THE $100 MILLION QUESTION:
Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Russ Lesser is sounding the alarm over what he describes as explosive growth in city spending, employee costs, and government expansion – and he wants answers from current and former elected officials seeking office again. Lesser, who completed his second term on the City Council in 1986 and declined to seek a third, compared the city’s finances from his era to today’s dramatically larger government footprint. According to Lesser, Manhattan Beach’s general fund budget stood at $11.9 million in 1986. Adjusted for inflation, he argues, that figure should now be closer to $36 million. Instead, the current budget exceeds $100 million. “Why?” Lesser asked bluntly. The former mayor also pointed to what he sees as a startling rise in staffing levels. In 1986, the city employed 342 full- and part-time workers. Today, that number has climbed to 544 employees – an increase of roughly 60%. Lesser additionally raised concerns over compensation packages for top city workers. He noted that in 2024, nine city employees reportedly received total compensation exceeding $400,000 annually, while another 25 employees earned more than $300,000. “Does this seem excessive?” he asked. Lesser said every council member who served between 1986 and today – and is now seeking office again – should publicly explain the spending increases and outline what can realistically be done to rein in future costs.
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ASK THE MAYOR SERIES:
DEAR MAYOR JOE FRANKLIN: WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO TRY TO DO ABOUT THE DEEPLY TROUBLING DEFICIT HERE IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: In this term as Mayor, with the support of City Manager Mirzikhanian, I plan to provide a series of Transparency Sessions to give residents a clearer understanding of how our city operates, what has changed in recent years, and how we are always striving towards efficiencies to maximize the value for every taxpayer. Concerns about the budget will be discussed with open and honest two-way conversations with our stakeholders. We must be diligent developing and sustaining a balanced budget, especially in these challenging financial times. I encourage more residents to participate in this process and provide your input. You need to let your voices be heard in the budget process. To me, fiscal stewardship means managing this challenging budget with discipline and accountability while protecting the City’s long-term financial health. We will pursue strategic budget reductions that preserve essential services while ensuring we live within our means. That includes looking at a “No Net New positions” approach to staffing to help stabilize costs without compromising core operations. Each new position proposed should be balanced against an unfilled position to manage staffing levels. At the same time, operational spending must be managed carefully as rising costs continue to outpace growth in local tax revenues. By making thoughtful and responsible decisions today, we can position our city for a more resilient and sustainable financial future.
DEAR MAYOR JOE FRANKLIN: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: “Patton” – Great insight into leadership, grit, determination and will.
DEAR MAYOR JOE FRANKLIN: ARE YOU IN FAVOR OF OUR CURRENT POLICY THAT ALLOWS MB POLICE OFFICERS TO WORK ONLY 3 DAYS A WEEK?
A: First, some facts. Our police officers work three, twelve-hour shifts per week. We have full coverage of our patrol areas 24 hours a day. MBPD is doing a very good job responding to an average of 800 calls a week. Council would need to see a study of the difference in deploying alternative shifts including its impact on the department’s budget and morale of the Police Officers before proposing making any changes.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Escalators at Metlox are not working again.
JOEY Manhattan Beach:
Happy Hour, Meet Golden Hour
Try the Sushi Cone & Spritz Adult Snack Pack
or Hummus for the table while the sun goes down.
3120 N. Sepulveda Blvd | (310) 546-1163 | www.JoeyRestaurants.com
MB WEEKLY – Q&A:
with David Slay
(SLAY Hospitality Group)
Q: IF YOU COULD PREPARE ONE FINAL MEAL FOR YOURSELF ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT’S ON THE MENU?
A: … I would probably be out getting a whole fish in the water, and cooking it over wood, sticks and dried leaves. Which in all honesty is one of my favorite meals anywhere so I wouldn’t be too distraught. Saying that, missing out on a wonderful bottle of white burgundy or Slay Chardonnay would be the downside.
Q: WHAT’S THE STRANGEST CUSTOMER REQUEST YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED IN ONE OF YOUR RESTAURANTS?
A: Probably when the infamous Hugh Hefner would come to our restaurant, order real lamb and bring his own peas. Canned, I might add.
Q: WHEN YOU ACTUALLY GET A NIGHT OFF, WHERE DOES A LEGENDARY CHEF LIKE DAVID SLAY LOVE TO EAT?
A: Most people who know me well know I enjoy having dinner at home with my family when I’m able to get out of the restaurant. They also know that the night doesn’t end early. It usually goes with cigars, more wine or tequila.
www.Slay.la
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by David Jackson (South Bay Classical Academy)
South Bay Classical Academy understands something many modern schools have forgotten: children are not robots to be managed, but human beings to be inspired. Beginning each day with a handshake with the teacher, eye contact, and a personal greeting may seem simple, but these small acts communicate dignity, respect, and belonging. In an era when too many young children are glued to screens before they can even properly read, it is refreshing to see a school focused on human connection, curiosity, and confidence-building. Real education is not merely the transfer of information. It is the shaping of character, attention, discipline, and joy.
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MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
“Silent Struggle?” Most South Bay Readers Say They’d Talk About Mental Health
A new MB Weekly reader poll revealed a striking cultural shift surrounding mental health conversations in the South Bay. According to the poll, 59% of readers say they would feel comfortable discussing their mental health with a close friend. The findings suggest that while stigma surrounding mental health has not disappeared, openness and emotional honesty are becoming far more accepted in everyday life. Experts say younger generations, increased public awareness, and high-profile celebrities discussing anxiety and depression have all helped normalize the conversation.
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Lido Bakery:
Home of the Most Extraordinary Wedding Cakes
“We also bake in a little bit of love with every bite!”
(310) 545-8955 | 3001 N Sepulveda Blvd | www.LidoBakery.com
Budget Assessment Analysis And Recommendations by Paul Wafer:
A few weeks ago I presented an assessment of the city’s budget along with recommendations to decrease our projected $10 million deficit for next fiscal year. Here are Some of the key issues since the start of the Howorth/Lesser era starting in 2011:
- 91 additional employees (34% increase) from 266 to 357 over 16 years
- Revenue has increased 118%
- Expenses have increased by 122%, leading to the deficit.
- The cumulative inflation rate during that period was only 48%
- The population of the city decreased by 3%
Since my analysis is in the public record, I created a website to make it easy for those that are interested to review it. It is about a 20 minute read: https://reformmb.org/budget-reform-plan
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Gene Kohn (Longtime MB Resident)
Q: AS SOMEONE WHO HAS WATCHED MANHATTAN BEACH EVOLVE OVER THE DECADES, WHAT’S ONE THING ABOUT THE CITY TODAY THAT WOULD COMPLETELY SHOCK RESIDENTS FROM THE 1970s?
A: The reckless and callous plans calling for the building of multiple high-rise residential buildings, all under the banner of “affordable housing.”
Q: IF YOU COULD BRING BACK ONE “LOST” MANHATTAN BEACH TRADITION, LANDMARK, RESTAURANT, OR LOCAL CHARACTER FROM YEARS PAST, WHAT WOULD IT BE – AND WHY?
A: China Grill Restaurant (formerly of Manhattan Village). Since their closing, we haven’t had a Chinese food restaurant in the South Bay of their caliber.
Q: AFTER ALL YOUR YEARS IN MANHATTAN BEACH, WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST, STRANGEST, OR MOST UNFORGETTABLE THING YOU’VE EVER WITNESSED IN THIS LITTLE BEACH TOWN?
A: During Covid times, the surrealism of seeing The Strand and beach void of people walking, jogging, playing volleyball, surfing, etc.
Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: 32 years
Toner Society – Print With Purpose:
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10% of all sales are donated directly to Friendship Foundation,
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MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston
Metro Cafe, El Segundo
If you haven’t made it to Metro Cafe in El Segundo yet, may I strongly suggest you run – not walk – to get there. In a world increasingly filled with soulless chain restaurants and distracted ownership, Metro Cafe is a glorious reminder that hospitality is still an art form. The French toast is, quite simply, the best I have ever had: rich, golden, indulgent, and somehow both comforting and unforgettable at the same time. One bite, and you immediately understand why loyal customers keep coming back. What truly separates Metro Cafe from the crowd, however, is the unmistakable presence of ownership. The restaurant’s Serbian-born ownership team has created something increasingly rare in modern dining: a place with genuine warmth, pride, and personality. You can feel the care in every detail, from the attentive service to the beautifully prepared food. When owners are present, magic often happens. When they disappear, restaurants frequently lose their soul – and eventually nose-dive. Metro Cafe has soul in abundance. El Segundo is lucky to have this neighborhood treasure.
www.MetroCafeLA.com
NEW MB WEEKLY BOOK CLUB TURNS BACK THE CLOCK TO 1929:
The new MB Weekly Book Club has released its first official review, awarding 1929 by Andrew Ross Sorkin an average rating of 3.9 stars out of 5. Nineteen members participated in the inaugural reading and discussion of the book, which explores the events and personalities surrounding the 1929 stock market crash. Readers praised Sorkin’s research, historical insights, and examination of human nature, ambition, and financial speculation. Some members felt the book became overly detailed at times, slowing the pace. Overall, the club’s first selection received a positive response and sparked lively discussion among participants.
To join the MB Weekly Book Club, write to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Bliss Nail Lounge:
A luxury nail salon located in the heart of downtown Manhattan Beach.
1830 N Sepulveda Blvd | (424) 278-9993 | BlissNailSepulveda.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
In the private sector, poor performance eventually meets consequences. In local government, failure too often receives a pension increase, a new title, and a congratulatory luncheon. Perhaps cities should rediscover performance-based compensation. If crime rises, potholes multiply, permits stall, and residents feel ignored, why should compensation keep rising regardless of the results? Taxpayers are not ATMs with sidewalks attached. Police chiefs, city managers, and department heads should receive bonuses for measurable improvements in safety, efficiency, cleanliness, and citizen satisfaction. Chronic failure should carry consequences. Government exists to serve the public, not merely itself. Accountability should not terrify City Hall.
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Park It Here – Manhattan Beach Unveils Star-Studded Summer Concert Lineup:
Summer evenings in Manhattan Beach are about to get a lot more musical. The City of Manhattan Beach Parks & Recreation Department has announced its highly anticipated 2026 Concerts in the Park series, returning to Polliwog Park every Sunday from July 5 through September 6 from 5–7 p.m. Presented in partnership with the City of Manhattan Beach and made possible through the generous support of Chevron, the free concert series features an eclectic lineup including The Satin Dollz, Las Chikas, Elton: The Early Years, Jimmy’s Buffet, Stone Soul, ABBA LA, and more. The summer celebration kicks off early with a special Juneteenth performance by WST CMPLX on June 21 at 5 p.m. A beloved Manhattan Beach tradition, Concerts in the Park brings together residents and visitors for live music, dancing, picnics, and family-friendly fun under the summer sky. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, low-back chairs, and picnic dinners. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and early arrival is recommended. With ten weeks of entertainment planned, Polliwog Park once again promises to be the place where the community gathers to celebrate summer, music, and the spirit of Manhattan Beach.
BELLA BUILDERS:
A Local South Bay Award-Winning Residential Builder
Vinny, 38-years experience / 20-year Rotary member / ADU’s and New Homes
Manhattan Beach and The Palisades / Full Service From Concept To Completion
www.BeautifulBuilder.com | www.FirewiseHomes.com
Vinny@beautifulbuilder.com | 310 809 4999
Shala Smith Honored As MB “Volunteer of the Year”:
Shala Smith was honored as City of Manhattan Beach “Volunteer of the Year” at the annual Los Angeles County Awards event. It was special for Manhattan Beach because former Manhattan Beach Mayor Wayne Powell was emcee of the event, as President of the Los Angeles County Commission.
MB WEEKLY – COMMUNITY:
www.EsperanzaMB.com
From Rehab To The Surf – Sea Lion Pups Make Historic Manhattan Beach Return:
Three once-ailing sea lion pups got a second chance at life recently as they were released into the Pacific Ocean near the Manhattan Beach Pier after being rehabilitated by the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) in San Pedro. The event marked the first-ever sea lion release in Manhattan Beach. Mayor Joe Franklin was on hand to celebrate the occasion alongside MMCC CEO John Warner and a crowd of spectators. The Marine Mammal Care Center is Los Angeles County’s only year-round marine mammal rehabilitation facility and rescues more marine mammals per mile of coastline than any similar organization in the nation. The healthy pups quickly made their way across the sand and back into the sea.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
A crispy waffle to go (warm syrup included) at Bruxie on Rosecrans.
Healthy Living … Downsized:
After nearly a decade of controversy, compromise, and delays, the Beach Cities Health District has finally broken ground on its long-discussed Healthy Living Campus in Redondo Beach – though in a far smaller form than originally envisioned. In 2019, BCHD unveiled plans for a sweeping $374 million, 253,000-square-foot wellness campus designed by acclaimed architect Paul Murdoch. The project promised research facilities, green space, sports fields, an indoor pool, and a striking circular wellness pavilion. But soaring costs and fierce opposition dramatically scaled back the vision. Only two new buildings are now planned.
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“I love your new MB Weekly shorts. Very chic!”
THINK FREELY – Read MB Weekly:
Once A Week, But Never Weakly
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1. ** The quick fix (takes 30 seconds): add MBWeekly@TimeWire.net to your contacts or safe senders. Takes about 30 seconds and tells your email that we’re one of the good guys.
2. ** I observed 6 MBPD Officers on bicycles staging at the foot of the pier on Saturday afternoon, May 23rd (Memorial Day Weekend). A few minutes after I took this photo, they split up and patrolled in different directions. GO MBPD!! —- Adam Goldston, Manhattan Beach
3. ** Hi, this is Marlene. I just got back home from Redondo Beach pier. It was a very lovely day. Only one mackerel again. The mackerel was biting, so the people were not. I still have the fishing reels and poles for sale for $400. Hope everybody has a nice day. Give me a call at 310-947-1073. If you are still interested, still trying to get money for Oregon.
4. ** Think about it: Much of modern angry activism is little more than theater for the unemployable, the unaccomplished, and the emotionally addicted to outrage. They scream, disrupt, vandalize, and moralize – all while producing nothing of value. Worse, their “solutions” often devastate the very communities they pretend to champion, while poisoning the social fabric for everyone else. —- Dr. Dennis T., Hermosa Beach
5. ** A losing gamble: Over time, for every $100 bet, here’s what you can expect to lose on average: • Blackjack: 50 cents • Craps: $1.41 • Quarter slots: $8 • Extended warranties: more than $70. The casino may have flashing lights, but the warranty counter might be the biggest house edge in America. —- Terrance W., Manhattan Beach
6. ** I wonder if they’re coming to Manhattan Beach? Shibumi shade structures are now everywhere from Wrightsville Beach to upscale coastlines nationwide. Some cities have banned them over safety and access concerns. Others love the simplicity. At $250 each and 500,000 sold, one thing is certain: beach culture – and beach commerce – keeps evolving. —- Melanie Cooke, Manhattan Beach
7. ** It takes a staggering level of stupidity, malevolence, or both to believe minors possess the long-term reasoning, impulse control, and emotional maturity necessary to provide meaningful consent to irreversible medical procedures that can result in sterilization. Childhood is for guidance and protection – not life-altering decisions with permanent consequences. —- Dr. Gerald M.
8. ** Do any “YIMBY advocates” really have a high-density, low-income high-rise going up in their home’s backyard? Or are they just YIYBY for “Yes in YOUR Backyard”? And who’s paying for their “compassion”? Why do I keep getting spam from “YIMBY” groups offering free trips to Sacramento? —- R.M., Manhattan Beach
9. ** Manhattan Beach Unified School District is seeking qualified candidates for Director of Fiscal Services. This key leadership role oversees budgeting, fiscal planning, accounting, and financial reporting for the District. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through EdJoin. Please help spread the word to talented professionals who may be a strong fit supporting MBUSD students, staff, and schools. —- MBUSD
10. ** MBUSD is reminding families about Manhattan Beach’s updated e-bike safety ordinance. New rules prohibit cellphone and headphone use while riding, require riders to obey stop signs, and increase penalties for dangerous behavior. Parents are encouraged to review safety expectations, proper helmet use, and safe school routes to help keep students and pedestrians safe. —- MBUSD
11. ** Honest to God, I wouldn’t hire Karen Bass to walk my dog! —- Miriam P., Manhattan Beach (a victim of the Pacific Palisades fire)
12. ** The success of Lido Bakery is simple. It’s the quality, stupid! —- Marianne T., Manhattan Beach
13. ** Hermosa Beach is staring at a $3.2 million deficit, and right on cue comes the same tired government reflex: “How do we raise more revenue?” Translation: how do we squeeze taxpayers harder? Funny how cutting waste, bloated spending, or endless pet projects never enters the conversation. Government spending addicts never quit. Ever! Ever!!! —- Gary S., Hermosa Beach
14. ** Thank you again for the great coverage and thoughtful interview questions. We really appreciate MB Weekly helping tell the story of what this event means to the community and our schools. —- Lisa Q. (Manhattan Beach Wine Auction)
15. ** Businesses generally track their operating costs and income monthly, and make corrections as needed when they are losing money. It seems that city governments assume there is an endless supply of tax money to support their inefficient operations, and never ask if there is a cheaper or more efficient way to accomplish their work. —- T.W., Manhattan Beach
16. ** My understanding was that by becoming a charter city, we would be able to have a say in where the towers will be built – not an 18-story tower adjacent to residential. We don’t want to bypass the housing requirements; we want to set building heights and require buildings to be set back from residential properties. Am I wrong on this aspect? —- Lynn Harris, Manhattan Beach
17. ** Here is a Michael Jenkins article titled “The Case for Charter Cities,” in which he advocates for a City Charter. – https://www.cacities.org/UploadedFiles/LeagueInternet/18/1874c10c-6030-4072-ada6-ab151af3dd95.pdf —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach
18. ** Why the hell does the Spectrum store in Manhattan Village close on Thursday. Obnoxious. —- A. L., Manhattan Beach
19. ** Sorry to say it but California government has become the poster child for failing. —- Abby T., El Segundo
20. ** The slower you walk up an escalator, the fewer steps you take. —- Kaley K.
21. ** Only 11 days until “Tee It Up for Pali” on June 8 at Mulholland Hills Country Club. This special charity tournament will help rebuild Pali Charter Elementary after the devastating Palisades Fire. Players, sponsors, donors, and supporters are still needed. To get involved, contact Kevin Tash at (213) 247-3065 or visit Golf-Execs.com. Let’s come together and help this deserving community recover and rebuild. —- K.T.
22. ** Manhattan Beach was swept into the world of Regency romance as bestselling author Julia Quinn, creator of the “Bridgerton” book series, drew nearly 900 fans to a special library speaker event. Attendees arrived in elegant period-inspired attire to hear Quinn discuss romance novels, book bans, and Netflix’s global hit adaptation. The evening featured a book signing, raffle, specialty teas, and live violin performances of music from the beloved series. —- Editor’s Note
23. ** My boss is looking for additional help for her soft play party business. This position is perfect for a college student or anyone who wants a flexible side gig. If you are interested, please reach out. Thank you! Instagram @lbcreativesc —- H.S., Torrance
24. ** There is no single explanation for the resurgence of antisemitism, yet its presence is unmistakable: on our streets, in classrooms, and across social media. It’s horrifying! —- Rochelle W., Manhattan Beach (Proudly Jewish in the South Bay!)
25. ** MB Weekly “Coffee Talk” with Lucia La Rosa Ames of MB Safe —- https://youtu.be/rlfxl0kidEE?si=qn6dT1msLssQlr5u
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