The El Segundo City Council meeting on July 1, 2025, covered several significant topics, including the approval of key projects and updates on community initiatives.

The council unanimously approved all items on the consent calendar, which featured a resolution for the demolition of the abandoned reservoir at Hilltop Park and a waiver of municipal code to permit alcohol sales at Fire Station 1 and the 300 block of Richmond Street during the El Segundo Art Walk scheduled for August 23.

Consultant Mikos Valdez presented an update on the Aquatic Center's business plan, highlighting three potential operating models. Valdez emphasized the need for expense reviews and efficiency improvements, alongside ongoing market research regarding the addition of the plunge pool. Mayor Pro Tem Ryan Baldino suggested that the Aquatic Center should focus on cost recovery, while the plunge should cater to recreational use. Council Member Michelle Kjeldorf called for an audit of pool utilization hours to help reduce expenses.

Council Member Lance Giroux raised concerns about the consultant's comparisons of El Segundo facilities to those in Los Angeles County, advocating for comparisons with other South Bay cities like Redondo Beach and Mira Costa. He also urged the firm to explore ways to maximize facility usage without solely increasing rates. Additionally, Council Member Boyles requested a pro forma analysis of revenues and expenses based on market data. After thorough discussion, the council received and filed the report.

Community Development Director Michael Allen introduced a draft request for proposals for a citywide staffing assessment, which the council directed staff to enhance with a complete city organization chart.

Mayor Chris Pimentel announced several appointments to various commissions and committees, including full terms for Dave Luebs and Bob Moda on the Recreation and Parks Commission, and Michael Scheps and John Piccaver on the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee. LaRuth Wright was appointed for a partial term on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, while Audrey Davis and James Fenton were appointed to the Library Board of Trustees.

Director Allen also provided an update on the Major Events Ad Hoc Committee, which aims to leverage opportunities from significant upcoming events, including the FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl, and the 2028 Olympics. Council Member Kjeldorf and Director Allen were appointed to the committee alongside other community representatives.

City Manager Darryl George reported on recent activities related to Hyperion, noting that the South Coast Air Quality Management District received eight odor complaints in the past two weeks but issued no violations for nuisance odors. More information about Hyperion is available on the city’s website.

For those interested in viewing the complete meeting or learning more about the agenda items, recordings are available on the city’s website and local channel 3.