Public comments: community tech maps, vape enforcement, fireworks praise and animal-control thanks

Several members of the public used the council's non‑agenda public-comment period to raise community projects and concerns.

Rick McQuillan of Manhattan Beach described a community-built website and mapping effort he called a "community tech" portal to drive shoppers to local merchants, saying the project is an early-stage beta and inviting the council's feedback and outreach help. "This isn't big tech, it's community tech," McQuillan said, adding that contributors were still building storefront directories and voting tools to show local demand.

Other speakers touched on public-safety and cultural topics. Commenters expressed support for police enforcement actions against vape shops; performers and community groups presented short cultural items during the public-comment period; and residents praised the city's recent fireworks display and the responsiveness of animal-control staff after one speaker described rescuing an opossum and receiving on‑scene help.

Some speakers also criticized recent conduct at council meetings: one longtime attendee described being physically struck during a recess and urged the city to ensure safety and civility during public gatherings.

Why it matters: Public comment provides residents an opportunity to highlight neighborhood projects and city services that may merit follow-up. The items raised ranged from volunteer-led technology initiatives to requests for stronger enforcement or communication on public-safety issues.

No formal council action was taken on these public-comments items during the meeting; several speakers also asked for follow-up or direct contact with council members or city staff.