El Segundo City Council proclaims February 2025 as Black History Month

Under the bright lights of El Segundo's city hall, the City Council convened on February 4, 2025, to address a range of important community issues. The meeting began with a heartfelt proclamation declaring February as Black History Month, encouraging residents to reflect on the contributions of African Americans both locally and nationally. El Segundo Unified School District board member Daima Wheaton accepted the proclamation, emphasizing the month as a time for rededication to justice and equality.

The council moved swiftly through its agenda, approving a consent calendar that included updates to the recreation scholarship program and ongoing emergency repairs to the Weisburn Aquatic Center pool heaters, which will close for repairs in July and August.

A significant discussion arose during a public hearing led by principal planner Paul Samaris, who presented a zone text amendment aimed at aligning local regulations with new state legislation. This amendment addresses right-of-way dedications, accessory dwelling unit standards, and public notification requirements. Mayor Pro Tem Ryan Baldino proposed a clarification regarding the exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which the council adopted with the recommended revision.

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee also took center stage, with chair Christabel Viena and vice chair Sean O'Brien outlining their proposed work plan. The council approved amendments to the committee's bylaws and decided to continue with monthly meetings, concluding the pilot program that included representatives from the school district.

In a move to enhance city services, Recreation, Parks, and Library Director Ali Mancini presented a request for proposals for landscape maintenance services, which the council approved. Public Works Director Elias Sassoon and project consultant Giuseppe Kenzoneri discussed the Smoky Hollow parking project, presenting various cost options. Ultimately, the council opted to revisit the project in six months after failing to reach a consensus on immediate funding.

Council member Lance Giroux shared updates on the Plunge Renovation Project, expressing optimism about its timely completion. Meanwhile, Mayor Pro Tem Baldino reported on efforts to improve transparency in aquatic center operations.

Mayor Chris Pimentel sought council direction on exploring the possibility of El Segundo becoming a charter city, which the council agreed to study further. However, a proposal to rescind a voter-approved sales tax measure did not gain enough support for discussion.

City Manager Darryl George provided updates on recent odor complaints related to the Hyperion facility, highlighting ongoing challenges and regulatory responses. The meeting concluded with a memorial for Joan Kelly, a long-time resident who passed away at the age of 96, honoring her contributions to the community.

For those interested in the full details of the meeting, recordings are available on the city’s website and local access channels.