<meta name="robots" content="noindex">
Department of
SOCIAL SERVICES

Community Care Licensing


COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT

Facility Number: 197493360
Report Date: 08/21/2026
Date Signed: 08/21/2026 10:59:57 AM

Substantiated


STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
EL SEGUNDO CC RO, 300 CONTINENTAL BLVD. STE 290A
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245
This is an official report of an unannounced visit/investigation of a complaint received in our office on
07/14/2026 and conducted by Evaluator Angela Luz
PUBLIC
COMPLAINT CONTROL NUMBER: 30-CC-20260714112402
FACILITY NAME:FIRST FRIENDS BY THE SEAFACILITY NUMBER:
197493360
ADMINISTRATOR:WEST, TRACIEFACILITY TYPE:
830
ADDRESS:6700 WEST 83RDTELEPHONE:
(310) 227-9613
CITY:LOS ANGELESSTATE: CAZIP CODE:
90045
CAPACITY:8CENSUS: 3DATE:
08/21/2026
UNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
09:10 AM
MET WITH:Tracie WestTIME COMPLETED:
10:10 AM
ALLEGATION(S):
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Children's plates observed with mold.
INVESTIGATION FINDINGS:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
On 8/21/26, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Angela Luz conducted an unannounced subsequent complaint visit to deliver findings. LPA met with Licensee Tracie West and informed them of the reason for the visit. LPA toured the facility inside and outside and noted 3 children supervised by 1 staff.

On 7/14/26, the El Segundo Regional Office received the above mentioned complaint allegations. On 7/20/26 LPA made an attempted visit to the facility but it was closed. LPA contacted Licensee, who informed the facility is closed for summer break and they would resume operations on 7/27/26.

On 7/27/26, LPA conducted initial complaint visit and conducted staff interviews and made observations. Copies of the facility roster were obtained. Throughout the investigation, LPA conducted parent interviews.
Substantiated
Estimated Days of Completion:
SUPERVISORS NAME: Maureen Neal
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Angela Luz
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 1 of 6
Control Number 30-CC-20260714112402
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
EL SEGUNDO CC RO, 300 CONTINENTAL BLVD. STE 290A
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245
FACILITY NAME: FIRST FRIENDS BY THE SEA
FACILITY NUMBER: 197493360
VISIT DATE: 08/21/2026
NARRATIVE
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
During interviews, one staff revealed the plates get dark spots that are hard to clean. They can clean the plate one week then the next week it comes back. The plates are only used for children's lunches. Licensee stated the plates are replaced as soon as mold is observed. Licensee further stated that staff are to inform licensee of any mold on plates so licensee can order new ones. Licensee stated there was a past staff member who stored wet plates inside wicker baskets, which resulted in moldy plates.

On 7/27/26, LPA observed 4 wet plates drying next to the sink, and 1 dry plate stored in a drawer. Staff informed children did not yet use the plates for the day, and they washed the plates after being gone for 1 week on summer break. The plates have dividers on top, which creates divots underneath the plate. The plates have 4 suction cups on the bottom. LPA observed mold on all 5 plates observed to varying degrees. LPA observed mold primarily underneath the plates in the spaces between the suction cup and bottom of the plate, and the divots created by the dividers. Some plates had small cuts on the top of the plate on the dividers. The cuts had lines of black inside, indicating mold was inside the cut. LPA showed Licensee one of the plates. Licensee told LPA to throw the plate away and they would order new ones.

On 8/21/26, LPA observed reusable plastic plates drying on a paper towel and additional plastic plates stored in a drawer. The plastic plates were clean and free of mold. Licensee stated they threw out all silicone plates LPA observed on 7/27/26, and LPA did not observed them in the facility. Licensee informed they ordered new silicone plates and are waiting for them to arrive. Licensee stated they prefer silicone plates and mold only appears if the plates do not dry properly. LPA advised on getting a drying rack so they can leave the dishes to air dry. LPA advised to ensure dishes are dry before putting them away.
SUPERVISORS NAME: Maureen Neal
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Angela Luz
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 2 of 6
Control Number 30-CC-20260714112402
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
EL SEGUNDO CC RO, 300 CONTINENTAL BLVD. STE 290A
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245

FACILITY NAME: FIRST FRIENDS BY THE SEA
FACILITY NUMBER: 197493360
DEFICIENCY INFORMATION FOR THIS PAGE:
VISIT DATE: 08/21/2026
Deficiency Type
POC Due Date /
Section Number
DEFICIENCIES
PLAN OF CORRECTIONS(POCs)
Type B
08/21/2026
Section Cited
CCR
101223(a)(2)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Personal Rights (a)The licensee shall ensure that each child is accorded the following personal rights: (2) To be accorded safe, healthful and comfortable accommodations, furnishings and equipment to meet his/her needs.
This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
During facility visit, LPA observed the plates with mold were not at the facility. The facility is using plastic plates while waiting for a new order of silicone plates. The facility has corrected the deficiency and no further corrections are required.
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Based on interview and observation, children's equipment (silicone plates) were not healthful due to mold. The licensee did not comply with the section cited above in 5 of 5 plates observed, which poses a potential health, safety, or personal rights risk to persons in care.
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Failure to correct the cited deficiency(ies), on or before the Plan of Correction (POC) due date, may result in a civil penalty assessment.
SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Maureen Neal
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Angela Luz
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 3 of 6
Control Number 30-CC-20260714112402
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
EL SEGUNDO CC RO, 300 CONTINENTAL BLVD. STE 290A
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245
FACILITY NAME: FIRST FRIENDS BY THE SEA
FACILITY NUMBER: 197493360
VISIT DATE: 08/21/2026
NARRATIVE
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Based on LPAs observations and interviews which were conducted and record review(s), the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation(s) is found to be SUBSTANTIATED.

1 Type B deficiency is issued. 1 Advisory Note is issued.

A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days.

Appeal rights provided. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the licensee Tracie West.
SUPERVISORS NAME: Maureen Neal
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Angela Luz
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 4 of 6
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
EL SEGUNDO CC RO, 300 CONTINENTAL BLVD. STE 290A
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245
This is an official report of an unannounced visit/investigation of a complaint received in our office on
07/14/2026 and conducted by Evaluator Angela Luz
PUBLIC
COMPLAINT CONTROL NUMBER: 30-CC-20260714112402

FACILITY NAME:FIRST FRIENDS BY THE SEAFACILITY NUMBER:
197493360
ADMINISTRATOR:WEST, TRACIEFACILITY TYPE:
830
ADDRESS:6700 WEST 83RDTELEPHONE:
(310) 227-9613
CITY:LOS ANGELESSTATE:CAZIP CODE:
90045
CAPACITY:8CENSUS: 3DATE:
08/21/2026
UNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
09:10 AM
MET WITH:Tracie WestTIME COMPLETED:
10:10 AM
ALLEGATION(S):
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Children observed with no sock & shoes outdoors.
INVESTIGATION FINDINGS:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
On 8/21/26, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Angela Luz conducted an unannounced subsequent complaint visit to deliver findings. LPA met with Licensee Tracie West and informed them of the reason for the visit. LPA toured the facility inside and outside and noted 3 children supervised by 1 staff.

On 7/14/26, the El Segundo Regional Office received the above mentioned complaint allegations. On 7/20/26 LPA made an attempted visit to the facility but it was closed. LPA contacted Licensee, who informed the facility is closed for summer break and they would resume operations on 7/27/26.

On 7/27/26, LPA conducted initial complaint visit and conducted staff interviews and made observations. Copies of the facility roster were obtained. Throughout the investigation, LPA conducted parent interviews.
Unsubstantiated
Estimated Days of Completion:
SUPERVISORS NAME: Maureen Neal
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Angela Luz
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 5 of 6
Control Number 30-CC-20260714112402
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
EL SEGUNDO CC RO, 300 CONTINENTAL BLVD. STE 290A
EL SEGUNDO, CA 90245
FACILITY NAME: FIRST FRIENDS BY THE SEA
FACILITY NUMBER: 197493360
VISIT DATE: 08/21/2026
NARRATIVE
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Staff interviews revealed some children take their shoes and socks off, but staff help them put them back on.

Parent interviews revealed there were no concerns about children taking their shoes and socks off outside. Staff and parents interviewed stated there were no injuries that occurred because the children’s shoes and socks were put back on right away.

On 7/27/26, LPA observed children wearing socks and shoes outdoors. LPA observed 1 child take their shoes and socks off while sitting on a bench and immediately attempted to put them back on. LPA observed another child take their shoes and socks off and begin to walk. A staff went to the child and assisted them on putting their shoes and socks back on.

Based on the evidence obtained during the investigation, which included interviews with relevant parties, and information collected and reviewed from pertinent parties, there is insufficient evidence regarding the allegation. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the above alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is found to be unsubstantiated.

No deficiencies are issued.
A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days.
Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with Licensee Tracie West.
SUPERVISORS NAME: Maureen Neal
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Angela Luz
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 08/21/2026
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 6 of 6