HUNTINGTON BEACH CITY COUNCIL WRAP-UP

FIFTH STREET REDESIGN

The Council approved 7-0 the proposed redesign modifications to Fifth Street, including street parking. The approval amended a site plan for the Strand project that the Council approved in October 2002.

WHAT IT MEANS

Council members decided to allow CIM or Huntington LLC Partners, who own the Strand development in downtown Huntington Beach, to make modifications to Fifth Street to add seven additional parking spaces that would reduce sidewalk width and potential outdoor dining or outdoor sales space along the street. The additional parking is to allow the boutique hotel now coming up at the Strand to offer valet parking in evenings to customers. The service would also help to avoid vehicles lining up on Fifth Street.

STRATEGIC PLAN

The city approved 6-0 the City of Huntington Beach Strategic Plan with some modifications. Council members went through a strategic planning process to come up with priority goals for the next five years.

WHAT IT MEANS

The process helped them put together a “road map to move the city forward,” Councilman Don Hansen said. Councilwoman Cathy Green, who disagreed and said the plan “was a waste of time,” was not present for the vote. The Council decided to vote on priority goals and vision for the city for the next five years, leaving out individual projects. The projects involve city services, economic development and engaging the community as well as financial, infrastructure and land-use development.

BEACH BOULEVARD, EDINGER CORRIDOR FACE-LIFTS

The City Council decided to send the consent calendar item back to staff for review. Council plans to sign agreements with two agencies to prepare a plan for improving Beach Boulevard and the Edinger Corridor.

WHAT IT MEANS

The council is looking at hiring two firms for about $760,000 to put together an economic revitalization plan for Beach Boulevard and the Edinger Corridor. Freedman, Tung and Bottomley will be asked to prepare a strategy to specifically revive Beach Boulevard.

The item was submitted by Economic Development Director Stanley Smalewitz and acting Planning Director Scott Hess.

— Compiled by Purnima Mudnal