Manhattan Beach City Council: Regular Meeting - April 7, 2026

The City of Manhattan Beach held a regular City Council meeting on April 7, 2026, which included a detailed discussion on the city parking management study and the potential implementation of a microtransit pilot program. The council reviewed a comprehensive parking study conducted by Walker Consultants, highlighting high occupancy rates and the need for additional parking spaces. They discussed various parking strategies, including increasing meter rates, modifying merchant parking permits, and exploring public-private partnerships for new parking supply. The council approved a resolution to adopt the parking management study and directed staff to prioritize opportunities for expanding parking adjacent to key areas. Additionally, the council considered a proposal to execute a six-month pilot microtransit service with Circuit Transit, funded by Proposition A local return funds, aiming to reduce vehicle miles traveled and parking demand. The pilot includes options for fare structures, vehicle types, and service hours, with a focus on accessibility and environmental benefits. Council members debated concerns about costs, advertising on vehicles, rider age restrictions, and service reliability, ultimately supporting the pilot with conditions excluding alcohol advertising initially. Other agenda items included public comments on community issues and future agenda requests related to parking code changes and policies addressing First Amendment auditors. No contract awards or vendor selections were finalized, but the meeting set the stage for future procurement and policy decisions related to parking and transit services.