Redondo Beach City Council discusses plan to outsource building plan checks

In the heart of Redondo Beach, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the city hall to discuss pressing matters that impact the community. The June 3, 2025, City Council meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding urban maintenance, budget allocations, and improvements in customer service within the community development department.

One of the key topics was the maintenance of the city’s urban forest, particularly the trimming of trees in high-visibility areas. Council members emphasized the importance of proactive maintenance to prevent costly clean-up efforts after storms. A proposal was put forth to allocate funds for more frequent tree trimming, potentially every two years, rather than the current four-year cycle. This initiative aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city while also addressing safety concerns related to fallen limbs and debris.

Another significant discussion revolved around the maintenance of a small stretch of beach owned by Redondo Beach, located in front of the Chart House restaurant. Historically maintained by the county, the responsibility has shifted to the city, which will now enter into an agreement with the county for annual maintenance at an estimated cost of $20,000. This arrangement is seen as a cost-effective solution to ensure the upkeep of this vital community asset.

The meeting also highlighted the challenges faced by the community development department, particularly regarding the lengthy building plan check process. With only two in-house plan checkers handling approximately 3,000 permits annually, delays have become a common complaint among residents and developers. To address this bottleneck, the department proposed outsourcing 70% of plan checks to third-party consultants. This strategy aims to reduce review times from several months to just a couple of weeks, significantly improving customer service and efficiency.

The council members expressed support for this outsourcing model, recognizing its potential to enhance responsiveness and alleviate the burden on existing staff. The proposed changes come with an estimated fiscal impact of $200,000 annually, but officials believe this investment will ultimately lead to better service and increased revenue through faster permit processing.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council reflected on the importance of these initiatives in fostering a more business-friendly environment in Redondo Beach. With plans for improved urban maintenance and streamlined development processes, city officials are optimistic about the future, eager to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.