TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Attorney to prepare ordinance amending Section 5.24 of the Long Beach Municipal Code so the City Manager, or designee, is authorized to grant permission for certain professional or amateur boxing, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, and similar events within the Long Beach without the need for specific approval by the City Council. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
Currently, pursuant to Long Beach Municipal Code (LBMC) 5.24, organizations wishing to hold professional or amateur boxing, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, and similar events within the Long Beach are required to request an application from the City of Long Beach (City) Financial Management Department and receive a permit by way of City Council meeting action and approval.
The City Manager is requesting the City Attorney to amend LBMC 5.24 to allow for professional or amateur boxing, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, and similar events which are licensed by the California State Athletic Commission, to occur just like other special events within Long Beach, which do not require a separate vote of approval by the City Council.
Staff from Special Events and Filming, Health and Human Services, Police, and Fire Departments will be present during all event hours and shall perform continual inspections of the permitted areas, ensuring the safety of participants and attendees.
This matter was reviewed by Principal Deputy City Attorney Richard F. Anthony on May 12, 2022 and by Budget Operations and Development Officer Rhutu Amin Gharib on May 6, 2022.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council approval is requested on June 14, 2022, to amend LBMC 5.24 to expedite the permitting process and approval of future events.
FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of this recommendation would authorize the City Manager, or designee, to grant permission for boxing, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, and similar events which are licensed by the California State Athletic Commission and allow a special event permit to be granted. Consistent with current practices the City shall be reimbursed for all City services associated with these events. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER