Hermosa Beach council debates performance of city manager Suja Lowenthal amid criticism

The Hermosa Beach City Council held a special meeting on May 5, 2025, addressing significant concerns regarding city management and operations. The meeting featured a series of public comments that highlighted dissatisfaction with the current city manager, Suja Lowenthal, and raised issues about transparency, staff management, and community engagement.

The meeting began with a former city council member expressing a "siege mentality" within city hall, citing an incident where a city employee allegedly attempted to intimidate a council member. This comment set the tone for a discussion on the perceived lack of transparency and open dialogue in city governance. Several speakers criticized the city manager for fostering an environment that discourages diverse opinions and public discourse.

Concerns were raised about the city manager's effectiveness, particularly regarding staffing and budget management. One speaker noted that Hermosa Beach is experiencing high turnover rates among city staff and is developing a reputation for being unfriendly to businesses. They pointed out that despite increased spending on city staff, key projects remain over budget and behind schedule, including updates to the long-overdue zoning code.

Public comments also addressed specific administrative issues, such as a controversial height limit for a proposed building and problems with the parking permit system. Speakers argued that these issues reflect poorly on the city council and called for accountability and potential changes in leadership.

In contrast, one speaker defended the city manager, praising her efforts and the challenges faced by the city. However, the majority of public sentiment expressed frustration with the current administration and called for a reassessment of the city manager's role.

The meeting concluded with a clear call from several community members for a change in leadership, emphasizing the need for effective management and improved communication within the city. As Hermosa Beach navigates these challenges, the council faces pressure to address the concerns raised by its constituents and consider the future direction of city management.