report
submitted by the Community Development Department.
SECTION 2: General Plan and Zoning Consistency. The City Council finds as
follows:
A. The proposed ordinance is compatible with, and will not frustrate, the goals
and policies of the City's General Plan. Furthermore, the proposed
ordinance would directly advance Goal LU2 and Objectives LU2-1 and
LU2-2, which seek to preserve and enhance the City's cultural resources.
The proposed ordinance would also advance Objective LU2-3, which
encourages the development of public programs and facilities that will
meet the cultural needs of the City's various age, income and ethnic
groups. The proposed ordinance is intended to require developers of
industrial and commercial projects to either provide public art or pay a fee
which will be used for public art and cultural activities. The proposed
ordinance establishes a dedicated source of funding for projects and
programs to meet and exceed the cultural needs of the City's residents.
B. The proposed ordinance is consistent with the Zoning Code which
recognizes works of art and establishes certain standards to distinguish
them from commercial signs (ESMC § 15-18-3(H)).
SECTION 3: Environmental Assessment. Based upon the findings of fact set forth
in Sections 1 and 2, the proposed zone text amendment is exempt from further
environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (California
Public Resources Code§§ 21000, et seq., "CEQA") and CEQA Guidelines section
15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that
adoption of the proposed ordinance will have a significant effect on the
environment.
SECTION 4: ESMC Title 15 (Zoning Regulations) is amended to add the
following chapter:
Section 15-34-3. Requirement to Provide Artwork or Pay In -
lieu Fee.
A. When a project is subject to this chapter, the applicant must
either (a) commission or acquire and install new artwork in a
location on or in the vicinity of the project site, with the appraised
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value of such artwork and any direct expenses as described
herein being equal to or exceeding one percent of the project
cost; or (b) pay to the City an amount equal to one percent of the
project cost.. not to exceed $1,000,000.
E. The fee may be allocated between the provision of on -site art
installations and the remittance of the remaining balance as an in -
lieu fee.
Section 15-34-4. Application and Approval Process.
C. af-a An applicant may elects to pay the in -lieu fee at any time
prior to , Re buildiRg permit certificate of occupancy or final
shall bissued
inspection srall � d arRtil he total foe has been n��I
SECTION 5: CONSTRUCTION. This ordinance must be broadly construed in
order to achieve the purposes stated in this ordinance. It is the City Council's intent
that the provisions of this ordinance be interpreted or implemented by the City and
others in a manner that facilitates the purposes set forth in this ordinance.
SECTION 6: ENFORCEABILITY. Repeal of any provision of the El Segundo
Municipal Code does not affect any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred before,
or preclude prosecution and imposition of penalties for any violation occurring
before this ordinance's effective date. Any such repealed part will remain in full
force and effect for sustaining action or prosecuting violations occurring before the
effective date of this ordinance.
SECTION 7: VALIDITY OF PREVIOUS CODE SECTIONS. If this entire ordinance
or its application is deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, any repeal
or amendment of the ESMC or other city ordinance by this ordinance will be
rendered void and cause such previous ESMC provision or other the city ordinance
to remain in full force and effect for all purposes.
SECTION 8: SEVERABILITY. If any part of this ordinance or its application is
deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City Council intends that
such invalidity will not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions or
applications and, to this end, the provisions of this ordinance are severable.
SECTION 9: The City Clerk is directed to certify the passage and adoption
of this ordinance; cause it to be entered into the City of El Segundo's book of
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original ordinances; make a note of the passage and adoption in the records
of this meeting; and, within 15 days after the passage and adoption of this
ordinance, cause it to be published or posted in accordance with California
law.
SECTION 10: This Ordinance will go into effect and be in full force and effect 30
days after its passage and adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this day of 2025.
Chris Pimentel, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
IN
Mark D. Hensley, City Attorney
ATTEST:
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS
CITY OF EL SEGUNDO )
I, Susan Truax, City Clerk of the City of El Segundo, California, do hereby certify
that the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the
foregoing Ordinance No. was duly introduced by said City Council at a
regular meeting held on the day of 2025, and was duly passed
and adopted by said City Council, approved and signed by the Mayor, and attested
to by the City Clerk, all at a regular meeting of said Council held on the day of
2025, and the same was so passed and adopted by the following
vote-
AYES -
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Susan Truax, City Clerk
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