CITY COMPENSATION & EMPLOYEE NUMBERS:
BY PAUL WAFER
If you are a regular reader of MB Weekly, you have seen my data on the compensation costs for city employees. That information only included data up to 2022, so I decided to take a look at this current year’s budget and review what was estimated for fiscal 23/24 and projected for our current fiscal year. I also looked at the budget from fiscal year 14/15 to see its growth in the last 10 years. The data in the graphs above have been pulled directly from those budgets. In just the last 3 years, salary and benefit costs have increased by more than $9 million, or 16%, and the number of full time city employees has gone up by 35, or 10%. In just 10 years our compensation costs have increased almost $27 million, or 66% and employee count has increase by 71, or 25%. It should be noted that 39% of the employee increase has been for police and fire, while most of the other 60% has gone to Community Development and Public Works. All the while our population has actually decreased by over 1,000 people! The city council has a long list of capital needs and we recently approved a $5 million sales tax increase that is supposed to help that situation. I hope that during the next budget cycle the city council will take a good look at all of the current positions, compensation levels, and service levels in all departments and ask the hard questions to determine whether or not they are necessary. I do not believe that this type of expense growth is sustainable for the long term and certainly impedes the ability of our city to fund all of the capital needs.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Manhattan Beach Police Arrest Driver In Fatal Hit-And-Run – DA Files Murder Charges:
On January 9, 2025, Kameron Lee Peterson was arrested by the Manhattan Beach Police Department’s Traffic and Detective Bureaus for alleged involvement in a fatal hit-and-run collision. Peterson was booked into the Manhattan Beach Police Department Jail. On January 13, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed three felony charges against Peterson, including California Penal Code 187(a) for murder, California Vehicle Code 20001(b)(2) for hit-and-run causing death or serious injury, and California Vehicle Code 23103(a) for reckless driving. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Police urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Manhattan Beach Police Department at eyewitness@manhattanbeach.gov or Traffic Officer Beranek at (310) 802-8097.
Richard Grenell Blasts California Policies In Fiery Manhattan Beach Video:
Richard Grenell, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany and Acting Director of National Intelligence under President Trump, took to social media from his Manhattan Beach home, expressing outrage over California’s wildfire crisis. Sharing a dramatic video of the smoky skyline, Grenell, recently nominated as Special Presidential Envoy for Special Missions in a potential second Trump administration, slammed Democratic policies. “This is the view from my home,” Grenell wrote. “The far left policies of Democrats in California are literally burning us to the ground. Stop voting for people who won’t use common sense water management and forest policies. I’m pissed off. You should be, too.”
www.instagram.com/richardgrenell
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Pacific Palisades from Hermosa rooftop. Photo by Donna Rodriguez.
MB WEEKLY – CHARTS:
Education & Degrees in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Bob Beverly
Shellback Tavern
Q: WHAT IS THE SECRET SAUCE THAT MAKES SHELLBACK TAVERN SUCH A SUCCESS?
A: All businesses are the same formula in my opinion. Offer a decent product, at a fair price, in a friendly environment, you can’t go wrong.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS POST-COVID?
A: We have seen an incredibly accelerated inflation rate driving up costs. It has been very difficult to hold the line with our low prices.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: My favorites are pretty much all gone. I do enjoy sushi from Izaka-ya and Sugarfish. I always enjoy lunch at Islands. My go to fine dining experiences are mostly out in the Palm Springs area like Shanghai Red’s for seafoods, LG’s for steak and Le Vallauris for exceptional food and service.
Q: WHO WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH, PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN OR ELON MUSK?
A: To be honest, President Biden would probably want to eat too early and Elon Musk’s calculating mind would be too distracting to enjoy the food and surroundings.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I am a lifelong resident of Manhattan Beach having been born at a hospital in Los Angeles, Ca.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: Capricorn
Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Having worked at the old Lamar theater while in high school I kind of burned out on watching movies but I did recently enjoy the Bob Dylan movie, A Complete Unknown.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THE MANHATTAN BEACH CITY COUNCIL?
A: Be fair and equal to all residents. Strive to maintain what Manhattan Beach has been for so many years. Don’t let the “westside mentality” set into our small beach town community.
Q: HOW SERIOUS IS THE PROBLEM WITH PARKING IN DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Since the elimination of street dining in place during the pandemic, I have seen a reduction in parking difficulty, trash/litter and shady characters wandering the area at night.
www.ShellBackTavern.com
Nando Trattoria:
Elegant pasta dishes paired
with the perfect glass of wine
will get you a one way train to Italy.
www.NandoTrattoria.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Kathy A. (Manhattan Beach)
The fire hydrant reminded me of the crosswalk in Manhattan Beach … virtue signaling that does not implicitly show “This is a pedestrian crosswalk for SAFETY” to anyone. By city and driving codes/tests it is only supposed to [be] WHITE stripes. I’ve seen several people almost get hit at the MB rainbow. That specific crosswalk is the busiest one in the entire community … why is it not explicit for the visitors to know “yield to the 1000’s of walkers?” Awww … so pretty though. All agendas (left to right) need to be removed where public safety and security are required by law and lives depend on it.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
How To Help Evacuees And First Responders:
Thousands of Los Angeles County residents were evacuated as the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires wreaked havoc across the region. Local organizations are springing into action, offering critical support to displaced families and emergency crews. The American Red Cross and Salvation Army prioritize online cash donations, enabling swift responses to immediate needs. The California Fire Foundation and Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation are collecting funds to support firefighters and affected residents. Planet Fitness opened its facilities to evacuees and first responders, while World Central Kitchen delivered meals on-site. For families, shelters like the LA Dream Center and Friends in Deed provided safe spaces, food, and clothing. Meanwhile, Project Angel Food seeks volunteers to deliver meals to needy people. Community donation drives are also in full swing. Hermosa Beach residents and Manhattan Beach’s American Martyrs Church are accepting essential items like blankets, hygiene products, and non-perishable food. To donate or volunteer, visit the websites of these organizations. Your contribution can bring hope and relief to those enduring these devastating fires.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
As a proud gay man, I value good intentions and kind words, but public safety must always come first. Kristin Crowley, L.A.’s first female and openly gay fire chief, has focused heavily on diversity initiatives since taking office in 2022. Crowley’s creation of a “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Bureau” may sound good and well-intentioned, but Angelenos need fire hydrants to be filled and homes protected. Fires are foreseeable in California, and firefighting must prioritize readiness and results over identity politics. No one cares about a leader’s background when flames threaten lives and homes. We care about competence, action, preparation, and leadership, not virtue-signaling. Crowley had a historic opportunity to prove that liberal leadership strengthens effectiveness, but sadly, it massively failed. The Fire Chief’s central mission begins with ensuring LAFD is laser-focused on its core mission: saving lives and property. Virtue signaling may sound good, but only when it delivers tangible results.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB Weekly & Urban Plates Unite For
“We All Walk In Different Shoes”
Annual Drive:
DONATE A PAIR OF USED SHOES
AND RECEIVE A $5 URBAN PLATES GIFT CARD
MB Weekly and Urban Plates are thrilled to announce the return of their annual “We All Walk In Different Shoes” Drive, running from January 15 – January 31, 2025, at Urban Plates in Manhattan Beach. This meaningful event invites the community to step forward with generosity and compassion by donating gently used shoes to benefit the L.A. Mission. Participants who donate a pair of used shoes during the drive will receive a FREE $5 Urban Plates gift card as a heartfelt thank-you for making a difference in the lives of others. “Every step we take in life shapes our journey. Through this drive, we aim to help those in need take their next step with dignity and hope,” said Marvin Mack, regional director of Urban Plates. “We are proud to partner with MB Weekly to support the vital work of the L.A. Mission.”
How to Participate
- What: Donate gently used shoes
- Where: Urban Plates, 2650 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach
- When: January 15 – January 31, 2025
- Why: To support the L.A. Mission and uplift our community
The donated shoes will go directly to individuals experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles, providing them with a vital resource to navigate their journey toward stability. “This partnership exemplifies what happens when a community comes together to create meaningful change,” said Darby Winston, co-editor of MB Weekly. “Each pair of shoes donated represents a step toward hope and healing for someone in need.” Join us in this powerful movement of giving. Visit www.UrbanPlates.com for more details and help spread the word!
www.UrbanPlates.com
Dive N’ Surf:
Surf in Comfort, Ride in Style
We’re stoked to carry the Manera America wetsuits at our shop! Designed with the perfect balance of stretch and comfort, these wetsuits give you full freedom to move on every wave. Whether you’re catching your first wave or going for that big ride, these wetsuits are built for performance and comfort.
www.DiveNSurf.com
Coyote Sightings:
Recently, there have been reports of an increase in coyote sightings and activity in Manhattan Beach and throughout the South Bay. The City of Manhattan Beach would like to remind residents to follow important safeguards to protect pets against these wild animals. Residents are urged not to approach, contact, feed, or attempt to capture the coyotes.
https://user.govoutreach.com/manhattan
RESTAURANT REVIEWS?
Speak Up In MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board:
Hire • Barter • Sell • Promote • Date • Comment
Send your FREE 50-word posting to:
MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Skechers Makes A Slam Dunk – Fresh Colorways Tip Off 2025 Basketball Season:
Skechers, the Manhattan Beach-based footwear brand, took the basketball world by storm in 2024, shaking up the hardwood with major NBA athlete signings, including reigning MVP Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, and game-changing marketing efforts. Now, they’re kicking off 2025 with a splash of style. The brand has unveiled new colorway options for its basketball sneaker lineup: the SKX NEXUS and SKX REIGN. Both models debuted at the start of the NBA season, worn by stars Terance Mann of the Los Angeles Clippers, and Julius Randle of the Minnesota Timberwolves, respectively. The fresh designs promise to blend on-court performance with off-court swagger. These latest updates highlight Skechers’ commitment to dominating the basketball space while appealing to athletes and fans alike. With bold moves and bolder designs, Skechers continues to solidify its position as a serious contender in the basketball footwear game.
Manhattan Beach Crime Summary
January 02 to January 08, 2024
- 764 CALLS FOR SERVICE
- 12 ARRESTS
- 15 TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
- 29 CRIME REPORTS FILED
Notable Events:
** Between 1/2/25 and 1/3/25 a vandalism occurred in the 700 block of 35th Street between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. The victim stated that when they walked out to their vehicle, they saw a fist-size hole in their driver window. When they opened the door, the remainder of the window shattered and fell to the ground.
** On 1/3/25 an attempted vehicle burglary occurred in the 1500 block of Rosecrans Avenue between 11:51 a.m. and 12:09 p.m. A FedEx driver parked their vehicle and when they returned found the lock to the rear latch was missing and markings on the back door that signified someone attempted to enter the delivery truck.
** Between 1/5/25 and 1/6/25 from 8:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., in the 1500 block of 3rd street a vehicle burglary occurred. The victim walked outside of their residence and found the rear window to their vehicle smashed and a gift bag containing gift cards and open Christmas gifts stolen.
Manhattan Beach Activist Calls For Accountability In L.A. Homeless Crisis:
Manhattan Beach community activist Cathy Hobart calls for transparency and accountability in L.A. County’s homeless programs, urging the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to take responsibility for the systemic failures contributing to the region’s worsening homelessness crisis. With an annual budget exceeding $875 million, Hobart expressed alarm over systemic issues detailed in a recent report, including potential conflicts of interest and ethical lapses within the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). The report reveals LAHSA’s failure to enforce conflict-of-interest disclosures among key employees and highlights questionable ties between leadership and contractors. “The Board of Supervisors has the ultimate authority and power to make meaningful change, yet we continue to see a lack of effective oversight and accountability,” Hobart said. “This is not just about numbers – people’s lives. We cannot allow these failures to persist while so many suffer on our streets.”
Hobart criticized the lack of oversight and urged the Board of Supervisors to ensure taxpayer money is spent effectively to combat homelessness. She called on Manhattan Beach residents and all L.A. County Residents to stay informed, advocate for reform, and push for greater transparency and accountability from LAHSA and the Board of Supervisors. “We must hold the Board of Supervisors accountable for ensuring these programs deliver actual results,” Hobart emphasized. “As a community, we can demand better and ensure meaningful progress for those in need.” Link to article for more details… https://www.citywatchla.com/los-angeles/30063-homelessness-programs-things-just-got-worse
1. ** Moving Sale! Everything must go. Bedroom sets, beds, side tables, outdoor furniture, sofas, chairs, plants, pots, lamps. Sunday 1/5-25 9 am- 2 pm. 2564 Via Sanchez, Palos Verdes, CA —- Nicole Alexander S.
2. ** Welcome to (sick) California! Where common sense takes a back seat. Have you heard businesses offering “Ladies Night” could face legal trouble? Seriously? So much for fun, harmless promotions. Does that mean goodbye to “Ladies Night”? I guess we’ll have to tiptoe around everything now. What’s next – banning Taco Tuesday? Unbelievable! —- Jamie M.
3. ** Have you tried booking a specialist since Obamacare? My urology appointment is in 3 months. —- Fred T.
4. ** Here’s a quick way to spot a “cheap” restaurant: head to the bathroom and turn on the faucet. If it’s only cold water, you know they’re cutting corners everywhere. Hot water isn’t a luxury – it’s basic decency. Trust me, if they skimp here, they’re skimping on your meal too. —- Carl W. (a former restaurant manager in Hermosa Beach)
5. ** Telephone poles are trees that cleaned up and got a job. —- Hannah W.
6. ** (The People’s Republic of) Santa Monica, once a gorgeous gem of the coast, is now drowning in crime, filth, and homelessness. A once-vibrant community has devolved into chaos, with no leadership to restore its former glory. The city deserves better – this decline is a glaring example of what happens when far-left complacency and pathetic poor governance prevail. —- Hank Y.
7. ** Well worth a read in 2025 is The Longest Con by Joe Conason. An American history of grifters from Joe McCarthy, & religious evangelists to the present day. Amazing! —- Dave H.
8. ** Wake up, idiots! Our governor uses Trump as a foil to stoke his Democratic base while doing nothing to prevent California from becoming the laughingstock of the nation. —- Dave L.
9. ** My husband and I decided to grab dinner at In-N-Out tonight with our 3-year-old. While waiting for my husband, a homeless man sitting nearby suddenly threw a full venti cup of ice water at my son and me. It missed my son by inches, but the shock and fear left us both in tears. The restaurant was packed, but only two people checked on us. My son was terrified, clinging to me, and even had an accident out of fear. The man walked out without anyone stopping him. I’m furious this happened, especially as a visibly pregnant woman alone with her child, and I’m sad no one stepped up to help except one kind city worker. Be aware of your surroundings; if you see something, do something. —- Carla H.
10. ** SCAM ALERT: Have you gotten a text saying you owe a FasTrak toll fee? Please don’t fall for it! These fake texts include a link to a fraudulent site asking for payment. NEVER click the link or share personal info. Always verify directly with FasTrak. Stay alert, folks! —- Clay T.
11. ** Can you believe President Biden awarded George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom? This is a slap in the face to every victim of violent crime whose suffering Soros has bankrolled through his disastrous policies. America deserves better than honoring someone responsible for fueling chaos and lawlessness. Utterly disgraceful! —- Sara G.
12. ** To many on the Left, asserting national sovereignty – choosing who enters our country, valuing our culture, and cherishing shared heritage – is misrepresented as hostile or oppressive. Wanting to preserve what we hold dear doesn’t mean we seek to harm others. Self-determination isn’t destruction; it’s a fundamental right. —- Dr. Oliver G.
13. ** I wonder if insects feel pain. —- Sherry T.
14. ** It is simply outrageous and insulting that President Biden has awarded George Soros the nation’s highest civilian honor. The Medal of Freedom is supposed to go to Americans who have benefited their country. —- Hugh T.
15. ** Renowned slack key guitarist Makana will perform and educate at the 18th Annual Southern California Slack Key Festival on January 19, 2 p.m., at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. Beyond music, he’ll explore kaona (hidden meanings), song origins, and cultural depth, bridging Hawaiian tradition with the audience’s understanding. —- Terrance O.
16. ** Someone has your dream job and hates going to work every day. —- Suzy Z.
17. ** California Pizza Kitchen is a total rip-off! Their pizza tastes like a knockoff of Domino’s – only somehow worse – and they have the nerve to charge $20. Dry crust, bland sauce, and toppings that scream “low effort.” Save your money and get better quality for half the price elsewhere! —- Hillary D.
18. ** Whole Foods on Sepulveda and Rosecrans is a disgrace! Aisles of water and alcohol, pathetic prepared foods, downsized portions, sky-high prices, and clueless staff! Can’t slice salami? Cold Amazon returns? If you’re miserable, work in a warehouse, not public service. Once world-class, it is now a glorified Amazon fulfillment center! —- Tim H.
19. ** Join us for an unforgettable evening with Lipbone Redding – Legendary Performer, at Manhattan Beach Studios on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Space is limited – register now! Don’t miss this extraordinary event – Manhattan Beach Studios, 7:00 p.m. —- Mark N.
20. ** What is happening? Is Downtown Manhattan Beach in decline? PitFire, Lemonade, MB Market, Presotea, and Nikau Kai are out. While Great White and others step in, the closures feel like whiplash. Is it rents, competition, or shifting habits? —- Meredith A.
21. ** David Slay has favorably resolved the Manhattan Beach fried chicken crisis. Slay Italian’s reasonably priced Fried Chicken Family Meal is eight pieces of chicken, flavorful and crispy on the outside while juicy on the inside, and comes with a salad, mashed potato, corn, and dessert. —- Adam G.
22. ** What the hell, United Airlines? I had to cancel my Cancun trip due to my husband’s illness. I tried online for a refund, but the only option was re-book. I called for help, got dumped into an obscure chat, waited 4 HOURS, missed the text, and they CANCELLED MY REQUEST. I bought your insurance too – useless! Shame on you, United Airlines. Hire enough people! —- Diane D.
23. ** Week in and week out, Tin Roof Bistro in Manhattan Village delivers an excellent meal paired with warm, attentive service. This gem stands out in a world where consistency is hard to find. They never disappoint, whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner. Grateful for this rare and reliable dining experience. —- Gloria N.
24. ** It will be weird to see today’s kids suing their parents later for making them do strange things for Instagram or TikTok reels. —- Paul B.
25. ** New California E-Bike Law. Starting January 1, 2025, throttles are banned on Class 1 & 3 e-bikes, making them pedal-assist-only. Class 2 e-bikes retain throttles but are limited to 20 mph. Class 1 & 3 throttles can operate only up to 3.7 mph. Stay informed and ride responsibly. —- Drake W.
Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
The MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board is your place to communicate for free with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send your message (maximum 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB Weekly Disclaimer: 1.) MB Weekly accepts no liability for the content of this email, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. MB Weekly is not associated with any commercial or political organization and is transmitted via the web for the sole benefit of its subscribers. 2.) Unfortunately, computer viruses can be transmitted via email.
