1. CALL TO ORDER: CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/HOUSING AUTHORITY (5:00 pm)
The meeting was called to order at 5:00 P.M. by Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Lula Davis-Holmes in the Helen Kawagoe Council Chambers, Carson City Hall, located at 701 E. Carson Street, Carson, California 90745.
2. ROLL CALL (CITY CLERK)
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Khaleah K. Bradshaw noted the roll:
Council Members/Agency Members/Authority Board Members Present:
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Lula Davis-Holmes
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Cedric Hicks, Sr.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Jim Dear
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Arleen Rojas
Council Members/Agency Members/Authority Board Members Absent:
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Jawane Hilton (Entered at 5:04 P.M.)
Also Present:
Monica Cooper, City/Agency/Authority Treasurer; Sunny Soltani, City/Agency/Authority Attorney; David C. Roberts, Jr., City Manager; Dr. Robert Lennox, Assistant City Manager; John Raymond, Executive Director; Michael Whittiker, Jr., Director of Community Services; Dr. Arlington Rodgers, Jr., Director of Public Works; Nora Garcia, Director of Public Safety and Emergency Services; William Jefferson, Director of Finance; Joshua Boudreaux, Director of Human Resources; Thomas Toman, Deputy City Manager; Armine Chaparyan, Deputy City Manager; Nathan Freeman, Director of Community and Economic Development; Michael George, Government Affairs Officer; Reata Kulcsar, Energy and Sustainability Officer; and Kourtney Cullors, Chief Deputy City Clerk
3. FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. led the Pledge of Allegiance.
(Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton entered the meeting at 5:04 P.M.)
4. INVOCATION (Item 1)
1. PASTOR WALTER R. TUCKER, III FROM TRUTH & LOVE CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Pastor Walter R. Tucker, III, gave the invocation.
5. CLOSED SESSION (Items 2-3)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL)
— A closed session will be held, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1), to confer with legal counsel regarding pending litigation to which the City of Carson is a party. The title of such litigation is as follows: Arriola, Mark v City of Carson (WCAB Nos. ADJ21621815, ADJ21667605).
ACTION: No reportable action was taken.
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL)
— A closed session will be held, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1), to confer with legal counsel regarding pending litigation to which the City of Carson is a party. The title of such litigation is as follows: Veronica Alvarez v City of Carson.
ACTION: No reportable action was taken.
6. REPORT ON ANY PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS (CITY CLERK)
None.
7. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ITEMS (CITY ATTORNEY)
(Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton exited the meeting at 5:07 P.M.)
City/Agency/Authority Attorney Soltani announced the Closed Session items.
(Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton reentered the meeting at 5:08 P.M.)
8. RECESS INTO CLOSED SESSION UNTIL 6:00 P.M. OR UNTIL THE END OF CLOSED SESSION, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST
The meeting was recessed at 5:08 P.M. by Mayor/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes to Closed Session.
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL)
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL)
9. RULES OF DECORUM:
A recording of the Rules of Decorum was presented at the beginning of the meeting.
10. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION AT 6:00 P.M. OR AT THE END OF CLOSED SESSION, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST
The meeting was reconvened at 6:10 P.M. by Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. except Mayor Davis-Holmes and Council Member Rojas absent.
11. REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS (CITY ATTORNEY)
City/Agency/Authority Attorney Soltani gave the Closed Session Report.
(Mayor Davis-Holmes and Council Member Rojas reentered the meeting at 6:12 P.M.)
12. INTRODUCTIONS (MAYOR) (Item 4)
4. REPORT FROM CAPTAIN NORMAN OF CARSON SHERIFF'S STATION- 6:37 PM
Not present.
13. PRESENTATIONS (Items 5-6)
5. PRESENTATION OF THE ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE READINESS AWARD FROM THE CALIFORNIA NEW MOTOR VEHICLE BOARD TO THE CITY OF CARSON – PRESENTED BY BOARD MEMBER SHIRLEY JONES
Shirley Jones, Board Member of the California New Motor Vehicle Board, offered comments and presented the Zero-Emission Vehicle Readiness Award from the California New Motor Vehicle to the Mayor and City Council.
City Manager Roberts, Jr. commended Energy and Sustainability Officer Reata Kulcsar for her efforts in leading the new motor vehicle aspirations for a cleaner Carson.
6. RECOGNITIONS FOR THE REGIONAL MATHEMATICS COMPETITION TEAMS FROM DEL AMO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, AMBLER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, AND STEPHEN M. WHITE MIDDLE SCHOOL FOR THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS
Mayor and City Council recognized the Regional Mathematics Competition Teams and presented Certificates of Recognition to five recipients each from Del Amo Elementary School, Ambler Elementary School, and Stephen M. White Middle School for their achievements.
Item No. 6 was heard again after Oral Communications For Matters Listed on the Agenda (Members of the Public).
Mayor and City Council recognized and presented a Certificate of Recognition to a recipient from Stephen M. White Middle School for his achievement.
14. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR MATTERS LISTED ON THE AGENDA (MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC) (LIMITED TO ONE HOUR)
Melissa Wickman, Vice President of Development and Marketing, Boys and Girls Club of Carson - Item No. 32
Thanked the Mayor and City Council for their past support and offered comments regarding CDBG funding for the Boys and Girls Club of Carson
Jolene Fassbinder, Grants Manager with Venice Family Clinic - Item No. 32
Offered comments regarding CDBG funding for the Venice Family Clinic; requested ongoing support for their work at the Carson Wellness Center
Lawrence Flinton - Item No. 36
Offered comments in support of the ordinance with areas to be addressed
Assistant City Manager, Dr. Lennox addressed the items that the speaker mentioned which are part of the existing code and would ensure enforcement by Code Enforcement.
15. APPROVAL OF MINUTES (Item 7)
7. APPROVAL OF THE FOLLOWING CARSON CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/HOUSING AUTHORITY MEETING MINUTES - MARCH 24, 2026 (SPECIAL) AND APRIL 7, 2026 (REGULAR)- 7:42 PM
Item No. 7 was heard after Item No. 34.
Motion To Approve submitted by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. seconded by Jim Dear resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
16. CONSENT (Items 8-30)
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. requested to remove Items No. 22 and 23 for discussion.
Motion To Approve submitted by Jim Dear seconded by Dr. Jawane Hilton resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
8. CONSIDER A REPORT OF ALL CITY CONTRACTS APPROVED UNDER CITY MANAGER AUTHORITY FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 1, 2026 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2026 PURSUANT TO CMC SECTION 2604 (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE the report.
ACTION: Item No. 8 was approved on Consent.
9. CONSIDER A REPORT OF ALL CITY CONTRACTS APPROVED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF DEPARTMENT DIRECTORS FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 1, 2026 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2026 PURSUANT TO CMC SECTION 2604 (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE the report.
ACTION: Item No. 9 was approved on Consent.
10. CONSIDER A REPORT OF ALL NEW BUSINESS LICENSES ISSUED BY THE CITY OF CARSON FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 1, 2026, THROUGH MARCH 31, 2026 (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE the report.
ACTION: Item No. 10 was approved on Consent.
11. CONSIDER APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH VASQUEZ AND COMPANY LLP TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL AUDITING SERVICE OF THE CITY'S FISCAL YEAR ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT (ACFR), SINGLE AUDIT REPORT (SAR) AND THE FINANCIAL AND COMPLIANCE AUDIT FOR THE MEASURE W - SAFE, CLEAN WATER REGIONAL PROGRAM (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE a professional auditing services agreement with Vasquez and Company LLP to perform the professional auditing services, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), Single Audit Report (SAR), Air and Quality Management Report (AB2766), and the financial and compliance audit for the Measure W – Safe, Clean Water Regional Program, for a total contract amount not to exceed $495,000 over a five-year term; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute the contract, following approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 11 was approved on Consent.
12. CONSIDER MONTHLY INVESTMENT AND CASH REPORT FOR THE CITY OF CARSON, CARSON HOUSING AUTHORITY, CARSON SUCCESSOR AGENCY-MONTH ENDING MARCH 31, 2026 (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE the report.
ACTION: Item No. 12 was approved on Consent.
13. CONSIDER A REPORT ON ALL INTRADEPARTMENTAL BUDGET TRANSFERS APPROVED UNDER THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE AUTHORITY FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2026 PER ORDINANCE 24-2401 (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE the report.
ACTION: Item No. 13 was approved on Consent.
14. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-036, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OFTHE CITY OF CARSON RATIFYING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $6,256,929.86, DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS 184336 THROUGH 184517 AND 298 FOR GENERAL DEMAND AND THE AMOUNT OF $13,740.00, CHECK NUMBER 1301 FOR CO-OP AGREEMENT DEMANDS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-036, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON RATIFYING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $6,256,929.86, DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS 184336 THROUGH 184517 AND 298 FOR GENERAL DEMAND AND THE AMOUNT OF $13,740.00, CHECK NUMBER 1301 FOR CO-OP AGREEMENT DEMANDS."
ACTION: Item No. 14 was approved on Consent.
15. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-05-CHA, A RESOLUTION OF THE CARSON HOUSING AUTHORITY RATIFYING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $13,837.94, DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS HA-002110 THROUGH HA-002114 (HOUSING AUTHORITY)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-05-CHA, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CARSON HOUSING AUTHORITY RATIFYING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $13,837.94, DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS HA-002110 THROUGH HA-002114."
ACTION: Item No. 15 was approved on Consent.
16. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-05-CSA, A RESOLUTION OF THE CARSON SUCCESSOR AGENCY CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,530.07, DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS SA-001988 THROUGH SA-001990 (SUCCESSOR AGENCY)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution NO. 26-05-CSA, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CARSON SUCCESSOR AGENCY CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,530.07, DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS SA-001988 THROUGH SA-001990".
ACTION: Item No. 16 was approved on Consent.
17. CONSIDER SHIFTING THE MAY 19, 2026, REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING TO MAY 20, 2026, BY MINUTE ORDER (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE a one-time shift of the May 19, 2026, Regular City Council meeting to May 20, 2026, by minute order.
ACTION: Item No. 17 was approved on Consent.
18. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RESOLUTION NO. 26-043 ALLOWING THE CITY OF CARSON TO PARTICIPATE IN ADDITIONAL NATIONAL OPIOID SETTLEMENT WITH REMNANT DEFENDANTS, ASSOCIATED PHARMACIES, INC. (AND AMERICAN ASSOCIATED PHARMACIES), J M SMITH CORPORATION, LOUISIANA WHOLESALE DRUG COMPANY, INC., MORRIS AND DICKSON CO., NORTH CAROLINA MUTUAL WHOLESALE DRUG COMPANY, INC., AND UNITED NATURAL FOODS, INC. (INCLUDING ITS SUBSIDIARIES SUPERVALU AND ADVANTAGE LOGISTICS) (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE Settlement Agreement and Combined Subdivision Participation and Release Form for the City’s participation in the National Opioid Settlement Agreement with the Remnant Defendants.
— 2. ADOPT Resolution No. 26-043 approving and authorizing the City Manager to carry out all necessary acts such that the City can participate in the National Opioid Settlement with the Remnant Defendants, including signing necessary documents and transmittal thereof as necessary.
ACTION: Item No. 18 was approved on Consent.
19. CONSIDER TAKING A POSITION OF OPPOSE UNLESS AMENDED TO SENATE BILL 866 (BLAKESPEAR) (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. TAKE a position of OPPOSE UNLESS AMENDED for Senate Bill 866 (Blakespear) and DIRECT staff to submit a corresponding letter.
ACTION: Item No. 19 was approved on Consent.
20. AWARD OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION DEFENSE ATTORNEY SERVICES CONTRACT FOR FIVE YEAR TERM TO DABBAH, HADDAD & SULEIMAN, A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the proposed Contract Services Agreement with Dabbah Haddad Suleiman, a Professional Corporation for a five-year term, for a not-to-exceed Contract Sum of $1,700,000. (Exhibit No. 1; the Agreement); and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute the Agreement following approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 20 was approved on Consent.
21. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT WITH PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK (PCN) FOR CALL CENTER SERVICES AND RELATED INDEMNIFICATION PROVISIONS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the agreement entered into with Professional Communications Network (PCN) for call center services related to illegal fireworks complaints; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the City Manager's execution of the agreement approved as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 21 was approved on Consent.
22. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF THE CLEAN POWER ALLIANCE (CPA) INNOVATION FUND PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT TO ACCEPT $163,100 IN GRANT FUNDING FOR THE CITY OF CARSON’S ELECTRIC RESIDENTIAL LAWN AND GARDEN EQUIPMENT REBATE PROGRAM (CITY COUNCIL)
** Item was Removed from Consent
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the Innovation Fund Participation Agreement with the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) to accept $163,100 in grant funding to implement the City of Carson’s Electric Residential Lawn and Garden Equipment Rebate Program; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the City Manager to execute the agreement and any related documents, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney
Item No. 22 was heard after approval of the Consent items.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. requested a staff report.
Energy and Sustainability Officer Reata Kulcsar gave a report.
Motion To Approve submitted by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. seconded by Jim Dear resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
23. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SWAYZER CORPORATION (C-24-132) FOR CONTINUED MOWING AND LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES (CITY COUNCIL)
** Item was Removed from Consent
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE Amendment No. 2 to the Contract Services Agreement with Swayzer Corporation to continue providing mowing and landscape maintenance services from May 28, 2026, through May 28, 2027, for a total contract amount not to exceed $1,217,924.40 (Exhibit No. 3); and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to sign Amendment No. 2, subject to final approval by the City Attorney as to form.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. requested a staff report.
Director Whittiker, Jr. gave a report.
Discussion ensued regarding median maintenance services and the bid process.
Motion to Approve Amendment No. 2 to the Contract Services Agreement with Swayzer Corporation to continue providing mowing and landscape maintenance services for seven months then month to month thereafter submitted by Mayor Davis-Holmes seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr.
During discussion of the motion, Council Member Dear offered a substitute motion to approve staff recommendations and staff to solicit RFPs in six months, seconded by Council Member, Dr. Hilton resulting in 2-3-0-0-0, Mayor Davis-Holmes, Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. and Council Member Rojas voting No.
Vote on Main Motion resulting in 4-0-1-0-0 abstained by Council Member Dear
24. CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 26-028, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025–2026 BUDGET, INCLUDING THE ALLOCATION OF PROPOSITION A AND PROPOSITION C LOCAL RETURN FUNDS FOR TRANSPORTATION PURPOSES, ACROSS THE GENERAL FUND, SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS, ENTERPRISE FUNDS, AND THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) FUND (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. ADOPT Resolution No. 26-028, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 BUDGET, INCLUDING THE ALLOCATION OF PROPOSITION A AND PROPOSITION C LOCAL RETURN FUNDS FOR TRANSPORTATION PURPOSES, IN THE GENERAL FUND, SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS, ENTERPRISE FUNDS, AND THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) FUND,” which formally updates the City’s Budget to reflect current funding needs, allocations, and priorities across these funds; and,
— 2. WAIVE the formal bidding procedure as permitted by Carson Municipal Code (CMC), Section 2611(g); and,
— 3. AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Manager to issue a Purchase Order to Urban Solar Inc. in the not-to-exceed amount of $350,000 for the purchase of pole-mounted bus stop lighting devices.
ACTION: Item No. 24 was approved on Consent.
25. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A PERMIT TO ENTER WITH THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER PROPERTY AT 20300 SOUTH FIGUEROA FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INVESTIGATION ACTIVITIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE SYWEST DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the Permit to Enter Agreement, subject to City Attorney Approval as to form following City Attorney's Final Review and Approval of Agreement; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the City Manager or his designee to execute the Permit to Enter Agreement.
ACTION: Item No. 25 was approved on Consent.
26. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-042 TO APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO UTILIZE COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT FUNDS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE PLAN FOR THE NEW CARRIAGE CREST PARK METHANE MITIGATION SYSTEM (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-042, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 -2027 BUDGET TO AUTHORIZE THE USE OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT (CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-042 TO APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO UTILIZE COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT FUNDS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE PLAN FOR THE NEW CARRIAGE CREST PARK METHANE MITIGATION SYSTEM ."
ACTION: Item No. 26 was approved on Consent.
27. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-041, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF AN APPLICATION AND DECLARING THE CITY’S INTENTION TO APPLY FOR THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY COMMUNITY-WIDE ASSESSMENT GRANT FOR STATES PROGRAM (EPA CWAG-ST) (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-041 “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF AN APPLICATION AND DECLARING THE CITY’S INTENTION TO APPLY FOR THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY COMMUNITY-WIDE ASSESSMENT GRANT FOR STATES PROGRAM (EPA CWAG-ST).”
ACTION: Item No. 27 was approved on Consent.
28. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-040, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF APPLICATIONS AND DECLARING THE CITY’S INTENTION TO APPLY FOR THE STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD'S SITE CLEANUP SUBACCOUNT PROGRAM (SCAP) GRANTS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-040, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF APPLICATIONS AND DECLARING THE CITY’S INTENTION TO APPLY FOR THE STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD'S SITE CLEANUP SUBACCOUNT PROGRAM GRANTS."
ACTION: Item No. 28 was approved on Consent.
29. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 26-035 DELEGATING AUTHORITY TO THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO ACCEPT COMPLETION OF PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-035, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, DELEGATING TO THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR THE AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS AND FILE NOTICES OF COMPLETION WITH COUNTY RECORDER’S OFFICE".
ACTION: Item No. 29 was approved on Consent.
30. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE CONTRACT WITH R3 CONSULTING GROUP, INC., FOR ADD-ON CONSULTING SERVICES IN SUPPORT OF REVIEWING THE PROPOSED TRANSFER OF WRT’S INTERESTS IN THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT TO USA WASTE (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE Amendment No. 2 to the Contract Services Agreement with R3 Consulting Group, Inc., to provide additional consulting services, by adding an additional $15,000 for a new total contract amount of $90,000; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute Amendment No. 2 to the Contract Services Agreement with R3 Consulting Group, Inc., following approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 30 was approved on Consent.
17. SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (Item 31-33)
31. CONSIDER ADOPTION OF INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 26-2607 OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, ENACTED PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65858 ESTABLISHING A FORTY-FIVE (45) DAY TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OR EXPANSION OF BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS) FACILITIES WITHIN CITY LIMITS DURING THE PENDENCY OF THE CITY’S REVIEW AND ADOPTION OF PERMANENT ZONING REGULATIONS FOR SUCH USES” (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Urgency Ordinance No. 26-2607U, "AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, ENACTED PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65858 ESTABLISHING A 45-DAY TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OR EXPANSION OF BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (BESS) WITHIN CITY LIMITS DURING THE PENDENCY OF THE CITY’S REVIEW AND ADOPTION OF PERMANENT ZONING REGULATIONS FOR SUCH USES," by at least a 4/5ths vote.
— 2. DIRECT the City Manager to have the Community and Economic Development Department and Planning Commission to establish development standards and land use regulations for BESS facilities, conduct research on the economics of BESS facilities, and survey land use regulations and development standards for BESS facilities in other cities.
After the Closed Session Report, Mayor Davis-Holmes announced that Item No. 31 will not be discussed this evening.
Item No. 31 was heard after Item No. 23.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes declared the Public Hearing open.
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Bradshaw gave the Public Hearing report.
There being no persons wishing to speak, Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes closed the Public Hearing.
Per City/Agency/Authority Attorney Soltani, staff will re-notice for a future Public Hearing.
32. CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED ALLOCATION OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-27, AND ADOPTION OF THE 2026-2027 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. OPEN the Public Hearing, TAKE public testimony, and CLOSE the Public Hearing.
— 2. ALLOCATE CDBG public service funding for FY 2026/27 (PY 2026) as designated by City Council.
— 3. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute agreements with the public service providers as designated by City Council following negotiation and approval as to form by the City Attorney.
— 4. APPROVE the proposed FY 2026/27 (PY 2026) CDBG budget.
— 5. APPROVE the submission of the City’s 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan to the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Item No. 32 was heard after Item No. 6.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes declared the Public Hearing open.
Housing Analyst Duane Cobb gave a report.
Motion to approve Option 2 with the caveat that if the funds are not expended by a certain amount of time with the Office of Samoan Affairs that the Mayor and City Council revisit and reallocate the funds submitted by Mayor Davis-Holmes seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr.
During discussion of the motion, Council Member, Dr. Hilton inquired about the Southern California Housing Rights Center. Housing Analyst Duane Cobb responded to Council Member, Dr. Hilton's inquiry. Council Member, Dr. Hilton recommended an increase of allocation to the Boys and Girls Club of Carson.
Mayor Davis-Holmes clarified her motion to give the Office of Samoan Affairs a deadline to spend their money and if not staff to come back to reallocate funds to the Boys and Girls Club of Carson which Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. and Council Member, Dr. Hilton concurred.
Council Member Dear inquired about the Southern California Housing Rights Center. Housing Specialist Toni Carter responded to his inquiry.
Motion resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
33. CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING AND CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-037 APPROVING AN ADDENDUM TO THE CARSON 2040 GENERAL PLAN TO UPDATE THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND ADOPTION OF THE CARSON CIVIC CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. CONDUCT a public hearing; and,
— 2. ADOPT Resolution No. 26-037 "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON APPROVING AN ADDENDUM TO THE CARSON 2040 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND ADOPTING THE CARSON CIVIC CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN"; and,
— 3. AUTHORIZE staff to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a master developer to implement the Carson Civic Center Specific Plan, contingent upon receipt of full HCD clearance for the surplus parcels.
Item No. 33 was heard after Item No. 31.
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Bradshaw gave the Public Hearing Report.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes declared the Public Hearing open.
There were no persons wishing to speak.
Director Freeman gave a PowerPoint presentation of the Carson Civic Center Specific Plan.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes closed the Public Hearing.
Mayor and City Council offered comments in support of the item.
Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. recommended a rooftop restaurant and inquired about the senior programs and museum option. City Manager Roberts, Jr. responded to his inquiries.
Motion To Approve submitted by Arleen Bocatija-Rojas seconded by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
18. DISCUSSION (Item 34-35)
34. CONSIDER APPROVING AN ASSIGNMENT, ASSUMPTION, AND CONSENT AGREEMENT TO TRANSFER WASTE RESOURCE TECHNOLOGIES’ INTERESTS IN THE CITY’S SOLID WASTE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT TO USA WASTE (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the Assignment, Assumption, and Consent Agreement, thereby consenting to the transfer of WRT’s interests in the City’s Franchise Agreement to USA Waste; and,
— 2. DIRECT staff to establish an internal service fund for deposit of the settlement payment and for purchases related to citywide departmental non-capitalized activities.
Item No. 34 was heard after Item No. 32.
City/Agency/Authority Attorney Soltani gave a report.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes commended staff for a solution and requested that the funds be placed in a special fund and not the General Fund to be used to hire additional staff and designate for infrastructure improvements.
Director Jefferson discussed staff recommendation 2.
City/Agency/Authority Treasurer Cooper asked if funds be placed in an interest bearing account and the Mayor and City Council concurred.
Motion to allocate additional funds for infrastructure improvements submitted by Mayor Davis-Holmes seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
Motion to approve staff recommendations submitted by Council Member Dear seconded by Council Member, Dr. Hilton resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
35. CONSIDERATION OF ONLY LOCAL UNCONTESTED APPOINTMENTS TO THE CITY’S COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES, AND BOARDS, AND CITY AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS BY MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL AND CONSIDER ALL (CONTESTED AND UNCONTESTED) APPOINTMENTS TO ALL COMMISSIONS (CITY COUNCIL)- 8:31 PM
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. CONSIDER and only APPOINT uncontested members to the City Commissions, Committees, and Boards;
— 2. CONSIDER and APPOINT all (contested and uncontested) members to all commissions;
— 3. CONSIDER and APPOINT members to City Affiliated Organizations;
— 4. DIRECT the City Clerk to notify all affected appointments of this action in writing;
— 5. IF APPLICABLE, DIRECT the City Clerk to post and publish in accordance with the Maddy Act
Item No. 35 was heard after Item No. 33.
ACTION: The Mayor and City Council took the following actions:
Mobilehome Park Rental Review Board
Council Member Rojas appointed Susan Hernandez as At-large member to the Mobilehome Park Rental Review Board as her uncontested appointment.
Environmental Commission
Council Member, Dr. Hilton appointed Alejandro Rojas to the Environmental Commission as his uncontested appointment.
Public Works Commission
Council Member, Dr. Hilton announced that his appointee Kelly Todd retired, therefore, resigned from the Public Works Commission.
City Clerk, Dr. Bradshaw noted she confirmed receipt of Kelly Todd's resignation.
19. ORDINANCE SECOND READING (Item 36)
36. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 26-2605, AMENDING THE CARSON MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO SIDEWALK VENDING REGULATIONS, INCLUDING PROHIBITING SIDEWALK VENDING WITHIN 1,000 FEET OF A PLACE OF PUBLIC ASSEMBLAGE AROUND EVENT TIMES AND WITHIN 1,000 FEET OF A SCHOOL AROUND SCHOOL SESSION HOURS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. CONDUCT a second reading by title only and with full reading waived; and,
— 2. ADOPT Ordinance No. 26-2605, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING: (i) SECTION 1202 OF CHAPTER 2 (PENALTY PROVISIONS) OF ARTICLE I (GENERAL PROVISIONS), (ii) SECTIONS 31001 (DEFINITIONS) AND 31002 (SIDEWALK VENDING OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS) OF CHAPTER 10 (SIDEWALK VENDING) OF ARTICLE 3 (PUBLIC SAFETY); (iii) SECTIONS 4118 (STREET VENDORS NEAR SCHOOLS), 4118.1 (PEDDLING FROM VEHICLES IN PARKS), 4118.2 (SELLING ICE CREAM AND CERTAIN FOOD PRODUCTS FROM VEHICLES IN PUBLIC STREETS), AND 4118.4 (VENDING OF MERCHANDISE ON PUBLIC PROPERTY, STADIUMS, ATHLETIC FIELDS, COMMUNITY CENTERS OR ABANDONED PROPERTY – EXCLUSIONS) OF CHAPTER 1 (PROHIBITED CONDUCT – OFFENSES) OF ARTICLE IV (PUBLIC PEACE); AND (iv) SUBSECTION (E) OF SECTION 63142 (MOBILE FOOD VENDORS) OF CHAPTER 3 (BUSINESS, PROFESSIONS, AND TRADES) OF ARTICLE VI (TAXES AND LICENSES) OF THE CARSON MUNICIPAL CODE, TO PROHIBIT SIDEWALK VENDORS IN PUBLIC PLACES OF ASSEMBLAGE (AS DEFINED) DURING AND IMMEDIATELY BEFORE AND AFTER LARGE EVENTS, AND TO ELIMINATE INTERNAL INCONSISTENCY WITHIN THE CARSON MUNICIPAL CODE WITH RESPECT TO REGULATION OF SIDEWALK VENDORS."
Motion To Approve submitted by Jim Dear seconded by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
20. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR MATTERS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA (MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC)
Lawrence Flinton
Asked why the City has traffic laws and signals if people are not going to follow them; if the city considers red light cameras and speed cameras like other surrounding cities, it would create some funds from tickets which can go towards local police, city, traffic prevention and infrastructure
Brandi Lewin
Referred to the Tesla Charging Stations at the Carson Civic Center and asked who is responsible with the maintenance; expressed concern that some of the charging stations are not operable; inquired about the cost of the charging stations; referred to the EV program which is a challenge of EV chargers that are not Tesla chargers and if can be included; referred to Del Amo Boulevard and Alvo Avenue which appears to be a constant dumping site; referred to the business license renewal system and inquired if can pay online
Alejandro Rojas
Addressed a public safety concern of the recent coyote attacks on children and pets in the community which has intensified fears among Carson residents particularly the elderly; suggested a Town Hall Meeting to develop proactive solutions to this urgent matter
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes inquired about the Town Hall Meeting with the Department of Fish and Game and other agency. Assistant City Manager, Dr. Lennox noted he will notify staff when meeting date has been confirmed.
Jason Rabb
Encouraged the Mayor and City Council to continue promoting civic engagement
Teshana Prudent
Asked if Carson businesses will be considered for City projects; referred to Sun Run panels
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes referred Teshana Prudent to Director Freeman for Small Business Academy information.
21. COUNCIL MEMBER REQUESTS TO ADD ITEMS TO FUTURE AGENDAS
None.
22. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (COUNCIL MEMBERS)
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton announced/reported the following:
- Community Clean Up Day partnering with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at Walnut Park in Centerview
- Jazz Festival, Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 1:00 P.M., Dymally Institute at California State University Dominguez Hills (CSUDH)
- The Weingart Foundation Question and Answer Session regarding the Weingart Project (Project Home Key) on Albertoni formerly Extended Stay, April 30, 2026, at 6:30 P.M., Carson Community Center, Hall B
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes asked that the Project Home Key meeting be advertised citywide. City Manager Roberts, Jr. responded that it will advertised through the Public Information Office and Multimedia.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Rojas noted rescheduling her Town Hall Meeting that is currently scheduled for April 30, 2026 to not conflict with the Weingart Project (Project Home Key) meeting.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Dear announced/reported the following:
- Reminded the residents that the Project Home Key was originally presented to the city of Torrance and they unanimously rejected it and was brought to the city of Carson by the County. He emphasized that this project needs to work for our community not just a project that the County wants us to have. It should be outlined the way we accept it, for example for CSUDH students.
- Asked about Earth Day/Kids Fest being rescheduled at Dolphin Park. Director Whittiker, Jr. shared that staff is working with the vendors to secure a new date.
- Reflections Mini Park - the lights are not operational and the maintenance of the park is not being kept up. City staff trimmed the trees and bushes but did not pick up the trimmings. Council Member Dear stated that he would share the photos of the condition of the park. Director Whittiker, Jr. stated he would have a crew visit the park tomorrow morning. He stated that staff is working with a developer to make changes to the park.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman, Hicks, Sr. announced/reported the following:
- Asked about the expansion of Friendship Park. Director Whittiker, Jr. shared that plans are in the works, hopefully with a dog park.
- Attended the Senior Spring Dance which was well attended; kudos to staff
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes asked about Foisia Park obtaining pickleball courts and Director Whittiker, Jr. responded in the affirmative. She also attended the Senior Spring Dance.
23. ANNOUNCEMENT OF UNFINISHED OR CONTINUED CLOSED SESSION ITEMS (AS NECESSARY)
None.
24. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
None.
25. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
None.
26. REPORT OF ACTIONS ON UNFINISHED OR CONTINUED CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
None.
27. MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENTS
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Bradshaw presented the following Memorial Adjournment Requests:
Perpetua "Pett" Zuniga Roxas
Theresa Leverette
Vincent P. Miles
Melvin Benson
Kenneth Litster
Catherine Anderson
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton requested to add Raynell Latrice Johnson McAdory to the Memorial Adjournment Requests. He gave a prayer.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes announced that Executive Director Raymond will be sharing amazing ideas soon. She asked about the status of the Lenardo Street Project. Executive Director Raymond responded to her question.
28. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 P.M. by Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes.
__________________________________________________
Lula Davis-Holmes
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman
ATTEST:
__________________________________________________
Dr. Khaleah K. Bradshaw
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary
_________________________
Signature