Scroll down for all 2010 meeting minutes.
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 14th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, Stuart Muller, Richard Wulliger, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Norma Spak, Paul Glasgall, Christy Dennis, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Gil Dembo, Trish Bowe, Quentin Fleming, Amy Kalp, Joyce Brunelle, Alex Lehrhoff, Jake Correia, Norma Spak, Dan Rosenthal, Peter Fisher, Mary Cole, Barbara Kohn
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Flo Elfant, Haldis Toppel, Kurt Toppel, Nancy Marsden
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Steve Boyers read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of December 10, 2009, were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of January 14, 2010, there is $5,663.07 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,000 CD, for a total of $25,713.93.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
The next meeting will be held on January 28, 2010.
Area 5 Alternate. Nancy Marsden was welcomed as the new Area 5 Alternate.
Sparkplug Selection Committee. Ted Mackie, Mary Cole, Janet Turner and Alex Lehrhoff were appointed to the Sparkplug Selection Committee
Citizen dinner committee. Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Mary Cole and Christy Dennis were appointed to the Citizen of the Year Dinner Committee which is scheduled for April 22, 2010
The Chair announced that the Commuter Express line 430 is threatened, and he will put it on the agenda for the January 28 meeting.
The Chair announced that there were 2 PPCC membership donations of $500, and he has sent each of them a personal thank you note.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Jim Horowiz from Councilman Rosendahl’s office spoke briefly about Alternate Dwelling Units, and said that the Los Angeles City Council has not passed an ADU ordinance, so Los Angeles is bound by state law. The Chair indicated that he believes that Palisades residents want restrictions on ADUs to protect our community.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore was not present, but the Chair said that Captain Lauer indicated that increased levels of patrolling on Sunset Blvd and Palisades Drive will continue.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
Barbara Kohn warmly thanked the Council for selecting her to receive a Community Service Award.
Castellammare condo Coastal Commission extension. Barbara Kohn indicated that the owner of the Castellammare condominium project has asked for a one year extension for his permit from the Coastal Commission. No action was taken by the Council.
Flo Elfant requested additional contributions for Disaster Preparedness folders.
Haldis Toppel announced that she and Christy Dennis had attended a housing density meeting, and asked that the issue be placed on the February 25 agenda.
Barbara Kohn announced that she had attended a Citizen Advisory Committee meeting with the Los Angeles City Attorney.
8. Reports From Committees.
9. Old Business.
10. New Business.
10.1. Von’s Remodel.
Ira Handelman, a consultant, spoke to the Council about the proposed Von’s remodel. M r. Sam Shink, Safeway Director of Real Estate, made a power point presentation outlining Von’s plans. Questions were raised by the Council about the safety of moving the loading dock from the south side to the north side of the market. Several community members spoke in opposition to the relocation of the loading dock. Von’s plans have yet to be approved by the City of L.A. Review of the plans by the City will include scrutiny of Von’s traffic plan safety issues raised by the Council. Stuart Muller displayed and distributed photos of the two parkways located directly adjacent to Vons (on Sunset Blvd. and on the PCH) and pointed out that these parkways are not included in Vons conceptual landscape plan. The photos show barren open space and poorly maintained areas. In response to a question from the chair, Mr. Shink said that Von’s was also not happy with the condition of the parkways, especially in light of their significant new investment in the remodel. Mr. Shink affirmed Vons’ commitment to working with community groups, including the Sunset Beach Association, to make improvements to these parkways, saying that he made the same commitment to the Pacific Palisades Design Review Board the previous evening. No action was taken by the Council at this time.
10.2. Cell Tower, Sunset/Capri or Riviera Country Club.
Kyle Sutherland spoke on behalf of AT & T. There was a lengthy discussion about placing the proposed tower in the parking lot of the Riviera Country Club or on Sunset at Capri. A consensus emerged that the community is opposed to a tower at Sunset and Capri on the South/West corner. However, an alternative site on the south side of Sunset east of Capri, where a Sprint monopole is currently installed, was suggested by some present. An informal vote was taken of everyone in the room. Opinion was approximately evenly split between those who preferred locating a new tower in the parking lot of the country club and those preferring ajascent to or atop the Sprint tower. The group agreed that a determination of the will of the community would depend upon the height and design of the alternatives. Accordingly, the Chair asked Mr Sutherland to report back to the Council with better descriptions of the towers proposed for the two locations.
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 28th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, George Wolfberg, Stuart Muller, Richard Wulliger, Harry Sondheim, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Gil Dembo, Amy Kalp, Joyce Brunelle, Mary Cole, Joyce Brunelle, Barbara Kohn, Nancy Marsden, Haldis Toppel
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Flo Elfant, Kurt Toppel
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Marguerite Perkins Mautner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of January 14, 2010 were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of January 28, 2010, there is $5,655.96 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,000 CD, for a total of $25,706.82.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on Febuary 11, 2010.
7.1.2. WRAC update was given by the Chair.
7.1.3. Paul Glasgall announced that Verizon is reportedly considering modifications to their plans for installing cell towers in the Highlands
7.1.4. Janet Turner announced that the Sparkplug Nominating Committee is hoping to announce nominations by March 1.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office. Norman Kulla spoke to the Council about ADUs, city finances, Portero Canyon, and the Special Parking Revenue Fund, among other issues.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Janet Turner announced that there is a community care facility at 16815 Sunset Blvd. The facility’s website describes it as a sober living facility. Some residents are concerned that they might be operating without proper licensing and in violation of planning and zoning laws. Neighbors commented on nuisances such as parking and other concerns. The Chair deferred possible future discussion pending additional information.
7.3.2. Barbara Kohn reported on her experiences visiting various Neighborhood Councils to address wireless communications installations.
7.3.3. George Wolfberg made the following announcements and comments on the PCH Task Force and other matters:
GENERAL
“Officer Chris Smythe was pulling over a traffic violator and, not watching the street, skidded on some loose gravel and was pinned under his bike. He is recovering and will be back soon. Officer Smythe attends the pch taskforce meetings and in his stead, Captain Nancy Lauer and 4 other motor officers attended.
Pavley and Brownley staff are co-chairing the task force and a new person, Kara Robin will be coming on board to help
LAPD announced that reported accidents on pch declined from 88 to 71 from 2008 to 2009, with one fatality and five serious injuries each year.
CHP has two assigned white vehicles to follow up on complaints
CHP will remove homeless encampments from State Lands following required due diligence/procedures and governor’s executive order.
All pchpartners projects including low-flow and Bluffs stabilization are on time with Bluffs to conclude by Memorial Day; CIRS expected to start this September . . . it will require major trenching in PCH.
Re California Incline, the EIR is not showing speedy progress and has been delayed several times with SM now saying late Spring or early Summer?they are now saying start in Summer 2011, no Cal Trans encroachment permit needed so they can work during summer
Cal Trans did not show up to the disappointment of most members, especially the state elected officials’ staff. Thus, there was no answer/informed discussion re. traffic accidents at Gladstones and the court mandated channelization, removal of K-rails near Castellammare, bicycle accident prevention, incorporating real-time data now collected on highway traffic into the freeway reporting system, and improving the safety of the right-turn lane from West Channel Road to Chautauqua.”
PCH TASK FORCE NOTES
“The director at Rustic Canyon is retiring and will not be replaced. Erich Haas will pick up supervision of Rustic Canyon in addition to Palisades Recreation Center.
CITY BUDGET HEARINGS – Hamilton High School – Cafeteria Monday, Feb. 22, 6:00 p.m.,2955 S. Robertson Blvd.
BEACH BIKE PATH EXTENSION STATUS REPORT
SANTA YNEZ RESERVOIR COVER PROJECT
CATCH BASIN COVERS”
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Sparkplug Selection Committee – Ted, Mary, Janet, Alex, Norma. Update on progress.
8.2. Citizen Dinner Committee – Janet, Haldis, Marguerite, Mary, Christy. Update on progress.
9. Old Business.
10. New Business.
10.1. Threat to 430 Commuter Express Line.
Steve Lantz and Patti Post addressed the Council about the threatened loss of the Commuter Express Line 430. The Council voted to oppose the proposed cancellation of the line, passing the following motion unanimously, motion by Toppel, second by Mautner:
“The Pacific Palisades Community Council opposes the complete elimination of LADOT Commuter Express Line 430. We urge LADOT to continue to provide this important service which provides the only Los Angeles City transit linkage between the communities of Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, West Los Angeles, Loyola High School and Downtown Los Angeles.”
10.2. Proposed Pali High School Banner Policy.
Harry Sondheim spoke to the Council about the policy for banners at Pali High, and the Council unanimously voted (with one abstention) to adopt the 5 standards set forth in the following motion:
“1. There will be no banners on Sunset. 2. Banners will be at least 5 ft. from Sunset.
3. School can post 4 school related banners on Temescal and El Medio, subject to 1 and 2. 4. Banners of outside groups will be limited at one time to 4 on Temescal and 2 on El Medio, subject to 1 and 2. These banners will be put up on Tuesdays and taken down on Tuesdays and can remain up for 2 or 3 weeks with school approval. The banners of an outside group cannot be put up more than 4 times a year. 5. There will be a standardization of the size of all banners.”
11. General Public Comment — None.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 11th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, George Wolfberg, Richard Wulliger, Harry Sondheim, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Gil Dembo, Amy Kalp, Nancy Marsden, Jack Allen, Peter Fisher, Norma Spak, Chris Spitz, Dan Rosenthal, Alex Lehrhoff
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Flo Elfant, Quentin Fleming
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Alex Lehrhoff read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of January 28, 2010 were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of February 11, 2010, there is $5,971.96 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,000 CD, for a total of $26,022.82.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on February 25, 2010.
7.1.2. Harry Sondheim was appointed as the PPCC Citizen of the Year Committee Representative.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives. There were no representatives from Councilman Rosendahl’s office or from the LAPD.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Pali High Banner Policy Update. Harry Sondheim advised that he has been in communication with the Palisades High School representatives, and that they are willing to take non school-related signs off of Sunset Blvd, but want to continue to put school-related signs on Sunset Blvd. Additionally, Harry has been advised that the school will not allow other signs on Temescal Canyon that are closer than 5 feet from Sunset, but the article in the Palisadian Post said the school will not allow signs on Temescal Canyon which are closer than 1 foot from Sunset. Harry agreed to continue speaking with the Pali High representative in an attempt to clarify the School’s position and achieve a more favorable plan.
7.3.2. Sunset Status Update (Alcohol Rehab on Sunset). Janet Turner advised that the Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs has indicated that the facility appears to provide services which would require the facility to be licensed. The Department of Building and Safety has advised that the facility may require a conditional use permit and other approvals. Neighbors’ efforts to understand the facts and regulatory requirements for such facilities continue.
7.3.3. Bike path extension. George Wolfberg advised that Councilman Rosendahl agreed to submit a motion to the Los Angeles City Council to extend the beach Braude bike path to the Getty Museum. This motion went to a committee which approved the extension. The City Council was due to vote on the motion on February 12, 2010. The estimated cost is $30 million. City approval clears the way for application for federal funds to pay for the project.
7.3.4. Paul Glasgall announced that Verizon has agreed to move two of its proposed five new cell towers in the Highlands, but they have not yet agreed to move them to the reservoir as Paul requested. He also announced that CVS is paying Terry Bromberg for her work and materials on the mural on the side of their building. He further announced that a new group of citizens has signed up for radar training on February 13, 2010. Chris complimented Paul and Steve for their work on the Verizon cell towers.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Sparkplug Selection Committee (Ted, Mary, Norma, Janet, Alex). Janet announced that the Palisadian Post wants to hold off on running an ad for the Sparkplug Awards, but Janet urged them to run the ad no later than March 10. The deadline for Sparkplug nominations is Wednesday, March 10.
8.2. Citizen dinner committee (Janet, Haldis, Marguerite, Mary, Christy). No update.
9. Old Business.
9.1. Proposed adoption of WRAC (Western Regional Alliance of Councils) policy on cell phone installations to facilitate uniform advocacy of new city regulation.
For comparison to our existing policy the PPCC motion on cellular facilities is reproduced below in supporting materials. The proposed WRAC policy:
“WRAC respectfully recommends, with the City Attorney’s guidance and consistent with his recommendations, the City enact a comprehensive new ordinance with clear and consistent standards and procedures regulating all wireless telecommunications facilities in the City, authorizing regulation of aesthetics and providing protection to communities and residential neighborhoods to the full extent of the law.”
Chris Spitz moved to adopt the WRAC motion, and George seconded the motion. The Council unanimously adopted the motion.
10. New Business — None.
11. General Public Comment.
Relay for Life. Amanda Manning spoke about the Relay for Life fundraising event which will take place on May 1 and 2 at Marquez Elementary School. This is a community event to fight cancer, and she urged everyone to participate. She may be contacted at amanda.manning@cancer.org or at 213 427 7295.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
ATTACHMENT: Item 9.1 — Supplemental Information From August 13, 2009 Minutes – Previous Cellular Facilities Resolution:
“In order to preserve and protect the quality of the community, Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) supports changes in the method of regulating the installation of cellular facilities in the City of Los Angeles in the public rights of way. While the present zoning code imposes requirements, including public notice and hearings, on the placement, design and construction of cellular facilities on other properties, such requirements do not apply to installations of cellular facilities in the public rights of way. PPCC objects to the regulatory process involving public rights of way and urges that the same or similar regulations that apply to the installation of cellular facilities on other properties be required for the installation of such facilities in the public rights of way, including but not limited to existing and replacement utility poles, preferably administered by the same City agency that issues permits for cellular facilities on other properties. PPCC requests that the City place a moratorium on the further installation of cellular facilities in the public rights of way until such time as the City regulations regarding such installations are amended as proposed. PPCC requests that Councilman Rosendahl follow-up on this request and keep PPCC informed of progress on this issue.”
_________________________
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Stuart Muller, Barbara Kohn, Richard Wulliger, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Susan Orenstein, Paul Glasgall, Kevin Niles, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Quentin Fleming, Sandy Eddy, Mary Cole, Haldis Toppel, Katie Takakjian, Chris Spitz.
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Flo Elfant, Nancy Marsden, Kurt Toppel, Norma Spak,
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Paul Glagall read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of February 11, 2010, were adopted as revised, Janet Turner motion, Steve Boyers second, unanimous.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of February 25, 2010, there is $6,141.96 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,051.74 CD, for a total of $26,244.56.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
Thomas Farnham introduced a group of Boy Scouts in attendence as part of their citizenship merit badge requirement.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on March 11, 2010.
7.1.2. The AT&T issue will be scheduled for presentation at the PPCC meeting on March 11, 2010.
7.1.3. Vons is seeking city approval for a remodel which includes the relocation of their loading dock to the north side of the building along Sunset Blvd. They have agreed to a condition to limit truck length to 27ft or shorter. Trucks would continue to enter from PCH and exit on Sunset. Vons states that this will resolve the safety concerns voiced by the neighbors, though some do not agree. The Chair noted that the community continues to seek to realign the Vons driveway with the signal light at Castellammare Dr. Such alignment would require that DWP move an underground electrical vault. Vons told the Chair that the building may be in the way of realignment. The Chair reported that he advised Vons consultant that any action in the current remodel project which could interfere with future realignment would be viewed unfavorably by the community.
7.1.4. The Bylaws Committee will meet to review the Officer Election procedures. George Wolfberg – Chair, Steven Boyers, Stuart Muller, Jack Allen, Harry Sondheim, Ted Mackie, Richard Cohen, Haldis Toppel – Advisor.
7.1.5. Commuter Express Bus 430. Richard Cohen, Patti Post and Steve Lantz attended a hearing on the efforts of the City of L.A. to save money through reductions in transportation services. Each of Cohen, Post and Lantz spoke in opposition to the proposed discontinuation of Metro Express Line 430. Many people oppose cutting the line, including Bill Rosendahl who has voiced his support for the continuation of the bus line, as has Councilman Paul Koretz.
7.1.6. Parking Study. Dick Littlestone suggests that the community should build a parking structure with money from the parking meter fund. He also favors using parking funds to study the problems of the business district. A meeting was held at the Council office attended by community leaders to discuss these ideas. Norman Kulla and city parking executives were present. Arnie Wishnick, speaking for the Chamber, said that for the most part parking is not a limiting factor for Village business. The consensus of the group was to further study parking and other factors which might adversely affect business in the Village.
7.1.7. City Budget. The Chair reported that city budget difficulties are playing out with unfortunate consequences for a variety of departments. Expect many city services to be severely curtailed.
7.1.8. Recreation & Parks. It has been reported that 800 employees may be laid off out of 8,000 total employees, but only 1,100 are permanent employees. This will cut many recreation programs.
7.1.9. The Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE) has in the past suggested that Brentwood become a certified Neighborhood Council. Now budget cuts have caused the merger of DONE with the Community Development Department. DONE activities are expected to be greatly limited in the future due to personnel and budget cuts.
7.1.10. Captain Nathan informed CPAB that West Los Angeles has received a small increase in officers in recent deployment periods.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s Office, no report.
7.2.2. Senior Lead Officer, Michael Moore, is on leave and scheduled to return to duty in April or May. Former SLO, Chris Ragsdale, is covering this area in the interim.
7.2.3. Barri Worth, an L.A. Mayor’s office representative spoke on behalf of the West Los Angeles Mayor’s representative, Jennifer Badger. The City of Los Angeles is currently facing $212 million dollar budget deficit. The Engineers and Architect Union will face the first round of layoffs. The Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE) will be consolidated with the Community Development Department (CDD). The majority of layoffs will be in the Departments and projects paid from the General Fund. Staff will be transferred to special funded projects. The first draft of the Mayor’s budget proposal is due to be presented to the City Council on April 20.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Janet Turner reported that some neighbors are opposing the operation of a sober living facility on Sunset Blvd. and are asking the City and State to investigate if proper licenses and permits have been issued.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Janet reported on the Citizen of the Year/Sparkplug event. The Citizen has been selected.
8.2. The request for Sparkplug nomination has been published. The dinner event is scheduled for April 22, 2010.
9. Old Business.
9.1. Harry Sondheim reported that he discussed the banners on the fence along Sunset and Temescal with the administration of the Palisades High School. He presented pictures which showed a preliminary agreement to keep banners at least 5 ft away from Sunset Blvd. as indicated by a line at the “no banners” location. Marguerite Perkins Mautner made a motion, seconded by Steve Boyers, to authorize Harry Sondheim to negotiate with the school and reach a firm agreement to maintain the banner clear space as indicated on the picture. Unanimous.
10. New Business.
10.1. Ted Mackie made a motion, seconded by Richard Wulliger, to purchase a 1/2 page ad in the Palisadian-Post special edition for $475. The council recognized the vital role the newspaper plays in disseminating information in our community. The text will be determined by the Chair in consultation with others. Unanimous.
11. General Public Comment.
Norma Spak reported that various complaints about the operation of the Getty Museum are voiced by neighbors. The Getty has a complaint hotline at 877 625-4282.
12. Adjournment – at 8:50.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR MARCH 11th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, George Wolfberg, Steve Boyers, Joyce Brunelle, Harry Sondheim, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Gil Dembo, Jack Allen, Chris Spitz, Trish Bowe, Stuart Muller, Barbara Kohn, Mary Cole, Alex Lehrhoff, Haldis Toppel
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Nancy Marsden, Dan Rosenthal, Norma Spak, Kurt Toppel, Kathy Russell, Amy Kalp
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Marguerite Perkins Mautner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of February 25, 2010 were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of March 11, 2010, there is $6,026.47 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,051.74 CD, for a total of $26,129.07.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on March 25, 2010.
7.1.2. Sunset Blvd. Safety Committee. John Anderson is co-chair of a Brentwood Community Council committee to improve safety on Sunset Blvd. The Chair reported that at a Police Advisory Board meeting Captain Lauer said she is committed to addressing the safety concerns of citizens and addressing speeding on Sunset Blvd.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office. Jessyca Avalos reported that for the past two months the focus of the City Council has been on budget cuts. There has been a proposal to have homeowners be responsible for tree trimming. The Department of Recreation and Parks was asked to list programs which could be eliminated. Notices have been sent out recently to Palisades homeowners that they will have to pay a $13 fee for brush clearance inspection. Harry Sondheim asked to have the issue of tree trimming put on a future agenda. The chairman said that he would address the issue directly with the council office.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore is on leave, but Chris Ragsdale reported that there was a recent attempted abduction in Santa Monica Canyon. He also reported that there has been increased hate, tagger and probably simulated gang graffiti at the Palisades Recreation Center, and an increase in auto burglaries. He said that there will be an additional police presence in the Palisades to combat the recent increase in crime.
7.2.3. There will be a hearing conducted by the Office of Zoning Administration regarding the Waldorf School at the West L.A. Municipal Building at 1645 Corinth Avenue in West L.A. on April 1, 2010 at 10 am to address the school’s compliance with their conditions of use. The Chair designated former Chair Shirley Haggstrom to speak for the Council at the hearing to articulate the Council’s position that the school should be held to their commitments, particularly with respect to the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Sunset and Los Liones.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Sunset Statue Update (Alcohol Rehab on Sunset). There were no new updates.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Sparkplug Selection Committee (Ted, Mary, Norma, Janet, Alex). Sparkplug dinner cost will be $47.50 per person. The Selection Committee has 8 nominations.
8.2. The Los Angeles Marathon will take place on Sunday, March 21, and Entrada will be closed from 6 am until 11 am.
9. Old Business.
9.1. AT&T Issue (Sunset/Capri vs. Riviera CC).
Kyle Sutherland spoke on behalf of AT&T. The Chair announced that he was hopeful that we could reach a consensus so that we will have an impact on the decision as to placement of the facility and final design, thus setting a positive example of community input and cooperation. Attorney Kevin McDonald spoke on behalf of several Riviera homeowners in opposition to the cell tower being placed on the grounds of the Riviera Country Club. Mary Tanner also spoke in opposition, saying that we should use micro and pico cells instead. There was extensive discussion about the merits of the site at the Riviera Country Club versus the existing site on Sunset east of Capri. Jack Allen also informed the Council that he, Barbara Kohn and Chris Spitz recently attended a pre-hearing of the residents’ appeal of a Verizon permit for a tower at the SW corner of Sunset and Capri, at which Board of Public Works Commissioner Andrea Alarcon directed Verizon to investigate co-locating its equipment on the site east of Capri and at the Riviera Country Club. Community members in attendance at the Council meeting expressed strong opposition to the Riviera Country Club site and a preference for AT&T to co-locate on the site east of Capri (along with Verizon if necessary).
Janet Turner made a motion which was seconded by Marguerite that the Council prefers a co-location at Sunset east of Capri, but would like AT&T to find a more aesthetically pleasing design for the tower. The motion carried, with 13 in favor, 7 abstentions, and Harry Sondheim and Steve Cron in opposition.
9.2. Vons Remodel – driveway alignment issue.
A motion was made by Barbara Kohn, which was seconded by Stuart Muller, that the Council is opposed to any project by Von’s which would preclude the future alignment of Castellammare and the Von’s driveway. The motion passed unanimously.
10. New Business.
10.1. Pacific Palisades Gateway Signs.
Sam Rubin of P.R.I.D.E. discussed the possibility of posting welcoming signs at the various entrances to the Palisades. The Chair appointed a committee consisting of Barbara, Steve Boyers, George, Harry, Gil and Stuart to consider the feasibility, design and location of any such signs. The committee is requested to work with PRIDE, explore the relevant issues and report back to the Council with recommendations.
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR MARCH 25th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, George Wolfberg, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Gil Dembo, Amy Kalp, Jack Allen, Peter Fisher, Chris Spitz, Stuart Muller, Barbara Kohn, Mary Cole, Joyce Brunelle, Geoff Shelden
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Flo Elfant, Norma Spak
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Janet Turner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of March 11, 2010 were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of March 25, 2010, there is $5,465.72 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,051.74 CD, for a total of $25,568.32.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1 Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on April 8, 2010.
7.1.2. The Chairman said that the Vons representative, Ira Handelman, advised him that Vons is still interacting with city departments in an attempt to move their remodel forward. It is unclear how the desire of the community to preserve the option to align the Vons entrance with the intersection of Castellammare will be reconciled with Vons’ desire to relocate their loading dock to the Sunset Blvd. side of the building.
7.1.3. Kyle Sunderland advised the Chair that there are no updates on the proposed tower at Sunset east of Capri.
7.1.4. The Chair advised that Joyce Brunelle is now the Chamber of Commerce Representative, and Sandy Eddy is no longer on the Council.
7.1.5. Christy Dennis has resigned as the Area 3 Representative. Haldis Toppel, who had been the Area 3 Alternate rep, is now the Area 3 Representative. The Chair announced that residents of Area 3 are welcome to express their interest in serving as Area 3 Alternate. Furthermore, the Chair requested the Palisadian Post to announce the vacancy and instructions for applying for the position.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. [Councilman Rosendahl’s Office.]
Jessyca Avalos appeared on behalf of Councilman Rosendahl. She attempted to assist Mrs Catherine Andrews who lives on Goucher and complained about DWP’s plans to replace a 40 foot pole near her back yard with a 50 foot pole.
Sergeant Mark Durrell reported on behalf of the LAPD. He advised that a string of auto burglaries in Pacific Palisades came to a stop with the arrest of Donald Hulett on March 10. There have been a few minor thefts in the past two weeks, but no other major crimes.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
Janet Turner reported that a Department of Building and Safety inspector went to the Sunset Statue address on March 10. Because there were no patients in residence at the moment of his visit he determined that it was not a group home at that moment.
Barbara Kohn announced that the storm water run-off project on Temescal Canyon was approved by the City Council, which she fears will ultimately result in increased DWP fees for maintenance.
Jack Allen reported on what occurred at the Energy and Environment Committee of the LA City Council prior to the Community Council meeting on the proposed DWP rate hikes for electricity. He had to leave before the Committee voted, however, he reported that the Committee expressed opposition to the rate hikes. He stated that it appeared that DWP was playing hardball by bringing the rate hikes to the City Council at the last minute before the hikes had to go into effect by April 1. He reported that the proposed rate hikes would substantially affect the Palisades because it is located In the Cool Zone which has higher electricity rates. He reported that in addition to this rate hike, DWP plans to raise rates an additional 37% in the next three years. He said that DWP is attempting to justify this hike so that it can reduce its carbon emissions in order to satisfy future Stare Air Resources Board regulations which are expected to be issued in June. As presently drafted such standards would result in carbon penalties between $560 million and $1 billion as well as fines. However, he reported that City consultants said that the penalties were not final and even if adopted, would only result in approximately $360 million in cost, if that. The Committee also learned that DWP has $560 million in a Deregulation Fund which is no longer required for that purpose, however, DWP wants to use it for a debt retirement fund since it has over $3 billion in bonded indebtedness and that it is going to try to sell more bonds this spring. He reported that DWP has an excellent bond rating and asserted it needs the rate increase to retain it, however, the Consultants felt that DWP could still retain a favorable bond rating with a lesser hike. He reported that the Committee was considering approval of a temporary rate hike of between 0.5 to 0.8 cent increase per kilowatt hour of use for just one quarter in order to give the City Council time to thoroughly review the rate increase request.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Ted reported on behalf of the Sparkplug Selection Committee that the 2009 honorees are Eric Bollens, Marge Gold and Linda Jackson Vitale.
8.2. Marguerite reported on behalf of the Citizen dinner committee that the dinner will take place on April 22 at the American Legion Post, the cost of tickets will be $47.50 per person, and that flyers have been printed and are ready for distribution.
8.3. “Palisades Gateway Signs Committee” Chairman Stuart Muller stated that the committee’s initial goals, suggested by Muller and PPCC Chair Richard Cohen, are to provide the PPCC Board with information and recommendations regarding the “purpose, consequence, function, design and location of graphic signage placed at entrance points and/or other location in Pacific Palisades.” As requested, Sam Rubin recently provided the committee with this written summary of his proposal: “The purpose of these signs is to identify and honor the Pacific Palisades. I also think it is nice to take PRIDE in announcing the Pacific Palisades. Several communities and neighborhoods of Los Angeles from Los Feliz to Brentwood have such a sign.” Initial input from community individuals and groups has expressed a range of support and concern. The committee seeks further input from the community.
9. New Business.
9.1. [LAFD Presentation.]
Members of the Los Angeles Fire Department spoke to the Council about brush clearance, fees, and policy. Assistant Fire Chief Terry Manning reported that the LAFD has 12 people in the brush inspection unit for the entire city. Brush Inspector John Novela advised the Council that in 1999 the City passed an ordinance allowing a $13 annual fee for properties in brush areas. If owners believe they are not in brush areas, they can submit affidavits which he will consider in determining whether or not the properties are in brush areas. If they are not, those properties will be exempted from the brush clearance fee. Additionally, property owners can self-inspect and avoid the $13 fee. Mr Novela’s phone number is 1 818 778 4927. Tony Valdez, Captain of Brush Clearance, also advised that he would be happy to communicate with citizens about brush clearance issues. His phone number is 1 818 778 4927. Ted Mackie asked the fire department officials to look at the grading at the bottom portion of Trailer Canyon because that area of the trail has been rutted, and may not be accessible to emergency vehicles. The council engaged in lengthy discussion and questions concerning practices and procedures of the LAFD with respect to brush clearance. The discussion concluded with the Chair warmly thanking the LAFD for their dedicated and lifesaving work in the Palisades and throughout the city.
10. Adjournment – took place at 8:30.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR APRIL 8th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Stuart Muller, Barbara Kohn, Richard Wulliger, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, George Wolfberg, Gil Dembo, Peter Fisher, Trish Bowe, Mahtab Moayedi, Mary Cole, Haldis Toppel
Non-Voting Members in Attendance: Flo Elfant, Dan Rosenthal, Kurt Toppel, Geoff Shelden, Norma Spak
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Dan Rosenthal read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of March 25, 2010, were adopted as revised, Janet Turner’s motion, Steve Boyers’ second, unanimously adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of March 31, 2010, there is $5,369.99 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,000 CD, for a total of $25,472.59.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on May 13, 2010 ( Citizen Dinner on April 22).
7.1.2. Vons Remodel update. There are technical matters under consideration by the City regarding re-location of the loading dock. The community continues to insist on alignment of the Sunset driveway with the Castellammare intersection.
7.1.3. AT&T / Verizon update. There are no new developments
7.1.4. Area 3 Alternate vacancy. There is one expression of interest received to date. The Chair noted that a committee composed of three former chairs, Flo, George, and Steve Boyers would make a recommendation at the May 13 meeting, at which time the Council will vote.
7.1.5. Appointment of Nominating Committee. The Chair named the 2010 Nominating Committee: Steve Boyers (Chair) plus George Wolfberg and Stuart Muller. This Committee is charged with identifying qualified candidates for the offices of Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Community Council. Their nominations are due to be presented at the first meeting of May.
7.1.6. The Chair announced that the Bylaws Committee met to review PPCC officer election procedures. The Bylaws Committee is chaired by George Wolfberg, and includes Richard Cohen, Jack Allen, Harry Sondheim, Stuart Muller and Steve Boyers. Haldis Toppel is an advisor to the Committee.
The review by the Bylaws Committee of the election procedures determined that no changes to the Bylaws or standing rules were required. Nonetheless, the Chair reported that the Committee felt that the process could be more transparent and inclusive. Noting that in the past the role of the Nominating Committee involved finding qualified people willing to serve, often with some difficulty, the chair invited board members interested in serving as an officer to contact the Chair of the Nominating Committee, any member of the committee, or to send an e-mail to PacPaliCC@aol.com. To qualify to be considered for the office of Chair requires having been a Board member (this applies only to the office of Chairman). The Chair further noted that the Bylaws Committee observed that the Committee may endorse multiple candidates for the same office, if it so wishes. Additionally, nominations from the floor are possible.
The Chair noted that in respect of the views expressed at the Bylaws committee meeting he was establishing a practice (without binding future Chairs to do so) of naming the Chair Emeritus to serve as the Chair of the Nominating Committee. The Bylaws Committee felt that the Chair Emeritus or a recent former chair of the PPCC should serve as the Nominating Committee Chair. Additionally, the Chair indicated that those seeking nomination should submit a written statement of interest describing their qualifications, which statements would be circulated in the case of a contested election. Harry Sondheim noted the desirability of calling the attention of the Palisadian Post to our solicitation of interest for officer positions.
7.1.7. Proposed Septic Ordinance Presentation on May 13. The City is working on an ordinance restricting and regulating septic tanks. At the May 13 meeting the Chair plans to have a city representative present to speak on the issue.
7.1.8. The owner of the lot at 17130 Sunset Blvd, contacted the Chair to discuss his desire to build an apartment building at the site and would like to share his plans with the community and the Council at a future meeting.
7.1.9. A class action lawsuit was filed against MRCA challenging their photo enforcement of stop signs in Temescal Canyon Park.
7.1.10. Norma reported that the Westside Waldorf School recently met with the Planning Commission, but their only representatives were a parent and grandparent of students at the school. The hearing officer gave the school 30 days to come up with a plan to raise money for a traffic light and sidewalk improvements.
7.1.11. The DWP is considering replacing underground cables in Pacific Palisades and Brentwood. The Chair invited anyone interested to attend upcoming DWP meetings on the subject.
7.1.12. Jessyca Avalos advised the Chair by email that it is unclear if threatened closings of city offices 2 days each week would actually happen. The City budget crisis continues unabated.
7.1.13. WRAC is forming a Budget Committee to address budget issues and achieve a consensus on Westside priorities.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore announced that the individual responsible for many of the recent auto burglaries in the Palisades was sentenced to 16 months in state prison. Since his arrest, crime has subsided.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Sunset Statue Update (Alcohol Rehab on Sunset). Janet announced that State authorities have determined that Sunset Statue is not in violation of any laws, although as a result of the investigation they now have fewer residents.
7.3.2. Historical Society event. Dick Wulliger announced that former PPCC Chair Randy Young will give a talk entitled Exquisite Activism on the history of volunteerism in Pacific Palisades on April 19 at 7 pm at Theater Palisades.
7.3.3. Flo announced a new edition of the Disaster Preparedness brochure, and would like to give a talk about disaster preparedness where information would be available to the public so that a cross-section of the community could learn of the neighborhood and business plans in the Palisades. The Council supports her efforts to talk with the Palisadian Post about helping to raise awareness of disaster preparedness.
7.3.4. Jack said that the West LA Planning Commission held a hearing about a home with an excessively high wall and hedges in the Alphabet Streets. The Zoning Administrator denied the permit, and the Planning Commission denied the homeowners’ appeal. They were concerned about police surveillance and drivers’ visibility.
7.3.5. Haldis announced that on April 27 at 7:30 pm the Marquez Knolls Property Owners Association will show Inceville at Marquez Elementary School.
7.3.6. Joyce Brunelle announced there will be a Palisades Expo on May 16 between 10 am and 2 pm at the Village Green.
7.3.7. Trish Bowe announced that there will be an author’s tea on April 13 between 1 pm and 3 pm at the Women’s Club.
7.3.8. Mary Cole announced at tour of the Huntington Chinese Gardens on April 21.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Citizen Dinner Committee (Janet, Haldis, Marguerite, Mary, Christy). 2009 Honorees: Eric Bollens, Marge Gold, Linda Jackson Vitale. Janet encouraged everyone to attend the Citizen of the Year Dinner on April 22.
8.2. Pacific Palisades Gateway Signs. Stuart announced that about 50 people responded to the article in the Palisadian Post, and that there were many different views expressed. There is no consensus at the present time as to design, location, or whether or not the signs should be used.
9. Old Business.
9.1. Pali High Banners. This issue was tabled for future discussion.
10. New Business.
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment not recorded.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR MAY 13th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Executive and Primary: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Stuart Muller, George Wolfberg, Janet Turner, Richard Cohen, Ted Mackie, Jack Allen, Steve Boyers, Paul Glasgall, Gil Dembo, Katie Takakjian, Joyce Brunelle
Voting Alternates: Mahtab Moayedi, Amy Kalp, Richard Wulliger, Robert Baker, Cathy Russell
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Norma Spak, Dan Rosenthal, Quentin Fleming
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Janet Turner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. Richard Cohen called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Introductions of the Board and Audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present
4. Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved, Janet Turner seconded, that the minutes from the April 8, 2010 meeting be adopted as amended. The motion was adopted unanimously.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of May 13, 2010, there is $4430 in the checking account; $20,069 in the Smith Barney CDs; and $51 Post Office deposit, for a total of $24,550.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1 Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on May 27, 2010.
7.1.2. Vons Remodel – issue of realignment of driveway on Sunset side. The community wishes to see the driveway aligned with the intersection for safety reasons once the underground electrical vault is moved in approximately two years. Before the driveway can be aligned with Castellamarre this electrical vault must be moved. Mr. Kulla is seeking an agreement of the parties which would compel Vons to fund the relocation of their driveway in accordance with the community’s wishes once the vault is relocated. Discussion followed suggesting that Vons put up an escrow account; grade of the parking lot might influence feasibility of the project; and Von’s might not go ahead with this project as the project is expensive and its lease is up in 12 years.
7.1.3. AT&T/ Verizon Update. We are waiting to see renderings for 60 foot cypress in order to evaluate the acceptability of the proposed cell installation co-location on the south side of Sunset Blvd, just east of Capri.
7.1.4. A WTF (Wireless Transmission Facility) at 16101 Sunset Blvd. has shown up on the LA Planning early warning listing and may be of concern, warranting further monitoring.
7.1.5. Waldorf School / Los Liones signal. The City may require the school to fund sidewalk, curb and other requirements that the School finds prohibitively expensive. The City and Waldorf are working to figure out ways to cooperate and complete the signal project. The Council Office is involved in attempting to facilitate a solution.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office representative Jessyca Avalos passed out brochures on 405/Sunset Overpass construction project.
7.2.2. Senior Lead Officer, Michael Moore. Hot Prowl burglary: recently a resident did not answer door; burglar went to rear of home, broke window and proceeded to enter the home. Man then ran when resident confronted him. Officer Moore stresses that residents should let someone who knocks at your door know that you are home- you don’t have to answer it. Series of car break ins in Alphabet Streets – a juvenile was identified and will be turned in by parents. High School kids – not many crime reports – behaving well. Moore has been called out of area for other problems and assignments including a double homicide and has not been in the community as much as usual. Arrests involving high school drug dealings have been made. Richard Cohen expressed concern that the Palisades LAPD patrol car is spending too little time in the Palisades.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3 .1. Dick Wulliger of the Historical Society. Marc Wanamaker will speak on the Bernheimer Gardens on May 17 at 7 pm at Aldersgate Lodge.
7.3.2. George Wolfberg. PCH Taskforce / Cal Trans Meeting:
a.) The Bluff Stabilization project is completed. The EIR on California Incline Project will be available shortly and provide a comment period. It was suggested by Richard Cohen for the project to work 24/7 to speed completion. The project does not directly impact PCH traffic, although by closing an important exit from PCH, Coast Highway traffic will be adversely affected. Incline will be reinforced and widened for bikes going uphill.
b.) CHP now patrols PCH in an area near Topanga.
c.) Paddles have been installed on PCH near Gladstones to prevent U turns.
d.) Sylmar converter station’s excess current is grounded in the Pacific Ocean. Overhead line goes over Mulholland to PCH. The grounding line might be rerouted to go down San Vicente . Other options would be to go down Topanga and then over the Highlands with poles 60 feet high and then down Palisades Drive (probably underground). Also, Sunset Blvd is a possibility. An environment assessment will be done to determine which option is best.
7.3.3. Stuart Muller. Blight on PCH requires a council resolution to present to representatives. Stuart will draft a resolution for our next meeting.
7.3.4. Jack Allen announced that the city is considering placing the burden of the cost of repairs of sidewalks on to homeowners. Richard Cohen agreed to bring this issue up at an upcoming WRAC meeting.
7.3.5. Joyce Brunelle. Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce Community Expo is on Sunday, May 16th from 10-2 on Via de la Paz near Antioch and an art show on the Village Green. There will be 50 booths, antique cars and music. This event is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and is free of charge.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Citizen Dinner Committee. Janet Turner congratulated Citizen of the Year winner Rose Gilbert and all the Sparkplug winners. She extended a special thanks to those who helped her on the Citizen’s dinner including Haldis Toppel, Mary Cole, Marguerite Perkins, Christy Dennis, Kurt Toppel for parking, Ted Mackie on awards, Andy Frew for drinks and Jim, Ray, Roberta Donahue and the Palisades Post.
8.2. Pacific Palisades Gateway Signs Committee. Stuart Muller will have a report for the meeting on June 10, 2010.
8.3. Report of Nominating Committee. Steve Boyers said the call for nomination of officers of the Community Council was publicized in the Palisades Post. The committee has nominated Janet Turner for Chair; Haldis Toppel for Vice-Chair; Cathy Russell for Secretary and Ted Mackie for Treasurer. Nominations are still open until the first meeting in June.
9. Old Business.
10. New Business.
10.1. Area 3 Alternate Selection of Christy Dennis. A motion to confirm Christy Dennis to be Area 3 Alternate was made by Janet Turner and seconded by Paul Glasgall. The vote was unanimous.
10.2. Proposed Septic Ordinance Presentation.
Chandra Silaban of the Sanitation Department of Public Works Department of the City of Los Angeles. The City is proposing a new ordinance to control high risk septic installations. The new law would impose requirements for inspection, impose some fees and generally provide better protection of ground water quality, protect streams and ocean water. There are 172 septic tanks located in Pacific Palisades with 41 considered to be high risk. In 2005 the City signed a MOU with the state and received an extension to comply until the end of 2010. Septic systems in high risk areas will need inspections every 3 years instead of the previous 5 years. Maintenance helps to prevent failures. Homeowners will need to either repair, connect to sewer lines nearby or replacement of the septic system might be required by the inspection. Ordinance will, for the most part, reaffirm and codify practices that are already in effect.
10.3. Sepulveda Pass Widening Project.
Kasey Shuda and Mark Vangessal (sp) CalTrans and Metro addressed the Board in connection with the I-405 Sepulveda Pass Widening Project. This involves a 10 miles stretch of the San Diego Freeway (I-405) between the Santa Monica Freeway (I-10) and the Ventura Freeway (US-101). The work will be divided into 3 sections with work being done at same time. The Sunset segment will have daily closures (listed on Website metro.net/405). Work will be done 24/7 but closures will be done in off peak hours. According to Mark Vangessal, segment Manager from Sunset to Getty Ramps, an HOV lane north bound will be added. Construction will take place on both north and south sides. This also includes widening of the Sunset bridge by demolishing one side then routing both directions of traffic over the remaining side. It will take about 20 months to complete construction of the new Sunset overcrossing over the 405 freeway. On and off ramps will be usable during project. Dates for demolition of the bridges north of Sunset at Getty and Mulholland have not yet been determined. The freeway will be entirely closed for 6 nights for this work. Ramp from Sunset to N 405 will be totally rebuilt with 2 lanes. Project is design/build – a process which is faster and more flexible in dealing with unexpected events. Project has completion incentives to encourage early completion. Sunset N off ramp will be rebuilt. Church Lane will not be modified. However, Church Lane will be closed for 6 months due to unrelated DWP work. DWP and Caltrans are cooperating to coordinate water, power and related construction work and integrate DWP requirements into the Caltrans construction. Construction will never close two consecutive ramps freeway ramps. Kiewit Pacific Construction Co. is the construction contractor. Funding for the project is mostly state funds with some local and substantial federal stimulus funding. Contact Information; Email I405@metro.net, Phone 213-922-3665, Facebook facebook.com/405project, Twitter twitter.com/I_405.
11. General Public Comment.
Temescal Canyon Park Native Garden Cleanup. Barbara (audience member): Cleanup and rescue of native plant garden on Temescal to take place on Sat May 29th. A member of the cleanup party will be celebrating her birthday party and everyone is invited to help with the clean up.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:36p.m.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR MAY 27th 2010
[Names of attendees not recorded.]
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission.
2. Introduction of the Board and Audience.
3. Certification of Quorum – 13 voting members required.
4. Adoption of Minutes – May 13, 2010.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on June 10, 2010.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s Office.
Jessyca Avalos reported that on Saturday between 9 am and 11:30 am Temescal Canyon will be closed between Sunset and PCH because of a charity race at Pali High. Many Council members were upset because the Council was not so advised in advance. Ms Avalos said that she would look into the matter. Approximately 45 minutes later, after the Council had proceeded to other business, Ms. Avalos reported that she had consulted with the organizers of the race, and they had agreed that the closure of Temescal Canyon was unnecessary, and therefore it would not be closed on Saturday.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore was not present and no report was given on his behalf.
7.2.3. Callie Hurd, Field Representative for State Senator Fran Pavley presented Fran Pavley’s newsletter, and indicated that a bill had passed to allow homeowners to deduct from their property taxes expenses incurred in installing energy efficient equipment, and that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors had voted to adopt those provisions. She also said that federal tax credits would still be available.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Flo Elfant requested reimbursement of up to $500 to promote a planned public awareness meeting set for June 29 at 7 pm at the Women’s Club. Gil Dembo so moved, and Steve Cron seconded the motion, which was passed unanimously.
7.3.2. Stuart reported that on May 13 at 11:30 pm he was awakened by loud music on the beach. He later discovered that there was a Jonas Brothers concert taking place and reported it to the authorities. The event lasted until 2 am. In the future, residents may call Film LA (213 977 8600 ext 2) 24 hours a day to report improper filming. Events at Will Rogers Beach should not last past 10 pm, unless given prior approval.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Report of Nominating Committee. George reported that nominations are still open until closed by the Chair at the next meeting.
8.2. Report on Cell Towers on Palisades Drive and Reservoir Project.
Paul Glasgall reported that the DWP has completed work on re-surfacing the reservoir and will start filling it this week until November when it will be emptied, colored, and a top placed on it. It should be finished in the Spring of 2011. Paul also reported that there was a meeting regarding the cell towers in the Highlands. He said it did not look promising that the cell towers could be placed at the reservoir because DWP will only allow a 5 year lease so it’s not feasible for cell companies to build towers knowing that they could only be used for 5 years. He said that it’s unlikely that DWP would extend the length of those leases. Another possibility is to use only 4 microcell towers, made up of 3 in the residential areas, one at the base of the canyon, thereby leaving the canyon unspoiled by cell towers. The only disadvantage of that proposal is that there would be minimal reception in the canyon.
8.3. Report on Baseline Hillside Ordinance.
George reported that the City Planning Commission approved the proposed Baseline Hillside Ordinance provisions at their regular meeting today, and has recommended to the City Council that they adopt the hillside regulations as shown on Exhibit A of the May 27, 2010 Staff Report . At the meeting on May 27, many elected officials wrote in support of the ordinance. The next step will be to take the proposed Baseline Hillside Ordinance provisions before the Planning & Land Use Management Committee (PLUM). PLUM is a Subcommittee of the City Council that reviews all planning related matters. Issues still unresolved were grading haul routes, retaining wall standards and ridge protection. The Planning Commission is starting studies and will conduct hearings for each.
It was also announced that the Planning Department is re-organizing into geographic areas. The Palisades will be covered by the West LA and Harbor branch areas.
9. Old Business.
9.1. Construction Debris on PCH.
Stuart’s motion, which was modified by Jack, and seconded by Harry (and which is attached below, as modified) was approved unanimously, and the Council further directed that the following letter accompany the resolution which should be sent to all of those officials listed on the resolution: The Council would appreciate your providing us with a response within 90 days regarding any and all efforts you have made to achieve these goals.
10. New Business.
10.1. [Area 4 Alternate.] The recommended Area 4, Alternate #2 , Clifford Nelson, was approved by the Council.
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
ATTACHMENT
Item 9.1 — Pacific Palisades Community Council Resolution regarding CALTRANS MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT BLIGHTING THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY IN PACIFIC PALISADES
Whereas California’s scenic Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), is a national, state and local treasure that attracts visitors from throughout the world, and
Whereas that portion of PCH that is within the city limits of the City of Los Angeles is designated in the City’s General Plan as a Scenic Highway, and
Whereas the section of PCH that transverses the community of Pacific Palisades, linking the cities of Santa Monica and Malibu, is used by more than ten million vehicles annually, and
Whereas this area has been blighted for decades by Caltrans equipment and materials stored along it’s northern boundary, in the Palisades Bluffs Preserve (open-space, park land) and the Castellammare areas of Pacific Palisades, and
Whereas these materials were intended to be used for three major land stabilization projects that were essentially completed in 1994, and
Whereas community members and organizations have been urging that the remaining materials be removed since then, to no avail, and
Whereas a California Coastal Commission Enforcement Division investigation of this situation last year found no Coastal Commission permits issued for long term storage of materials at any location on the PCH in Pacific Palisades, and
Whereas meetings with Caltrans officials over the last four years have not resulted in any significant improvement in this situation, The Pacific Palisades Community Council requests that your office use all available means to have these materials and equipment removed quickly, and to have these areas restored to an aesthetically pleasing condition.
Send to:
Gov. Schwarzenegger
Sen. Pavley
Kara Seward
Assemblywoman Brownley
Jessie Switzer
Michael Miles, Director, District 7, Caltrans
LA County Supervisor Yaroslavsky
Major Villaragosa
Councilman Rosendahl
Norm Kulla
Andrew Willis, California Costal Commission
_________________________
MINUTES FOR JUNE 10th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, George Wolfberg, Harry Sondheim, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Jack Allen, Chris Spitz, Trish Bowe, Cathy Russell, Stuart Muller, Barbara Kohn, Mary Cole, Christy Dennis, Haldis Toppel
Non-voting Members in Attendance: Norma Spak, Quentin Fleming, Trish Bowe, Lorainne Oshins
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. The Chair read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of the May 27, 2010 meeting were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of June 10, 2010, there is $4,368.36 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,088.22 CD, for a total of $24,507.44.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on June 24, 2010.
7.1.2. All area representatives and at-large member are seeking re-election.
7.1.3. The Election Committee will consist of five non-candidates: Dick, Norma, Mary, Janet, with Ted as Chair.
7.1.4. The Newsletter Committee will consist of Janet, Christy, Chris, with Haldis as Chair
7.1.5. Vons Update. City engineers who have looked at the Sunset driveway onto the Vons property have concluded that its present configuration is unsafe, so they’ve contemplated putting bollards in the street to keep people from making a left turn into or out of the Vons lot. The City is now negotiating with Von’s to re-align the driveway so as to align with the Castellamare intersection.
7.1.6. The Bernheimer property on Sunset is listed for sale for $17.5 million.
7.1.7. At the recent WRAC meeting there was talk of making the cost of sidewalk repairs and tree trimming the homeowner’s responsibility. The Chair asked Jack to draft a memo and a motion in this regard.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office, Jessyca Avalos.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore — Not present.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Lachman Lane Fire. Christy advised that on the Friday before Memorial Day there was a fire at the top of Lachman Lane. ADT notified the fire department which was able to put out the fire with minimal damage. Haldis Toppel is working with the Fire Department, LAPD, State Parks, and the private patrol services to address the illegal smoking and drug activities at the fire road and the state park (referred to as “Top of the World’) at the end of Lachman Lane in order to prevent fires and other dangers in the area.
7.3.2. Trish Bowe announced a Disaster Preparedness town hall meeting at 7 pm on June 29 at the Women’s Club.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Report of Nominating Committee. Steve Boyers, George Wolfberg, Stuart Muller. There were no new nominations. The Chair declared that nominations for officers are closed.
8.2. Jack announced that a new, 13,000 square foot home is being built on Puerto del Mar. The home is 43 feet high and utilizes 43 caissons. If neighbors are concerned about the size of this home, they should contact Area 4 representative Harry Sondheim or Area 4 alternate Robert Baker.
9. Old Business.
10. New Business.
10.1. Election of Officers. All candidates were elected: Janet Turner, chair; Haldis Toppel, vice-chair; Ted Mackie, treasurer; Cathy Russell, secretary.
10.2. Area 3, Alternate #2. The three chairs committee recommended Jennifer Malaret. The board approved Jennifer’s appointment.
10.3. 17020 Sunset Proposed Multi Unit Apartment Bldg. Stefano Coaloa and his architects and engineers spoke to the Council about his proposal to build an apartment building at 17020 Sunset Blvd. Mr. Coaloa and his representatives said that the building was in compliance with all applicable building codes and required no variances. No action was taken by the Council.
10.4. Pacific Palisades Gateway Signs. Stuart reported on behalf of the committee that they had received approximately 30 responses from individuals in the community, and 5 from community groups. The community is divided as to whether or not to have signs, where they would be located, and their design. On the whole, Stuart asserted that there were stronger opinions against the signs than in favor of them. The committee recommended that signs of the newly proposed design not be installed. Sam Rubin, president of Palisades PRIDE, and Peter Scolney, past president of Palisades PRIDE, spoke in favor of the signs. Since there was no evidence of strong community interest in the signs, the issue was tabled. This issue may be revisited if proponents of the signs can demonstrate community support in favor of the signs.
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR JUNE 24th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Richard Cohen, Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Steve Cron, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Jack Allen, Barbara Kohn, Mary Cole, Haldis Toppel, Steve Boyers, Bob Baker, Geoff Shelden, Quentin Fleming, Lorraine Oshins, Joyce Brunelle, Mary Cole
Non-voting Members in Attendance: Jennifer Malaret, Norma Spak
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Janet Turner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The minutes of the June 10, 2010 meeting were adopted.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of June 24, 2010, there is $4,329.36 in the checking account; a credit with the Post Office of $50.86, and a $20,088.22 CD, for a total of $24,468.44.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on July 8, 2010.
7.1.2. Area Reps seeking reelection must submit statements by the next Council meeting.
7.1.3. Vons Update. There were no changes, but the Chair indicated that Vons employees and city officials are attempting to work out plans to align the Vons entrance with the intersection of Castellammare.
7.1.4. PCH meeting at Pavley’s office. At the meeting regarding Cal Trans debris left on PCH the Coastal Commission representative indicated that Cal Trans did not have proper permits to store their materials along PCH, so Cal Trans is now looking for alternate locations to store their debris.
7.1.5. Waldorf School indicated that they have a plan to install a traffic light before school starts in the Fall.
7.1.6. An Emergency Preparedness meeting will take place on June 29 at 7 pm at the Women’s Club. The public is invited and there is no charge.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Jessyca Avalos was not present.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore was not present.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Verizon in Highlands. Paul reported that at a recent Board of Public Works meeting, it was agreed that Verizon would re-locate 2 poles at the upper part of the Highlands, and that there was no opposition to a pole near the DWP station or near Sea Ridge. However, Paul and others representing the Highlands strongly objected to the proposed 43′ pole in the canyon. The BPW preliminarily authorized the pole in the canyon, but agreed to a 30 day postponement so that community members could attempt to come up with alternative proposals.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Election Committee of five non-candidates: Dick, Norma, Mary, Janet, Ted as Chair. There was no report.
8.2. Newsletter Committee: Janet, Christy, Chris, Haldis as Chair. Janet asked for suggestions for newsletter articles.
9. Old Business.
9.1. AT&T renderings of proposed new cell site at Sunset and Capri.
John Delavigne, representing AT&T, showed renderings of cypress simulated cell towers. He also indicated that neither Verizon nor Sprint were willing to co-locate their cell towers. Mr. Delavigne was asked about the possibility of putting cell phone antennas on light poles, and he said this has been done in other locations and that the Bureau of Street Lighting is receptive. A straw vote of Council members indicated that the Council was generally in favor of placing cell towers on light poles, and AT & T was asked to consider the possibility of combining light poles and cell phone antennas. He indicated that he would look into it and report back to the Council at a future meeting.
10. New Business.
10.1. Sidewalk Repair, cost and liability – Jack Allen (see attached material below) [note: attachment not included/unavailable.].
Upon motion by Jack, seconded by Steve, the Council approved the following resolution:
“PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION RELATED TO SIDEWALK ORDINANCE
Whereas nearly half of all sidewalks in the City of Los Angeles are in need of repair, and these sidewalks cause injury to those who walk on the sidewalks and subjects the city to liability, and
Whereas the City of Los Angeles is facing a serious budget shortfall, and
Whereas, an Ordinance has been drafted (CF 05-1383-S1) that would Amend Subsection (e) of Section 62.104 of the LAMC to transfer liability and responsibility to property owners for repair of curbs, driveways and sidewalks due to tree root damage; and
Whereas the City does not allow the adjoining property owners to remove the root cause of the sidewalk damage, i.e. the offending trees, and
Whereas the Pacific Palisades Community Council is desirous of promoting both tree-lined streets and safe sidewalks;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that the Pacific Palisades Community Council :
1. Opposes the proposed ordinance as it is currently written.
2. Opposes any transfer of liability for slip and fall accidents on the sidewalk to the adjoining property owner.
3. Requests that there be adequate time for review and comment by Neighborhood and Community Councils.”
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR JULY 8th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Executive and Primary: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Richard Cohen, Cathy Russell, Paul Glasgall, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Chris Spitz
Voting Alternates: Norma Spak, Jennifer Malaret, Susan Orenstein, Richard Wulliger, Trish Bowe, Amy Kalp
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Kurt Toppel
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Stuart Muller read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. Introduction of the Board and Audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Richard Cohen moved, Marguerite Mautner seconded, that the minutes from the June 24, 2010 meeting be adopted as amended. The motion was adopted unanimously.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of July 8, 2010, there is $4,062.07 in the checking account; $20,088.22 in the Smith Barney CDs; and $50.86 Post Office deposit; for a total of $24,201.15.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on August 12, 2010.
7.1.2. Executive Committee will be Ted Mackie, Richard Cohen, Cathy Russell, Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel plus George Wolfberg and Richard Wulliger, subject to confirmation.
7.1.3. Vons Update. According to Norm Kulla Vons will take responsibility for realigning the driveway and has committed $250,000 toward it. There is still bureaucratic work to be done but it is moving forward.
7.1.4. Waldorf School. According to Norm Kulla the traffic signal project is looking positive. There is a Getty-Citizens meeting on July 13, 2010 to go over more of the details.
7.1.5. Cell Towers. According to Norm Kulla the City Attorney is reviewing its policies concerning the regulation of cell towers. The City Attorney has also hired Jonathan Kramer, an expert who Chris Spitz and Barbara Kohn introduced to them.
7.1.6. Area Representatives seeking reelection must submit statements by July 8, 2010. All current area reps have complied.
7.1.7. A new telephone number for Pacific Palisade Community Council is 310-666-9003. This is a message line.
7.1.8. The Community Council recognized Betty Lou Young’s passing by sending a basket to her family and passing around a bereavement card for Council members to sign.
Janet Turner, Chairing her first meeting since taking office, said that she has some new ideas to bring to the Council. Janet feels very fortunate to have people on the Council with years of experience that she would like to tap into, and she wants PPCC to be in the forefront of grass roots efforts to influence government.
7.1.9. Richard Cohen presented a certificate to Steve Cron thanking him for being an outstanding secretary of the Community Council. Richard praised his service to the community and urged Steve to stay involved with the Council.
7.1.9 a. Janet Turner honored Richard Cohen thanking him for his 2 years serving as Chairman of the Council and presenting him with a plaque. Jessyca Avalos, on behalf of Councilman Rosendahl, Norman Kulla and herself, presented Richard with a Certificate from the City.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s Office – Jessyca Avalos.
DWP (Department of Water and Power) Update. Council sent proposal to consider watering 3 days a week for a shorter period of time rather than two days/week. Days would be staggered according to house numbers. This proposal goes back to DWP for their recommendations. Due to the Budget crisis the DOT has lost many staff members. Dial 311 for only true emergencies. If no response, call Councilman’s Office.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore. Phone 310-444-0737.
Michael Moore will be walking around the neighborhood and leaving “Leave It, Lose It” cards on cars to help prevent vehicle break-ins.
Motorcycle speeding along Sunset Blvd. is a noise issue for the Community. Officer Moore believes that scouts are sent ahead to warn motorcyclists when police are present. LAPD has deployed 2 patrol cars on various nights to curtail the activity. Moore needs to be emailed informing him of such activities. He was given a video of last night’s motorcyclists’ activities from resident Jon McKown, and petitions gathered by residents from Amy Kalp.
Other discussion: 911 calls usually go to LAPD first then to CHP; speeding is easier to enforce than noise issues; Jessyca said that Senator Pavley has submitted legislation regarding noise issues of motorcycles and option of filing a civil law suit were topics. Speeding complaints should be directed to Captain Lauer. West LATraffic Community Advisory Board will meet on Wednesday, July 14 and Captain Lauer will be there.
Please let Janet know of any meetings that are happening that might concern the Community Council. She would like to attend and introduce herself.
[Comments by Haldis Toppel regarding Items 7.2.1 and 7.2.2 above:
Item 7.2.1. Due to the Budget crisis the DOT has lost many staff members. Dial 311 for only true emergencies. If no response, call Councilman’s Office.
The statement is misleading: 311 is for non-emergency calls, 911 is for true emergencies. I understand what you are trying to say here, but as a public statement, it is incorrect and misleading.
The statement would more appropriately read:
Due to the Budget crisis the DOT has lost many staff members. Call 311 with important non-emergency complaints. If no response, call the Councilman’s Office. For true emergencies, call 911.
Item 7.2.2. Other discussion – 911 calls usually go to LAPD first then to CHP;
This statement is incorrect: It should read:
Generally, 911 cell phone calls throughout most of California go to the California Highway Patrol. However, 911 cell phone calls that originate from within the city limit of Los Angeles go directly to the LAPD 911 emergency dispatch center and not to CHP.
Haldis]
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Verizon in the Highlands – Paul Glasgall. They will be meeting with Verizon next week to see their proposal. So far, Verizon has been unresponsive.
7.3.2. PCH Task Force. George Wolfberg says next meeting will be in the Fall. To address the unsafe condition at PCH and West Channel when making a right turn from West Channel on to Chautauqua, the stop sign limit line will be moved.
Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer construction is due to start in the Fall and will close a southbound lane on PCH from Temescal to Santa Monica City border during the day and two southbound lanes at night. The project should take approximately 2 years with the lane open during the summer months. Also, a rented bridge will be provided for bicycles. The California Incline project is delayed as work continues on the EIR.
7.3.3. Richard Cohen, continuing the report from the PCH Task Force, said that the homeowners at Malibu Village complained that bollards on PCH installed near Gladstone block views from the driveway. The bollards will need to be adjusted.
City of Malibu wants the CHP to help the Sheriff’s Department patrol PCH.
7.3.4. Debris on PCH. At a meeting at State Senator Fran Pavely’s office a Coastal Commission representative said that debris storage areas would require Coastal Commission permits and do not qualify, so other areas for storage are being looked at; primarily north of the City of LA on County land. Stuart Muller says everyone is working on the problem because the debris is on open-space parkland and should be cleared.
7.3.5. Potrero Canyon. George Wolfberg presented a colorized map of Potrero Canyon (from Norm Kulla’ office) depicting in red an area that must be stabilized for safety. This involves bringing in soil, which action would generate the need for a hearing for a haul route and an installation of a temporary signal. Catch basins for runoff, if installed, must be maintained. Discussion of landscaping included where and what would be planted. The trust fund still exists. Coastal Commission is mandating 10 parking spaces and involves a citizens’ advisory report.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Election Committee will be Dick Wulliger, Norma Spak, Mary Cole, Janet Turner and Ted Mackie as Chair. Election of Representatives and Opening for Alternates in Area 2 and Area 7 publicized with postings at the Post Office, the Chamber and the Library, and will be in Palisadian Post next Thursday.
8.2. Newsletter Committee will be Janet Turner, Christy Dennis, Chris Spitz and Haldis Toppel as Chair. Statements of candidates will be published. Janet Turner wishes to have pictures submitted in the newsletter of the candidates. The newsletter will go out September 7th and pictures should be submitted by August 1st to hrtoppel@aol.com.
8.3. Flo Elfant thanked the board for funding on the Emergency Preparedness Pamphlets. The event was a success with over 110 people attending.
8.4. Jack Allen. Movie Shoots in the Alphabet Streets have caused neighbors to complain. One woman could not get out of her driveway and had to cancel a doctor’s appointment. Jack believes that movie shoots no longer need to get permission from the homeowners who’s properties surround the shot location, and that neighbors need some protection. Also, It was also pointed out that the Alphabet streets are narrow and there is limited space for large vehicles and parking. Jack suggested that the matter be put on the agenda for August or September. According to George Wolfberg, there is a Citizen Advisory Committee that deals with these type of issues and currently there is an opening. It was mentioned that you can contact Film L.A. by calling 311 if filming on your block is a problem.
9. Old Business.
9.1. AT&T renderings of proposed new cell site at Capri and Sunset.
John Delavigne of AT&T presented renderings of cell installations integrated into street lamp poles as requested previously by the Council The reaction was generally favorable to the design. Delavigne stated that the City will permit such installations and AT&T has the capacity to substitute such installations for otherwise free standing antenna towers. Final design will be presented on August 12, 2010. Marguerite Mautner will take it to the Homeowners Meeting for approval. The Board is very pleased with the design and praised ATT for working with the Council and the community.
9.2. PCHS (Palisades Charter High School) perimeter fence banner policy.
Harry Sondheim introduced a motion to adopt the PCHS Perimeter Fence Banner Policy. It went through committees at PCHS and they made changes and sent it back, but did not go to PCHS Board. Harry moved and George Wolfberg seconded the motion. Discussion followed regarding banner policies. The motion was adopted. See motion below.
10. New Business.
10.1. Election Procedures.
Since according to the Bylaws “If the 30-day notice cannot be given prior to the July meeting, prospective non-incumbent candidates shall be given at least 30-days to comply with this subparagraph and the filing deadline for the 100-word statement established in subparagraph D1. also shall be extended,” George Wolfberg proposed that prospective non-incumbent Candidates filing be extended until August 7, 2010. This motion was seconded by Harry Sondheim. The motion was adopted.
“MOTION TO AMEND THE PPCC PROCEDURES FOR ELECTIONS.
At least 30 days prior to the July meeting of the Council, the Elections Committee will prepare and post a Notice of Elections which sets forth the offices up for election, the qualifications necessary for the offices, the deadlines for submitting nominations, and where a copy of these procedures is available. The Notice should also include the telephone number or numbers of persons who may be contacted for information on the elections. If the 30-day notice cannot be given prior to the July meeting, prospective nonincumbent candidates shall be given at least 30-days to comply with this subparagraph following the first publication of notice in the Palisadian Post and the filing deadline for the 100-word statement established in subparagraph D 1. also shall be extended.”
10.2. Improving outreach through our website.
Janet asked the committee to look at Brentwood Community Council’s Website www.brentwoodcommunitycouncil.org and Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/BrentwoodCommunityCouncil for ideas.
10.3. Need for Standing Committees.
Various standing committees need to be created to stay on top of issues such as signage and communication to organizations and outreach to the community. Janet Turner proposed the following such committees and their scope.
10.4. Discussion of the City’s Street Furniture Program.
Public Works Committee Meeting July 7, 2010. Board of Public Works (BPW) report relative to preparation and submittal of request to the California Coastal Commission for categorical exclusion from Coastal Development Permit requirements in connection with the Coordinated Street Furniture Program. City Attorney asks input from the Community Council. We believe an EIR should be required for a planned 120 installations along the coast.
Richard Cohen reiterates that the Community Council opposes any exemptions from any rules that might restrict the street furniture regulations.
Richard Cohen introduced the following motion:
“The Pacific Palisades Community Council reiterates its opposition to the installation of street furniture in our Specific Plan areas, Scenic Highways and any installation not approved in advance by the Community Council. Furthermore, we oppose the granting of any exemption from our Coastal or environmental regulation of such installations.”
Dick Wulliger seconds the motion. The motion was adopted.
10.5. Ted Mackie expressed concern regarding the September meeting due to conflict with a Jewish holiday. Janet will check into the availability of other dates.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:59 PM.
ATTACHMENT: ITEM 9.2 — MOTION: Harry Sondheim moved that the Board approve the “PCHS Perimeter Fence Banner Policy’ as set forth in the attachment to the minutes below.
PALISADES CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL PCHS PERIMETER FENCE BANNER POLICY
This policy addresses banner placement on the perimeter fences at Sunset Blvd. and Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Blvd. and El Medio Ave. We reserve the right to make a policy regarding banner placement elsewhere on campus.
A. BANNERS OF OUTSIDE GROUPS
1. No banners on Sunset Blvd.
2. All banners to be at least five feet from Sunset (we can use the compromise line for Temescal Canyon Road and can create a similar line for El Medio Ave.).
3. Limited at one time to 4 banners on Temescal Canyon Road and 2 banners on El Medio Ave.
4. These banners will be put up on Tuesdays and taken down on Tuesdays and can remain up for 2 or 3 weeks, with PCHS approval.
5. The banners of an outside group cannot be put up more than 4 times a year.
B. BANNERS OF PACIFIC PALISADES CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL
1. No banners on Sunset Blvd.
2. Banners on Temescal Canyon Road will be to the left of the compromise line as one faces the fence, but, if PCHS deems it appropriate, signs will be placed even more to the left.
3. Banners on El Medio Ave. will be at least five feet from Sunset Blvd., using the line set forth in A2 for El Medio Ave.
4. Limited at one time to 4 school-related banners on Temescal Canyon Road and 4 on El Medio Ave.
C. ALL BANNERS There will be a standardization of the size of all banners, to be determined by PCHS.
D. AMENDMENTS
1. This agreement will be subject to amendment upon the approval of both the PCHS Board of Directors and the Pacific Palisades Community Council.
2. After an event has occurred, its banner will be removed on the following Tuesday.
3. All banners not authorized by the PCHS will be removed.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 12th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: George Wolfberg, Amy Kalp, Dan Rosenthal, Chris Spitz, Barbara Kohn, Harry Sondheim, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Joyce Brunelle, Christy Dennis, Peter Fisher, Jack Allen, Gilbert Dembo, Paul Glasgall, Marguerite Mautner, Ted Mackie, Janet Turner, Cathy Russell
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Quentin Fleming, Steve Cron
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Christy Dennis read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Introductions of the Board and Audience
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved and Janet Turned seconded that the minutes from the July 8, 2010 meeting be adopted as amended including changes to item 7.3.6. According to Jack Allen 7.3.6 was omitted. Jack Allen stated he was getting complaints from neighbors about film crews filming on the narrow Alphabet Streets sometimes blocking drive ways. He stated that the film crews and the homeowners seemed to have no regard for the neighbors. Several council members made suggestions and Allen will investigate.
Allen also commented that on the May 27th meeting the issue of closing streets without first notifying PPCC was raised. The Council moved to have the matter placed on the Agenda on its next meeting. However the minutes of the May 27th meeting were revised and did not mention this item. Allen stated he sent a proposed motion to the Chair and received an email back that the next agenda was full and unless there was a rush it would be placed on the Agenda for the next meeting. Allen noted that it was not placed on the subsequent Agenda, and requested that it be placed on the next Agenda
The motion for the adoption of the minutes from July 8, 2010 as amended was passed unanimously.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of August 12, 2010, there is $3,060.79 in the checking account; $20,106.08 in the Smith Barney CD’s; and $50.86 in the Post Office deposit, for a total of $23,217.73.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on September 23, 2010. Chair asked if anyone knows of a child/grandchild (around 10-13 years) willing to help hand the microphone for speakers at community council meetings.
7.1.2. George Wolfberg & Dick Wulliger elected to Executive Board.
7.1.3. LAPD Traffic Committee report. Captain Laurer assigned more officers to Sunset on Wednesday nights because of the motorcycles problem, and it has been quieter. Amy Kalp reported that at the recent CPAB meeting she told the City Attorney that the motorcycle riders have declared war on our area. He is hoping more police presence will solve it, but if it does not his office may take action. The City Attorney asked the police to keep him informed.
7.1.4. WRAC Update. The WRAC Land Use Committee will be discussing such issues as Sober Living Homes and ADUs this year; expect to see this issues on PPCC agendas as well.
7.1.4.a. Updates. Board member Stuart Muller was on vacation but submitted the following update: it was noted that the clean-up has begun of the debris on PCH. A violation was reported at Camp Surf and Turf concerning a sign on a fence and a storage unit. The situation has been rectified.
7.1.5. George Wolfberg moved and Jack Allen seconded that Ron Dean be retained as PPCC’s legal counsel. The appointment passed unanimously.
7.1.6. Temescal Canyon Storm Water Best Practices Project Coastal Permit was approved but is being appealed.
7.1.7. WRAC Update. Accessory Dwelling Units, Sober Living Units will be on the WRAC agenda in the next few months.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman’s Rosendahl’s Office – Jessyca Avalos. Community events information should be sent to Councilman Rosendahl’s office Thursday before noon to be included in Events Calendar.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore was not in attendance.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Baseline Hillside Ordinance Update. Jack Allen reported that the final City Council approval for the Ordinance should be within 2-3 weeks. Councilman Rosendahl was pushing for view restrictions, more restrictions for zone overlays but not enough votes. There was no opposition to the current proposed ordinance and it should pass.
7.3.2. CPAB Meeting — Discussed above.
7.3.3. Fire in Highlands Canyon. Paul Glasgall reported that two fires were put out in the Highlands canyon last week. One was believed to be started by either sunlight or cigarettes. There appears to be a problem with smoking on the road near trailheads and in the canyon. It might help to make the canyon on Palisades Drive a no parking zone.
7.3.5. Verizon in Highlands Update.
Paul Glasgall said that there was a good meeting with Verizon representatives, and Board of Public Works Commissioner Paula Daniels. Verizon agreed to consider moving the first tower on Palisades Drive 100 feet closer to Sunset, and the second tower will remain in the proposed location in the canyon. Verizon has indicated that it will consider utilizing street light poles for the additional three facilities on upper Palisades Drive, and will consider constructing the two towers in the canyon with a similar design. One of the benefits of this is the likelihood that this will set a precedent for future towers in the canyon. The Above Ground Facility (AFG) ordinance controls these facilities because they are in the public right of way. Although the ordinance by its terms covers only AGF cabinets, not poles, “monopoles” such as those proposed for Palisades Drive are still required to go through the AGF permit process. Chris Spitz reported that a working group of community leaders City-wide, including Chris and Barbara Kohn on behalf of PPRA, has formed and will discuss the cell tower regulation issue with Ted Jordan and others in the City Attorney’s office at a meeting scheduled for September 22.
7.3.6. Update on Police Substation. Haldis Toppel not in attendance. No update.
7.3.7. Signs Down on Sunset at Palisades High School. Harry Sondheim and PaliHi’s operation’s manager Maisha Cole Perri have worked out an agreement which prohibits banners on the school fence on Sunset and limits signs on Temescal and El Medio. The banner about Movies at the Park was in violation and has been removed. Harry was pleased that Pali High worked closely on the agreement and hopes that the Palisades Post notes that they have helped to beautify the community.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Election Committee of five non candidates. The election committee is Dick, Norma, Mary, Janet and Ted, as Chair. Any requests for withdrawal must be done by tonight, none reported. All incumbents are running for re-election unopposed. Area 3 has two new candidates running: Jennifer Malaret and Jim Rea.
8.2. Nomination of new alternates for Area 2 and Area 7. George Wolfberg for Richard Cohen nominated and Margarite Perkins seconds Area 7 Alternate Steven Boyers and for Area 2 Steve Cron. Both nominations passed unanimously.
8.3. Newsletter Committee (Janet, Christy, Chris, Haldis as Chair). Christy reported that the newsletter is ready for the printer. The newsletter will go to 10,085 residences. They need help in obtaining addresses in the Polo section of 90049. Cathy will help get the street names and addresses.
9. Old Business.
9.1. AT&T renderings of proposed new cell tower at Sunset/Amalfi.
John Delavigne of AT&T presented the redesigned cell tower using an existing street light at Sunset and Napoli. The final pole will be wider in diameter b/c coaxial will be inside pole. Bureau of Street Lighting (BSO) is considering the plan making sure electrical and other requirements are met. The Council said it was a great design and Harry said that we should go on record to thank AT&T for their efforts.
Marguerite Perkins Mautner proposed and Chris Spitz seconded the motion.
MARGUERITE PERKINS MAUTNER’S MOTION: “I propose a motion that we, as the Community Council of Pacific Palisades, extend our appreciation to AT&T for the efforts they have done to facilitate the best cell tower for our neighborhood. We would hope that it would become the model for future installations.”
The Motion was passed with one abstention.
9.2. New committees and their chairs and members were proposed. George Wolfberg moved and Harry Sondheim seconded that the proposed new Committees and their chairs and members be accepted. The motion passed unanimously. The list of committees is attached.
9.3. Old committees reinstated. The Chair reinstated many old committees, and reassigned a chair and members to these committee. The list of committees is attached.
9.4. Social Networking for PPCC. Presentation by Peter Duke. Facebook page at www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Pacific-Palisades-Community-Council/141636772532227?ref=sgm
10. New Business.
10.1. City of LA Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer Project (CIRS) Presentation.
Project is possible because of the Clean Water Bond Project (Proposition O) passed in 2004 to allocate $500 million for clean water in Los Angeles. With input in 2008 from George Wolfberg and Andrew Card the Coastal Interceptor will function in winter as well as in summer to improve water quality in Santa Monica Bay by increasing capacity necessary to removing low flow diverted bacteria-laden runoff. According to Andy Flores, project manager, this project is scheduled to begin in the fall. During construction, at least 2 of the 3 southbound lanes between Will Rogers State Beach parking lot across from Potrero Canyon and the Annenberg Community Beach House will be open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. At least one southbound lane will be open from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. The three northbound lanes will not be affected. The contractor will construct about 3,100 ft. of the 4,500 ft. relief sewer on PCH and the other 1,400 ft. in the parking lots of Will Rogers Beach and the Santa Monica Beach Club. The bike path at the bottom of Chautauqua where it crosses the Santa Monica Channel will also be affected by the construction and a temporary bridge will be erected for the cyclists. Work in parking lots will be during daytime hours and between Labor Day and the 2 weeks before Memorial Day. George Wolfberg expressed the need to keep that portion of the bike path cleared of sand particularly during construction, or at least providing weekly sweeping.
George Wolfberg moves and Harry Sondheim seconds Motion # 1:
“The PPCC urges the City of Los Angeles, and other entities with projects impacting PCH traffic, to take all possible measures to reduce traffic on PCH including “Z” traffic, including the posting of appropriate electronic message boards to deter “Z” traffic, and steps to encourage car-pooling and time-shifting of less critical trips. Further, the City of Los Angeles, through the City Engineer, is respectfully requested to report to the PPCC, prior to award of any contracts for CIRS, on all steps taken to implement the intent of this motion.” (See full motion attached below.)
Motion passes unanimously.
Jessyca Avalos says that she would work with LA Dept of Public Works to set up e-mail blasts and twitter alerts.
George Wolfberg moved and Harry Sondheim seconds Motion # 2:
“PPCC urges the City of Los Angeles, CalTrans, the Department of Water and Power, the City’s Board of Public Works, the City Council and the Prop O steering committee to take all necessary measures to remove all poles, wires, transmitters and transformers from the ocean side of the highway, by taking advantage of the current opportunity to install the necessary infrastructure to place the unsightly poles, wires, transmitters and transformers under the ground. Further, the Board of Public Works and Councilman Rosendahl are requested to report to PPCC before construction begins what steps will be taken to place these underground.” (See full motion attached below.)
Motion passes unanimously.
[11. Adjournment.] 9:00 adjournment by the Chair.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 10.1 — Motion # 1 PPCC MOTION RE TRAFFIC MITIGATION DURING CONSTRUCTION OF CIRS
Whereas, Construction by the City of Los Angeles of the Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer (CIRS) will require excavation of a portion of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) between Temescal Canyon Road and the existing Sewer in the City of Santa Monica, and
Whereas, as a result of CIRS construction, a minimum of one lane of PCH will be closed for an extended period by the placement of “K-rail” barriers for the safety of motorists and workers, and
Whereas, current commuting traffic levels create traffic jams with the existing three travel lanes, especially when school is in session as well as during summer peak travel times, and
Whereas, it is well known that a portion of this traffic consists of commuters taking canyon roads including Kanan-Dune, Malibu Canyon and Topanga Canyon Roads from the 101 Freeway as well as through traffic from the Oxnard Interchange (“Z” traffic), and
Whereas, these traffic jams create a public safety hazard as emergency responders are delayed, and
Whereas, cut-through traffic on streets not engineered for such levels of traffic is endemic in our canyons as well as heavy traffic on the alternate roads such as Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Blvd, and,
Whereas, these problems will be exacerbated when traffic on PCH is reduced to two or fewer traffic lanes, not including the added impact from ongoing construction on the 405 and planned closure of the California Incline, and
Whereas, the PPCC Board of Governors (PPCC) believes that all steps possible should be taken to reduce traffic along PCH during these construction periods, including discouraging persons who have other options from driving on PCH toward Santa Monica,
Now, therefore, the PPCC urges the City of Los Angeles, and other entities with projects impacting PCH traffic, to take all possible measures to reduce traffic on PCH including “Z” traffic, including the posting of appropriate electronic message boards to deter “Z” traffic, and steps to encourage car-pooling and time-shifting of less critical trips. Further, the City of Los Angeles, through the City Engineer, is respectfully requested to report to the PPCC, prior to award of any contracts for CIRS, on all steps taken to implement the intent of this motion.
ITEM 10.1 — Motion # 2 PPCC MOTION RE UNDERGROUNDING OF UTILITY POLES ALONG PCH
Whereas, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in City Council District 11 is designated as a Scenic Highway, and,
Whereas, the Transportation Element of the City General Plan provides as follows with respect to utilities:
a. To the maximum extent feasible, all new or relocated electric, communication, and other public utility distribution facilities within five hundred feet of the center line of a Scenic Highway shall be placed underground.
b. Where undergrounding of such utilities is not feasible, all such new or relocated utilities shall be screened to reduce their visibility from a Scenic Highway.
And,
Whereas, during construction of the Santa Monica Canyon Low Flow Diversion Upgrade [Santa Monica Bay Low Flow Diversion Upgrades Pkg 4], the $6.8M Prop. O/Prop 50-financed third upgrade to the diversion works at this location, the additional above ground poles/transformers in center of photo, below, were installed adjacent to the new above ground control cabinets in the beach parking lot at Entrada Drive, and
Whereas, there are myriad poles and electrical and other communication wires as well as a proliferation of cellular transmission facilities that have been erected and maintained along the scenic highway between Entrada Drive and Temescal Canyon Road over the last few years, in all likelihood without approval of the California Coastal Commission, and
Whereas, these installations bespoil one of the most iconic vistas of surf and sand in the City of Los Angeles, and
Whereas, Prop O funds are being used to restore the basically landlocked Echo Park Lake and bring back the lotus blossoms at a cost of $84.2M and to improve the Machado Lake eco-system including the installation of “smart irrigation?h of the park landscape at a cost of $117.4M, and,
Whereas, Construction by the City of Los Angeles of the Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer (CIRS) will require excavation of a portion of PCH and the beach parking lot between Temescal Canyon Road and Entrada Drive and beyond, thus creating a continuous deep trench along this same length of scenic highway, and
Whereas, the great cities of the world have placed electrical and transmission lines underground, and
Whereas, the PPCC strongly believes the City of Los Angeles should make the Palisades Community and the hundreds of thousands of visitors to this area “whole” by taking all necessary steps to eliminate this unwanted industrial blight from our viewshed,
Now, therefore, the PPCC urges the City of Los Angeles, Cal Trans, The City Engineer, The Board of Public Works, the City Council and the Prop. O steering committees to take all necessary measures to remove all the poles, wires, transmitters and transformers from the ocean-side of the highway by taking advantage of the current opportunity to install the necessary infra-structure to place the unsightly poles, wires, transmitters and transformers under the ground.
Further, the Board of Public Works and Councilman Rosendahl are requested to report to the PPCC before construction begins on what steps will be taken to place these items underground.
ITEMS 8.2 & 8.3 — List of committees, chairs and members
City/State Budget Committee. This committee would keep track of changes in the City of Los Angeles Budget and the State of California Budget that are affecting Pacific Palisades. This committee would alert the Council to items that need to be questioned or opposed, and make recommendations.
Jennifer Malaret – Chair, Robert Baker,Jack Allen, Quentin Fleming
Land Use Committee. (There are many items that can come under this, but immediately I see this committee following the Vons Remodel, and working with DWP which is planning a new station in the Marquez Knolls.) This committee could meet with developers and let us know if their projects should be brought before the council. Another issue that they could address, and that seems to be a growing concern in the Palisades, is over height fences built at the sidewalk.
Chris Spitz – Chair, Paul Glasgall, Barbara Kohn, Jennifer Malaret, George Wolfberg, Stuart Muller, Jack Allen
PCH Committee. This committee would send a member to the quarterly PCH meetings, keep us up to date on the Caltrans upcoming two year sewer project. In addition this committee would keep us up to date on the Santa Monica incline, and work on solving any issues that come up during its period of construction.
George Wolfberg – Chair, Richard Cohen-Co Chair, Dick Wulliger, Barbara Kohn, Steve Cron, Stuart Muller
Safe Streets Committee. This committee would look at the Motorcycle problem on Sunset on Wednesday evenings. It would look at the general speeding problem in town, and in the Highlands. It would evaluate any suggested street closings for community events. And it might also want to address parking issues.
Paul Glasgall – Chair, Jennifer Malaret, Amy Kalp, Harry Sondheim
Beautiful Palisades Committee (formerly Blight Busters).This committee would find diplomatic ways to work with organizations, apartment buildings, and businesses that are not living up the Specific Plan and that are hanging extraneous signs that have become a blight on Pacific Palisades.
Harry Sondheim – Chair, Stuart Muller, Gil Dembo, Steve Boyers, Geoff Sheldon
YMCA Committee. Will research community concerns about the YMCA’s grounds at Temescal Park, and will recommend possible solutions. Those approved by the Council will be discussed with the Y.
Richard Cohen – Chair, Ted Mackie, Jack Allen
Outreach Committee. This committee will explore the possibility of PPCC getting a Facebook page, with suggestions on how to best use it to reach Palisades residents and get them more involved in community issues. It will also explore piggy backing on the Chamber of Commerce blog. And it will make suggestions of ways to get more people to go to and see our Webpage.
Janet Turner – Chair, Ted Mackie, Christy Dennis, Peter Fisher, Trish Bowe, Eric Bollens – Advisor
Cell Tower Committee. Continue to keep the Council up to date on the latest issues and recommend action that should be taken at the City level, Community level or with the Carriers.
Chris Spitz, Jack Allen, Barbara Kohn
Newsletter Committee. Prepares the Newsletter twice a year.
Christy Dennis – Chair, Haldis Toppel, Chris Spitz
Youth Representatives Committee. Nominates the students who will be youth representatives on PPCC.
Haldis Toppel – Chair, Dick Wulliger
By Laws Committee
George Wolfberg – Chair, Richard Cohen, Harry Sondheim, Stuart Muller, Ted Mackie, Jack Allen,Steve Boyers, Haldis Toppel
Community Service Award
Richard Cohen – Chair, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers
Holiday Dinner Committee
Marguerite Mautner – Chair, Mary Cole, HaldisToppel, Christy Dennis, Cathy Russell
Sparkplug Award Nominations
Ted Mackie – Chair, Norma Spak
Youth Representative
Richard Cohen, Mary Cole
Sparkplug Dinner
Haldis Toppel – Chair, Christy Dennis, Marguerite Mautner, Mary Cole, Kurt Toppel, Cathy Russell
Election Committee for Area Representatives
Ted Mackie – Chair, Norma Spak, Mary Cole, Janet Turner
Committee of 3 Chairs. This committee will nominate alternates to the board.
George Wolfberg, Richard Cohen – Chair, Flo Elfant
Organization Representatives Committee. This committee contacts the organizations that are eligible per the by-laws rotation schedule and arranges for a rep or alternate.
Haldis Toppel – Chair
_________________________
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 23, 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Cathy Russell, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jennifer Malaret, Robert Baker, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Susan Orenstein, Richard Wulliger, Chris Spitz, Mary Cole, Geoff Shelden, Steve Boyers
Non-voting Advisors: Kurt Toppel
1. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Stuart Muller read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Introductions of the Board and Audience
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a Quorum was present
4. Adoption of the Minutes. Marguerite Perkins Mautner moved and George Wolfberg seconded that the minutes from the August 12, 2010 meeting be adopted. The motion was passed unanimously.
5. Consideration of the Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of September 23, 2010, there is $1,287.54 in the checking account; $20,105.45 in the Smith Barney CD’s; and $0.00 in the Post Office deposit for a total of $21,392.99.
As of September 10, 2010 there were 288 contributions from the mailing totaling $5,575,00. The Mailing cost a total of $7,701.65 leaving a deficit of -$2,126.65.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1 Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be held on October 14, 2010.
7.1.2. Meeting change notice. The November 18, 2010 Community Council Meeting will NOT be held at the library. Location TBA.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Jessyca Avalos, representative from Councilman’s Rosendahl’s Office, was not present but sent the following announcements: 1. AB 2576 is expected to be signed by the Governor. It will prohibit unhitched trailers with advertising; 2. Neighbors are complaining about the Pali High swimming pool lights, and a meeting to address this issue will be held sometime in October; 3. The Waldorf School has the funds for the installation of the traffic signal at Los Liones and Sunset Blvd. and is moving forward with the installation; 4. Vons has one more permit to get and then, will proceed with their remodel and do the driveway realignment at the same time.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore reported on a fire at the PCH construction shack near Potrero Canyon. Richard Cohen asked how often our “A” car has been taken out of the Palisades. Moore said he didn’t have the exact figures but would relay our concern about the lack of a dedicated police car in the Palisades to his sergeant.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Ted Mackie of the Election Committee reported the results of the recent election. All incumbents were reelected, except in Area 3 which elected Jennifer Malaret.
7.3.2. Stuart Muller reported on the fire at the shack on PCH and the on-going clean-up effort for the Via Mesa Bluffs/Mouth of Potrero Canyon. Currently the area is blighted and needs to be cleaned up; there is evidence of abandoned camp sites and trails. A person was supposedly given permission to live in the shack (no utilities) at this site from the previous contractor. Another person is also occupying an abandoned pipe. This area is controlled by the City’s General Services. We are waiting for a green light from the City to remove the blight. Officer Moore says the man who lives in the Pipe is elusive and Moore can only remove him if he is able to personally connect with him.
[Note: Item 8 taken out of order (see below); item 9 not included.]
10. New Business.
10.1. Proposed Community Care Facility Ordinance (Sober Living Homes).
On behalf of the Land Use Committee, Jennifer Malaret briefed the Council and presented a motion to support the general approach taken by the City of LA’s Ordinance. However, the Land Use Committee has determined that there are six (6) areas of major concern that require the City to further amend its proposed Ordinance. Accordingly, PPCC’s support for the Ordinance is contingent upon incorporation of the proposed terms and conditions. Richard Cohen moved and Jack Allen seconded the motion. Motion is attached.
Discussion followed.
The Board raised issues concerning enforcement jurisdiction, people per home, land use designation.
Mona Lisa Fortenberry, President of Southern California Sober Living Coalition, felt that the modification in the definition of “family” (as in single family residence) in the proposed Community Care Facilities Ordinance would exclude people recovering from drug and alcohol abuse and hinder them in living together in R1 zones. She cited that in 1980 the California Supreme Court ruled in Santa Barbara vs Adamson that people living together in a home who are recovering from addictions cannot be treated any differently than other people choosing to live together. The Sober Living Coaltion would challenge the definition of family in the proposed ordinance.
Jeff Christensen, Project Director, Sober Living Network, made the following points against the proposed CCF Ordinance based on violation of privacy and Fair Housing Laws: 1. The Zoning decision is based on opinion rather than evidence. 2. No objective data has been identified or presented by the City of Los Angeles as a finding for its proposed Ordinance. 3. He suggested that the data indicates that these homes do not negatively impact on neighborhoods and that there is no impact on property values. He cited a 1997 American Planning Report. 4. He says that there is an absence of negative data. 5.The real response of the Coalition to the proposed ordinance is that we want to work together with the City to use and enhance the existing abatement procedures for those Sober Living Facilities (SLF) that are a real problem. 6. The City’s proposal ignores the Santa Barbara case law. 7.The Lompoc Ordinance and Attorney General’s Opinion do not involve disabled persons and therefore cannot be cited. 8.He believes that Councilman Smith’s Ordinance has a discriminatory effect. 9.The City of Los Angeles has an established record of going against the disabled as they attempt to find suitable housing. 10. The proposed Ordinance has a disproportionate impact on the disabled. 11. He suggested strengthening existing nuisance abatement procedures.
Other concerns included: Sober living homes do not have to have a license and provide a group living situation. These are created to provide a continuum of care for those who have completed a 30-60 treatment program to have a sober living environment free from drugs and alcohol.
Rebecca Lobl, LA Coalition for Neighbors, supports the PPCC motion and thinks it should be passed. She feels that it is a good first step, although she thinks it doesn’t go far enough. She is concerned about for profit group homes in residential neighborhoods. There is nothing in place to guarantee that the residents are sober and remain so. The character of the neighborhood is affected including late night noise disturbance, stream of expletives being voiced, drug use and increased police calls. She mentioned that fees being charged at Sober Living Facilities in the Palisades are between $100-$500 per night.
Jack Allen stated that sober Living homes are a problem therefore creating a need for an ordinance. Allen felt that this situation stems from misinterpretation of the Federal Fair Housing Act.
Chris Spitz and the Board thanked Jennifer Malaret and Jack Allen for their efforts.
The motion passed unanimously.
10.2. Verizon Presentation.
Cell Tower on Sunset in the Riviera – Rob Searcy, Consultant to Verizon.
The current proposal is to locate a cell tower on the SW corner of Sunset and Capri. Proposed facility would be 35′ above ground. A design option was presented that would conform to current old fashioned street lights by using a similar green base structure to help it assimilate into the current environment. Additional landscaping will be provided to help cover the above ground facility cabinets.
The proposed location is objected to by a resident (Mr. Starrels) as the location is right in front of his house. It is also objected to by other residents of the Riviera in attendance. Mr. Searcy explained that the location has to remain on the south side of Sunset with other considerations being line of sight, technology, vegetation challenges and underground challenges. Mr. Starrels says an eastern location is preferable. Since children are at the bus stop, no tower should be located there. He suggested the Verizon pole be placed near the Sprint Tower which is East of Capri. Anita Jewison, a neighbor who represents a group of Riviera residents, and other Riviera residents present, said the west side of Capri is not acceptable. They would prefer a location near the current Sprint Tower and state that Sprint tower is not near a home and generally not that visible when you are driving in the area. She asked if we can have a sculpture there. The overall reaction was that a sculpture would bring the tower to everyone’s attention when we really want it to blend into the scenery. Mr. Searcy suggest a standard Pole similar to Sprint’s but perhaps in a brown muted color. Residents agreed that was more acceptable then the old fashion design.
George Wolfberg asked if the box with the equipment could be buried if at all possible. Mr. Searcy responded that the underground structure might be a problem but he will try to come up with a solution. Mr. Searcy will come back to us with options, and is tentatively set for October 28, 2010 meeting.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Janet Turner said goodbyes to Alex Lehrhoff and Elizabeth Volpicelli as Youth Representatives, as well as Mary Cole as AARP representative and Kevin Niles as American Legion Representative. Each was presented with a certificate.
8.2. Motorcycle Noise. It appears to be improving. A motorcycle noise bill is on the Governor’s desk, and is expected to be signed.
8.3. Organizations Committee. Chair Haldis Toppel announced the following new organizations and representatives starting October 1, 2010.
Organization Representative, Alternate
Chamber of Commerce Joyce Brunell, Nicole Howard
Historical June Payne, Dick Wulliger
PPRA Chris Spitz, Karyn Weber
Temescal Canyon Assoc. Gil Dembo, Susan, Orenstein
PRIDE Geoff Shelden
Library Amy Kalp
Women’s Club Trish Bowe
AYSO Janet Anderson
Pacific Palisades Civic League Carl Mellinger
YMCA Carol Pfannkuche
Lions Club Gordon Wong
Garden Club Barbara Wold (announced after the meeting)
[Note: Item 9 not included; item 10 taken out of order (see above]]
[11. Adjournment.] 9:02 adjournment by the Chair.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 10.1 — TALKING POINTS SUMMARY
PROPOSED COMMUNITY CARE ORDINANCE & PPCC MOTION
1. Why Has the Board Been Given the Motion?
The City Planning Department has drafted proposed amendments to the existing Los Angeles Municipal Code (the “Ordinance”) to help reign in problems associated with illegal and unlicensed group living homes, including drug & alcohol treatment facilities and “sober living homes”, that are operated out of single family residences in areas that are zoned low density (R1, RD1.5, R2 and RD). The City believes that this Ordinance is necessary to enable the Department of Building & Safety to effectively enforce the City’s zoning laws with respect to transient homes in residential neighborhoods. By strengthening certain language and definitions, the City believes that Building and Safety can work closely with the City Attorney’s office to prosecute these cases and protect the established character of residential neighborhoods.
2. What Are the Problems?
Homeowners throughout Southern California and the City of LA have raised concerns regarding transient residential uses in single-family neighborhoods. These concerns include high occupancies, secondhand smoke, aggressive behavior, foul language, traffic congestion, parking problems, excessive noise and police activity. In areas of Los Angeles such as Mar Vista and Venice, there are concentrations of multiple group homes operating on a single block. Here in Pacific Palisades, we now have three (3) sober living facilities operating out of single-family homes in R-1 zoned neighborhoods. The Council is informed that there are a number of other sober living facilities being planned for in the near future in single-family homes within the Palisades. Because these facilities are unregulated and unlicensed, it is impossible to determine the number of operators, number of locations, quality of operators, approved fire clearances, local building use permits, possibility for on-site inspection and review, and compliance with basic health and safety standards.
In addition, group parolee homes can currently operate as a “family” in any single-family area within Pacific Palisades. They are not restricted, as other correctional institutions are, as a conditional use permit in these zones.
3. Why Are These Uses Housed In Residential Neighborhoods?
The Fair Housing Act protects persons with special needs, including recovering drug and alcohol addicts, from being discriminated against because they are classified as disabled by federal law. California has enacted a complicated series of laws and regulations to support the placement of disabled persons into single-family residential neighborhoods.
On a municipal level, there have been four other cities that have passed so called “sober living” ordinances (akin to the Ordinance now proposed by Los Angeles). Murietta and Riverside chose to regulate sober living homes as a “class” or particular housing “use”. The City of LA rejected the Riverside/Murietta approach due primarily to right of privacy and constitutional concerns. Newport Beach passed an ordinance seeking to regulate sober living and other community-care facilities by using an elaborate permitting scheme, including a 27-page conditional use process. Two years of litigation ensued and Newport has spent over $2 million defending claims. With a still uncertain outcome, the City of LA adopted portions of the Newport Beach ordinance but rejected its overall approach . Finally, Lompoc adopted a regulatory scheme that the State Attorney General has upheld which prohibits boarding/rooming houses in low-density residential zones. Since LA’s zoning code has prohibited boarding houses in single-family and R2 zones for over 40 years and, in light of the AG Opinion, LA chose to model its Ordinance after the Lompoc approach.
4. What Does the City’s Proposed Ordinance Do?
In areas zoned low-density residential, the Ordinance seeks to provide an effective enforcement mechanism to prohibit transient uses by creating “bright line” definitions between boarding/rooming houses, on the one hand, and family (as a “single housekeeping unit in one dwelling unit”) on the other . As applicable to the Palisades and other areas of LA, there are four possible community care, i.e., “sober living” scenarios:
State Licensed Facilities, Serving Less than 6 Residents – cannot be covered by the proposed Ordinance. As mandated by state law, these facilities can operate in any zone that permits single-family homes.
Unlicensed Facilities, Serving Less than 6 Residents – residents must be members of the same household. Common areas and chores must be shared and there cannot be single locked doors, hotplates, mini-refrigerators, etc. If a household takes in a boarder, that person must become a household member. No more than one oral or written lease can be in operation. If there are multiple lease agreements, then the use is classified as a boarding/rooming house and becomes subject to abatement proceedings.
State Licensed Facilities, Serving More than Seven Residents – are allowed to operate as “Public Benefits” provided that they meet seven performance tests (parking, access, noise, residential character, night lighting, peaceful enjoyment and density restrictions).
Unlicensed Facilities, Serving More than 7 Residents – see subparagraph (b) above.
Finally, with respect to group parolee homes, the ordinance seeks to clarify definitions that subject them to the CUP process in residential neighborhoods.
5. What is the PPCC Motion Asking Me to Vote On?
The PPCC Motion asks for your vote to support the general approach taken by the City of LA’s Ordinance. However, the Land Use Committee has determined that there are six (6) areas of major concern that require the City to further amend its proposed Ordinance. Accordingly, PPCC’s support for the Ordinance is contingent upon incorporation of the following terms and conditions :
Clarification that there can be absolutely no unlicensed community care facilities or “sober living” homes operating in low-zoned residential neighborhoods;
Community care facilities must be located 300 feet apart;
Community care facilities must be 2,000 feet from schools, churches, temples and other places of religious worship;
Public hearings shall be required before the City may make a determination relative to the “Public Benefits” test;
There shall be no “grand-fathering” in for existing community care facilities that are currently in existence but operating unlicensed or illegally licensed; and
Correctional or Penal Institutions, including group homes, are entirely prohibited from locating in residential zones – meaning that there is no chance for these operators to use the CUP process.
September 23, 2010 – MOTION
Community Care Facility Ordinance – Chris Spitz and Jennifer Malaret. Upon motion by _________, seconded by __________ the Council approved the following resolution:
PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION RELATED TO THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES’, DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, RECOMMENDED COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY ORDINANCE –
Whereas the City of Los Angeles has determined that it is necessary to modify the Los Angeles Municipal Code’s (“LAMC”)’s existing definitions of family and boarding/rooming houses, and adding the definition of single housekeeping unit, as a way to provide effective tools for the City to enforce its zoning laws with respect to transient types of group homes operating in single family neighborhoods.
Whereas the City of Los Angeles has proposed amending Sections 12.03, 12.05, 12.07, 12.07.01, 12.07.1, 12.08, 12.08.1, 12.08.3, 12.08.5, 12.09.1, 12.09.5, 12.10, 12.12, 12.12.2, 12.21, 12.22, 12.24, and 14.00 of the LAMC to add definitions of Community Care Facility, Residential Care Facility for the Elderly, and Alcoholism or Drug Abuse Recovery or Treatment Facility to the LAMC to bring it into conformance with the California Community Care Facilities Act. As mandated by State law, the ordinance permits these State licensed facilities with six or fewer residents in any zone that permits single-family homes. It also permits those with seven or more residents as public benefits, requiring performance standards. The proposed ordinance also amends the definitions of Boarding or Rooming House and Family to provide clear guidelines for the appropriate enforcement of boarding homes with transient characteristics and prohibits Boarding or Rooming Houses in one-family dwellings zoned RD. Lastly, it adds a definition for Correctional or Penal Institution to ensure that group homes for parolees are classified as conditional uses.
Whereas the Pacific Palisades Community Council is desirous of protecting the established character of it’s low-density residential neighborhoods and preventing the location of group homes in SFR’s within R1, RD1.5, R2 and RD zoned areas.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that the Pacific Palisades Community Council supports the proposed Ordinance, provided that the following changes are incorporated:
There Can Be No Unlicensed Community Care Facilities – Part 1 of the proposed Ordinance shall be amended to clearly state that there will be no (a) unlicensed facilities serving six or fewer residents and (b) unlicensed community care facilities serving seven or more residents eligible for the “public benefits” test. This modification will bring the proposed ordinance into conformance with state law that requires any and all residential facilities to have a valid license to operate. Further, it is only through the State of California’s Department of Social Services licensing procedures that (among other things) the number of operators, quality of operators, approved fire clearances, local building use permits, on-site inspections and reviews, and health safety standards can be assured.
Concentration: Part 1 of the proposed Ordinance shall be amended to include a limit on over-concentration which states that all community care facilities must be located more than 300 feet from each other. Further, limits are necessary to address the City’s own findings that the over-concentration of licensed and unlicensed facilities create problems with parking, noise and incompatibility with the character and quality of residential neighborhoods.
Distance: Part 1 of the proposed Ordinance shall be amended to include a distance requirement of 2,000 feet from community care facilities to schools, churches, temples and other places of religious worship. This amendment will bring the proposed Ordinance into conformance with findings by the City of Los Angeles at PLUM hearings and other venues.
Public Hearings Shall Be Required: The Ordinance shall be amended to require a public hearing before the City may make a determination relative to the “Public Benefit” test and performance standards for licensed facilities of seven or more residents. As written, the proposed Ordinance utilizes a “ministerial process” that does not require a public hearing or letter of determination. We believe the fundamental principles of fairness and due process require that the City provide impacted communities the opportunity to be heard when a licensed community care facility with seven or more residents is seeking to locate in the immediate area. Further, we believe that any investigation or evaluation of Public Benefit by the City would be inadequate without public notice and comment.
Correctional or Penal Institutions Are Prohibited From Utilizing a Conditional Use Permit In Order to Locate In Residential Zones – the proposed Ordinance shall be amended to prohibit Correctional or Penal Institutions in R1, RD1.5, R2 and RD zoned areas. It is wholly inconsistent with the nature of low zoned residential neighborhoods to allow prisons, jails, halfway houses and group parolee homes to operate within them under a conditional use permit or otherwise.
No Grand-Fathering of Existing Facilities – It must be made clear that any existing (a) unlicensed or (b) illegally licensed community care facilities would have to comply with the new ordinance to be allowed. This clarification is required to ensure that all facilities are brought into compliance with the existing zoning code provisions that protect the character of established residential neighborhoods.
ITEM 7 — REPORTS [below]
1. Richard Cohen – CPAB Traffic Committee
2. Stuart Muller – Update on PCH Clean up
3. George Wolfberg – New state law regulating motorcycle noise
CPAB Traffic Committee Report – by Richard Cohen
On Tuesday, September 8, the West Los Angeles Community Police Advisory Board Traffic Committee met at the W. L.A. Police Station.
There was extended discussion of the traffic problems with resulted from the Presidential visit on August 16. Procedures are being discussed to prevent serious traffic disruption resulting from future visits by dignitaries.
The Traffic Enforcement sergeant responsible for our area explained that there is no change to policy or procedure with respect to the citing or towing of “abandoned vehicles” after 72 hours of parking. Although officers generally react to complaints they are entitled to take notice of unmoved cars on their own volition. The officer specifically disputed the facts of reported incidents of unreasonable towing of parked cars.
Councilman Koretz office reported that there is a new ordinance on the desk of the governor which would make it possible to take action against advertising trailers which are blighting the streets on the Westside. Like other vehicles, they are currently entitled to be stationary for 72 hours on public streets. The new law will further restrict mobile advertising billboards.
Mo from LADOT explained DOT’s new policy on what gets done and what doesn’t get done in today’s budget crisis. They are doing what the law requires them to do: respond to safety, accident and litigation issues. Not being done is a long list: no new loading zones, no new or changed parking restrictions, no new disability parking zones, no new turn signals or signs prohibiting turns, no humps, bumps or other traffic calming, no new crosswalks, no signals or stop signs, no parking new districts, and just about anything else you can think of – all discontinued. Mo is now Westside director of an office that employs only him.
Removal of Caltrans Construction Materials and Equipment Stored on the PCH in the Castellammare Area of Pacific Palisades – by Stuart Muller
I am concerned that we are two months into a project that Caltrans estimated would take four months to complete appears to be stalled, and that great number materials remain. On September 15, 2010, in preparation for the October PCH Task Force meeting at Sen. Pavley’s office, where the issue of Caltrans materials storage along the PCH is on the agenda, I inventoried the area and created a photo report, “An Inventory of Caltrans Materials Stored on the Pacific Coast Highway in the Castellammare Area of Pacific Palisades on September 13, 2010. “The plan is to present this inventory Caltrans at the next PCH Task force meeting, and urge them to commit to removing all items, including the construction fence, with all due haste. We need to know their intentions ASAP. Caltrans also needs to be made aware of our community’s great desire that the cleanup effort move forward, and that our city, county and state elected representatives and their staffs continue to be as determined as community members are to push forward forcefully for the permanent elimination of non-permitted storage of materials and equipment adjacent to the PCH in Pacific Palisades. In the future, I will create similar reports on the Caltrans and City of LA materials that are blighting in the Via Mesa Bluffs/Mouth of Potrero Canyon areas.
BILL TO REGULATE MOTORCYCLE NOISE – sent by George Wolfberg
Here is a chance to put a small dent in noisy motorcycles.
Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:48:06 -0700 From: “Kent Strumpell” <kentstrum@aol.com> Subject: Support motorcycle noise bill
I’m delighted to hear that there is a bill before the Governor to regulate motorcycle noise levels. I’m noticing more and more motorcycles with no mufflers, clearly flaunting the law. It’s such an invasive, juvenile practice it baffles me that there hasn’t been a crackdown. You can send an email to the Governor asking him to support AB 435 at http://gov.ca.gov/interact#email It should be no surprise that motorcycle enthusiast groups are mobilizing to defeat this. Kent
Transportation Motorcycle Noise Bill on Governor’s Desk
By Joe Eskenazi, Tue., Aug. 31 2010 @ 7:55AM Comments (4) http://blogs.sfweekly.com/thesnitch/2010/08/motorcycle_noise_bill_on_gover.php California doesn’t have a budget, but it may soon have quieter choppers. A bill aimed at cutting down the din of motorcycles passed out of the state Senate yesterday. If Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger — who owns more than a few motorcycles and famously rode one around on film — signs AB 435, it would require motorcycles sold in this state after Jan. 1, 2013 to display and maintain noise-reduction labels from the Environmental Protection Agency.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 14th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Richard Cohen, Cathy Russell, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jennifer Malaret, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Peter Fisher, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Geoff Shelden, Gilbert Dembo, June Payne, Chris Spitz, Trish Bowe, Mary Cole, Katie Takakjian, Amy Kalp
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Kurt Toppel, Aurelia Friedman
1. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Introductions of the Board and Audience.
2. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Marguerite Perkins Mautner read the Mission Statement.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a Quorum was present
4. Adoption of Minutes. Joyce Brunelle moved and Marguerite Perkins Mautner seconded the minutes from the September 23, 2010 meeting be adopted. The motion passed unanimously.
5. Consideration of the Agenda. The Chair considered the Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of October 13, 2010, there is $3,358.78 in the checking account; $18,128.50 in the Smith Barney CDs and $0.00 in the Post Office Account for a total of $21,487.28. We still have a deficit for the mailing.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be October 28, 2010.
7.1.2. Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC) Town Hall Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at 7 p.m. at the Felicia Mahood Senior Center (Corinth & Santa Monica Blvd.). Guest will be Michael LoGrande, from the Planning Dept.
7.1.4. Distribution of Community Service Award Guidelines and Appointment of committee.
7.1.5. Welcome to Organization Representative and Youth Representatives. Katie Takakjian and Aurelia Friedman.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s Office.
Jessyca Avalos reported that the Vons Market remodeling project is proceeding, they are committed and are awaiting Building permits. Waldorf School hopes to have the last Department of Transportation (DOT) studies by the end of the year or beginning of next so that they can proceed with the installation of the traffic signal.
The State has signed the “Ugly Sign” bill and this allows the City to proceed with their own ordinance to prohibit signs on unhitched mobile trailers.
The Commission that is drafting an ordinance to allow 5 dogs and 5 cats per household is moving forward. The Animal Services department is advocating this ordinance and has held meetings throughout the City to gather support and comments. Councilman Rosendahl supports this issue.
The DWP Grounding Issue (see 10.1 below – Sylmar Ground Return Replacement Project) is at the beginning stage and the Councilman has yet to take a position. The DWP had a presentation regarding the DWP Grounding issue before the Brentwood Homeowner’s Association last week and that as yet they have not taken a position (according to Don Keller, president).
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore is on vacation.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Stuart Muller reported on ongoing efforts to remove the derelict gatehouse and water tender (items related to the stalled Potrero Canyon Park landfill project) that have for so long blighted the area north of the Pacific Coast Highway at the bottom of the Via Mesa Bluffs. The City of LA Dept. of General Services and Department of Engineering cannot remove them until a man who has been living in them is removed. This process is being handled by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LASHA) with the intent to relocate the man and find him a home and perhaps a job. Stuart is in touch with the Director of LASHA, Mike Arnold, to push for a resolution.
7.3.2 Barbara Kohn reported that the Temescal Canyon project using Prop K funds has to replace the overhangs in the picnic areas. This will add additional time to the project.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Holiday Party, Thursday, December 9th. Marguerite passed sign-up sheets and urged everyone to participate. Donations of wine / soft drinks as well as food are needed; monetary contributions will be accepted in lieu of food.
8.2. YMCA Committee Report.
Richard Cohen reported that the YMCA’s purchase of the property at Temescal & Sunset from the Santa Monica Mountain Conservancy included commitments that limited the use of the property and that the Y, in many respects, is not in compliance with the terms of the purchase. Richard reported that he discussed these issues with Carol Pfannkuche, head of Palisades/Malibu YMCA. She acknowledges that there are issues, but must discuss them with both the local and regional Board. One of the issues of concern are banners along Sunset that are objectionable to the community. Richard reported that Carol expressed interest in an agreement similar to the one with Pali High School. Richard pointed out that the agreement with the high school prohibits banners facing Sunset Blvd. For now the YMCA has removed banners but they have made no assurances that they will not be replaced in the future.
8.4. Report from Public Hearing on Community Care Facilities (CCF – sober living – Ordinance) – Jennifer Malaret. The time period for public comment has been extended to January 13, 2011.
[Note: Item 9 not included.]
10. New Business.
10.1. Department of Water and Power (LADWP) Sylmar Ground Return Replacement Project.
Presentation – Juan Diaz-Carreras.
Fact Sheet www.lapwp.com/ladwp/cms/ladwp013603.jsp.
Full Report www.ladwp.com/ladwp/cms/ladwp013671.pdf.
Background
LADWP in assessing the existing electrical grid has determined that an integral part, the high-voltage direct current transmission system known as the Pacific Direct Current Intertie (PDCI) needs an overhaul. LADWP has been authorized by the PDCI partners to modify and to replace the PDCI overhead lines and underground cables to enhance the reliability and availability of the transmission system.
An integral part of the PDCI is the Sylmar Ground Return System which is designed to carry excess current when the PDCI is experiencing an anomaly. The Sylmar Ground Return System consists of 31-miles of overhead lines, underground cables and subsea cables that begin at the Sylmar Converter Station and terminates near Sunset and Pacific Coast Highway. It continues under the ocean for approx. 6,000 feet connecting to an electrode that provides a ?gground point?h at which the electric current can travel through the earth.
Project Alternatives
LADWP is currently evaluating three alternative alignments for the proposed project. All three alternative routes follow the same overhead route segment, known as the Main Overhead Alignment, from where the line originates in Sylmar to the intersection of Mulholland Dr. and Sullivan Fire Road. All three routes follow the same ocean-based portion of the electrode system (Submarine Alignment) and call for relocating the existing Sunset Vault and expanding the Gladstone Vault. The alternative alignments are referred to as the San Vicente Alignment, the Topanga State Park Alignment and the Sunset Alignment.
All three alignments pass through our Pacific Palisades Community Council District. Janet Turner said that the Land Use Committee has considered all three options.
The comment period for the preliminary Environmental Analysis on this project ends October 25, 2010. A draft EIR will be issued in the spring of 2011 with the Board Certification of the Final EIR expected in the summer of 2011.
George Wolfberg asked since trenching must occur along PCH, why can’t the many wires, poles, etc. be placed underground at the same time? Mr. Diaz-Carreras explained that the Return System (discharge system) must be separated from the live wire system by four times the depth. Because of this requirement, the trenching must be done as separate projects or systems and cost/time savings for a simultaneous project are questionable Chris Spitz commented that this possibility cannot be ruled out. Their project does not include this.
Gil Dembo: 17 miles of transmission will go through Topanga State Park that currently involves 200-300 towers. Mr. Diaz-Carreras said if this route is chosen, the current poles (of which there are 210) will be replace with 63 towers. However, these towers will be more than double the height of the current towers (120 feet high and 4 feet wide). According to Gil Dembo, this would deface a public park for more than 100 years.
Gil Dembo: we are the only community on the front line. The Topanga route is the only one that is on a public park .
Paul Glasgall asked about the cost/benefit of the various routes. None had been done.
Jennifer Malaret: Why does the project have to end where it currently does (near Gladstones)? If the undersea cable and equipment have to be replaced, why not located the end point at Entrada, therefore shortening the total route? Answer- New directional drill needed; more infrastructure in Ocean is needed to be connected with the cable. Current “ground point” has other uses attached to it and would be hard to move.
A full traffic study of all 3 alignments will be done in the spring as part of the EIR. There will be lane closures on PCH and/or San Vicente, but will not stop traffic.
Richard Cohen: concerned about the route through Topanga State Park. Should we take a position now, or wait until we have more information?
Land Use Committee suggestions: PPCC should express a position and make a motion now because the comment period ends on October 25, 2010. PPCC has been encouraged to submit a position statement on the three routing options. It would be meaningful to have support of the full Council.
Motion – “Pacific Palisades Community Council opposes the Topanga Route Alignment for the Sylmar Ground Replacement Project.”
Richard Cohen proposed and Gil Dembo seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously, with 2 abstentions. [See letter below sent 10/20/10.]
10.2. Department of Streets – Bill Robertson, William.Robertson@LACITY.ORG.
Budget for his department has been slashed to $134 million; only 190 working days. Pavement preservation is his first goal and has full funding for 4 years. The urban forestry budget has been cut by 50%; there is no money for tree trimming for the largest urban forest in the nation. There is $5 million for tree trimming by contract. Can create a partnership by working together; renting his people for individual projects and have work done on weekends at the rate of time and 1/2.
Street Cleaning
$332 for the Village – once a week frequency. In the past the City provided this. Mr. Robertson said he would try to have this restored. Streets with restricted street cleaning signs are cleaned once a week. Not posted residential streets are cleaned every 4 weeks; Residents can hire City personnel which must be paid with their own private funds to have it done more often.
Pavement
Complaint that the resurfacing of Chautauqua has failed and needs to be redone. Which streets are chosen for repair or replacement relies strictly on the Pavement Management Program. The fully automated software system determines the condition of the streets. He has implemented the Micro paver which saves money and time.
A 2005 list of Streets Needing Repair was presented by Barbara Kohn. She noted that few streets on the list have been taken care of. Robertson stated that it costs $300,000/mile to repave a street. Usually a mile is about 10 city blocks.
Guard rail collapse on Enchanted Way will be repaired on the 1st or 2nd week on November. The sunken street on El Oro and is creating a problem for properties on Jacon. Rain water runoff drains into the properties below and undermines the street and the hillside. Mr. Robertson promised a quick fix will be done prior to the rainy season but it might take a new bulkhead to prop up the street.
Sidewalk Repair
Homeowners own the property to the center of the street; the City has an easement to the center of the street.
50/50 Sidewalk repair is no longer available. The Property owner is responsible for repair of sidewalk adjacent to the property. In the 70’s the City became responsible for sidewalk repair if damage was caused by parkway trees. Currently there is a backlog of 1.2 billion dollars for repairs. Only general funds can be used for sidewalk repair. They are trying to broaden the scope to include monies from the gas tax. Property owner can ask for a no-fee permit and repair the side walk themselves.
Homeowner needs a no fee permit to trim a tree ; the City will send an arborist then a homeowner can do it on their own.
Speed Humps
City can partner with homeowners after approval from the Dept. of Transportation. A petition is needed. Important to contact Mr. Robertson directly if any neighborhood wants to do this.
Utility trenches, dug by utility companies, must be filled and resurfaced by utility companies. These companies are responsible for maintenance for one year. Not enough inspectors are available. There is a one year moratorium for utility companies to dig on streets that have been resurfaced. A large fee is assessed if a utility company cut/dig occurs prior to the year and decreased as time goes on. Cuts can reduce 7 years from street life.
Additional Promises from Bill Robertson:
1. Repave Akron Street between Lachman and Bienveneda.
2. Investigate the dead trees in the Highlands especially around Michael Lane, and find out if the water for these can be restored.
3. Look at the dead trees near the bottom of Palisades Drive, and look into the empty tree wells at the bottom of Palisades Drive in the Highlands and see if new trees could be planted.
4.Investigate the Camphor trees on Toyopa Drive which are very large and reported to have many dead branches that could be a safety issues to residents and their property.
5. Investigate the standing water problem at the 600 block of Radcliffe near Haverford.
11. General Public Comment.
Dick Littlestone said that the buildings at LA city public parks will closed on Sundays starting 2 weeks from now. While the outdoor areas will be available for use, he was concerned about the closed restrooms. After talks with park officials, Littlestone said that the restroom near the children’s play area at Palisades Park will be open from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. in the summer and from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. in the winter.
12. Adjournment – by the Chair at 8:57 p.m.
ATTACHMENT: ITEM 10.1 — Letter to LADWP
October 20, 2010
Via U.S. Mail and Fax 213-367-4710
Nancy Chung
Environmental Planner, LADWP
111 N. Hope Street, Room 1044
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Dear Ms. Chung,
The Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC), founded in 1973, is the official recognized representative body of the Pacific Palisades community. With the information presented to us at this time, PPCC, on October 14, 2010, unanimously voted to oppose the proposed Topanga State Park Alignment for the Sylmar Ground Return System Replacement Project.
The proposed Topanga alignment would travel above ground across a large section of the Topanga State Park located in the Pacific Palisades community. The project would involve the construction of 63 unsightly 120 foot high poles four feet in diameter running through beautiful parkland. This would create a permanent visual scar across a priceless recreational open space. In contrast, the alternative alignments would create no permanent despoilment of parkland. In fact, the alternative alignments would briefly disrupt traffic but would fade from memory and would thereafter be hidden from sight forever.
We strongly urge the DWP and related entities to prevent this visual blight in our parklands, and look to other Alignments for the Sylmar Ground Return System.
With best Regards,
Janet Turner, Chair
Pacific Palisades Community Council
310-573-0382
cc. Via e mail Councilman Rosendahl, Austin Beutner, General Manager, DWP, Lee Kanon Alpert, President DWP Commission, Juan H. Diaz-Carreras, AICP, Norm Kulla, Whitney Blumenfeld, Charles C. Holloway, Manager of Environmental Planning
_________________________
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 28th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Richard Cohen, Cathy Russell, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jennifer Malaret, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Peter Fisher, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Geoff Shelden, Gilbert Dembo, Chris Spitz
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Steve Boyers, Quentin Fleming, Barbara Marinacci, Gordon Wong, Mary Cole
1. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Introductions of the Board and Audience.
2. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Chris Spitz read the Mission Statement.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a Quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Richard Cohen moved and Marguerite Perkins Mautner seconded the minutes from the October 14, 2010 meeting be adopted with the correction of striking item 8.4. The motion passed unanimously.
5. Consideration of the Agenda. The Chair considered the Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of October 28, 2010, there is $3,526.30 in the checking account; $18,128.50 in the Smith Barney CDs and $0.00 in the Post Office Account for a total of $21,654.80.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1 Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be November 18, 2010 at the Methodist Church Hall, 801 Via de la Paz.
7.1.2. Candidate Statements for Alternates are due October 30, 2010.
7.1.3. Appointment of Community Service Award Committee. Richard Cohen, as Chair, Ted Mackie and Steve Boyers.
7.1.4. Get Well card for Youth Alternate Aurelia Friedman. Card being passed around to be signed.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s Office — Jessyca Avalos not present. Harry Sondheim noted that Jessyca asked him to announce that there was to be a meeting at Pacific Palisades High School Library this Sunday at 3:30 p.m. for the school and residents to discuss concerns of the residents relating to the school.
7.2.2. Lead Officer Michael Moore is on vacation.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Marguerite Perkins Mautner reported that the Holiday Party/Meeting on December 9 at Temescal Canyon still needs people to sign up to bring a food/drink item to the Pot Luck Dinner. Mary Cole will call to remind everyone about the party and their contribution. Spouses or significant others are also invited.
9. Old Business.
10. New Business.
10.1. Will Rogers State Park Road.
Steve Boyers said that he has received a number of complaints about a recent Polo (October 10th) event at Will Rogers State Park regarding parking and safety considerations. The Board discussed options to improve conditions near the park. Suggestions include:
1. Will Rogers Road itself is in bad shape. A request for repaving has been submitted to Mr. Robertson via email by Janet Turner. She has also spoken with the Councilman’s office and Jessyca Avalos has sent in a request to LADOT for traffic lines to be painted down the middle of the street.
2. New parking signs need to be installed. Current ones are few, confusing and worn. Jessyca Avalos has ordered the signs that will say “No Parking at Any Time.” Signs will be installed at appropriate locations.
3. Parking fees at the park should be adjusted to encourage more people to use the parking lot available rather than the street.
4. Alerting the City — Parking enforcement, West LA Traffic and LAPD is necessary to prevent dangerous illegal parking and overcrowding in the future.
Jill Eisfelder representing the residents presented the Council with a letter signed by 45 residential families and a packet of photos, illustrating the issues such as foot traffic and unsafe U-turns. At the October 10th Polo Classic event hosted by Veuve Clicquot. People were parked on Will Rogers Road from the Villa View stop sign to the hydrant before Sunset Boulevard along both sides of the street. Ms. Eisfelder also maintained that pot holes that exist are so dangerous that they are blowing out car tires and causing cars to swerve into oncoming traffic to avoid them.
Brian Temple, a resident, explained that on weekends people park their cars along the narrow road and walk to the park to avoid the $12 parking fee.
According to Lynette Brody, Ranger Superintendent of Will Rogers Park, the $12 parking fee cannot be adjusted because this is a department-wide issue that had to be made in order to keep the parks open. It takes more money to keep the park open than it takes in. Most of the time there are more than enough spaces available in the parking lot. Next year for the same event, she promises to provide adequate parking enforcement, notices to the neighbors and secure all the appropriate permits.
Lieutenant Perez from the Parking Enforcement said that with proper notification she can provide extra patrol in the area. Once the new “No Parking” signs are installed and people start getting parking tickets the issue usually resolves itself. Contact information for parking problems is LADOT Communication Dispatch 213-485-4184. As a secondary option, 818-752-5100 (this number is available 24hrs/7days a week).
Discussion followed about the problems created on the day of the event. State Parks are responsible and need to notify neighbors, and involve fire and police departments. John Pickens for Capt. Lauer said they need to know in advance about any large event. They can even have temporary road closures on the day of the event if advised in advance. Contact number at Front desk is 213-473-0222.
Fire Station 69’s Captain Ketaily said that he had never had a problem with Will Rogers State Road. However from the pictures of what transpired on Oct 10 he is concerned that emergency vehicles could not get up the road. He was not aware of this weekend situation and will send out some of his men to investigate on the weekends.
Richard Cohen suggested that parking enforcement send a ticket officer at regular intervals such as 10 a.m. Noon and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays so people will be discouraged from parking along the winding road.
Barbara Kohn strongly suggested that the community set up an on-going meeting with the State Park people. Monthly meetings could help work out issues in advance.
Stephanie Molen, from Senator Pavley’s office, was in attendance and can be reached at Stephanie.Molen@sen.ca.gov or 310-314-5214. Jesse M. Switzer, from Assembly member Julia Brownley’s office, was in attendance and can be contacted at jesse.switzer@lasm.ca.gov or 818-596-4141. In addition to many residents of the Will Rogers Park area, representatives from the LADOT (Jody Perez 310-312-3500) and the local fire station #69 were present.
10.2. Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) – Rate Payers Advocate.
Jack Allen presented attached motion. First correction — where Ratepayers Advocate appears it should state Ratepayers Advocate/Inspector General. Item II, 11. Should read: Structure (Water & Power Commissioners): If the Charter is amended pursuant to II.10 above, then the Mayor should appoint three Commissioners and four should be appointed by the City Council.
Three speakers addressed the Board: Jack Humphreyville – Advocacy Committee; Chuck Rey – Vice Chair, Neighborhood Council LADWP MOU Oversight Committee and Mar Vista Community Council; Noel Weiss – Favors the Advocate to be elected.
Jack Allen stated that the idea of a Ratepayers Advocate (RA) goes back at least 20 years and an advocate position should be created. This is addressed in the following motion. The RA should be appointed by the City Council, should have experience and should be a funded position from DWP revenues. The Mayor should appoint 2 commissioners and the City Council appoint the other 3.
Discussion followed as to whether the Ratepayers Advocate should be appointed by the Mayor or City Council or if it should be an elected position. Jack Humphreyville said that in 2003, Measure B was defeated because of severe rate increases in the Valley. The DWP was arrogant and the City Council backed down. DWP is the single largest source of cash for the City Council. Special projects, etc. add up to over $1 billion per year. Office of RA should be independent.
Discussion followed:
The City council needs the $250 million transfer fee from DWP and will not get rid of it.
The removal of the General Manager is by 2/3 of the City Council.
What will the RA be called and what will it do?
City Council is considering a 7 member commission with 3 year terms which will form the oversight committee of the RA. Need competent people with experience. Who appoints the members?
Chuck Ray -NC-LADWP-MOU Oversight Committee. Works on issues concerning the community. DWP motion must be in Rosendahl’s office no later than November 2.
Noel Weiss – Advocate for an elected RA. DWP is a proprietary department set up so the utility can be run by businessmen rather than elected officials.
The adoption of the Motion supporting the creation of a LADWP Rate Payers Advocate submitted by Jack Allen was moved by Jennifer Malaret as corrected. George Wolfberg second. Discussion followed.
Harry Sondheim suggested word changes that were accepted. Harry suggested that the aspect of parity for City Employees and DWP employees be removed, this was rejected by the Board. Richard Cohen asked that the paragraph regarding how DWP and the City should handle DWP’s surplus be changed. After some discussion the Chair suggested tabling this one point until the Council has more time to delve into it in depth. Richard Cohen moves to table the issue. Joyce Brunelle seconds.
Vote on the motion excluding the tabled paragraph:
“PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION as amended – RELATED TO THE CITY COUNCIL’S REQUEST FOR WRITTEN COMMENTS AND RESPONSIVE TO THE CITY CLERK’S NOVEMBER 2, 2010 SUBMISSION DEADLINE RELATING TO ADOPTED MOTIONS/PROPOSITIONS REGARDING THE DWP TO BE PLACED ON THE MARCH MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT, INCLUDING CITY CHARTER AMENDMENT AND AMENDMENTS.”
The resolution passed unanimously. [See letter below sent 11/1/10.]
[11. Adjournment.] 9:00 p.m. adjournment by the Chair.
ATTACHMENT: ITEM 10.2 — FINAL MOTION AND LETTER SENT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
November 1, 2010
Rules and Elections Committee and
Energy and Environment Committee
Los Angeles City Council,
200 N. Spring Street,
Los Angeles, California 90012
Re: CFs 08-1967; 08-1967-S1&S2; 09-2544; 10-0581-10-057; 10-1289; and 10-1335
Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General, et al.
Dear Council Committee Members:
Having carefully studied all the subject Council motions, the Board of Governors of the Pacific Palisades Community Council unanimously adopted the attached resolution setting forth its positions regarding the issues raised by each motion.
In summary, the Board recommends that the City Charter be amended to provide:
Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General.
That a separate office of Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General be created appointed by the City Council with the Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils allowed to nominate qualified candidates, and to report directly to the City Council.
That the Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General have experience in the water or power industry.
That the Ratepayer Advocate only be removed for cause by a majority of the City Council.
That the office of the Ratepayer Advocate be adequately funded by DWP and that the office budget prepared by the Ratepayer Advocate be approved by the City Council.
That the duties of the Ratepayer Advocate shall be to investigate, review and assess DWP rate actions on behalf of the ratepayers to assure that any proposed rate increase is necessary and to report the results of any investigation, review or assessment to the DWP Board of Commissioners and to the City Council, and to make recommendations as to whether any proposed rate increase should be adopted, modified or rejected. The Ratepayer Advocate shall also review and analyze the operations, finances and management of the DWP on a timely and continual basis. The DWP shall provide the Ratepayer Advocate with all requested information on a timely basis. The Ratepayer Advocate shall be entitled to attend any meeting of the Board of Commissioners or any of its committees, as well as any meetings of the City Council, or any of its committees where the DWP is being discussed and shall be given equal time.
That the Ratepayer Advocate shall have the authority to hire staff and contract with outside consultants.
Department of Water and Power Board of Commissioners.
That the Board of Commissioners of the Department of Water and Power be appointed in the following manner:
Two Commissioners be appointed by the Mayor. One Commissioner appointed by the Mayor shall have experience in either the water or the power industry.
The City Council will appoint three Commissioners. One Commissioner appointed by the City Council shall have experience in the field of business, commerce, customer service.
If a seven person Commission is created, that three Commissioners be appointed by the Mayor and four Commissioners be appointed by the City Council, with each appointing one Commissioner with the qualifications set forth in a. and b. above.
That if the election of a Commissioner is to be by a Congress of Neighborhoods, then all certified and non-certified Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils shall be allowed to participate in the process to guarantee that as many ratepayers as possible are involved in the election.
That the current removal process, whereby the Commissioners serve at the pleasure of the Mayor, should not be continued.
That Commissioners shall only be removed by a majority vote of the City Council.
Department of Water and Power.
That the City Charter should not be amended to provide for the removal of the DWP General Manager by a two-thirds vote of the City Council. Only the City Council should be able to remove the General Manager subject to approval by the Mayor (i.e., the current process).
That the City Charter be amended to provide for setting a standard to obtain wage parity between categories of employees of the DWP and employees of the City of Los Angeles; provided that such provision requires DWP employees to obtain parity with the same category of comparable City of Los Angeles employees -including those in other proprietary agencies.
That the City Charter be amended to provide that the annual budget for the Department of Water and Power be adopted by the City Council with the concurrence of the Mayor.
The City Charter be amended to establish that the definition of “surplus” in the context of the annual Department of Water and Power Revenue Fund transfer, be based on the balance that existed on June 30th of the prior year, based upon audited receipts and verifiable by the City Administrative Office or a qualified third party.
That the City Charter be amended to establish vesting requirements so that LACERS employees who transfer to DWP shall have their LACERS service time frozen and shall need to begin a five year vesting process in the Water and Power Retirement Plan just like any other new employee.
These are very important issues to the residents of Pacific Palisades. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Janet Turner, Chair
PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL
October 28, 2010 MOTION
Response to Request for Written Comments to DWP Related Motions Adopted by City Council. Written by Jack Allen and Jennifer Malaret. Upon motion by Jennifer Malaret, seconded by Jack Allen, the Council approved the following resolution:
PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION – RELATED TO THE CITY COUNCIL’S REQUEST FOR WRITTEN COMMENTS AND RESPONSIVE TO THE CITY CLERK’S NOVEMBER 2, 2010 SUBMISSION DEADLINE RELATING TO ADOPTED MOTIONS/PROPOSITIONS REGARDING THE DWP TO BE PLACED ON THE MARCH MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT, INCLUDING CITY CHARTER AMENDMENT AND AMENDMENTS.
WHEREAS ELEVEN (11) MOTIONS WERE SUBMITTED TO, AND ADOPTED BY, THE CITY COUNCIL ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 (REF. EXHIBIT A):
WHEREAS THE PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL IS DESIROUS OF RESPONDING TO CONCERNS FROM OUR COMMUNITY ABOUT HOW THE DWP SETS RATES AND RUNS ITS OPERATIONS.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED MOTIONS/PROPOSITIONS TO BE PLACED ON THE MARCH, 2011 MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT AND CITY CHARTER AMENDMENT OR AMENDMENTS AS FOLLOWS:
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.): The oversight authority created should be that of a “Ratepayer Advocate”/Inspector General.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.):
Separate positions for both a Ratepayer Advocate and Inspector General should be created ONLY if there were not duplication of functions, i.e., where the Ratepayer Advocate would have the primary task of reviewing and assessing DWP rate actions on behalf of Department’s ratepayers and the Inspector General would have the responsibility of investigating and monitoring the Department’s operations and management actions and such other oversight responsibilities as the Council desires. See also Paragraph 6 below.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.):
The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General Position should be appointed, not elected. It is imperative that a qualifying candidate have sufficient auditing experience and a background in the water or power, or utility, industry. The appointment process should be open, with the ability of certified Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils to submit recommendations for qualified candidates to be considered.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.):
The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General should be appointed independently by the City Council.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.): If appointed, the Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General should be subject to removal by a majority vote of the City Council, provided that such removal must be “for cause”.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.):
The duties of the Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General are to investigate, review and assess DWP rate actions on behalf of the Department’s ratepayers to ensure that any proposed rate increase is necessary and to report the results of any investigation, review or assessment to the DWP Board of Commissioners and to the City Council, and to make recommendations as to whether any proposed rate increase should be adopted, modified or desired. The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General will also review and analyze the operations, finances and management of the DWP on a timely and continual basis. The DWP shall provide the Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General with all requested information on a timely basis. The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General will be entitled to attend any meeting of the Board of Commissioners or any of its committees and at any City Council meeting or any of its committees where the DWP is being discussed. The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General will be given equal time.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.):
The office of Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General shall be funded from the DWP Revenues. The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General will submit an annual budget that must be approved by the City Council.
CF 08-167 (Huizar-Alarcon), CF 08-1967-S1 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 08-1967-S2 (Garcetti, et al.), CF 09-2544 (Smith, et al.): The Ratepayer Advocate/Inspector General should get sufficient funding to operate effectively (i.e., be provided with an independent rate analyst, legislative analyst, and legal counsel) and not have to rely upon the DWP or the City for staffing and should be able to hire staff and outside consultants where needed.
CF 10-0586 (Smith, et al.):
The Charter should be amended to change how the DWP Board of Commissioners is appointed. If the Charter is thus amended, then the Mayor should appoint three Commissioners and four Commissioners should be appointed by the City Council. One Commissioner appointed by the Mayor shall have experience in either the water or the power industry. One commissioner appointed by the City Council shall have experience in the field of business, commerce, and customer service.
CF 10-0586 (Smith, et al.):
If the election of a Commissioner is to be by a Congress of Neighborhoods, then all certified and non-certified Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils shall be allowed to participate in the process to guarantee that as many ratepayers as possible are involved in the election.
CF 10-0583 (Smith, et al.):
The current removal process, whereby the Commissioners serve at the pleasure of the Mayor, should not be continued. Instead, removal shall be by a majority vote of the City Council.
CF 10-0583 (Smith, et al.):
If the Mayor, the City Council and the Congress of Neighborhood Councils appoint the Commissioners, removal shall still be by a majority vote of the City Council.
CF 10-0582 (Smith-Perry):
The City Charter should not be amended to provide for the removal of the DWP General Manager by a two-thirds vote of the City Council. Only the City Council should be able to remove the DWP’s General Manager subject to approval by the Mayor (i.e., the current process).
CF 10-0584 (Smith, et al.):
The City Charter should be amended to require the achievement of wage parity among comparable classes of positions of the DWP, the City of Los Angeles; and other proprietary agencies.
CF 10-0587 (Smith, et al.):
The City Charter should be amended to provide that the DWP’s annual budget be adopted by the City Council with the concurrence of the Mayor.
CF 10-1289 (Perry, et al.): The City Charter should be amended to establish the definition of “surplus” in the context of the annual DWP Power and Water Revenue Fund transfer, to be based on the balance that existed on June 30th of the prior year, based upon audited receipts and verifiable by the City Administrative Office or a qualified third party.
CF 10-0581 (Smith, et al.):
The City Charter should be amended to establish vesting requirements so that LACERS employees who transfer to DWP shall have their LACERS service time frozen and shall need to begin a five year vesting process in the Water and Power Employees’ Retirement Plan just like any other new employee.
FINALLY, BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED THAT THE PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL RECOMMENDS:
ANY AND ALL RATE INCREASES BY THE DWP MUST BE APPROVED BY A MAJORITY OF THE CITY COUNCIL PURSUANT TO ITS EXISTING RULES AND PROCEDURES.
EXHIBIT A
(1) CF 08-1967 – Motion (Huizar -Alarcon) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the Department of Water and Power be requested to establish a fully independent ombudsperson position to provide independent and neutral analysis on future proposals for rate increases and rate restructurings, as well as to track initiatives to increase the number of participants in the department’s discount programs so that members of the community and City leadership can be best informed of all relevant issues.
(2) CF 08-1967-S1 – Motion (Garcetti – Perry – Reyes – Huizar – Parks – Koretz – Hahn) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the CLA and the CAO, in conjunction with the City Attorney, report to the Energy and Environment Committee within thirty days on a proposal to implement a Ratepayer Advocate position, consisting of independent staff, reporting directly to the LADWP Board of Water and Power Commissioners, the City Council and the Office of the Mayor. I FURTHER MOVE that the City Attorney be requested to provide input on whether a Charter amendment is required to effectively implement such a program.
(3) CF 08-1967-S2 -Motion (Garcetti – Smith – Perry – Huizar – LaBonge – Reyes – Koretz) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney, Chief Legislative Analyst (CLA) and City Administrative Officer (CAO) prepare and report back within 30 days on all the necessary steps and materials required for a ratepayer advocate Charter change ballot measure including specifics about an operating budget and staffing to be placed on the March 2011 ballot. I FURTHER MOVE that the CLA and CAO make recommendations on a process for public input on the creation and role of the ratepayer advocate to be completed by September 2010. I FURTHER MOVE that the CLA and CAO prepare a recommendation for Council consideration relative to the LADWP setting aside funding for a third party analyst to be held on retainer, and report to the CLA and CAO, until the time that the will of the voting public with regards to the Ratepayer Advocate is met.
(4) CF 09-2544 – Motion (Smith – Garcetti – Perry) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Administrative Officer, Chief Legislative Analyst and the City Attorney, report in 45 days on the feasibility of creating an Inspector General position to independently review and on the operations and management actions of the Department of Water and Power. I FURTHER MOVE that as part of this review, these Departments review the establishment/role and effectiveness of the following: State’s Division of Ratepayer Advocates; Inspector General in the Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; The original City Charter and references to an Inspector General for Water matters.
(5) CF 10-0582 – Motion (Smith – Perry) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney with the assistance of the Chief Legislative Analyst be directed to prepare and present the documents necessary to place before the voters at the next available opportunity a ballot measure which would provide for the removal of the General Manager of the Department of Water and Power by a two thirds vote of the City Council.
(6) CF 10-0583 – Motion (Smith – Perry) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney with the assistance of the Chief Legislative Analyst be directed to prepare and present the documents necessary to place before the voters at the next available opportunity a ballot measure which would provide for the removal of any member of the Board of Water and Power Commissioners by a two thirds vote of the City Council.
(7) CF 10-0584 – Motion (Smith – Parks – Zine) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney with the assistance of the City Administrative Officer, the Personnel Department and the Chief Legislative Analyst be directed to prepare and present the documents necessary to place before the voters at the next available opportunity a ballot measure to provide for setting a standard to obtain wage parity between categories of employees of the Department of Water and Power with categories of employees of the City of Los Angeles.
(8) CF 10-0586 – Motion (Smith – Perry – Parks – Krekorian – Zine) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney with the assistance of the Chief Legislative Analyst be directed to prepare and present the documents necessary to place before the voters at the next available opportunity a ballot measure to restructure the membership of the Board of Water and Power Commissioners as follows: Two members shall be appointed by the Mayor at least one of whom shall have experience in the power and water utility industry; One member to be elected by the Congress of Neighborhoods; Two members shall be appointed by the City Council, at least one of whom shall have experience in the field of business, commerce and customer service. I FURTHER MOVE that the City Attorney with the assistance of the Chief Legislative Analyst be requested to report on existing Charter requirements relative to the backgrounds of City Commission appointees. I FURTHER MOVE that the Chief Legislative Analyst be directed to report with a study of other governance models for comparison purposes. I FURTHER MOVE that upon the establishment of an Inspector General position/function in the Department of Water and Power, the Inspector General should be tasked with working with the Board of Water and Power Commissioners to look at other governance models which build consensus.
(9) CF 10-0587 – Motion (Smith – Perry – Parks – Zine – Cardenas – Krekorian) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney with the assistance of the City Administrative Officer, and the Chief Legislative Analyst be directed to prepare and present the documents necessary to place before the voters at the next available opportunity a ballot measure to provide that the annual budget of the Department of Water and Power shall be adopted by the City Council with the concurrence of the Mayor.
(10) CF 10-1289 – Motion (Perry – Smith – Parks – Garcetti – Rosendahl – LeBonge – Zine) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Attorney, with the assistance of the City Administrative Officer and the Chief Legislative Analyst be requested to prepare and present the documents necessary to place on the March, 2011 ballot a proposition that would establish the definition of “surplus” in the context of the annual DWP Power Revenue Fund transfer, to be based on the balance that existed on June 30th of the prior year, based upon audited receipts and verifiable by the City Administrative Office or a qualified third party.
(11) CF 10-0581 – Motion (Smith – Parks – Zine) – I THEREFORE MOVE that the City Administrative Officer, with the assistance of the Personnel Department and the City Attorney be directed to report on the feasibility of establishing vesting requirements so that LACERS employees who transfer to DWP shall have their LACERS service time frozen and shall need to begin a five year vesting process in the Water and Power Employees’ Retirement Plan just like any other new employee.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 18th 2010
Methodist Church Hall, 801 Via De La Paz
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jennifer Malaret, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Peter Fisher, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Geoff Shelden, Gilbert Dembo, Chris Spitz, Harry Sondheim, Richard Wulliger
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Clifford Nelson, Andrew Wolfberg, Kathy Rolle, Jamie Schloss, Quentin Fleming, Mary Cole, Aurelia Friedman, Bob Baker, Jim Rea
1. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Introductions of the Board and Audience
2. Reading of the Community Council’s Mission. Richard Cohen read the Mission Statement.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a Quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Marguerite Perkins Mautner moved and Joyce Brunelle seconded the minutes from the October 28, 2010 meeting be adopted. The motion passed unanimously.
5. Consideration of the Agenda. The Chair considered the Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of November 18, 2010, there is $3,500.24 in the checking account; $18,128.50 in the Smith Barney CDs and $0.00 in the Post Office Account for a total of $21,628.74.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting will be holiday potluck meeting at the Temescal Canyon gate way park dining hall on December 9, 2010. The Community Service Award will be given to Palisadians who have contributed services to the Palisades over an extended period of time.
7.1.2. Vote for the Area Alternate Representatives. Some areas will have a first and a second alternate. The first Alternate votes when the Primary is absent, the second Alternate votes when both the Primary and the first Alternate are absent.
1 Norma Spak
2 Steve Cron
3 Christy Dennis, Jim Rea
4 Bob Baker, Clifford Nelson
5 vacant
6 Mary Cole
7 Steve Boyers, Cathy Rolle
8 Mahtab Moayedi, Andrew Wolfberg
At Large Quentin Fleming, Jamie Schloss
Motion to accept by George Wolfberg, seconded by Harry Sondheim, unanimous.
The Chair announced that the Alternates will be asked to participate in the PPCC and on many committees. She encouraged them to find their passion and let her know where they would like to be involved.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representation.
7.2.1. Janet Turner reported that Councilman Rosendahl’s Westside representative, Jessyca Avalos, will be leaving to join the LAPD Academy. Janet wished her well and thanked her for her many contributions to the Palisades. Jessyca introduced new representative, Joaquin Macias, who will be replacing her.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore discussed the burglary on the 500 Block of Radcliffe when victims had to wait for 6 hrs. for LAPD to arrive at the scene after reporting the crime. Officer Moore explained that the burglars were no longer at the scene and it was not considered an emergency. With the shortage of Officers in the area, none were available to attend to non-emergency calls until 6 hrs. later. WLA Captain Evangelyn Nathan will attend the meeting on January 17 and will discuss this issue further. Officer Moore announced that the homeless people at Potrero Canyon will be evicted.
Stuart Muller announced the scheduled destruction of the derelict gatehouse and water tender in two weeks (items related to the stalled Portero Canyon Park landfill project) that have for so long blighted the area north of the Pacific Coast Highway at the bottom of the Via Mesa Bluffs. Chris Spitz commended Stuart for his tireless efforts to clean up the unsightly area.
8. Reports from Board Members and Committees.
8.1. Holiday Party – Thursday, December 9th. Marguerite passed sign-up sheets and urged everyone to participate. Donations of wine / soft drinks as well as food are needed; monetary contributions will be accepted in lieu of food.
8.2. The winners of the Community Service Award were announced: Sigrid and Arnold Hofer, and Andy Frew. The Award will be presented at the PPCC pot luck dinner on December 9, 2010.
8.3. Jennifer Malaret reported:
Jack Allen and Janet Turner presented the Council’s motion on the DWP Ratepayer advocate to the City Council committee preparing this subject for the March Ballot. It was stressed that Pacific Palisades wants an Independent Ratepayer Advocate, appointed by City Council, and not the Mayor, and with a budget funded by DWP and approved by City Council and not the Mayor.
- City/State Budget Committee (“CSBC”). The first committee organizational meeting will take place at 5:30 PM on 12/02/10 at the Oak Room.
2. Land Use/CCF/Sober Living Update. Janet Turner, Jack Allen, & Jennifer Malaret attended the 11/4/10 CPC hearing and spoke in support of the City’s proposed ordinance. The CPC voted for a second continuance to 02/10/11. WRAC members who have passed motions in support of the CCF ordinance (which basically mirror the motion passed by the PPCC Board) are: MVCC, BABCNC, BCC, NC Westchester/Playa and WLANC. Other WRAC NC’s yet to consider the matter are Venice, Palms, Westside, Del Rey, South of Robertson, and Westwood. The City’s Planning Department is optimistic that the ordinance (as likely modified) will eventually be approved by the City Council.
8.4. George Wolfberg reported:
“BIKE PLAN. The City Planning Commission on Nov. 3 considered at its last meeting the proposed new Citywide Bicycle Plan. A couple of dozen bicycle advocates showed up to skewer the plan. The Sierra Club and several equestrian advocacy persons want to prohibit mountain bikes in all city parks. The plan, as I testified, in part, to the commission: is predicated on removing the proposed Marvin Braude Beach Bike Path extension in Pacific Palisades and, in fact, dumping the commuting and recreational cyclists from this, the most heavily traveled bike path in the county onto the Pacific Coast Highway at exactly the most dangerous pinch point on the entire California coastline.
Councilman Rosendahl’s bicycle staff person reported back on Nov. 12:
I checked with Planning to confirm that was merely a printing error which has since been corrected. It was and continues to be designated as a bike path.
We are waiting to see the corrected map.
PCH TASK FORCE. Quarterly meeting held on October 28 with both Senator Fran Pavley and Assemblywoman Julia Brownley in attendance and actively participating. Items of interest to Palisadians:
EIR for California Incline is due in November [2010].
Santa Monica City Engineer and Cal Trans asked to expand the left turn pocket for motorists transiting from PCH to the Incline to reduce congestion.
Thorough discussion held on the need to complete the removal of Cal Trans materials and other debris, including the “gate house” from along the highway. Stuart Muller provided photos to highlight the issue. Agreed to move some materials to the storage yard at mouth of Topanga Canyon Road. Cal Trans needs to have material in case of landslides or other events in close proximity to the highway, but does not have Coastal Commission approval for what has essentially be permanent storage at these areas [Castellemmare and Potrero-adjacent.]
Malibu Village traffic safety will be enhanced by removal of “paddles” from the center of highway which obstruct the view of residents attempting to exit the park.
Relocation of the limit lines on West Channel Road as advocated by Michael Edlen and others has not yet happened despite promise from Cal Trans.
CIRS project discussion focused on safe passage for bike riders. [Meeting to be held Nov. 17 at bridge over creek to discuss.]
Santa Monica working with Cal Trans to obtain full control over Lincoln Blvd./SR1 in that community.
MARQUEZ FAMILY CEMETERY. Protest from descendants and others over the start of construction of a home adjacent to the wall of the over 100 year-old cemetery on San Lorenzo Street. Cultural Affairs has put a 75-day hold on any more construction activity on the site.
TEMESCAL BMP STORMWATER PROJECT. The appeal on the Temescal BMP stormwater project, that was presented to this Council a while back, was denied and the Coastal Permit was signed, meaning that it is moving forward. More Coastal approvals may be needed but that was not made clear in the letter that PPCC received on this matter. The project has funding for five years, and then money to continue it will have to be found.”
8.5. The following written report has been submitted by Haldis Toppel. She attended the C-PAB Summit meeting.
“Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB) members from across the city of Los Angeles got together for their once-a-year opportunity to rub elbows with each other at the 2010 Annual C-PAB Summit. The theme was “Getting our City Prepared” for emergencies, including natural disasters and man-made or terrorist events. We were treated to an excellent day of presentations and events centered around the LAPD’s new Ron Deaton Auditorium, part of the new Police Headquarters, and included light breakfasts and lunches on the City Hall south lawns. Tours of the Emergency Call Center (9-1-1 calls are taken) as well as the soon-to-open LAPD jail holding facility.
Two streets were blocked to traffic, making them pedestrian malls where the Department showed off Mobile Command Post vehicles, Bomb Squad and K-9 units, LAPS’s future “super patrol car” and the three wheeled unit now on duty in beach areas (the officer stands up to drive it). We also got to see LA Fire Department personnel and fire fighting apparatus and were given a small taste of the kinds of things the LAPD’s Explorers are up to (personally I liked their “tent building exhibit”). There were three basic presentation topic of the day:
Presentation from Dr Lucy Jones, Chief Scientist of the US Geological Survey primary info was about the frequency, likelihood and intensity of southern California earthquakes.
iWatchLA presentation given by Mary Grady, Public Information Director, Public Information Office, LAPD “If you see something, say something” campaign — now being taken nations (LACP has offered to help with this).
Presentation by James Featherstone, General Manager of the LA City Emergency Management Department basic advice was to spend a couple hours making sure our homes (and places of work) are ready for a disaster.”
9. Old Business.
9.1. DWP Underground installation of powerlines and Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer (CIRS).
9.1.1. Power line undergrounding on PCH (Rodolfo Monroy, DWP, Victoria Cross, DWP).
Victoria Cross, the new DWP Liaison to Neighborhood and Community Councils introduced Rodolfo (Rudy) Monroy. He has a long history of DWP planning, service and engineering.
Mr. Monroy explained that he received a letter from PPCC Chair Janet Turner on September 15, 2010 asking that DWP consider undergrounding the power lines on PCH for the portion of the highway that runs through the City of Los Angeles. DWP responded to the letter on Oct. 4.
Mr. Monroy revealed that he had been asked for actual DWP expenditures for undergrounding for the past ten years. He stated that in 2008-09 $11 million dollars were spent and in 2009-10.-$6.56 million expended. Mr. Monroy also passed out a reprint of the department’s Rule 20 which appears to support undergrounding in scenic/recreational areas, especially when no private property is involved.
Rodolfo Monroy stated that budget allocations were not available for the undergrounding of the powerlines on Pacific Coast Highway, and that the primary allocations were for areas of new developments and not for local benefits.
George Wolfberg asked Mr. Monroy how our community can influence the allocation of the budget to underground the power lines on Pacific Coast Highway. No conclusive answer was presented.
Chris Spitz pointed out that PCH was a scenic highway, a preferred tourist attraction by countless visitors who fuel the State’s economy, and that the benefits were worldwide.
Gil Dembo stated that Malibu was able to underground the wires. The power poles are on public land on the section of LA City between Santa Monica and Coastline Drive and no private property is involved.
Harry Sondheim added that public land was not precluded from funding.
9.1.2. Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer (CIRS) Project (Kendrick Okuda, Bureau of Engineering, Andy Flores, Bureau of Engineering, Michelle Vargas, Public Affairs Office).
Kendrick Okuda, LA City Bureau of Engineering discussed the Beach water quality issues. He heads the storm water runoff project. He reported that in the summer 2010, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works completed upgrades on eight Low Flow Diversion (LFDs) structures, including several in the Pacific Palisades area. These LFDs divert urban runoff to the sanitary sewer system during year-round dry weather, preventing stormwater from discharging to Santa Monica Bay, except during rain events.
To handle the increased flows of stormwater from the LFDs to the Hyperion Wastewater Treatment Plant, the Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer (CIRS) will be built to provide additional capacity to the existing Coastal Interceptor Sewer. The project is scheduled to start in late 2010.
The CIRS, along with other approved Proposition O projects, will assist the City in complying with the Santa Monica Bay Beaches Dry Weather Bacteria Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirement, making our beaches and bay waters safer and healthier while meeting Environmental Protection Agency and federal Clean Water Act regulations. This project is funded by the Proposition O Clean Water Bond. In 2004, Los Angeles voters approved a $500 million bond issue for stormwater pollution prevention projects.
Andy Flores, Los Angeles City Bureau of Engineering announced that the CIRS project will impact traffic on PCH. Plans are underway for signage along the 101 Freeway starting in Oxnard, Topanga Canyon, Malibu Canyon, Temescal Canyon and PCH to alert commuters to the CIRS project and encourage them to choose alternate routes. These signs will be in place two weeks prior to the start of construction and for two weeks after start of construction.
George Wolfberg cautioned that attention must be given to the bike lanes along PCH during the construction, so that bike riders are not forced into traffic without notice.
Wendy Rosen of Brentwood stated that the project will move more traffic onto the 405 freeway and stated that she meets monthly with the CALTRANS construction group to coordinate all construction projects.
10. New Business.
10.1. City Planning Department’s proposed “Core Findings” draft document and motion.
The PPCC Land Use Committee (LUC) suggested changes to a proposed draft Ordinance by the City’s Planning Department purported to simplify and streamline the zoning code. However, PPCC was concerned that the Ordinance, if implemented, may dilute our current protections, and have potential negative impacts on the regulation of hillside development, public safety and environmental issues in our community.
The LUC reviewed the proposed Ordinance and applicable zoning code provisions in order to provide written recommendations to the Planning Department. Members of the Committee under the chairmanship of Chris Spitz put weeks of work into the document. The suggested changes were presented to the Board in the form of a motion [see attached letter and motion sent 11/23/10]. Motion by Chris Spitz, seconded by Gil Dembo, unanimous.
11. General Public Comment.
12. [Adjournment.] Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
ATTACHMENT: ITEM 10.1 — Letter and Motion re Core Findings Ordinance
November 23, 2010
Los Angeles City Planning Commission
Los Angeles City Hall, Room 532
200 N. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
VIA FAX: 213- 978-1029 Pages: 7
VIA EMAIL: James.k.williams@lacity.org
RE: Proposed Core Findings Ordinance – CPC – 2010-1572-CA
Dear Commissioners:
The Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) has been the recognized voice of Pacific Palisades since 1973.
On November 18, 2010 PPCC unanimously passed a motion (attached), that on condition that the recommended changes set forth herein are incorporated, supports the Planning Department’s Core Findings Ordinance.
PPCC commends the Planning Departments efforts to streamline and clarify the code.
Our land use committee, which includes a former City Attorney for the City of Beverly Hills, as well as two other attorneys well versed in land use issues, has recommended language changes and other suggestions, approved by PPCC’s Board of Governors, that we believe will enable the City to achieve its goal while keeping protections in place.
In the attached Exhibit A to the Motion, we give specific examples of how the current wording of some of the proposed Core Findings would dilute protections of our Community and Specific Plans which the Planning Department, along with the community, worked diligently to put into place.
PPCC also found that some of wording of the proposed Core Findings could have a potential negative impact on the regulation of hillside development, on public safety, on environmental and other substantive protections afforded citizens under long-standing consistent and predictable application of planning and zoning regulations.
In addition, PPCC is very concerned about the element of subjectivity in the decision- making process that has been arguably increased by the proposed Core Findings Ordinance and may result in the inconsistent application of the Code. Our suggestions would eliminate subjectivity and potential inconsistent application of the Code.
PPCC welcomes the opportunity to build on the hard work, intelligent analysis and serious efforts of the Planning Department, and provide additional input to the code reform process and resulting ordinances. Set the time and place and we will be there.
Sincerely,
Janet Turner, Chair
Encl: Motion and Exhibit
MOTION – PROPOSED ZONING CODE SIMPLIFICATION ORDINANCE;
CPC – 2010-1572-CA (“ORDINANCE”)
THE ORDINANCE – Chris Spitz, Barbara Kohn, Jack Allen and Jennifer Malaret. Upon motion on November 18, 2010 by Chris Spitz, seconded by Gil Dembo, the Council approved the following resolution:
PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION RELATED TO THE ORDINANCE –
WHEREAS, the City of Los Angeles proposes to modify Chapter 1 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code (“LAMC”, “Zoning Code” or “Code”) Sections 11.5.7, 12.03, 12.24, 12.28, 12.32, 12.81, 13.03, 13.07, 14.3.1, 16.01, AND 16.05 to update common findings for conditional uses, adjustments and other quasi-judicial land use approvals.
WHEREAS, Pacific Palisades Community Council (“PPCC”) has been the official voice of the Pacific Palisades community since 1973. PPCC understands the Planning Department’s primary goal in proposing the first of six “code reform ordinances” is to “streamline the development process” (Staff Report, p. 9) while not eliminating “any criteria that protects [sic] the citizenry from inappropriate land uses” (Staff Report, p. 3). This is an admirable goal, and PPCC supports reasonable efforts to clarify the Zoning Code, enhance consistency and eliminate unnecessary redundancies.
WHEREAS, PPCC seeks to provide input to the code reform process and resulting ordinances to uphold the hard work, intelligent analysis and serious efforts of the Planning Department and public in creating the existing specific plans, overlays and community plans.
WHEREAS, on condition that the recommended changes set forth herein are incorporated, PPCC supports the Ordinance. PPCC reserves the right to submit additional comments or supplemental Motion(s) regarding the impact of the Ordinance as more information becomes available.
RECOMMENDED MODIFICATIONS:
PPCC recommends modifying the Ordinance pursuant to EXHBIT A attached hereto because of the following concerns:
(a) PPCC is very concerned about the potential negative impact of the Ordinance on the implementation of our Community and Specific Plans, on the regulation of hillside development, on public safety, on environmental and other substantive protections afforded citizens under long-standing consistent and predictable application of planning and zoning regulations, and on meaningful, coherent administrative and judicial review. PPCC’s goal is to guarantee these protections and processes to every extent possible.
(b) PPCC is very concerned about the element of subjectivity in the decision- making process that has been arguably increased and may result in the inconsistent application of the Code throughout the City. PPCC’s goal is to eliminate subjectivity and potential inconsistent application of the Code to the extent possible.
PPCC recommends that all provisions of the Ordinance applicable to hillside-related provisions of the Code be stricken until after the Baseline Hillside Ordinance (“BHO”) is passed and the Planning Department and public have had an opportunity to examine the proposed changes in light of the BHO. PPCC objects to the Ordinance modifying hillside sections of the Code without consideration of the BHO, which PPCC supports and which the City Attorney is currently drafting. The proposed revisions to hillside sections of the Code are premature in light of the status of the BHO.
PPCC recommends that in every sub-section requiring additional findings the following language be inserted: “In addition to the findings set forth in Section 12.24.E, the Zoning Administrator shall also find:”PPCC objects to the fact that the Ordinance does not clearly apprise readers unfamiliar with the Code of all of the actual findings required for a particular use. This change promotes clarity and transparency in the Zoning Code.
PPCC recommends that the Planning Department modify Sec. 18 – LAMC Sec. 12.24 X (Authority of the Zoning Administrator). PPCC concurs with the proposed language deletion; however, the failure to provide consistent, alternative language for the stricken words creates a lack of clarity as to whether the Zoning Administrator’s authority shall apply to the new Core Findings #4, #5, #6 and/or #7.
PPCC recommends that the Ordinance not remove findings for automotive uses, mini-shopping centers and commercial corner developments which restrict them from locating in “an identified pedestrian oriented, commercial and art craft, community design overlay, historic preservation overlay or transit-oriented district area or zone, or that the [use] would be consistent with the district, area or zone . . .” PPCC finds no apparent redundancy in the Code. Accordingly, and because current CUP findings appear to make good urban land planning sense, PPCC recommends that Sec. 12 – LAMC Sec. 12.24.W.4(b)(4) and Sec. 13 – Sec. 12.24.W.27(b)(4) remain as written.
PPCC recommends delaying the implementation and effectiveness of the Code changes resulting from the adoption of the Ordinance until such time as the remaining five to-be-proposed ordinances have been drafted, noticed, analyzed, heard and ultimately adopted. In the interests of fundamental fairness, due process and notice, PPCC is very concerned about the unknown impact of the remaining five to-be-proposed ordinances which Planning Staff indicates are ultimately to be viewed “in consortium” with the Ordinance; however, none of these five proposed ordinances have yet been drafted or examined by the public.
EXHIBIT A – PPCC MODIFICATIONS TO CPC-2010-CA
1. The Public Benefit (aka “Neighborhood Enhancement”) Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: The Neighborhood Enhancement Core Finding: That the project will enhance the environment in the surrounding neighborhood or will perform a function or provide a service that is essential or beneficial to the community, city, or region.
PPCC REVISION: The Public Benefit Core Finding: That the project shall enhance the environment in the surrounding neighborhood or perform a function or provide a service that is essential or beneficial to the community, city, or region. (LAMC Sec. 12.24.E (1)).
REASONS FOR MODIFICATIONS AND SUGGESTED CHANGES:
The term “shall” more clearly conveys the mandatory nature of this finding than the term “will”; see also LAMC Sec. 11.01;
PPCC objects to the re-writing of Sec. 2 – LAMC Sec. 11.5.7.E.3 (a). For Project Permit Adjustments, the current Code requires a finding “of special circumstances applicable to the project or the project site which makes strict application of the specific plan regulation impractical.” This language has been judicially tested (Topanga Assn. for a Scenic Comm. v. County of Los Angeles (1974) 11 Cal.3d 506) and provides a stricter standard and use-specific finding than the proposed Core Finding #1 language.
2. The Neighborhood Compatibility (aka “Project Compatibility”) Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: The Project Compatibility Core Finding: That the project’s location, size, height, operations and other significant features will be compatible with and will not adversely affect or further degrade the surrounding neighborhood.
PPCC REVISION: The Project / Neighborhood Compatibility Core Finding: That the project’s location, size, height, operations and other significant features shall be compatible with the scale and character of and not adversely affect or further degrade the adjacent and surrounding neighborhood or the public health, welfare, safety or physical environment. (LAMC Sec. 12.24.E (2)).
REASONS FOR MODIFICATIONS AND SUGGESTED CHANGES:
The term “shall” more clearly conveys the mandatory nature of this finding than the term “will”; see also LAMC Sec. 11.01;
Including the terms “scale” and “character” prevents the Ordinance from weakening existing Code protections for communities and findings relative to automotive uses in the C zones that require exceptions from development standards and operating conditions (Sec. 12 – LAMC Sec. 12.24.W.4 (b)(2));
Including the terms/phrases “adjacent and surrounding neighborhood” and “or the public health, welfare, safety or physical environment” prevents the Ordinance from weakening existing community protections for findings for certain specific uses such as: (i) Pawn Shops, where the current finding requires the operation “be reasonably compatible with and not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the improvements and uses of adjacent properties” (Sec. 15, LAMC Sec.12.24.W.33 (b)), (ii) properties that adjoin Farmer’s Markets where the current finding requires that there be “no significant adverse effect on adjoining properties or the immediate neighborhood by reason of noise and traffic congestion” (Sec. 20 – LAMC Sec. 12.24.X.6), and (iii) Elder Care Facilities, where the current finding is that the project will not be “materially detrimental or injurious to properties, []”((Sec. 32 – LAMC Sec.14.3.1.E(1)).
PPCC objects to the Ordinance substituting Core Finding #2 for Sec. 2, LAMC Sec. 11.5.7.E.3(c) on the topic of Project Permit Adjustments unless the existing finding that the adjustment shall have no detrimental effects on “adjacent properties and public rights-of-way” is retained. The removal of this conjunctive requirement weakens the Code and creates ambiguity for decision-makers because the term “public rights-of-way” arguably is not subsumed within the meaning of the term “surrounding neighborhood.”
PPCC objects to the Ordinance modifying hillside sections of the Code without consideration of the BHO, which PPCC supports and which the City Attorney is currently drafting. The proposed revisions to hillside sections of the Code are premature in light of the status of the BHO, which we have been told by Planning is not expected to be approved prior to January or February of 2011. Furthermore, we believe that the Ordinance, as drafted, presents a threat to public safety & welfare as a result of side yard reductions and emergency access limitations. Accordingly, Sec. 21, LAMC Sec. 12.24X.10(a)(2), (b)(2), Sec. 22, LAMC Sec. 12.24.X.11 (b)(2), (d)(2), LAMC Sec. 12.24.X.12(e)(1). Sec. 24, LAMC Sec. 12.24.X.21 (b)(2), (b)(3) should remain as currently written.
3. The General Plan Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: That the project is in substantial conformance with the purpose, intent and provisions of the General Plan and applicable community and specific plan.
PPCC REVISION: That the project is consistent with the purpose, intent and provisions of the General Plan and applicable community and specific plan. (LAMC 12.24.E (3)).
REASONS FOR MODIFICATIONS AND SUGGESTED CHANGES:
The term “substantial conformance” has not been legally defined when used in zoning ordinances. It would be more appropriate to use the word “compliance” in place of the word “conformance” because courts in land use cases have defined the term “substantial compliance”; however, the term “consistent” as a matter of law means the same as “substantially complies” (Federation of Hillside & Canyon Assns. v. City of Los Angeles (2004) 126 Cal.App.4th 1180, 1194); therefore, we recommend using one word rather than three.
The substitution of the phrase “is consistent with” narrows the ambiguity for decision-makers when considering community protections for certain important specific uses where the Ordinance as drafted reduces protections. Where Surface Mining Lands are to be reclaimed, Core Finding #3 may not require (as the current Code does) a finding that the mined lands be restored to a usable condition which is readily adaptable for alternative land uses including, and in particular, “the open space and conservation elements.” (Sec. 30, Sec. LAMC 13.03.G 11(f)).
Because Redevelopment Plans are specialized in nature and not necessarily subsumed in the General Plan or applicable community or specific plans, PPCC objects to the application of Core Finding #3 to the following sections of the Code which deal specifically with Redevelopment Plans: Major Development Projects (Sec. 7 – LAMC Section 12.24.U.14 (b)(1)) and CUP’s for Mixed Use Projects (Sec. 14, LAMC Section 12.24.W.28 (b)) and Site Development Plans (Sec. 34 ?| LAMC Section 16.05.F (3)).
4. The Adjustment Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: That the granting of the adjustment recognizes that while site characteristics or existing improvements make strict adherence to the [zoning regulations, specific plan regulations, or hillside regulations in Section 12.21 A.17 (e) or (h)] impractical or infeasible, the project conforms to the intent of those regulations.
PPCC REVISION: PPCC REQUESTS THAT CORE FINDING #4 BE DELETED.
REASONS FOR DELETION OF CORE FINDING #4:
(a) Relative to the hillside provisions of the Code, and as set forth in Section 2 above, PPCC objects to the Ordinance modifying hillside sections of the Code without consideration of the BHO. Accordingly, Sec. 24, LAMC Sec.12.24X.21 (b)(4) should remain as currently written.
(b) Relative to general plan and specific plan adjustments, PPCC?fs policy is to oppose all such requests: “When variances, variations or exceptions are considered by governmental entities, PPCC’s position is to support strict scrutiny and adherence to all legal measures which govern land use, structures and vegetation.” (PPCC General Policy Motion adopted 1/12/2006). PPCC seeks to discourage any efforts to deviate from required regulations and believes that Core Finding #4 will encourage applicants to seek adjustments in lieu of more difficult-to-obtain specific plan exceptions and/or variances.
5. The Project Design Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: That the project provides for an arrangement of uses, buildings, structures, open spaces and other private and public improvements that are compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.
PPCC REVISION: That the project provides for an arrangement of uses, buildings, structures, open spaces and other private and public improvements that are compatible with the scale and character of the adjacent and surrounding neighborhood.
REASONS FOR MODIFICATIONS AND SUGGESTED CHANGES:
Planning has represented the intent of the Core Finding to be an “urban design concept” for major projects. The phrase “scale and character” is consistent with Planning’s objectives, reflective of current Code findings, and provides clearer guidance to the decision-maker in applying the Core Finding to specific uses.
Since current Code provisions require findings regarding bulk, setbacks, off-street parking, loading areas, lighting, landscaping, trash collection and other specific concerns, PPCC recommends that Sec. 17, LAMC Sec. 12.24.50 (Storage Buildings for Household Goods including Truck Rentals) and Sec. 32, LAMC Sec. 14.3.1.E (4)) (Eldercare Facilities) remain as written.
Relative to the hillside provisions of the Code, and as set forth in Sections 2 and 4 above, PPCC objects to the Ordinance modifying hillside sections of the Code without consideration of the BHO. Accordingly, Sec. 22, LAMC Section 12.24X.11 (a)(2) & (c)(2) must remain as currently written.
6. The Traffic Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: That the project will not create an adverse impact on street access or circulation in the surrounding neighborhood.
PPCC REVISION: PPCC REQUESTS THAT CORE FINDING #6 BE DELETED.
REASONS FOR DELETION OF CORE FINDING #6:
This Core Finding in only applicable to two uses (other than hillside areas): mini-malls/commercial corner projects and automotive uses. PPCC objects to a generalized Traffic Core Finding which is not use-specific, particularly because the Ordinance does not specifically address ingress and egress or those instances in which warranting adjustments to circulation patterns may be of benefit and not necessarily adverse to all impacted by the proposed development. The Core Finding weakens the Code because it arguably deletes required findings for ingress and egress, the absence of parking hazards or congestion for automotive uses (Sec. 12 ?| LAMC Sec. 12.24 W.4 (b)(3)) and mini-malls (Sec. 13, Sec. 12.24. W. 27 (b)(2)).
Relative to the hillside provisions of the Code, and as set forth in Sections 2, 4 and 5 above, PPCC objects to the Ordinance modifying hillside sections of the Code without consideration of the BHO. Accordingly, Sec. 24, LAMC Sec. 12.24.X.21 (b)(1) should remain as written.
7. The Housing Element Core Finding:
ORDINANCE: That the project implements the affordable housing provisions of the Housing Element of the General Plan.
PPCC REVISION: None.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 9th 2010
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Cathy Russell, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jennifer Malaret, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Chris Spitz, Mary Cole, Gil Dembo, Christy Dennis, Harry Sondheim, Steve Boyers, Geoff Shelden, Richard Wulliger
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Quentin Fleming, Jamie Schloss, Norma Spak, Jim Rea, Andrew Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci
6:00 p.m. Drinks and Dinner, Temescal Gateway Park.
1. Call to Order. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a Quorum was present.
3. Adoption of the Minutes. Gil Dembo moved and Joyce Brunelle seconded that the minutes from the November 18, 2010 meeting be adopted. The motion passed unanimously.
4. Consideration of the Agenda. The Chair considered the Agenda.
5. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that as of December 9, 2010, there is $3,691.30 in the checking account; $18,130.33 in the Smith Barney CDs and $0.00 in the Post Office Account for a total of $21,821.63.
6. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting is January 14, 2011.
7.1.2. Remembering Daisy. Janet Turner paid tribute to Daisy Crane.
7.1.3. Thank you to Starbucks for supplying the coffee for the evening event.
7.1.4. Gift of two chafing dishes to Joyce Whitehead, Director of the Temescal Canyon Gateway Park, was presented by Marguerite Perkins Mautner as a thank you for allowing us to enjoy the Dining Hall this evening.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Norm Kulla, representative of Councilman Rosendahl’s office, presented Los Angeles City Certificates of Appreciation to the Community Service Award winners Andy Frew and Sigrid and Arnold Hofer.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
8. Reports from Committees.
9. Old Business.
10. New Business.
10.1. Special Guest. Michael Dunn from Charles Dickens Live roasted the Council Board members.
11. General Public Comment.
12. Adjournment. The Chair adjourned the meeting at 8:15 p.m.
_________________________