Griffin Structures Presents Budget Proposal for Manhattan Beach Fire Station Renovations

The Redondo Beach City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including budget allocations for upcoming construction projects and updates on local facilities.

The meeting began with a detailed discussion regarding the budget prepared by Griffin Structures for a significant bond procurement. Council members expressed concerns about the sufficiency of the allocated funds in light of current economic conditions, including inflation and tariffs. Griffin representatives assured the council that their cost estimates were based on similar projects and included contingencies of 10% for new construction and 20% for renovations. They emphasized the importance of strategic planning to avoid delays and ensure that all stakeholders are aligned.

Council Member Barron raised questions about a previous project involving the Manhattan Beach Fire Station, specifically regarding delays and how to prevent similar issues in Redondo Beach. Griffin representatives explained that the delays were due to minor discrepancies in building height approvals, which required additional time for city risk management to resolve. They noted that while there were some claims related to the delays, they were managed collaboratively with the city, ensuring that all parties were satisfied with the outcomes.

Following this discussion, the council moved to approve the agreement with Griffin Structures as the city's owner representative and program manager for upcoming projects. The motion passed unanimously, indicating strong support for the partnership.

In other business, City Manager items included an update on the Seaside Lagoon, which had to be temporarily closed due to issues with the intake water line. The city is actively working on repairs and will keep the public informed through social media and press releases. Despite the closure of the water feature, other activities at the facility will continue as planned.

On a positive note, the council received news from CalPERS regarding a projected return rate of 11.6% for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, significantly above the estimated discount rate. This favorable return is expected to positively impact the city's unfunded actuarial liability in the upcoming fiscal years.

The meeting concluded with a focus on proactive measures for future projects and the importance of effective communication with the public regarding facility operations. The council remains committed to addressing community needs while navigating the complexities of construction and facility management.