TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to enter into a Joint Powers Authority with the California State Coastal Conservancy, the Lower
San Gabriel and Los Angeles River Mountains Conservancy, and the City of Seal Beach to further a comprehensive program of acquisition, protection, conservation, restoration, maintenance and operation, and environmental enhancement of the Los Cerritos Wetlands. (District 3)
DISCUSSION
The Los Cerritos Wetlands (Wetlands), depicted on the attached map, is home to a rich
ecosystem and serves as an important potential open space resource to our residents and
visitors. The Wetlands collectively total approximately 453 acres, and are comprised of three
different ownerships. The Bixby Ranch Company property, located in Long Beach, contains
approximately 207 acres. The Bryant property, also located in Long Beach, contains
approximately 72 acres. The Hellman Ranch property, located jointly in the City of Seal Beach
and unincorporated Los Angeles and Orange Counties, contains approximately 174 acres. The
Wetlands have been designated as a legislative and open space priority for the City of Long
Beach. Accordingly, 'it is important to exercise every opportunity to expedite acquisition
opportunities. Although negotiations to acquire the Bixby Ranch property have stalled, efforts to
acquire the Bryant property and the Hellman property are proceeding with cautious optimism.
The partners in the acquisition efforts include the California State Coastal Conservancy, the
Lower San Gabriel and Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy and the City of Seal
Beach. Together, these partners have worked through The Trust for Public Lands to negotiate
for the acquisition of the Wetlands properties. On August 20, 2002, City Council authorized the
City Manager to enter into a Confidentiality Agreement regarding the potential acquisition of the
Bixby Ranch Company property, and on March 25, 2003, City Council authorized the inclusion
of the San ...
Click here for full text