The Long Beach City Council meeting on October 7, 2025, highlighted pressing community concerns, particularly regarding pet ownership and city maintenance. Council members expressed the need to address the deteriorating condition of grassy areas, especially on Neptune Boulevard, which have suffered from the dry summer. A call was made to reinstate dog waste signs and provide doggy bags to encourage responsible pet ownership, as many signs have fallen into disrepair.
City officials acknowledged the issue, with one council member emphasizing the importance of pet owners cleaning up after their dogs. The city manager noted that enforcement of existing no-dog policies on the boardwalk would be stepped up, aiming to ensure compliance for the benefit of all residents.
In addition to community concerns, the meeting also covered several financial resolutions. The council approved a software maintenance agreement for the city's municity system, costing just over $20,000, which is a modest increase from previous years. They also authorized a transfer of funds to cover vacation payouts for water department employees, amounting to approximately $8,500.
Another significant resolution involved retaining an appraisal consultant for real property valuation services, with costs not exceeding $25,000, in connection with pending litigations. The council discussed the implications of ongoing legal matters but refrained from delving into specifics due to the sensitive nature of the litigation.
Lastly, the council announced a budget amendment to the capital projects fund, reflecting nearly $4 million received from the state for infrastructure projects, ensuring that these funds are reintegrated into the city’s operating budget.
The meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing both community quality of life issues and fiscal responsibilities, setting the stage for ongoing improvements in Long Beach.