Board of Harbor Commissioners (BOHC) report relative to BOHC Resolution No. 25-10645 and proposed Second Amendment to Reimbursement Agreement No. 21-9795 with Bellwether Financial Group, Inc.; and administrative exemption from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Article II, Section 2(f) of the Los Angeles CEQA Guidelines.

Summary

This item concerns the Second Amendment to Reimbursement Agreement No. 21-9795 between the City of Los Angeles Harbor Department (Harbor Department) and Bellwether Financial Group, Inc. The amendment extends the duration of the existing agreement by one year, from five to six years. This extension is necessary to allow sufficient time to complete the environmental assessment for the development and occupation of Berth 44 and associated premises (the Site), which was formerly used as a boatyard. Bellwether Financial Group will continue to be responsible for reimbursing the Harbor Department for 100% of staff and consultant costs related to the environmental assessment, with the exception of costs associated with assessing contaminated soil/water impacts and historical resources. The total estimated cost for the environmental assessment has increased from $375,000 to $525,000, and Bellwether will cover these costs. The action is considered administratively exempt from CEQA.

Citizen Impact

This agreement extension allows for the continued environmental assessment of the Berth 44 site, which is a necessary step before potential development. Residents will not directly incur costs as Bellwether Financial Group is fully reimbursing the Harbor Department for these environmental assessment expenses.

Confidence

high