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MINUTES FOR JANUARY 12th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Schuyler Dietz[*], George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Richard Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Carol Pfannkuche, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz and Catherine Carvahlo. [*a non-voting Advisor]
Voting Alternates: Robert Baker, Ernie Meadows and Ben Meyerson.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: [*Schuyler Dietz,] Flo Elfant, Amy Kalp, Norma Spak, Carol Bruch, Steve Cron, John Glasgow and Timothy Huber.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Chris Spitz read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:07 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Richard Cohen moved and Marguerite Perkins Mautner seconded adoption of the minutes for November 10, 2011 and December 8, 2011. The minutes were adopted unanimously.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Janet Turner reported the financial status as of January 12, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,572.40, which consist of USB Checking $5,248.85, Smith Barney account $18,134.93 and Post Office account $1,188.62. Janet Turner asked any Board members who are interested in fundraising to see her; we received less than 300 responses to our request for funds in comparison to prior years where the total donation responses received totaled 400 – 600.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. The next meeting is January 26, 2012. One of the significant issues that will be presented at that meeting is the situation of homeless residing here in the Palisades, available programs and measures that can be taken to assist homeless in our area.
7.1.2. Welcome Education Reps. Janet Turner welcomed Catherine Carvahlo as our new Education Representative and Carol Bruch as the new Area 1 Alternate.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
(1) Potrero Canyon – the contractor has been inactive since mid-December. The design for the temporary light has now been approved and permits can be pulled over the next several weeks. The contractor is now down about six weeks, so the January 2012 completion date will not be met (tainted dirt, large pipe, traffic light, etc.). Activity levels are expected to increase as the contractor tries to make up time on the completion schedule.
(2) Asilomar – Councilmember Rosendahl introduced a motion to fix the road ($50,000 over the next six months) and to do a study on caissons, retaining walls and de-watering wells to shore up the street ($300,000). The goal is to shore-up the street portion that the City of Los Angeles owns pending a fix of the entire hillside.
(3) Swathmore & Carthidge Flooding – several homes get flooded when it rains because the water does not drain correctly near Hampden Place. Councilmember Rosendahl has asked for the installation of new storm drains; it is on the list with 400 other storm drain requests that have no funding. The estimated cost here in the Palisades would be $500,000 to benefit two houses (the other two affected houses have privately constructed walls). The Palisades request is in the top eight of “priority considerations”. Stuart Muller reminded the group to be concerned with the aesthetic of what is installed, particularly because of the lots that have been sold around Potrero Canyon. Janet Turner stated that Will Rogers residents would like to have engineers come look at their street because of drainage and continual pothole formation. Joaquin responded that the paving may correct these issues; however DWP can come out and look to see what the source of the water is.
(4) Request for 25 MPH speed limit sign at Toyopa and Alma Real (via Dick Littlestone). Joaquin stated that this sign should be installed as soon as possible.
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore — Not in attendance.
Janet Turner conveyed that car break ins are still the largest problem in the Palisades and residents should continue to be diligent in locking their cars. Janet Turner also discussed that the recent Will Rogers Polo Event went very well this year but that there were serious parking problems this last weekend due to over 60 cars parked along the street on Will Rogers State Park Road in response to the beautiful weather. Janet has been in contact with Captains Nathan and Crump to determine what additional measures can be taken to correct that situation.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Police Issues. Amy Kalp reported that she is continuing to work on additional police presence in the Palisades, including additional community outreach efforts.
7.3.2. Recreation & Parks. Jennifer Malaret reported that the next quarterly Park Advisory Board meeting is scheduled for January 25, 2012 at 7 PM in the small gym. Topics to be discussed include appointment of the 2012 Board and long term planning in accordance with the top ten community priorities.
7.3.3. Historical Society. Dick Wulliger reported that there is a secret garden in the Palisades known as Temescal Canyon. The Theater Palisades Monday, January 17th at 7 pm will be hosting a historical presentation and the public is invited.
7.3.4. Request for Area Representative. Stuart Muller announced that he would like to solicit an Alternate for Area 6.
7.3.5. Mural Ordinance.
Chris Spitz updated the Board on the City’s proposed Mural Ordinance and attended the workshop/early hearing at the Planning department. Murals would be permitted through an administrative process; the LUC met and discussed issues including wanting more clarification to the language and notice requirements. Jennifer Malaret stated that the origin of this ordinance is also related to the proposed off-site sign (billboard) ordinance that is working its way through City Council due to concerns that murals and artwork would be wrongly classified as billboards and subject to those restrictive regulations. Carol Bruch and Jack Allen expressed concern over notice to communities; Chris noted that the proposed ordinance is in the early stages and the LUC will continue to monitor its process. Chris Spitz reminded the Board that anyone is welcome to attend the Land Use Committee meetings that are generally the first Thursday of every month; however, due to scheduling conflicts the next committee meeting will be on Wednesday February 1 at the Library.
7.3.6. Community Care Facilities Ordinance.
Jennifer Malaret reported that the final draft of the Community Care Facilities Ordinance (“CCFO”) was filed by the City Attorney with the City Clerk in September 2011. The only significant change is the addition of a prohibition against Parolee/Probationer homes in low-density residential areas (they will be allowed in R3 and above pursuant to a conditional use permit). We are informed by the City Attorney and Planning that this additional clause increased the number of industry groups opposing the draft ordinance (due, in part to the federal early prisoner release program(s)). PPCC, as part of a super-majority of WRAC councils, fought for many changes that have not been incorporated into the final draft (those changes which are not included are: limits on concentration, distance limits from “sensitive uses,” public hearings for “public benefit” applications, an affirmative statement that no legal non-conforming uses are created by the ordinance, public notice and input following an operator’s non-compliance with public benefit requirements and inclusion of a private attorney general’s provision).
7.3.7. Richard Cohen. Richard reported that we may recall Emily Shane as the young girl who was killed in a traffic incident where a driver ran his car off the road and struck her while she was walking on Pacific Coast Highway. The driver has been charged with second-degree murder. The case is now pending. Barbara Kohn stated that the PCH Taskforce regularly discusses these and related issues.
7.3.8. Re-Districting. Ernie Meadows reported that he attended a redistricting meeting intended to elicit responses from the audience relative to what redistricting should accomplish for their area. Janet Turner has submitted a letter from PPCC because of the changes to our district. Dick Wulliger advised the Board that there will be a forum this Sunday at the Women’s Club stating at 2 PM where our district’s three candidates will present.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Climate Change Committee. Janet Turner reported that Laura Mack, resident of the Marquez Knolls (in attendance) and some of her students have done a report on climate change and how that could potentially affect the Palisades.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Koretz Fire Safety Motion (below).
Chris Spitz presented the PPCC motion and the Kortez motion that was an outgrowth of fire problems experienced in CD-5. The relevant background in the Palisades is that we live in a high-risk fire zone area and the recent fire in Potrero Canyon that was caused by the contractor who did not have equipment on site to put out a construction related fire. Discussion: Janet expressed that if our Board passes this motion it might help spur the City Council to put the motion on the agenda. Gil Dembo stated that this would enhance fire safety for the Palisades because many of our streets and homes abut areas with heavy brush. Jim Rea and Jack Allen questioned whether the Koretz motion was stating what was in the LAMC or increasing/expanding what vegetation; Richard Cohen and Janet Turner clarified the Koretz motion and the goal of our motion for their to be a report back on the issues. Action: Chris Spitz sponsored the motion and Stuart Muller seconded the motion. The motion passed with one abstention. [See attachment below.]
10.2. Westside Waldorf School Motion (below).
Jeff Beal, School Trustee and parent attended the meeting to speak in support of the motion. Background: the traffic signal has been completed and the school was surprised to find out that the paperwork was not fully complete with the installation of the signal. The City has told the school that there would be one more public hearing to close out the matter; in 2009, the understanding was that the only thing required to complete the plan approval was installation of the signal and remediation of traffic issues. The school contacted Councilmember Rosendahl to request that the paperwork be concluded using administrative means and not a public hearing. Waldorf met with the PPCC LUC last week and the LUC responded positively towards the school’s request. Discussion: Richard Cohen was PPCC Chair when the issue came before the school and community years ago. At that time, PPCC was adamant that it wanted the signal, the school did what we asked them for (and at great expense/to its detriment) and that support of the motion is very warranted. Gil Dembo said that we should thank the school for helping the school. Norma Spak reported that the Castellmare Mesa Homeowners Association supports this motion. Action: Barbara Kohn read the motion and George Wolfberg seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. [See attachment below.]
10.3. Neighborhood Preparedness Program Motion (below).
Patric Cohen, CERT Coordinator Battalion 9 spoke to request that neighborhoods acknowledge the Neighborhood Team Program (“NTP”). Background: the point of the program is to help us be self-sufficient in the case of an emergency when it may take up to 72 hours for first responders to get to our area. If we can organize locally in two to four block radius areas, then we may all become safer by neighbors helping neighbors (akin to a neighborhood watch program). The more councils in Los Angeles who are willing to ratify the program will make fundraising and grant money easier for those supporting NTP. Discussion: Gil Dembo asked what training members would have. Patric responded that class-room training is available for certification (17 ½ hours total), many members are privately trained as doctors, fire fighters, policemen, and that anyone who wants to help respond can participate. Steve Cron asked how to have presentations made to local homeowner groups; Patric responded that he welcomed anyone to contact him at smiledr@earthlink.net. Paul Glasgall asked if there was still a twenty-five person minimum and Patric said that there is not. Flo Elfant reminded the Board that she has had this information since 1988 and has constantly promoted Community Emergency Response Team (“CERT” – www.cert-la.com). Gil Dembo stated that the motion is a very positive thing. Action: Marguerite Perkins Mautner sponsored the motion and Gil Dembo seconded. The motion passed unanimously. [See attachment below.]
10.4. Mayor’s Budget Survey and Budget Advocates.
Janet Turner reported that the City’s budget survey will become available on-line on January 15, 2012 – urging all Board members and their constituents to take the survey so that the Mayor can hear from us and take our concerns seriously. Janet reported that the Budget Advocates intend to stress the importance of focusing on union contracts and civil service reforms.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:33 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 10.1 — Koretz Fire Safety Motion
Whereas Pacific Palisades is in a High Risk Fire Zone area, and whereas the City of Los Angeles’ adopted 2011-2012 budget reduced Pacific Palisades Fire Station 69’s equipment and man power by 30%, be it resolved that Pacific Palisades Community Council supports the following motion introduced by Councilmember Paul Koretz (“Koretz Motion”), and strongly urges City Council to take action to strengthen the fire code and the municipal code in an effort to prevent fires, by not only taking the measures listed in the Koretz Motion for brush clearance by homeowner, but also brush clearance by the City and other government agencies, and including additional measures for homeowners, contractors, the City and other government agencies when there is any construction or permitted activity that could pose a fire threat.
KORETZ Motion- CITY COUNCIL
Each year, beginning May 1, the Fire Department inspects more than 130,000 individual parcels located in approximately 160 square miles in the City’s Very High Hazard Severity Zone. The Los Angeles Municipal Code requires homeowners to clear hazardous vegetation on their property as follows: II within five feet of roof surfaces; II within 10 feet of roadways (driveway, road, alley);
II within 10 feet of combustible fences;
II within 10 feet of a chimney outlet; and, II within 200 feet of structures
Unfortunately, on occasion, brush has been ignited when homeowners or their contractors are clearing vegetation on the property. Any fires that result can be caused from sparks produced from metal blades on motorized equipment used to clear the brush. To prevent such occurrences, homeowners must take precautions during brush clearance to ensure that fires are not inadvertently started.
I THEREFORE MOVE that Council instruct the Fire Department, with the assistance of the City Attorney, to report back in 30 days with recommendations on amendments to the Fire Code and Municipal Code, as appropriate, on the requirements homeowners, and their contractors, must follow when clearing brush from their property. The report should include:
a) the appropriate equipment for brush clearance to maximize safety;
b) requirements for the use of fire extinguishers or other fire retardant to ensure that a fire could be immediately contained or prevented; and
c) updates on recent changes in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones Boundary.
Paul Koretz, Councilmember, Fifth District
ITEM 10.2 — Westside Waldorf Motion
Whereas the Westside Waldorf school has fulfilled the condition of its permit with the completion of the traffic signal installation at Los Liones and Sunset Boulevard, and
Whereas the Community Council has heard no complaints from the community about safety at that intersection, and
Whereas the Community Council believes that the installation of the traffic signal has improved traffic safety and provided a safer manner for children to cross, and
Whereas the cost of the installation was considerably over the initial estimate, and In an effort to prevent additional expense to the school, Pacific Palisades Community Council supports processing the reinstatement of the school’s original maximum student enrollment and Plan Approval administratively rather than with a hearing.
ITEM 10.3 — Neighborhood Team Program Motion
The Pacific Palisades Community Council supports the concept of the Neighborhood Team Program (NTP), an emergency support program organized through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Under the Neighborhood Team Program, community members who have taken the CERT training volunteer as NTP Team Leaders, organizing and providing direction to other neighborhood residents in preparing for and responding to emergencies such as earthquake or major fire.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT NTP COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT) NEIGHBORHOOD TEAM PROGRAM (NTP)
CERT BACKGROUND:
Since its origin in 1986, the Los Angeles Fire Department’s Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) have proven to be a valuable complement to the City’s response to individual, community and city wide emergencies. Volunteers receive an initial seventeen and a half hours of instruction from dedicated LAFD personnel over a seven-week period and become proficient in the basics of emergency preparedness and response. Ongoing monthly classes, refreshers and exercises provide opportunities to refresh and expand upon the initial training.
Natural disasters throughout the world provide stark examples of the need to be prepared at the community level. In Los Angeles, while fire, flood, mud and epidemic are of concern, our communities are least prepared for the destructive potential of the major earthquake that is now overdue. The public has been advised that police, fire and medical personnel will be unavailable to residential communities for days following an earthquake, and citizens will be required to rely on their own supplies, knowledge and organization.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD TEAM PROGRAM (NTP):
A preferred means of responding to this circumstance is with a community approach that can be implemented quickly and efficiently at a level that will make a difference. It is believed that many residents would rise to perceived local threats if the level of involvement was proportionate and skilled leadership was present. Fortunately, twenty-five years of CERT classes have resulted in trained personnel living throughout the city, but seldom in sufficient concentrations to form local teams. The Neighborhood Team Program, while not a substitute for CERT training, addresses both of these considerations through a simplified neighborhood based program.
Each Team’s development is dependent upon the neighborhood, demographics, energy level and leadership skills present; there is no standard that must be achieved. The guiding adage is that some preparation is clearly better than none and will produce meaningful results for the individuals and community.
THE NTP PROCESS:
The Neighborhood Team Program promotes local preparedness utilizing combined teams of CERT trained and untrained residents in the same neighborhood. The NTP is a flexible program adaptable to the needs, resources and interests of each community while improving disaster preparedness and response at the local level.
Volunteer teams of 10-20 persons living within a 3-5 block radius and led by CERT personnel from that area, are instructed in personal and family preparedness techniques and limited group operations. A modified CERT training protocol (attached), personalized to local circumstances, is utilized for group exercises covering search and report, light search and rescue and field level medical treatment. Utilizing various communication techniques within and beyond the local teams, information is provided to LAFD units regarding damage conditions and assistance requirements. The Teams also provide enhanced physical and psychological security for the aged and those rendered most vulnerable due to injury and/or damage.
NTP SUPPORT REQUESTS:
The Neighborhood Team Program is being piloted in FD Battalion 18 with thirteen teams currently active. If proven successful it is hoped that the concept will be expanded to all Los Angeles communities. In order to affect this desired outcome, the following actions are requested by each Neighborhood Council:
Pass a motion acknowledging and supporting the NTP concept (draft motion attached).
Communicate to all Homeowner Associations, Neighborhood Associations and Neighborhood Watch Groups the value of participation in the NTP.
Encourage the Program’s expansion throughout the Neighborhood Council region.
Support the NTP concept in the various forums addressing disaster preparation.
Provide financial support for the acquisition of identifying helmets, vests and other authorized supplies for local Neighborhood Teams.
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MINUTES FOR JANUARY 26th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Paul Glasgall, Steve Boyers, Harry Sondheim, Carol Pfannkuche, Jim Rea, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Barbara Marinacci, Joe Almaraz, Stuart Muller and Chris Spitz.
Voting Alternates: Timothy Huber, Susan Orenstein, Quentin Fleming, Steve Yusi and Alex Mack.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Andrew Wolfberg, Amy Kalp, John Glasgow, Kurt Toppel, Ernie Meadows and Norma Spak.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Richard Cohen read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:07 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Steve Boyers moved and Paul Glasgall seconded adoption of the Minutes for January 12, 2012. The Minutes were adopted unanimously with one abstention. The next meeting is February 9, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of January 26 , 2012. The total account balances equal $24,205.31, which consist of USB Checking $4,881.76, Smith Barney account $18,134.93 and Post Office account $1,188.62. Ted Mackie reported that we have gotten far fewer donations than before, i.e., 261 this year in comparison to approximately 400 last year.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Janet Turner announced the appointment of Steve Yusi as the new Educational Representative, Alternate on the PPCC’s Board.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office –Arturo Pina, CD-11 Southern District Director.
Presentation: Redistricting the City of LA and Proposed Changes to Council District 11 (“CD-11). Mr. Pina reported that the redistricting commission has been meeting for several months as reported in the Councilman’s “eblast”. Maps that demonstrated the new re-districting boundaries were displayed. The next public hearing will take place February 2, 2012 at the Westchester Recreation Center. The goal for Bill Rosendahl is to keep Westchester intact as part of CD-11, primarily because LAX physically remains in CD-11, but under the new re-districting plan LAX Westchester has a different representative (thereby making Councilmember’s job in representing CD-11 very difficult). There is a petition set up on Councilmember Rosendahl’s website that anyone is free to sign. It is expected that the final draft will be sent to City Council on March 1, 2012. The transmission of the recommendation is up to Councilmember Wesson; April 1, 2012 is the deadline for the new re-districting map. Discussion: Quentin Fleming asked if outdoor advertising interests had anything to do with Councilmember Rosendahl’s stance on the re-districting proposal. Arturo reiterated that the Councilmember’s has a stated position against the expansion of LAX.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore. Officer Moore deferred his update to later in the meeting. [See Item 10.4 below.]
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Northern Trust Gold Open at the Riviera Club.
Andrew Wolfberg reported that a meeting was held with the CD-11 office regarding the impact of this event on residents, particularly with regard to parking on Allenford. Residents on Allenford will be given free passes to park and Andrew is grateful for the help of Norman Kulla, and Joaquin Macias to reach a satisfactory resolution for residents concerned about event parking and access issues.
7.3.2. Beautiful Palisades Committee.
Harry Sondheim reported that he had met with Corpus Christi Church and received a letter from Msgr. Kidney that the church is willing to modify and remove it’s display of advertising banners along Sunset Boulevard. Harry Sondheim expressed his gratitude to Msgr. Kidney who was in attendance at tonight’s meeting.
7.3.3. LAPD Update.
Amy Kalp reported that (1) the motorcycle noise was a real problem last night (in part because LAPD was occupied with burglary issues that have limited resources available to monitor this problem in the Palisades). Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore concurred that this was a resource issue but that this is not always the case. (2) There will be a “Watch for Stopped Traffic Sign” installed at Chautauqua and Corona del Mar, and Amy has contacted Caltrans about also adjusting the timer on the traffic light at PCH/Chautauqua to address the long wait time at that intersection and the long line of traffic backed up on Chautauqa in response to complaints from residents. Stuart Muller suggested, and Amy Kalp concurred with, the correction of potholes in the general area of Chautauqua in PCH.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. LUC, Next Meeting.
Chris Spitz reported that (1) the next LUC meeting will be February 1, 2012 at 12:30 at the Library and all Board members and public are welcome to attend and/or contact LUC members prior to the meeting and before Board recommendations. Topics will include a large construction project on Hampden Place, the Westside Alliance of Regional Council’s proposed motion regarding commercial development in Santa Monica (Bergamont Station) and a request from LADBS to provide zoning code enforcement priorities; (2) the PPCC had supported the Clean Hands Ordinance previously and on January 10, 2012 the City Council adopted a motion in support (sponsored by Councilmember Zine); and (3) Bud Ovrum has initiated changes to LADBS involving transparency and internal oversight and the LUC is pleased about those developments.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. The County of LA’s Recent Success with the Homeless/Homeless in the Palisades — Flora Gil Krisiloff (Westside Senior Field Deputy for County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky).
Presentation: Flora has spent 6 years working for the Supervisor in this capacity and has learned that homelessness is a tremendous issue, particularly in Santa Monica and Venice. The concern is the chronic homeless who have been on the streets for 10-35 years because they are often erroneously viewed as “service resistant” or do not desire to come off the streets. In 2007, Zev launched “Project 50” which has been featured in the LA Times and succeeded in moving the most vulnerable 50 chronically homeless people off the streets of Skid Row and into permanent supportive housing. Many of the most disabled chronically homeless have severe mental illness along with other physical and emotional issues. Multidisciplinary supportive services teams offering health and mental healthcare, assistance and benefits were assembled and that was affective when permanent housing was offered first. This model is now being replicated and it is becoming generally accepted as a “best practice”. In sum, unless a homeless person has a permanent home, they cannot become “formerly homeless.” Collaboration with CD-11 is very important because the housing authorities that have housing vouchers are connected to the various cities within the counties. Discussion: Paul Glasgall asked if Project 50 has been expanded. Flora explained that they know that more money is saved by giving those people permanent homes and Zev has supported the idea of “Project 500.” Within the County and his own district an additional 500 persons have been housed. United Way has also launched “Home for Good” focused on the chronically homeless. The County is continuing to sponsor additional motions on this issue. The 2011 count reflected approximately 50,000 chronically homeless persons, where 33% have mental illness issues – and there are others with subcategories of physical disabilities, veterans, youth, families, etc. Norma Spak asked about the West LA VA being used to assist in this effort. Flora said that the senior and disabled veterans are accommodated and the County continues to push the VA to use the land for veterans.
10.2. PATH presentation on the Homeless — Jeremy Sidell, PATH Chief Communications Officer and Courtney Kanagi, Director of PATH West Los Angeles Center.
Presentation: Jeremy gave an organizational background on PATH and a list of organizations/cities that PATH works with and supports. Problems associated with the homeless are many but primarily include that there are simply are not enough beds to accommodate the homeless in our city every night and those emancipated children who become homeless and then have homeless children of their own. Housing is the key to this problem and to provide housing to the homeless is the most cost effective solution in the long run. Street outreach is viewed as a process and not an outcome. PATH is successfully working with CD-11, particularly in Venice and the issues associated with the “vehicular” homeless.
10.3. Homeless Registry Bootcamp, March 1 and 2, 2012 in Los Angeles.
Leslie Wise, Program Director for Community Solutions. It is a 2 day training, free to anyone in the community about how to engage in a survey process to identify existing homeless and work towards finding solutions.
Presentation: Leslie is working on the national housing campaign for 100,000 homes and would like to engage the Palisades in helping on this need. The website is 100Khomes.org. The goal of the campaign is to seek, find, and educate ourselves on the most vulnerable homeless persons in our communities and to work towards ways to house those individuals in permanent housing (“Home for Good”). In addition, the VA has recently joined Community Solutions’ campaign in Los Angeles to help 12,000 veterans across the nation find housing; ultimately that will help communities where the homeless reside because of the burden on taxpayer dollars when the chronically homeless cycle in and out of our care systems. Leslie outlined the process for how a community can sign up and that information is available on the website also.
Discussion: Marguerite Perkins Mautner asked about the financial commitment needed. Leslie said that it does take money for outreach teams (salaries, costs), costs of social services, state & local rental vouchers and leveraging housing subsidies. Chris Spitz asked about the benchmarks for success. Leslie responded that they get data on a quarterly basis about homeless numbers and housing retention. Stuart asked about where the homeless would be physically housed. The idea would be that PATH would engage with the Palisades community to help guide us through this process and that it might be possible to develop low income housing here or to get rental subsidies to help homeless persons relocate into rental properties in the Palisades or other areas. Flora commented that the County is asking each community to step up within a regional approach so that those communities who offer services (like Skid Row and Santa Monica) do not become over saturated. Relative to available funding, each county supervisor has $1.4 million per year to put towards homelessness in each district. Relative to Project 50 type replications in Venice, Santa Monica, Hollywood and Van Nuys, the grants have been approximately $500,000 over two years to move 40 chronically homeless persons permanently off the streets and into permanent supportive housing. Harry Sondheim asked about the sufficiency of benefits to allow living by the coast in the Palisades; the voucher amount is fixed and likely would not allow homeless persons to continue to live in the Palisades but enable them to live elsewhere in Los Angeles. Janet Turner suggested that it is important for our churches and local organizations who do fundraising to keep some of our money here in the Palisades to help the homeless that reside here.
10.4. Palisades Homeless Population.
Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore. Officer Moore reported that three of the Palisades homeless are now in permanent housing. The homeless who choose to remain here (roughly 20 permanent residents) are in the Palisades primarily because they enjoy living near the beach and the beach has facilities (bathroom, showers) available. There is a transient population along the coastline and one or two persons who like being in the village. Personally Officer Moore has not experienced homeless in our community with severe mental health issues but rather meets individuals who choose/prefer to live here.
10.5. Community Input on the Homeless Issues.
Townsend Bell lives in the Alphabet Streets and has assisted Officer Moore in interfacing with individuals living in their vehicles and that has resulted in relocation. However, he has had several situations involving public safety issues with homeless persons in Malibu, the Palisades Village and Santa Monica and Townsend asked about what a resident’s rights are in a conflict. Another public speaker asked that the criminal element of the homeless population be addressed. Officer Moore suggested trying to avoid contact if possible and contact the police. Janet Turner asked for anyone in the community interested in submitting their names to participate to please do so with PPCC. It is Janet’s hope to get a small group together for the March 1st and 2nd training and to interface with Officer Moore on a weekly or regular basis.
10.6. The Mayor’s Budget Survey / Budget Advocates.
Presentation: Jay Handal. https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2012LABudgetSurvey. Jay reported that $90 million had been found by the city because the pension plans had more money and certain actuary adjustments. The projected City budget deficit is $160 million. The Budget Advocates continue to work with the City regarding how they collect the money they are entitled to but currently don’t collect, including those collections that were recommended by the Budget Advocates last year. The Advocates will meet with the Mayor in March 2012. Items of interest are: infrastructure (parking revenues, write-offs, and needed infrastructure investment), pension deposits, etc. The Budget Advocates want the City to give a 5 year balanced budget to the people. The Mayor has asked for every department to bring in a 12% reduction but after today’s “find” the reduction may be just 6%. The thing for residents to be aware of is the shocking and continued reduction of services. Discussion: Geoff Sheldon asked about the waste, fraud and abuse. Jay stated that the Advocates were looking into this including LAPD lawsuits/settlements, worker’s comp fraud, housing department corruption, LADBS corruption, etc. Chris Spitz asked about interface with Wendy Gruehl and whether the Advocates are being listened to effectively. Jay responded that they work closely with Controller Gruehl and use her information/recommendations in their studies. Last year was the first year that the Advocates were on the agenda at City Hall and Councilmember Parks has done a good job of listening. Janet Turner asked about the recent motion for privatization of the city’s assets including parking lots (last year’s “P-3”). Jay felt that Culver City’s hiring of operators for it’s parking lots has worked very well. He added that a one time sale of assets to balance the budget is not a good long term fix. Jim Rea asked about progress on efforts to overhaul the City’s method of collections. Jay stated that there is an RFP out for these services and that this RFP had been negotiated and modified. Harry Sondheim asked about illegal real estate signage. Jay responded that illegal real estate signs are not enforced along scenic highways after the City’s loss to the tarot card reader. There is no exemption but the laws are just not being enforced (lack of political will to enforce per the City Attorney). Timothy Huber asked about IT infrastructure. Jay said there are notable problems such as when the city purchases hardware and doesn’t have the money to buy the software but IT is not at the top of the City’s list of concerns.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:58 PM.
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MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 9th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz and Aurelia Friedman.
Voting Alternates: Quentin Fleming, June Payne and Bob Locker.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Amy Kalp, Cathy Russell, Schuyler Dietz and Alex Mack.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Marguerite Perkins Mautner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:06 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Steve Boyers moved and Dick Wulliger seconded the minutes for January 26, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously with one abstention. The next meeting is February 23, 2012 with Santa Monica’s Mayor Bloom and Wendy Gruel Mayoral Candidate and City of Los Angeles Controller scheduled to attend.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of February 9, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,186.80, which consist of USB Checking $4,863.25, Smith Barney account $18,134.93 and Post Office account $1,188.62.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Golden Sparkplug Awards, time to send in Nominations (see below [attachment]). Janet Turner announced that this award would be given out Thursday, April 26, 2012, which is the same night that George Wolfberg will be honored as the Citizen of the Year.
7.1.2. Janet Turner announced that George Wolfberg, our At Large Representative and Former Chair, was appointed Citizen of the Year. George is celebrating his wedding anniversary and could not be here.
7.1.3. New Palisadian Post Reporter. Janet Turner introduced and welcomed Rebecca Hower of the Palisades Post who will be taking over for Danielle Gillespie as the Post reporter assigned to cover the PPCC.
7.1.4. The Next PPCC Newsletter. Janet asked all the Area Representatives to submit detail on the job and job satisfaction of being an area representative to include in the newsletter.
7.1.5. Boy Scout Troop 223 from St. Matthews. Janet Turner welcomed the boy scouts, their scoutmasters and volunteers.
7.1.6 Koretz Fire Prevention Motion, LAFD Opposing. Janet Turner reported that she attended the meeting at City Hall and that LAFD opposed the motion to improve guidelines for preventing hillside fires because of the lack of resources. Janet expects the motion to die in committee.
7.1.7. Homeless Committee, Update. Janet Turner reported that March 1st and 2nd are the dates for the special training to teach residents how to hold registries to interview all of the homeless in our town. Flora Gil Krisiloff is working with Zev Yaraslovsky to see about implementing county programs here.
7.1.8. Junior Womens’ Club, thank you for Grant. Janet turner revealed that the PPCC will be awarded a grant on March 6, 2012. We do not know the amount of the grant and are hopeful to receive funds to purchase audio equipment. The PPCC is very grateful to the JWCC for it’s support.
7.1.9. Palisades 90th Anniversary Palisadian Post Issue. Janet Turner reported that the Executive Committee voted to approve the expenditure for a small ad to go into the Palisadian Post.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
Joaquin reported that (1) the Councilmember has asked the DOT to review the draft EIR for the Bergamont Station and to submit comments by 2/27/2012. The Councilmember is concerned about the traffic impacts and mixed use nature of the development, (2) there has been confusion about the program tying in the traffic signals from Sunset to Brentwood and they will be making a presentation to our council at a future date. Jennifer Malaret asked when the cut areas of Sunset would be repaired because the slurry coat on Sunset Blvd. is sinking, there are potholes and residents are popping tires. Richard Cohen stated workers informed him that they will be placing additional lines into the trenches and then will do the permanent repairs to the asphalt cuts. Stuart Muller noted that the Public Notice for the “Canyons & Pacific Palisades ATSAC Project” makes no mention of the two large traffic control boxes that are currently being installed in front of both the Historic Business Block and Kay and Dave’s restaurant, which describes the scope of the work as “There will be trenching operations along certain portions of the roadway, work on the sidewalk, and the signalized intersections,” and makes no mention of control boxes on the sidewalks. Joaquin stated the notice was insufficient, and that CD-11 has not had a presentation about the project either and welcomes the presentation to our council, (3) in Potrero Canyon the traffic signal will be up in the next few weeks and our community will be noticing the 180-200 trucks, and (4) he is following up on LAPD grant funding for additional enforcement.
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore could not be here. On the issue of increased crime in the Palisades, Janet Turner said that there was a home invasion robbery in the Palisades and future notice will be provided to the board. Haldis Toppel stated that solicitors are in the neighborhood pretending to be students and attempting a scam for money. No direct tie can be proven to the robbery but there is a real concern about solicitors ringing doorbells trying to determine who is home and who is not. Paul Glasgall expressed his concern about increased crime in the Palisades and that, after all the years of following police issues, he has never seen such a long list of crimes in our area. Requests have been made for information that we have not gotten and the police coverage that we need is just not out there. Joaquin Macias stated that there was a meeting in the works with the LAPD and those on the council interested in police issues. Amy Kalp said that there are discussions taking place to address this specific problem at C-PAB and traffic C-PAB. Haldis Toppel stated that LAPD is paying attention to our problems and that the patrol officer is one of only many officers dealing with the crime issues in the Palisades; there are unmarked cars and additional officers in our area. Haldis Toppel reminded the community to call 310-444-0702 and report any and every crime that takes place in the Palisades.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors (at the end of the evening as time permits).
7.3.1. Palisades Recreation Center.
(1) Jennifer Malaret reported that the PP-PAB has received an overwhelming positive response to its’ solicitation for a Youth Representative to the Park Advisory Board. Recreation Center staff is considering programming for a type of “teen council” so that additional teens can have a voice in the current operations of the park and plans for long term improvements, (2) Haldis Toppel reported that the Pacific Palisades Jr. Women’s Club PPJWC has given a grant to the Recreation Center for security; we don’t know the amount awarded but the Recreation Center asked for monies for the police facility phone and DSL lines and $3,000 towards security cameras which has a pledge of matching funds.
7.3.2. Historical Society, History of Lake Shrine Land.
Dick Wulliger reported that the event will take place at the Shrine on February 12th. Dick Wulliger commented that this is an architectural, cultural and religious treasure in the Palisades. The event will include a walking tour and the opportunity to see the Shrine up close and all of the public is welcome.
7.3.3. Amy Kalp reported that the Wednesday motorcycles were quieter than usual and that perhaps this was due to additional enforcement. She continues to work on installing the “watch for traffic” sign at Corona del Mar.
7.3.4. A-Frame Signs. Stuart Muller reported that there are only two people in the entire city to remove sidewalk signs and this may be why we are waiting so long to have them removed.
8. Reports from Committees – None.
9. Old Business — None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Speed Signs on Palisades Drive.
Paul Glasgall expressed his concern about the lack of notice to residents in the Highlands about this project and what is being installed. Paul wonders if the information did not come to us because the funds are being provided by a grant and, in any event, we should have known what this project was going to do and the opportunity for the community to provide input (digging up the street three miles from Sunset, tearing up the sidewalk to put in speed monitors, installing poles, etc.). Joaquin confirmed that the funding for the total project is approximately $6 million. Paul is hopeful that this project will have a deterrent impact on speeding on Palisades drive, particularly because another teen flipped his car on Palisades Drive and taken to UCLA. Comment: audience members felt that the project was positive because of the increased safety for youth. Stuart Muller was concerned about the negative aesthetic impact. Janet Turner was hopeful that there would be time set up for a presentation to be made to our council.
10.2. WRAC Motion – LA REVIEW OF DEIR FOR HINES/BERGAMOT PROJECT AND SUPPORT FOR A MASTER EIR FOR THE BERGAMOT AREA PLAN.
Motion [attachment] below. Recommended by the LUC, Jennifer Malaret presenting. Jennifer stated that the 140-acre Bergamot Area project in Santa Monica was another large development in a municipality adjacent to Pacific Palisades that would cause adverse traffic impacts similar to the proposed County development in Marina del Rey that the PPCC considered several meetings ago. Bill Rosendahl has already authored a motion in support of an overall EIR that includes consideration of impacts of this development on the City of Los Angeles. The WRAC Motion is similar to Councilmember Rosendahl’s motion with the only difference being that the WRAC motion considers the HUD Grant as an additional factor warranting the need for a comprehensive EIR inclusive of regional impacts. Discussion: Gil Dembo stated there are two issues that are public transport on the EXPO line and then development in this area. Jack Allen said the theory is that with the EXPO line more housing is warranted, but that theory doesn’t always work because people who live near lines still travel to get to their work, meaning that traffic impacts are not truly reduced by additional housing components. Harry Sondheim suggested that our motion more expressly reference the need for additional housing. Richard Cohen stated that the thrust of the motion was to support a comprehensive EIR. Gil Dembo commented that it is important to the Palisades because we should make sure that there is enough parking for people who live in the Palisades to drive to the station and take the line to downtown. Joaquin said that there was going to be a CD-11 meeting where community councils, neighborhood councils and other stakeholders can attend and provide their input. Action: Jennifer Malaret moved and Haldis Toppel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
10.3. Climate Change for the Southern California Region – Dr. Glen MacDonald, UC Presidential Chair and Director of the UCLA Institute of the Environment and sustainability.
Steve Boyers described the committee that is in the process of making contact with a variety of officials from surrounding areas. The purpose is to eventually create a series of priorities and objectives for the Palisades to take for its own benefit and preservation (long and short term). Steve introduced Dr. Glen MacDonald who provided a Power Point presentation to the council and community. General Comments: Dr. MacDonald stated that we know that certain gasses (CO2 and methane) in the atmosphere over the world have increased due to the burning of fossil fuels. We know that the chemical measurements have exceeded what is possible from natural variability by a significant amount (1/3 and on the way to being doubled). No one debates that additional CO2 and methane have been added to the atmosphere. The debate is (1) is the planet warming up and (2) are these increased gasses causing the warming? Richard Muller (Berkeley) has been studying the first issue; however, political funding behind this research is notable relative to his data and conclusions. Despite being a skeptic, Muller’s research in the congressional record concluded that earth temperatures have demonstratively increased. On the second point, simple physics shows that by adding these gasses, climate temperatures increase. Relative to the Palisades, what is the impact? (1) Temperature. Only a gentle increase in temperature of one to three degrees by the end of the century thanks to the Pacific Palisades being located next to the Pacific Ocean. Temperatures in the Imperial Valley and Central Valley will be in excess of one hundred degrees, very hot, and the Palisades will feel that affect on food production, (2) Sea Level. The sea level is continuing to increase at a faster and faster rate, five centimeters since 1975 and that is a significant increase in terms of the size of the world’s ocean. Worldwide the sea level impact is projected to be approximately three feet. Impacts will be felt on the Pacific Coast Highway, the San Francisco airport, and real estate values in the Bay Area (3) Water. In general, the southwest has had very dry and warm conditions and the state still gets most of its reservoir water from the Colorado River. California is back into drought conditions and that is very consistent with climate change and climate warming, (4) Fire. The state has had steep fires in every southern California County caused by higher temperature, early snow melt and drier fuel. By the end of the century, the speculation is that we could possibly double our burn areas in the state. Our location by the coast protects us from fires more than other areas, but we should be concerned about increased fire risk. Discussion: Richard Cohen asked if we could state to a scientific certainty that human activity is a factor in global warming. Dr. MacDonald said that humans have played a role in warming based on the existence of gasses in the model but that is not a certainty. Bioengineering approaches are being examined as a solution but the amounts of carbon are so large it would be difficult for this to be a singular solution. Marguerite Perkins Mautner asked about the water rise in the oceans and earlier snow pack melt to help the inland dry areas and our water supply. Dr. MacDonald replied that snow packs are being examined; however, the treatment of ocean salt water for drinking and other urban needs is too expensive to be practical. Paul Glasgall asked about on-going drought years. Dr. MacDonald stated that the long drought is consistent with what the model shows such that by 2050 drought conditions could be the permanent state of existence (rather than the usual five year drought cycle). Jack Allen expressed that with such significant air pollution, water pollution and erosion issues whether or not global warming he wonders if global warming is what is really affecting us.
10.4. Motion in Support of the Enforcement of Volunteered Conditions or “Self Imposed” limitations Relative to Conditional Use Permits (“CUPs”).
Guest Speaker: Steve Sann, Chair, Westwood Community Council. Steve began by thanking Richard Cohen, George Wolfberg and Jack Allen for assisting the Westwood Community Council in its formation several years ago. The fact specific situation in Westwood caused the Westwood CC to reach out to other groups on the policy issue and process on working out impacts of proposed developments. It is important that the conditions mutually agreed upon and relied upon by the community in negotiating project approvals with an applicant should be assured and enforced. Voluntary conditions should not be able to be “un-volunteered” by an applicant unilaterally and without findings by the City that there have been changed conditions and circumstances. Discussion: Harry Sondheim expressed that this is a citywide issue and not just of concern for West Los Angeles. Quentin Fleming expressed that volunteered conditions should simply be adhered to regardless of future circumstances. Haldis Toppel asked about simply nullifying the permit or contract when a condition is no longer being met. Steve explained that there are competing state and municipal hearings such that finger pointing can go on which leaves the community with no voice. Action: Richard Cohen moved and Jack Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed.
11. General Public Comment.
Patrick Hart expressed that government officials have the onus for public safety and granting another liquor license where there is over concentration can expose those officials to liability.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 9:01 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 7.1.1 — Golden Sparkplugs
AWARD DEFINITION: The Golden Sparkplug Award honors those citizens who ignite ideas and projects into community action that affect all of us. CRITERIA:
1. The person must have launched a new idea or project of substantial benefit to the Palisades community. 2. The project must have been initiated, in progress, or completed during the previous calendar year. 3. The action must have been voluntary and not related to one’s business or occupation.
RECIPIENTS: 1. Both adults and youth are eligible for the award 2. Only one member of a given group or committee
3. Have broad community appeal and represent a cross section of the community 4. Selected based on quality of work versus quantity of nominations
ITEM 10.2 — Motion: Pacific Palisades Community Council supports the following WRAC motion: WRAC MOTION – URGE CITY OF LA REVIEW OF DEIR FOR HINES/BERGAMOT PROJECT AND SUPPORT FOR A MASTER EIR FOR THE BERGAMOT AREA PLAN
In regard to the regional impacts that will result from multiple large development projects pending in the 140 acre Bergamot Area in Santa Monica as shown on the attached Exhibit “1,” including the 7-acre development known as the Hines Bergamot Transit Village at 26th and Olympic Boulevard in Santa Monica, WRAC supports review and comment on the project’s Draft Environmental Impact Report by the City of Los Angeles, by and through its City Attorney, City Council, responsible City departments and CalTrans; and
Further, because the 140-acre Bergamot Area is presently being planned by the City of Santa Monica under a HUD Grant, WRAC supports the need for a comprehensive EIR that fully considers the regional impacts on the City of Los Angeles and that takes into account the cumulative impact of all the major development projects pending in this area as mentioned above.
ITEM 10.4 — MOTION IN SUPPORT OF THE ENFORCEMENT OF VOLUNTEERED CONDITIONS OR “SELF-IMPOSED” LIMITATIONS RELATIVE TO CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS (“CUP”s)
“PPCC supports the enforcement of “self-imposed” limitations by an applicant relative to any CUP applied for and obtained from the City of Los Angeles. Granting any applicant, developer, restaurant, or bar relief from a self-imposed condition that was agreed to by an applicant and the community on projects or developments without the consent of the community, will severely impair the ability of homeowner associations, Community Councils, Neighborhood Councils and others to negotiate in good faith with developers and other applicants with any confidence that the agreed-upon condition would be subsequently sustained and enforced. A self-imposed condition of approval of a CUP should not be revoked except when the circumstances that required the imposition of the condition no longer exist or other mitigation measures are imposed which eliminate the need for the self-imposed condition as reflected by written findings.”
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MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 23rd 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Richard Cohen, Ted Mackie, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Geoff Shelden, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, Harry Sondheim, Aurelia Friedman, Joyce Brunelle
Voting Alternates: John Glasgow, Steve Boyers
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Norma Spak, Schuyler Dietz, Kurt Toppel, Carol Bruch, Quentin Flemming, Ernie Meadows, Bob Locker
Start of Business Meeting 7:00 p.m.
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Ted Mackie.
2. Introduction of the Board and Audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The President certified a Quorum.
4. Adoption of Minutes of February 9, 2012. Stuart Muller, second Steve Boyers, unanimous.
Next Meeting: March 8, 2012. The President announced that Haldis Toppel will preside over the next meeting on March 8, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. USB Checking: $4,584.25, SmithBarney: $18,134.93, Post Office: $1,188.62, Total: 23,907.80.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the President.
7.1.1a. Sparkplug Award Committee: Richard Cohen – Chair, Ted Mackie, Norma Spack, Aurelia Friedman.
7.1.1b. Sparkplug Award Dinner Event Committee: Christy Dennis – Chair, Jim Rea, Haldis Toppel, Andy Frew, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Kurt Toppel, Cathy Russell
7.1.2. A special LADWP town hall meeting will be held on February 29 at Marquez Charter Elementary School at 6 p.m. PPCC and MKPOA are sponsoring the event. DWP will discuss the need for a new power distribution station in the Palisades, present potential sites, and solicit public input.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office.
Joaquin Macias reported that the signal light at Potrero Canyon will go online within the next day. It is temporary and permitted for one year to allow approximately 200 trucks hauling dirt to enter and leave daily. The permit allows for two 3 month extension for a maximum of 18 months. The light will then be removed.
Paul Glasgall asked how the light was configured. A: Trucks will not be allowed to make right turns. Pending the City-wide Automated Traffic Surveillance and Control System (ATSAC) on March 8, the installation of two above ground control boxes in front of the historic building on Sunset will be held off.
Gil Dembo asked about the control of motorcycles on Sunset. A: There are weekly meetings with Officer Moore and the Council Office.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore — No report.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors – No reports.
8. Reports from Committees — No reports.
9. Old Business — No reports.
10. New Business.
10.1. Richard Bloom, Mayor of Santa Monica.
Santa Monica Mayor Richard Bloom addressed the PPCC Council and highlighted the progress Santa Monica is making economically and as a leader on environmental issues, not just in the region, but also around the world (noting that Santa Monica is healthy economically). Unemployment rates around the country are about nine percent, while California is around 11 to 12 percent. Tourism has come back in “robust fashion,” noting that $1.2 billion in economic activity, generated by 6.5 million visitors to the city, benefited Santa Monica and the entire Westside last year. Seventy percent of tourists staying in Santa Monica hotels, do not use cars,Additionally, the retail industry in the city has seen growth, while “restaurants are holding their own”. The real news in Santa Monica is the growth in the tech sector, Bloom said. “We have seen an explosion of tech businesses coming into Santa Monica.” By encouraging the entertainment and arts industry growth in the city has attracted the tech segment. The Santa Monica Bike Center is the largest bicycle parking facility in the United States, offering 360 bicycle parking spaces, a space to rent bikes, lockers, bathrooms and showers for cyclists to rinse off after a ride. The city plans to create new bike lanes, and traffic lights are already set up so that when a cyclist stops in a designated area, marked by a logo of a bicyclist, the streetlights are triggered. The bike infrastructure is to encourage more people to use bicycles and goes along with the city’s environmental leadership. Bloom also discussed the need for improvements along the beach area between Santa Monica and the Palisades. “First of all we’ve got to get a pedestrian path built,”’ said Bloom, who has been encouraging his staff to look for resources to build the path. Being fiscally healthy as a city is as important to the mayor as being environmentally healthy. In an effort to support environmentally friendly solutions, the city has set a goal to be 100-percent water self-sufficient by 2020 in order to cut down on greenhouse gasses. ”It takes an enormous amount of energy to move water from northern California and then up through the Tehachapi Mountains,” Bloom explained. Other plans to make Santa Monica a greener city include building more electric-vehicle recharging stations and the completion of the Expo light-rail line, between downtown L.A. and Santa Monica, which is expected to be finished in early 2016, Bloom said. The light rail is expected to help ease the growing problem with traffic congestion in Los Angeles, but other measures are needed to reduce the demand on the traffic infrastructure. The City of Santa Monica has plans to ensure that various mixed-use developments being built within the city are not adding to traffic problems, Bloom said. “We do that by encouraging heavy use of the light rail. We do that by focusing all of our development around transit stops and by requiring that mixed-use development be the rule in Santa Monica and not the exception.” Bloom assured the PPCC that Santa Monica will work with the Palisades on issues that directly affect the area, including parking for the light rail, and traffic disruptions or detours created by the California Incline bridge-replacement project. “The Palisades is going to be part of the conversation,” said Bloom, who is running for State Assembly in the new 50th District. “It is Santa Monica’s intention to work very closely with you. The Palisades is an extremely important community and things we do in Santa Monica have the potential for having dramatic impacts on you. We continue to be aware of that.” (This portion of the Minutes includes excerpts from the article published in the Palisadian-Post 2/29/2012.)
Marguerite Perkins Mautner asked for information on the construction of the California Incline and for plans to address increased traffic in the Santa Monica Canyon and on 7th Street. A: The incline is not earthquake safe and must be rebuilt. The EIR process will be completed in the Fall. Construction starts at the earliest in 2013. Traffic in the Santa Monica Canyon and 7th Street in the Palisades is part of the planning conversation. The Palisades and Santa Monica are partners and we are connected.
Richard Cohen stated that the traffic will have a severe impact on the Palisades. PPCC forwarded a request for 24/7 construction work to shorten the project duration. He suggested an early completion bonus.
Joe Almaraz asked about the impact on traffic with the proposed Bergamont station project. A: An RFP is being drafted to determine the future of Bergamont.
Harry Sondheim referred to the expanding entertainment, arts, and tech employment sector, he asked if Santa Monica can provide sufficient housing for the workers to reduce commuter traffic. A: Santa Monica builds more housing than any other city in Southern California. 26% of traffic is from through-traffic. We built 12,000 low income units in the 12 years that I have been on the Council.
Kurt Toppel asked what the future holds for Santa Monica Airport, will it be closed or remain open. A: The big issues are the jets. The Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) has an enormous influence on the operation of an airport. We are at the tail end of a 30 year contract and are in negotiations. Santa Monica airport has the strongest noise abatement policy in the country. We can improve the airport environment but we cannot eliminate all jet traffic, only some of the noisier ones.
Jack Allen stated that to reduce the load on the infrastructure and traffic, Torrance, Beverly Hills and other cities have “downsized” their zoning. In contrast, Santa Monica has increased their zoning density. A: 96% of the City’s Floor Area Ratio (FAR) will remain unchanged. Santa Monica measures the traffic pattern every two years and makes adjustments when needed. We encourage Los Angeles to look at some of the problem. Santa Monica is an island within LA. When there is a problem elsewhere, the streets and the freeway in Santa Monica back up. Traffic is a collective problem.
Nancy Dolan stated that Santa Monica is a model in many ways but not very pedestrian friendly. A: Efforts are made to slow down traffic and the flashing pedestrian cross walks are very effective.
Patric Hart asked what efforts Santa Monica is making to address the homeless problem, considering the Mayor’s run for 50th District. A: Los Angeles and Santa Monica have a very good working relationship. We are working on programs and the affects have reduced homelessness by 25%. Santa Monica cares about community services. However, we can’t solve the homeless problem by itself, we need assistance from other places.
Paul Glasgall asked how many jobs have been created in Santa Monica and to what extent has traffic increased. What affect will Bergamont have on traffic? A: The objective is to better manage traffic.
Joe Halper asked for an opinion on the Malibu Lagoon Project. A: This was a project of the Coastal Commission, the lagoon has to be restored. The project should start in June.
June Payne asked if Santa Monica plants trees and why it is shutting down a major parking structure. A: The current parking structure is seismically unsafe and must be replaced.
10.2. Wendy Greuel – Los Angeles City Controller.
Los Angeles City Controller and mayoral candidate Wendy Greuel gave an overview of budget issues and recent audits she has conducted. She serves as the city’s chief auditor and accountant, is responsible for ensuring that taxpayer money is spent wisely. In an effort to exercise fiscal responsibility she is implementing performance-based budgeting, which is changing the way the city prepares its budget. She proposed that the city phase-in performance-based budgeting last October, and would like to use this budgeting strategy in all of the city’s departments, but due to staff limitations only two departments, the Planning Department and the Bureau of Street Services, were chosen. Using performance-based budgeting, city departments look at the services they need to provide, and then calculate the cost, as opposed to the traditional line-item approach, in which additions or deletions are made to the prior year’s budget. Performance-based budgeting is about how the city uses its scarce resources effectively and holding departments accountable for their performance. Greuel has been the city controller since July 2009, has completed over 50 audits. Her most recent audit of the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services revealed safety and welfare concerns for animals being sheltered by the Department, as well as missed opportunities to collect much-needed revenue due to mismanagement. In four of the six shelters audited, the Department failed to maintain a physical inventory of the animals.
Other findings revealed that over the last two years Los Angeles Animal Services (LAAS) neglected to collect over $1.3 million in potential dog-license revenue. Greuel also highlighted the January audit of the City’s Street Furniture contract with CBS Decaux, which uses bus benches and other street furniture for advertising purposes. The city could have received at least $53 million in revenue in the first 10 years, according to the contract, yet the city only realized $29.9 million.
In order to audit the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, Greuel had to get permission because it is state-chartered and receives substantial funding from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. She discovered that hundreds of thousands of dollars in unnecessary travel were being spent, sometimes with no receipts. Upcoming audits on fuel costs and job training money within the city will be forthcoming. On being the city controller, Greuel joked to her audience, “You don’t always make friends.” She told the council about running into a woman in an elevator on a Friday night who complimented her on a job well done. Greuel was happy with the praise until the woman asked, “But does anybody like you?” The industry standard is six auditors for every million dollars of your budget. The City of Los Angeles has a $7- billion budget, which means Greuel should have 42 auditors. She makes do with 14 auditors. With so few auditors, Greuel looks for areas in which she can be a catalyst for change. “If we can create jobs in Los Angeles, create revenue, we need to encourage that,” said Greuel, who is an announced candidate in the 2013 mayoral race. “We need to make sure that our departments are providing the kinds of services that are necessary.” [This portion of the Minutes includes excerpts from the article published in the Palisadian-Post 2/29/2012.]
Chris Spitz and Jennifer Malaret voiced concerns about putting signs into City Parks in order to increase funds from advertising fees. A: there should be no permanent signs in the City Parks.
George Wolfberg suggested incentives should be given to empower departments such as Recreation & Parks and give them incentives to develop programs to increase their income. Allow them to keep the income that they generate and not take it all away. Reward departments to think out of the box. A: Distribution of money can be a difficult decision. When City property is sold, for example, 50% of the sale goes to the Council Office and the other 50% goes to the City’s General Fund. Perhaps in some cases it should all go to the General Fund since it was purchased with General Fund’s money. When a large piece of property in my District was sold when I was City Council Member, it would have been a substantial windfall for my District, but I decided that it should all go to the General Fund.
Jack Allen stated that DWP salaries are higher than comparable job in other City Departments and should be adjusted. A: DWP competes with private industry for many of its jobs and must find ways to retain its qualified staff. DWP salaries are still below private industry standards. We need to make structural changes.
Richard Cohen mentioned that the City is failing to collect its taxes and fees but continues to increase the license fees to make up for budget shortages. A: The City is getting tougher on its collection process. Criminal and civil charges are currently filed against parking lot operators who have failed to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in contractual fees.
Janet Turner stated that the City has poor negotiation skills and fails to enforce its contracts. A: Improvements are needed in that area.
Quentin Fleming stated that over 300 hours were spent on studying the AEG contract and asked if the Controller’s Office will be tough on AEG with the enforcement of that contract. A: That contract will be looked at and fully enforced.
10.3a. Motion that the Code of Conduct approved on August 11, 2011 be added to Standing Rules as SR # 9. Motion by George Wolfberg, second by Ted Mackie, unanimous.
10.3b. Motion that the PPCC’s approved Guiding Principles be incorporated into a new appendix to the By Laws that would be titled Appendix D. Motion by George Wolfberg, second by Ted Mackie, unanimous.
11. General Public Comment. [None recorded.]
12. Adjournment. [Note: adjournment time not recorded.]
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MINUTES FOR MARCH 8th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Haldis Toppel (Acting Chair in the Chair’s absence), Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, George Wolfberg, Dick Wulliger, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz, Donna Vaccarino.
Voting Alternates: Christy Dennis, Robert Baker, Timothy Huber, June Payne.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Amy Kalp, Norma Spak, Carol Bruch, Steve Cron, John Glasgow, Quentin Fleming.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Stuart Muller read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. [Acting Chair] Haldis Toppel called the meeting to order at 7:08 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience. Haldis announced that Donna Vaccarino was the newly appointed Representative of the Pacific Palisades Civic League, replacing Carl Mellinger.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Acting Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:12 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved and Stuart Muller seconded the motion to defer adoption of the February 23, 2012 minutes until the next meeting. The motion to defer adoption of the minutes was approved unanimously. The next meeting is March 22, 2011.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Acting Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of March 8, 2012. The total account balances equal $23,312,89, which consist of USB Checking $4,139.22, Smith Barney account $17,985.05 and Post Office account $1,188.62.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Acting Chair.
7.1.1. Sparkplug Winners for this Year.
Haldis Toppel announced that these awards would be given the same night as the Citizen of the Year award at the American Legion. Sam Lagana will receive the award for his two years of work in getting the storm drains opened by the City that were malfunctioning in hillside areas. Kelly Comras will receive an award for beautifying the landscaping at Fire Station 23 and the Castle Rock Beach. Finally, Colleen McAndrews Wood will be recognized for saving a portion of Lot 30 adjacent to the historic Marquez family cemetery and fronting San Lorenzo Street assuring the preservation of the view of this historic landmark.
7.1.2. Officer Nomination Committee.
Haldis Toppel announced the appointments by Janet Turner as follows: Richard Cohen (Chair), George Wolfberg, and Stuart Muller. Richard Cohen explained that the nominating committee would present its list of candidates at the first meeting in May 2012. Any Board Member is free to nominate a candidate up until nominations are closed just before the election. The election will be held during the first meeting in June 2012 and terms for the new officers will begin on July 1, 2012.
7.1.3. Palisades Jr. Women’s Club (PJWC) Grant Awards.
Haldis Toppel announced that the PJWC gave awards to over 20 Palisades organizations including the PPCC ($975 in proceeds to be used for wireless microphones). The PJWC also awarded $3,644 of monies for the new LAPD Facility at the Palisades Recreation Center for telephone/DSL expenses and the installations of security cameras and security lighting in the park. As part of the Grant request, ACS had committed to provide a matching donation amount of up to $3,000 to be used towards the installation of security cameras at Palisades Park. Haldis expressed the PPCC’s gratitude for the generosity of PJWC and also to our community which gives generously to the PJWC.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
(1) There was a meeting this past week with Stuart Muller, Paul Glasgall, CD-11 and ATSAC (Automated Traffic System and Control) representatives. Two old light standards on Sunset were removed at Stuart’s request. The control box that had been previously planned in front of the Historic Building was agreed to be relocated. CD-11 acknowledged these efforts to accommodate requests in the last several months. (2) Verizon Cell Tower on Palisades Drive – Verizon agreed to move the pole of the appealing neighbor further away from their residence and CD-11 is pleased that a consensual agreement was reached. (3) Castellemmare developments – there are four or five projects proposed and residents are concerned with haul routes, development, etc. LADBS does not have a procedure to tie these projects in together, so CD-11 will monitor the totality of the situation. Barbara Kohn asked CD-11 to look at whether or not CEQA would apply. (4) Rustic Canyon Prop K Projects – the ball fields have been completed and the fence should come down by 04.01.2012. Fixing the concrete around the park and access road should start later this month. George Wolfberg asked about tying the irrigation at the corner of the Clubhouse into the timer; CD-11 was not aware that this work was part of the scope and George insisted that it has always been part of the work required. (5) Palisades Sewer Repair – know that there will be no street repaving this fiscal year on the streets affected by the sewer repair. It is supposed to be that streets on the schedule, deferred due to the sewer repair, will be rescheduled for the first available fiscal year. (6) Traffic Signal Complaints – Chautauqua and PCH reduced timing. Complaints have been heard and a few extra seconds on the green light will be given except during rush hours where consideration of traffic on the 405 is prioritized which creates a spill-over on PCH. (7) Swarthmore Flooding – CD-11 has requested a storm drain ($500,000) be built for the low area that floods. Design should be completed this month and the drain should hopefully be installed before the next rainy season. CD-11 will explore removal of the existing sandbags other than when they are needed due to weather.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Chris Ragsdale for Michael Moore.
(1) the Palisades has seen a significant increase in burglaries, particularly in areas north of Sunset in the western areas of the Palisades. There have been two arrests recently but there are multiple people or “crews” working our area. “Knock-Knock” burglaries are on the rise where criminals knock on the front door and if there is no answer then they go to a side or rear door to gain entry. Amy Kalp reported a briefing she attended where the increase in crime has been attributed to the state mandated early release of prisoners who often deployed into residential areas, are re-arrested and are not monitored. LAPD suggested safety measures are: motion sensor lights, make your presence known if there is a knock on the door, don’t give out information to anonymous callers, ensure that doors and windows have working locks and consider a dog because dogs are great deterrents. (2) Donna Vaccarino asked about increased patrol of the bluff areas where people gather at night and leave evidence of alcohol, trash, drug use, etc. Chris stated that the bluffs and beach areas are priorities in terms of consistent patrol; however, department resources continue to be strained.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Motorcycles Update, CPAB report (Amy Kalp, Paul Glasgall). See Item 7.2.2 above. Amy Kalp reported in addition that the budget problems are significant and we are losing 300-600 officers per year. Paul Glasgall deferred the balance of the report to the next PPCC meeting.
7.3.2. Recreation & Parks (Jennifer Malaret).
Jennifer (1) thanked Kurt and Haldis Toppel for their dedication and commitment over many years towards getting the police facility constructed and fundraising efforts, (2) announced the start of baseball season and the Pancake Breakfast this Saturday, March 10th from 7:30 – 10 AM, and (3) advised that in the event of an injury or property damage at the park the Park Director is required to fill out an Incident Report when negative events occur. Jennifer asked for increased public awareness of reporting negative incidents or injuries at the park so that complete and accurate records can be maintained.
7.3.3. DWP Town Hall Meeting on the New Power Distribution Station (Christy Dennis).
Presentation: Christy Dennis read the following “Meeting Summary” report, authored by Janet Turner (PPCC President), Christy Dennis (MKPOA President) and Haldis Toppel (MKPOA Vice President, PPCC Vice President): The DWP Town Hall meeting at Marquez Elementary School on Wednesday, February 29, was organized and coordinated by DWP to inform the community about the plans, and potential sites of building a power substation in the Palisades, as well as getting community feedback. PPCC and MKPOA were asked by Councilman Bill Rosendahl’s office and DWP to sponsor the meeting, assist DWP with public notification and with speaker arrangements during the meeting. DWP first gave a presentation about the need for additional power in the Palisades, discussed specifications of a distribution substation and showed potential sites researched by DWP. DWP stated its first choice for a distribution station is the State Park land behind Fire Station 23; the second location is on property adjacent to Marquez Elementary School which is owned by DWP. DWP stated that other parcels had been evaluated throughout the area but were found to be unsuitable. There were over 200 people from throughout the community (and beyond) that attended the DWP Town Hall meeting including a reporter from the Palisadian Post. More than 30 speakers expressed very diverse opinions. Many identified themselves as attorneys, physicians, parents, teachers and environmentalists. Every member of the audience was given the opportunity to speak. Neighbors and parents of children attending Marquez Elementary spoke out against building a substation near the school. Many cited concerns about EMF dangers. Advocates of Los Liones Canyon and the Chabad Preschool spoke against building a substation near the fire station and against the use of State Park Land. A few speakers did support the use of that property. The message to DWP was clear to continue to look for suitable sites other than near Fire Station 23 and near Marquez Elementary School. The DWP officials requested that the community submit alternate sites for investigation over the next two weeks and also stated that a full EIR and required public hearings will be conducted before a power distribution substation can be built in the Palisades. Discussion: (1) Referring to the DWP proposal to use public land in Los Liones Canyon behind Fire Station 23, Ted Mackie reported that Temescal Canyon Association is not in favor of giving up parkland for this facility. DWP has approached the state parks twice already and has been rejected so Ted would hope that this option is off the table. (2) Norma Spak agreed with Ted. Norma stated that she was surprised that state parkland was discussed by DWP or the residents as an option given past discussions and commitments on the preservation of park land, and the 10 years of community effort that went into saving Los Liones Canyon as a public park. Haldis Toppel agreed with Norma and stated that it was important to caution against the use of public land because of the precedent – meaning that once you breach public land it is easy to do again. (3) John Glasgow asked about the size of the distribution station. Christy Dennis said that the new substation may be similar to the one on Sunset Boulevard in the Palisades village, referring to the capacity of under 50 kv. Referring to physical size, Haldis said current plans are that the new station will be roughly 23 feet high above the ground and perhaps 23 feet under ground, but actual dimensions are not known at this point. Haldis received information that at the Marquez site all of the flat land will be used and the building will then be stepped down into the canyon because it requires at least 1.2 acres. (4) Joycee Wong-Kup, a Marquez Knolls resident, said that DWP needs to step-up increased effort to find alternative sites other than the Marquez Ave. and Los Liones state park because these two sites are obviously poor choices. (5) Shirley Haggstrom stated she attended the DWP meeting and that, in her opinion, that this was not a town hall meeting at all. Ms. Haggstrom reported her impression that this was a protest meeting, complete with signs and speaker after speaker identifying themselves as attorneys against the DWP’s proposed use of the site on Marquez Ave. Some Marquez residents said “We don’t want the project in our neighborhood so let’s put it in yours.” As one who has worked in that State Park for 10-12 years, I felt insulted. (5a) Haldis Toppel apologized for such statements of confrontational opinions by anyone and said that such divisive statements should never be made. She asked who made such statements. (5b) Shirley Haggstrom replied that this statement was made by some speakers who expressed their opposition to the use of the Marquez site. (5c) Haldis Toppel said that she did not hear this but that she will listen to the recording of the meeting. (5d) Shirley Haggstrom questioned the appropriateness of PPCC participating in this Town Hall meeting and lending its name to the advertisement of the event. Several Board members voiced similar concerns. (7) Richard Cohen asked that the record be clear and reflect that the PPCC has not taken a position for or against either of the two locations and in case that any statements were made by anyone on the PPCC Board at the DWP meeting, they were personal opinions and not positions of this Board. (8) Haldis Toppel explained that Janet Turner had consulted with the Executive Committee on PPCC’s involvement with the event and that the Executive Committee had suggested various options of participation. Haldis explained that Janet was currently in Europe and that she could not speak for Janet on this issue in any more detail. (9) Jennifer confirmed that Janet had conferred with the Executive Committee (Janet Turner, Richard Cohen, Haldis Toppel, George Wolfberg, Jennifer Malaret, Ted Mackie and Dick Wulliger). (10) Haldis Toppel pointed out that this debate had moved away from the issue of site selection by DWP and had reached a discussion of the process for holding Town Hall meetings. She acknowledged that this appears to be an issue of concern and stated that the process for such meetings must be addressed at a separate Board meeting.
7.3.4. Dangerous Intersection at Sunset and Castellammare (Carol Bruch). See New Business, Item 10.1 below.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Sparkplug Award and Dinner Committee (Christy Dennis). Christy reported that the event is being planned. Anyone who wishes to volunteer is encouraged to contact Christy directly.
8.2. Newsletter Update (Christy Dennis). Christy thanked the committee for involvement and asked Board Members for contributions to the newsletter.
8.3. Bergamont Station (LUC). George reiterated that Councilmember Rosendahl has asked for a DOT report. So far, the report states that there are many intersections that will be impacted by this large project. There are nine (9) intersections in West Los Angeles that cannot be mitigated according to the DOT. All members of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (“WRAC”) are concerned with the impacts.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Manoochehr Adhamiwil, DOT / Michael May, District Engineer – City-wide Automated Traffic Surveillance and Control System (ATSAC) – construction on Sunset.
For additional information visit http://pp90272.blogspot.com/2011/10/streamling-traffic-signals-on-sunset.html or go to http://trafficinfo.lacity.org. Presentation: ATSAC is a computer based, centrally controlled traffic system. For example, every intersection along Sunset Blvd. will “talk to each other” and then eventually talk to the control center downtown in City Hall East. Rather than sending an electrician out to physically open the signal boxes if signal time needed to be adjusted, the system allows personnel to do that automatically from downtown. There are 4,400 signals citywide and monitoring the signals is arranged into clusters of 40-60 lights based on the communities in which they are located. 4,000 traffic signals are currently linked into the system and only 40 left to be connected, including those in the Palisades. The total project cost of the Palisades and Canyon clusters are $6 million with $3.9 million required for the Palisades alone. Currently, thirteen (13) speed feed back locations are operational. Purpose/Advantages: to maintain traffic flow and reasonable mobility at an appropriate speed on streets throughout the city. The Palisades system is very old and required upgrading, including the removal of old poles and signals that cannot withstand current wind standards (100 mph). Questions: (1) George Wolfberg asked about the light at Chautauqua and PCH that is not a DOT light. It is a Caltrans light. George asserted that improved infrastructure is needed at this location. (2) Richard Cohen asked about the damage to Sunset Boulevard and the temporary fill in the trenching which is very dangerous to cars, motorcycles and bikes. DOT responded that temporary patch was used or that the problem would be a failure of a completed trench. Either way if there is hazard, then DOT will look at the area and take care of it right away. Else, DOT will remove the temporary patch and will then complete permanent asphalt which in our area is expected June 2013. (3) Donna Vaccarino asked about the surveillance aspects of the system. DOT said that no one had access to the images available and the images are limited solely to traffic conditions. (4) Ted Mackie asked about digital displays of speed feedback. DOT said that studies show that motorists slow down in response to these signs. These signs are not wired into the ATSAC system. (5) Carol Bruch reported the most recent accident at Castellammare and Sunset, outside the Vons Grocery store in which a man sped through the light, struck and killed a dog and almost killed the dog’s owner. Speeding through this light is a problem with motorists trying to “hit” the light at PCH. Carol asked if there is surveillance tape on this intersection, synchronizing green lights at Sunset/Castellammare and Sunset/PCH, and/or if a warming light of some sort is justified at this location. DOT said they are willing to talk to Caltrans about whether the two lights can be synchronized green at similar times; however, PCH timing cannot be synchronized because of the length of the red light for Sunset as PCH has priority. Barbara Kohn asked about coordinating the Los Liones light as well. DOT agreed to look into whether the three traffic lights in question are, or can be, coordinated. Stuart advocated increasing driver awareness of this signal in terms of size or otherwise to stop the eye from going past this light towards PCH when traveling down Sunset. (6) Richard Cohen asked about the traffic light at Sunset and Will Rogers that is a “rest on red” light that seems almost punitive at times and wondered if this light would be coordinated. DOT said the system will not be intentionally slowing traffic, however the “rest in red” lights will remain in operation. (7) Don McCourt, a resident, asked what was being built in front of his house near Fire Station 69. DOT responded that it was a “hub” box to help connect the system to downtown and that this box is specially designed to be far smaller than the hubs installed in other locations. DOT said that they were aware of the residents concern and have left space for landscaping. The resident objected to the installation with no building permit, the installation in an R-1 zone, installation within the set back, installation on public property v. public right of way, installation of equipment including air conditioning, generator, etc. DOT said it would correct any permit defects and that the equipment does not run continuously or is loud in anyway. Mr. McCourt asked the PPCC for help to intervene with the installation of this large ATSAC box in front of his house and asked DOT not to proceed beyond the current excavation until this issue can be resolved. Haldis Toppel asked him for contact information.
10.2. Mary Hopf, Palisades Librarian, names Michelle Bitting, Poet Laureate of Pacific Palisades.
Mary introduced Michelle Bitting who has tremendous training and education in the arts. Michelle is a published book author and has received numerous awards. Her latest book “Notes to the Beloved” is a stunning collection of poems, yearning for self and finding a place in the universe. Michelle has been a featured speaker at many academic forums and has been in the American Poetry review that is a very prestigious publication. Mary Hopf presented Michelle with the award, honor and title of “Pacific Palisades Poet Laureate”. Michelle thanked the council for making time for poetry tonight. Ruth Lorens was the past Poet Laureate of the Palisades in the ‘70’s and ‘80’s and Michelle looked up her poem “Epitaph for Myself”. Like Ruth, Michelle is also dedicated to outreach, community service, and workshops with the incarcerated and volunteer teaching in schools.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Haldis Toppel adjourned the meeting at 9:18 PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR MARCH 22nd 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Geoff Shelden, Donna Vaccarino, Carol Pfannkuche, Gil Dembo, Chris Spitz, Schuyler Dietz[*]. [*a non-voting Advisor]
Voting Alternates: John Glasgow, Cathy Russell.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: [*Schuyler Dietz,] Flo Elfant, Kurt Toppel, Amy Kalp, Carol Bruch, Bob Locker.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Harry Sondheim read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:06 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved and Haldis Toppel seconded the adoption of the minutes for February 23, 2012. The minutes were adopted with one abstention. George Wolfberg moved adoption of the March 8, 2012 minutes, with further revision and correction of a reference to the Department of Recreation and Parks. Haldis Toppel seconded adoption of the minutes. The minutes were adopted with four abstentions. The next meeting is April 12, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Janet Turner read Ted Mackie’s report of the financial status as of March 22, 2012. The total account balances equal $23,308.89, which consist of USB Checking $4,135.22, Smith Barney account $17,985.05 and the Post Office account of $1,188.62.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Updates & Clarifications.
Janet Turner explained that it’s the Council’s mission to be a forum for the discussion of issues and that we welcome City agencies informing us in advance of their plans that affect Pacific Palisades, unlike what happened with the ATSAC. She expressed her desire to clarify the process regarding the recent DWP substation presentation. DWP asked if they could make their presentation at PPCC and have residents come and voice their questions and concerns. This is something we often do with City agencies. However they needed 2-3 hours. Janet stated that she consulted with the Executive Committee whose members agreed that the meeting should be held at a different time and location and that PPCC should have a presence. Janet told the board on February 23 that she would be there representing PPCC. CD-11 then asked Janet if PPCC could be listed as one of the “hosts” of the DWP meeting. Simply because PPCC hosted the DWP meeting, similar to the Fire Station 69 cutback meeting, does not mean that PPCC supported or not supported the DWP’s presentation. Janet expressed that she put PPCC’s name on the flyer to reflect the Council’s presence at the DWP’s presentation and that it was her plan to bring the DWP issues back to PPCC’s entire Board for discussion. Janet reiterated to the Board that no stand on the DWP substation had been taken on behalf of PPCC. Janet clarified that she never spoke at the meeting and that her comments published in the Palisadian Post were personal comments and not statements made on behalf of PPCC.
7.1.2. WRAC Town Hall Meeting with Wendy Greuel. Janet Turner reported that this meeting would be taking place on Monday, April 16, 2012 from 6-8 pm at Stoner Recreation Center, 1835 Stoner Avenue, Los Angeles, CA.
7.1.3. Special Guests on April 12.
Janet Turner announced that CA Assemblywoman Betsy Butler will be attending our next meeting. CEQA will be a topic on the agenda and Janet asked the Board to submit any other ‘state’ issues for the agenda. Tentative guests are USPS Bridget Williams, Regional Director and Kim Faulkner PP interim postmaster; once confirmed PPCC will advise the Post to publish notice of these speakers so that residents can attend the PPCC meeting and discuss any issues with the postmaster.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
Joaquin reported that (1) DWP Substation – Councilmember met today with a group of Marquez Charter Elementary School parents (essentially eight attorneys) and DWP representatives relative to the substation proposal at the Marquez Avenue site. Joaquin invited representatives from Area 1 and Area 3 to attend a CD-11 meetings on this topic scheduled for May 10, 2012 to discuss alternative locations. Richard Cohen reported that he spoke with DWP officials who stated that the state parkland officials will absolutely not allow use of the parkland by Fire Station 23. Richard said that it may be possible to expand the existing Santa Ynez station in the Highlands, near the reservoir, and that location may have a much lower impact on the community. Richard stated that they are also looking at La Pulgas Canyon in the area accessed from PCH. Paul Glasgall asked to attend the May 10th CD-11 meeting if the Highlands was being considered for the location of the substation. He was invited to join the May 10 meeting. Carol Bruch suggested that Mr. Coaloa’s land could be considered for the substation. Other Board members discussed the Dick Jones property nearby which now has a new buyer (Barbara Kohn stated that she just read in the LA Times of a new Negative Mitigated Declaration for the former Jones property). Chris Spitz reiterated that the PPCC has not reached any conclusion about where this substation should be anywhere in the Palisades. Joaquin asked Board Members to submit any and all locations that they thought the DWP should be considering. (2) Sylmar Ground – Gil Dembo asked about the status. Joaquin will follow up. (3) Potrero Canyon – there is still no determination about bringing in the fill for Phases 2 and 3. Engineering must figure out if there will be an approved change order for extra fill to bring in and store on-site. In response to George Wolfberg’s statement that he thought this was finalized, Joaquin stated that this change order is not final. Construction is moving along fine. (4) Castellemare projects – CD-11 is looking at haul routes for 4-5 projects and is looking at them as a whole, though they are legally separate projects. CD-11 is working with LADBS. Chris Spitz stated that some of these projects will be on the LUC agenda on April 5, 2012 and welcomed Joaquin and all board members to attend the LUC’s meeting at 12:30 at the Library. (5) ATSAC Presentation – Joaquin clarified that they are following up on the resident’s concern expressed at PPCC’s last meeting regarding the equipment that is going near Fire Station 69. Gil Dembo expressed that the installation is out of character for Station 69 and the installation should be placed in back or landscaped. CD-11 has been contacted by Fiske Street residents who are concerned; Joaquin will forward that information to the Area 5 representatives. Joaquin will have a more detailed report once LADBS weighs in about what can be built or not built. (6) CCFO – Joaquin reported that Councilmember Rosendahl has concerns about voting in favor of the ordinance because it is too broad and affects services that it was not intended to affect. For example, programs for the homeless where single leases are required. Jennifer Malaret asked Joaquin to report back to the council about the status of Rosendahl’s own City Council Motion that had directed LADBS and Planning to meet with the City Attorney regarding enforcement. Joaquin stated that he would report back to the council. Chris Spitz expressed her concerns having attended the recent CCFO Hearing where the bulk of the testimony continued to be emotional concerns rather than an accurate understanding of the ordinance and the very negative affects of boarding homes on many stakeholders and communities throughout Los Angeles.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore.
(1) By way of follow-up to Flora Gil Kristoff’s efforts to get social service assistance for our homeless, Officer Moore did outreach today with eleven homeless persons, and some were willing to accept assistance. Officer Moore felt the homeless were very receptive to our outreach efforts and social workers from Los Angeles Country will start meeting personally with homeless members beginning next week. Carol Bruch asked where the homeless are residing. Officer Moore stated that it is near PCH in the canyon areas near Chautauqua, Temescal Canyon and Sunset Boulevard. George Wolfberg reported that a resident raised a concern regarding homeless people in the West Channel tunnel. Officer Moore said that he’d follow-up on that but the presence may be due to the recent rain and cold weather. Barbara Kohn asked about resident concerns about homeless in the bluffs near Corona del Mar. Officer Moore said that they are looking at the big blue tarp trying to determine if it is on private property or CalTrans property and determined that it is on private property of a home that is for sale. Chris Spitz asked about certain individuals that are at the PCH and Chautauqua Blvd. intersection and whether they will receive outreach because of the traffic danger; (2) Home Break-Ins – Officer Moore stated that home break-ins had a 450% increase at the beginning of the year but they have tapered off a bit since the beginning of the year but car break-ins are on the rise. The police have a good handle on who is causing the residential burglaries and are making arrests and are monitoring them. Officer Moore encouraged residents to be diligent instead of having apathy about locking their locks and doors and keeping their properties safe; (3) Wednesday Night Motorcycles – Officer Moore was taking a report and heard the motorcycles at approximately 12:50 AM. Officer Moore is continuing to work the problem. An audience member asked if anyone has tried talking to them as a group. Officer Moore said that there have been past effort; however the problem is that there are many, many motorcycle clubs and it might work for one night but that is all. Carol Bruch asked about a noise ordinance. Amy Kalp stated that there are efforts underway to address these concerns.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Police and Public Safety (Amy Kalp, Paul Glasgall).
Paul Glasgall stated that he and Amy Kalp attended the C-PAB meeting several weeks ago. Paul stated that it was notable that Assistant Police Chief Michael Moore (no relation to SLO Moore) was honest and direct about how the bad economy coupled with the city budget deficit are not going to keep up with the affect of early prisoner releases. The Assistant Chief said that he was looking for an “explosion” in crime and that crime is statistically up quite a bit. Paul stated that the Assistant Chief also spoke about (1) disaster preparedness, including earthquake preparedness, and the (2) “ring of fire”, meaning that this year’s fire dangers are the highest we have seen since the Bel Air fires. Flo Elfant expressed that she has been disseminating information from 1988 about disaster preparedness and asks every resident in the Palisades to assume their own responsibility for disaster preparedness. Barbara Kohn reminded Board members that there will be a total evacuation of Topanga Canyon the last weekend in April 2012 from approximately 8 am to noon. This is an annual event but includes a complete evacuation in anticipation of this year being the worst fire risk in years. The impact on PCH is unknown.
7.3.2. Pacific Palisades PAB Update.
Jennifer Malaret reported that the next regularly scheduled quarterly meeting would take place on April 25, 2012 in the small gym at the Recreation Center at 7 PM. The public is welcome to attend. The Board will be installing new Youth Representative on the Park Advisory Board. The Park Director and Board would like input from the teen community on our special events, long term master plan and how to continue improving our park. There is a plan to start a “teen council” because a number of teens have expressed an interest in becoming involved.
7.3.3. Air Quality Conference.
George Wolfberg reported that he attended a meeting in Fresno sponsored by the San Joaquin Air Quality District. The area suffers from a persistent inversion layer and has among the worst air pollution in the state. The focus of the conference was to address air pollution caused by lawn care activities, most specifically from leaf blowers and other equipment with two cycle engines. Leaf blowers pollute the air both through the activation of their engine and the materials that they blow into the air. Concerns included use near schools and public rights of way where pedestrians and bicyclists are exposed. There were citizens, scientists and city officials in attendance from throughout the state. There was a demonstration of electric lawn mowers, edgers, saws and blowers powered by lithium batteries.
7.3.4. DWP Scattergood Line EIR.
There will be a hearing at WLA, April 11, 2012 at 5:30 PM with the presentation starting at 6:30 PM. The new transmission line will run from near LAX to the corner of Olympic and Centinela and will be underground with the installation impacting major roads. Any Board Members are welcome to contact George Wolfberg.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. CSBC – Report on Budget Day (George Wolfberg).
George reported that he and Quentin Fleming attended the Mayor’s Budget Day event at City Hall with over 100 other council members from throughout the City. During the break out session, Jay Handal made a presentation reporting that Councilmember Parks will not be in charge of the Budget Committee; Councilmember Kerkorian will be the new Budget Committee Chair. Budget Survey results distinguished West Los Angeles from other areas because of WLA’s predominant concern over traffic.
8.2. LUC.
Chris Spitz reported that she and Janet Turner attended the PLUM Hearing on March 20th at City Hall regarding the CCFO Ordinance. Concerns that we have suggested have not been addressed and recent modification to the ordinance in the opinion of the PPCC weaken the ordinance. Opposition is very strong, with Councilmember Alarcon speaking out against it. There was no result at the end of the session other than closed session to discuss litigation. Jennifer Malaret reported that PPCC had submitted a letter in support of the ordinance but against new changes that have been recommended by the Planning Department. The three positions recently advocated by the PPCC were that: (1) there must continue to be a “lease limit” measure in the definition of what constitutes a single housekeeping unit because it is an objective measure of enforcement, (2) the definition of a boarding house should continue to be 2 or more leases and not 3 or more leases or 5 or more leases, and (3) the definition of “parolee/probationer” home should not be deleted from the ordinance because independent of zoning issues, the definition provides an additional enforcement tool in the determination of what is a single housekeeping unit. The next PLUM Hearing on the matter will be April 10, 2012 in closed session.
8.3. PPCC Newsletter (Christy Dennis, Janet Turner). There is outreach going on with Board members soliciting articles for the newsletter.
9. Old Business.
LAFD New Response Statistics (Janet Turner). Janet Turner reported on recent articles regarding the mis-statement of LAFD response times. LAFD told City Council last year that they answer responses in 5 minutes 80% of the time. It was just revealed that this statistic was a computer projection. The actual data show that this response time is met 60% of the time. The City Council has gotten angry as did the Mayor today. LAFD has stopped releasing information, stating that it violates the right to privacy of medical records. The LA Times, Steve Lopez, reported that it takes 3.5 minutes just for the call to be taken and get the truck out the door where a person will be brain dead in 4-6 minutes. Janet expressed her concern about future budget cuts to the fire and police departments.
10. New Business – None.
11. General Public Comment.
An audience member asked if we knew when Verizon might provide FIOS. Richard Cohen stated that Verizon had contacted the community many years ago and the community was opposed to the large boxes that would be required in the public rights of way.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:36 PM.
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MINUTES FOR APRIL 12th 2012
Voting members in attendance: Janet Turner, Richard Cohen, Joyce Brunelle, Barbara Marinacci, Geoff Shelden, Richard Wulliger, Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Stuart Miller, George Wolfberg, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Margueritte Perkins Mautner, Joe Almaraz, Jack Allen, Gil Dembo, Harry Sondheim, Jim Rea, Carol Pfannkuche, Donna Vaccarino, Aurelia Friedman
Non-voting members in attendance: John Glasgow, Kurt Toppel, Norma Spak, Carol Bruch, Amy Kalp, Quentin Fleming
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00.
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Chris Spitz.
2. Introduction of the Board and Audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified the presence of a quorum.
4. Adoption of Minutes of March 22, 2012. Moved by George Wolfberg and seconded by Gil Dembo. Next meeting is on May 10, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. $3,818 in Checking, $18,135 in Smith Barney, and $1,289 in the post office account, for a total of $23,242.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Announce Election Committee for Area Rep Elections. Chris Spitz, Committee Chair.
7.1.2. Newsletter will go in the mail on Friday. Postal officials assure us that newsletter will be favorably handled.
7.1.3. Sparkplug Awards and Citizen of the Year Dinner is April 26. Honoring George Wolfberg and Sparkplug recipients. Purchase tickets soon to avoid disappointment.
7.1.4. Special Welcome to Boy Scout Troop 23.
7.1.4. On April 28 from 10 am to 2 pm, the DEA will have a national take-back day for prescription medicines. The closest take-back site to the Palisades is on 666 Olympic Blvd., the Santa Monica police station.
7.1.5. John Glasgow has been appointed to the LUC.
7.1.6. Haldis Toppel to Chair the holiday party committee.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office.
Norman Kulla reports: The city is starting budget season. CD 11 seeks to restore full service of Fire Station 69. A Town Hall is scheduled on Monday April 16, at which LAUSD representative Steve Zimmer will speak at Marquez Charter Elementary School re DWP distribution station. The meeting will serve as forum for citizens to express opinions on the matter. Rosendahl has taken the position of urging the DWP to seek an alternate site to the one adjacent to the Marquez school. CD 11 office was informed that due to budget matters West L.A. zoning hearings will henceforth be held downtown, not at W.L.A. Civic Center. Rosendahl co-authored a motion denouncing this. Valley hearings will still be held.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore is on assignment.
Amy Kalp reports: Amy and Janet met with Chief Beck at a YMCA breakfast. The monthly traffic committee meeting was held yesterday. Traffic collisions are up 6%. Recent ticket taskforce on Sunset Blvd. wrote 260 tickets, mostly for speeding. Flash mob parties can erupt facilitated by social media use by teens. Please report such activity by calling 911. Warning about knock-knock burglaries. Crime up 450% in our area in recent period. Capt. Crump of West Traffic will be at PPCC meeting on May 10th.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Historical Society Fund Raiser, Dick Wulliger. On Monday, April 23 at 7:00 PM at Theatre Palisades author Jason Felch will talk about the book and story of “Chasing Aphrodite”, which he co-wrote. Felch will autograph books and discuss the compelling story. Also on May 8, Randy Young will speak at an Historical Society event which is open to the public and free.
7.3.2. Palisades Chamber and The Palisades Optimist Event, Joyce Brunelle. On Saturday, April 21st, the Optimists and the Chamber are sponsoring a wine tasting fund raiser at the Lutheran Church.
7.3.3. Janet Turner reports that Wendy Gruel will appear at a WRAC town hall meeting on Monday, April 16. Details to follow.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. LUC.
17000 Sunset Project Preliminary Mtg with LUC. Chris reports that the LUC favors a focused EIR for this project and due to an imminent deadline a letter approved by Executive Committee was sent asking for such. Developer wishes to speak to PPCC, probably in May.
Cell Tower approved East of Capri in the Riviera. Chris Spitz – this is an old issue from 2010. Tower was approved for east of Capri, south side of Sunset, near the existing monopole antenna.
9. Old Business. [None recorded.]
10. New Business.
10.1. Assemblywoman Betsy Butler.
She has served in Assembly since December 2010 representing the Marina, Venice, West LA area down through the South Bay Beach Cities and Lomita. She favors environmental issues and once served as trade rep for President Clinton. She has emphasized environmental issues. She introduced a bill to address elder abuse and identity theft. Elder care and elder care abuse is a concern of hers. She favored a system of special treatment of veterans accused of petty crimes to address their mental health issues and take account of their special needs. She is introducing a bill to require improved conditions for farm workers. She is running for re-election in newly created district which includes our area. She asks for our support. She has turned attention to PCH safety issues including pedestrian and bike safety. She opposes offshore oil drilling. Huge budget cuts have fallen largely on education. She favors restoration of funding for education. She serves on Aerospace Committee and sees a need for improved technology training. She favors the Governor’s budget initiative and distributed a petition to get it on the ballot.
Question: What does she think about attempts to weaken CEQA? She favored the football stadium bill. Some streamlining may be in order, consistent with clean water and other important issues. She feels that the environment and economy can both be protected simultaneously. She supported AB 900 and SB 292 (the stadium bill). She feels that these bills will still protect the environment while allowing economic development, her goal is to foster both.
Question: would you author a bill to ban automated enforcement of traffic violations for revenue raising purposes? How can we get some oversight of MRCA, which is answerable to no one? She did not directly answer either question.
Question: State budget is required to be balanced. What is your plan to achieve this? Answer: Trigger cuts and additional revenues are possible approaches. The 2/3 rule has stood in the way of additional revenue, which is critical to a balanced budget. In the next election the Democrats may pick up 2/3 majority of Democrats which would enable possible tax increases. She favors possible initiatives for increased taxes.
Question: Prop 13? Complicated issue – Corporations should pay their fair share.
Question: Motorcycle noise enforcement? – Enforcement in many areas is inadequate.
Question: High Speed Rail? – She is big supporter of high speed rail. She sees future benefits like those from interstate highways and state universities. Such investments are worthwhile in her view.
10.2. Jay Handal, Co-Chair, NC Budget Advocates.
Report on their white paper. Available at www.budgetadvocatesla.com. Jim Rea introduces the subject and Jay.
Proposal to raise minimum retirement age has generally been accepted by the Mayor. Pensions are a huge budget problem, need to be cut across the board. May require initiative, may need to apply to current employees.
Public private partnerships are favored by the Advocates – Zoo, convention center, parking lots (through management contracts, not sale of lots). But replacement of union employees by non-union employees can be difficult under current law but nonetheless needs to be pursued. Parks – some work can be done by non-profits. Also, contracting out grounds-keeping can save money. Tree trimming also has been contracted out to some extent.
Controller’s Audits – Implementation of recommendations has languished. The Advocates favor mandating that action be taken within 90 days of controller’s recommendation.
Unified bill collection by the City – Centralize all billing for city collections. Also, relating old debts to new or ongoing services to enhance collection. This requires improved data processing and integration of departments’ efforts.
Reinstatement of 50/50 program – Mayor’s budget has no funds for infrastructure budgeted for the coming year. 50/50 would at least get the sidewalks improved.
Proposal to close the Police Academy for a year and use the officers from the Academy and elsewhere to put on streets – Advocates object to use of sworn officers to do clerical tasks necessitated by hiring freeze on civilian employees. LAPPL supports the mothballing of the Academy for a year. How to keep pace with the approximate 600 officers we lose each year if the Academy is closed? This could be a problem, according to Amy Kalp. Jay answered that there are 650 sworn officers not out on deployment that could be put on the streets. Therefore we could lose a year’s worth of Academy grads (about 600) and still come out even. Then after one year the Academy could reopen.
Janet asks: Fiscal Emergency Declaration? – For past three years we have had such emergency declarations, coming up on fourth year of such declaration. This provides greater flexibility with unions and other benefits.
They recommend DOT be returned to LAPD. This means that parking enforcement would be unified with LAPD instead of being under the Department of Transportation.
Advocates recommend that recovery of judgments should be taken from respective department budgets to provide additional accountability. George Wolfberg notes that docking tree trimming budget when trees injure public is counterproductive. Jay explains that he means issues like personnel mismanagement dispute judgments.
Janet proposes that we support the budget advocates to strengthen their hand with the mayor and the city council.
Motion by George Wolfberg, second by Gil Dembo: At this time PPCC acknowledges and appreciates the diligent work of the NC Budget Advocates to produce a list of well thought-out budget recommendations. We support #4, #9, #11, #13, #19, and #20, but not for potholes.Text of motion below.
Discussion: Jack Allen objects to undue extension of retirement age, possibly causing increased disability claims. Jay responds that with extended life spans pension costs have greatly increased and increasing the retirement age is a necessity.
Vote: 2 opposed, 16 in favor, 1 abstention. Motion carries.
10.3. Janet announces that Nomination Committee will announce their recommendations the first meeting of May.
Haldis speaks. She claims that she was asked to step aside and threatened with personal attacks. She nominates Gil Dembo for Vice Chair, John Glasgow for Secretary, and Second nomination for Secretary of Joyce Wong Kup.
Richard Cohen, Chair of Nominating Committee, responds saying that the Nominating Committee, comprised of George Wolfberg, Stuart Muller and Richard Cohen, take seriously their responsibility to recommend the best possible list of candidates. The Chair of the Committee asked each current officer about their intension and desire to continue to serve. The work of the Committee continues and will be announced the first week of May. Janet asked the Committee to prepare a response to Haldis Toppel’s claims.
10.4. Janet announces that many of us wear many hats in the community. Sometimes others will incorrectly assume that when one of us speaks that we represents the PPCC. Please be careful to correct the record when others misconstrue a personal statement as policy of the PPCC.
11. General Public Comment.
Bruce Schwartz and Bart Giordano. Concerned with pedestrian safety. They propose a “Palisades Traffic Safety Week” to advocate traffic safety. They are concerned with crosswalk safety and distracted drivers. They advocate greater enforcement and awareness of such issues. Janet and Amy will further explore what can be done and ask that they return on May 10.
12. Adjournment. 9:09.
ATTACHMENT: ITEM 10.2 — From the PPCC City State Budget Committee
MOTION: PPCC acknowledges and appreciates the diligent work of the NC Budget Advocates to produce a list of well thought out budget recommendations. We support #4, #9, #11, #13, #19, and #20 but not for potholes.
# 4. Raise the minimum retirement age from 55 to 65 or 67. (However, need to clarify if this if for also for Fire Fighters who may not be as effective at age 65 or 67.) # 9 Private Public Partnerships for the Zoo. Questions – Will the City still need to fund any of it? What kind of profit participation would the City have? #11. Promptly review and implement the unfulfilled recommendations in the Controller’s Audits including a central billing/collections program #13. Implement a comprehensive and efficient and effective Central Billing/Collection Program which serves all City Departments
#19. Authorize Private sector Veterinarians to issue and collect Dog License Fees. # 20. Reinstatement of the 50-50 program for sidewalks and possibly tree trimming ( Not potholes.)
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MINUTES FOR MAY 10th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Steve Cron, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Barbara Marinacci, Dick Wulliger, Donna Vaccarino, Carol Pfannkuche, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz.
Voting Alternates: None.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Carol Bruch, Christy Dennis, John Glasgow, Ernie Meadows, Quentin Fleming, Geoff Sheldon, Bob Locker.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Paul Glasgall read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7: 05 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Richard Cohen moved and Gil Dembo seconded the minutes for April 12, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously. The next meeting is May 24, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda. The Library has requested that the meeting end at 9 PM due to limited staffing.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of May 10, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,492.92, which consist of USB Checking $6,353.30, Smith Barney account $18,135.09 and Post Office account $4.53 the newsletter had 298 contributions total. All the bills have been paid. Janet Turner reported that while the newsletter has been paid, PPCC needs approximately 500 responses to support the other activities of the PPCC. Janet asked the Board to seek membership donations from their homeowner’s associations, community groups and residents. A one-year membership on the PPCC is just $25.00.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
Citizen of the Year Dinner, 2012. Janet Turner thanked Christy Dennis and the Sparkplug Committee. Christy sent out over 100 letters and invitations along with going to the meetings. Janet thanked other valued contributors including, but not limited to, Haldis Toppel (flowers), Jim Rea (photographs), Kurt Toppel (parking) and the “Pep Team.” Christy Dennis also thanked Ted Mackie (finances) and Joyce Wong-Kup (flowers).
YMCA, Appointment of PPCC’s Rep on the YMCA Community Group. Janet Turner appointed Richard Cohen as the PPCC Representative to the YMCA Community Group. This is an important position because the YMCA straddles both Area 4 and Area 5 and the unique nature of the YMCA property located at Sunset Blvd. and Temescal Canyon Road.
Area Representative Election Committee, 2012. Janet Turner appointed Chris Spitz as Chair and Committee members to include Cathy Russell, Quentin Fleming, Norma Spak and Janet Turner to this Committee. Chris Spitz thanked Christy Dennis for her willingness to advise the Election Committee.
Rumors. Janet Turner addressed rumors regarding the By-laws and charges related to the Code of Conduct. As the Chair, Janet stated that there are no charges of violations currently pending.
Newsletter. Janet Turner thanked Christy Dennis for all of her hard work on the PPCC’s beautiful newsletter. Janet also thanked Jim Rea for putting the newsletter on the blog.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s Office.
Norman Kulla reported (1) Councilmember Rosendahl met today with Janet Turner, Jennifer Malaret and other coalition members supporting the CCFO. Norm stated it was going to be an agonizing issue that affects low-density homeowners and troubled individuals seeking recovery in R1 and R2 zones; (2) on the City of Los Angeles Budget, $220 million must be reconciled. The discussions and hearings will resume next week; (3) DWP Substation – DWP has not given CD-11 an answer because DWP needs more time and Nichols has assured Councilmember Rosendahl that they are working on the issue; Councilmember Rosendahl has written a letter asking the DWP to take the Marquez Knolls “off the table”. Jim Rea stated that the DWP pledged to be transparent about the process but the community has heard nothing. Norman Kulla expressed reservations about DWP’s commercial activities in real estate that should remain confidential; the issue of transparency is about the DWP’s process. Carol Bruch expressed a concern that if alternative sites were being considered for purchase then the community should be advised before the alternative site was a “done deal”; Norman agreed to relay this concern to the DWP. Norma asked about the Los Liones Parkland; Norm responded that CD-11 has told the DWP also “don’t go there” relative to the parkland; (4) Cell Towers / Public Works Committee – Norman is hopeful that there will be an ordinance proposed shortly by the City Attorney to close with the regulatory exemption for construction of installations on poles (recommendation is to delete). The City is also seeking to broaden the standards and criteria used to judge aesthetics relative to being “in character” with the location under consideration. In addition, the City is seeking to broaden the notice provisions and to limit permit time periods such that they are not indefinite but will expire. Further, people are very concerned about health but federal law pre-empts health concerns. However, there is a regulatory scheme that deals with equipment specifications that still must be met; the federal government defers to the industry. Thus, the City would like a certification from providers that the carrier’s equipment complies with federal requirements; (5) Stuart Muller asked about the removal of cell phone poles and equipment which is no longer being used (a rhetorical question); (6) Jack Allen asked that the street striping be completed on Monument; Norman asked for an email to follow-up on this concern.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore.
Officer Moore reported that (1) there are gang markings taking place in the Palisades. LAPD has assigned Gang Unit resources to follow-up. Vice and Narcotics Units are also involved and assisting in investigation. Officer Moore encouraged the public to report any suspect markings (take photographs to show to the LAPD). To-date, there has been no violent activity in the Palisades involving gangs or otherwise. (2) Janet Turner and Paul Glasgall reported that between 7:15 and 7:20, and in the afternoon between 3:00 and 4:00 PM cars are not stopping for school busses on Palisades Drive.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors – None.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. LUC Update; Gladstones.
Chris Spitz reported on the Gladstones presentation to the LUC regarding special VIP summer events and directed the PPCC to the front-page article in the Palisadian Post. Chris would like to add to the article that the Gladstones representatives came first to the community and have been very open, engaging and cooperative with the LUC.
8.2. Officer Nomination Committee.
Nominations are open until June 14, 2012 at 7:05 PM. Voting is on June 14. Presentation: George Wolfberg delivered the report of the Nominating Committee. In summary the report stated: (i) the By-laws provide that the Nominating Committee shall present a list of candidates at the first meeting in May – tonight. Thereafter any board member may nominate other candidates for Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary or Treasurer until nominations are closed at the first meeting in June; (2) Ron Dean opined that nominations open only once the Nominating Committee has made its report and the April 12, 2012 nominations were “out of order”; (3) procedures whereby a nominee is asked to submit a statement of interest and qualification have been adopted. We need to be sure that candidates are actually interested in running and serving a twelve-month term if others nominate them. It is the Nominating Committee’s practice to distribute each candidate’s statement through the official email list for board members, not independently by candidates. All communication pertaining to the election should only be distributed by and through the Chair. No candidate or board member should directly circulate election material by creating his or her own email or mailing list. By following these rules there is a better chance that the election will proceed in a positive manner; (4) on the subject of our nominations, the Nominating Committee began by reflecting upon the excellent job that Janet Turner has done as Chair. Under Janet, the role of Chair has expanded along with the scope of the work of the Community Council. Janet has led us to involvement in citywide issues of concern to the Palisades. We now have a Budget Committee and Land Use Committee. It is our belief that it is no longer possible to act as Chair alone; it requires a team of volunteers; (5) the Nominating Committee has chosen to nominate Barbara Kohn as Chair, Chris Spitz as Vice Chair, Jennifer Malaret as Secretary and Ted Mackie as Treasurer (6) the Nominating Committee was asked by the Chair to respond to Haldis Toppel’s statements that she had been threatened or unfairly influenced not to run for office. The Nominating Committee responded that these are baseless accusations in a memorandum to board members several days later. In the memorandum concerns of the Nominating Committee were disclosed that would not normally have been made public. The Nominating Committee urges the board to vote for each candidate individually based upon his or her qualifications and leadership ability and leave aside extraneous issues; (7) On May 24 we will have a candidates forum where each candidate will have a chance to present his or her qualifications. Discussion: Joyce Brunelle asked about the time line for the nomination process. Janet Turner explained that the candidate forum would take place on May 24, 2012 and the elections would occur on June 14, 2012. Kurt Toppel repeated charges of inappropriate conduct against George Wolfberg and Richard Cohen. Haldis Toppel acknowledged that George Wolfberg had not threatened her. Janet Turner cut off this discussion, referring to the by-laws and asking if any board member objected. There were no objections by the Board. Action/Nominations: Janet Turner stated that nominations are now open. Marguerite Perkins Mautner nominated Haldis Toppel as Chair. Haldis Toppel nominated Gil Dembo as Vice Chair. Haldis Toppel nominated John Glasgow as Secretary. Haldis Toppel nominated Joyce Wong-Kup as Secretary.
8.3. Statement of Principle in Elections.
Steve Boyers, Jim Rea and Geoff Shelden. Response by Ron Dean. See Below. Presentation: Steve Boyers stated that the Statement of Principle was generated before this evening in response to the Nominating Committee’s report. While redundant to this circumstance, Steve Boyers would still like to have a vote. Action: Janet suggested that the principle be sent to the Bylaws committee for vetting. Steve Boyers accepted the referral by the Chair to the Bylaws committee. [See attachments below.]
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Casden EIR (Environmental Impact Report) Motion [see attachment below.]
Recommended by WRAC (Westside Regional Alliances of Councils) and the PPCC Land Use Committee (LUC). Chris Spitz explained that this motion came out of the WRAC meeting. It is similar to another motion previously passed regarding a large county development in Marina del Rey urging that the development environmental impact report (“DEIR”) assess cumulative impacts of the development. Discussion: Gil Dembo spoke about this project being in an industrial area where industrial land is being converted to residential use; thus, Gil does not believe that the development will create the negative impacts that an office building would create. Chris Spitz responded that WRAC was seeking consistency in its position against cumulative impacts particularly on traffic on the Westside. Jack Allen stated that parks, schools, libraries and other services not currently impacted would now be impacted. Jack also stated that just because the project is located near the expo does not mean residents will ride it. Janet Turner stressed the importance of large projects being evaluated with consideration of cumulative impacts caused by the many developments that are scheduled to be developed rather than one at a time. Action: Chris Spitz made the motion and ____ seconded. The motion passed with 3 abstentions.
10.2. The YMCA Simon Meadow Landscape Plan Motion [see attachment below].
Presentation: Richard Cohen reported on the agreement reached with the YMCA and is hoping that the community will come together in support of this agreement. Richard, Ted and Jack represented the PPCC in this process. Individuals thanked and recognized by Richard were Norm Kulla, Barbara Kohn, Randy Young and Kelly Comras. On the YMCA, the PPCC worked with Rob Lowe, Carol Pfannkuche, and David Card. Years have been spent walking the property and in negotiations to come to an agreement. The current agreement (in the letter see below) involves in large part the beautification of the property including issues that involved permanent fencing, access, hiking, etc. Randy, Kelly and David Card are the design experts and worked very hard on the beautification plan. Those people interested in use issues are supportive of the agreement because it works well for the community given promises to complete all of the undertakings, install an advisory group, and restrict signage, moon-bounce limits, storage and other details. Richard Cohen supports the agreement and urged the Board to help the YMCA with its fundraising efforts. Discussion: Stuart Muller expressed concern about the vagueness of Paragraph 7’s restrictions on catering trucks to “occasional” use. Richard responded that CD-11 and legal experts have opined that the YMCA can occasionally have catering trucks thus it is important for the agreement to address it. Richard stated that all of the concessions have been on the side of the YMCA with the exception that the YMCA needs community approval of a permanent fence. The agreement is not permissive; it is actually slightly restrictive. Stuart Muller also asked about the signage restrictions in Paragraph 4 to confirm that the restrictions cover upper Temescal Canyon Road. Donna Vaccarino asked whether there are visual illustrations that back up this letter; Richard said that there are plans available and have been in process and negotiated for over two years. Carol Pfannkuche stated that she has a design plan and can make it available. Steve Boyers stated that our council process is to support subcommittees. Action: Richard Cohen read the motion and moved for its adoption. Jack Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously with Stuart Muller abstaining.
10.3. Tori Osborn, Candidate for State Assembly District 50, State Budget Issues that Affect the Palisades.
Janet Turner introduced Tori Osborn by stating that: [Janet send; note: insert not included/unavailable.]. Presentation: Tori provided her personal background that is predominately in non-profit services. Currently she is striving to engage voters in low-income areas to change the electorate by 5% with voters who have typically been ignored (young, low income, immigrants) with the primary goal of influencing budget reform. Tori has also worked with the Mayor on public partnerships to improve the City such as taking back parks from public partnerships. She has found it difficult to see the cumulative effects of consistent budget cuts and that is why she is running for State Assembly. Tori has lived in Santa Monica for 27 years and is closely affiliated with the Palisades through friends and community. Tori solicited questions from the Board. Questions: (1) CEQA – Tori is a strong supporter of CEQA and there is a strong consensus across the Board that CEQA needs to be reformed. The question is how. People feel that CEQA has been abused by competitive developers who do not want another competitor’s project to go through. Tori believes that the best and brightest need to take a look at how these abuses can be stopped. Jack Allen disagreed with Tori stating that it is very rare that competing developers get involved. Jack expressed that CEQA is an informational process so if a developer has a good project CEQA is not a problem. CEQA arises when there is a bad project that a developer wants to jam through. Tori is concerned about the condition of the courts because of budget cuts there and the ability of CEQA to actually be streamlined through the courts. Barbara asked about Bill 226 regarding streamline on in-fill projects; Tori is not familiar with that particular bill but is supportive in general with environmental laws; (2) MRCA, the “agency that seems to answer to no one” – Richard expressed that we have many organizations that the YMCA, Temescal Canyon, etc. that need to deal productively with the MRCA and the MRCA does not respond. Gil Dembo raised the issue of north of Sunset property taxation by the MRCA. Tori responded that it is difficult to raise transparency and affect the MRCA when state legislators turn over so quickly. Tori reminded the Board of the positive things that Joe Edmonson and the MRCA have done in our area and in our state over many decades. This is an issue of dysfunction in the City of Sacramento where certain people are there for a very long time while legislators term in and term out so frequently the balance of power is affected. Tori would like to develop a stronger relationship with MRCA to take a look at their structure for oversight. Jack Allen asked if Tori would consider having MRCA answer to the Department of Resources to improve accountability; (3) Wednesday Night Motorcycles – Jack Allen asked Tori if she would sponsor a bill that would require that all motorcycles be inspected annually to ensure that the mufflers comply with noise standards and that the police be authorized to impound any motorcycle which does not have a current certification sticker on its mufflers. Jack also asked if she would sponsor a bill banning the use of two-stroke engines in California. Tori said that this is noise pollution of the first order and she would certainly listen to the PPCC’s suggestion for legislation; (4) Brown’s proposition to raise taxes in support of schools – Tori states that she supports the Governor’s proposal. She does not like the sales tax that is regressive but it is only .25%. Tori stated that we are in a crisis, particularly with regard to our education system, due to the constant cutting. Thus, she supports revenue measures even though this one is not perfect. There will be a second revenue raising measure, and Tori believes they will both qualify (the other authored by Molly Munger); Tori will be voting for both which do have their pros and cons. Paul Glasgall expressed that there needs to be other solutions instead of “let’s just tax some more” and articulated many reasons that California’s taxes are already too high. Tori stated that the most important thing is long-term economic/job recovery and stimulation of capital into small businesses and start-ups. Investment into our universities is also critical. (5) Jim Rea asked why California doesn’t have an extraction tax. Tori stated that this is evidence of the power of the oil companies. Tori supports an extraction tax of 10%-12% because that would bring in $2 – $3 billion to the state.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:58 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 8.3 — Part One of Three
Dear Board, This is the second version of the below Statement of Principle being proposed by Geoff Sheldon, Jim Rea and Steve Boyers, but the only version they authorized to be sent to the board. Both the first and the second version were discussed with PPCC’s legal counsel, Ron Dean, who believes this statement is inconsistent with our Bylaws. His response is below in Part 2.
NON-BINDING SENSE OF THE BOARD
STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLE
We believe that the credibility of the PPCC, whose stated mission is “ . . . to protect and improve the quality of life in the . . . Community” can be achieved only by an election process that is, in fact, fair and transparent, and which is perceived to be fair and transparent. Any election of PPCC officers, which is not truly fair, or which the community perceives as unfair, jeopardizes the credibility and effectiveness of the PPCC and the achievement of its ultimate purpose.
Therefore, we adopt the following Statement of Principle with regard to the election of any individual as an officer of the PPCC
We respect the right of the Nominating Committee to place in nomination a slate of candidates for officer positions. However, no individual shall seek to discourage any other individual from seeking election as an officer nor shall any member of the PPCC Board discredit any other candidate.
All candidates for officer positions must be willing to serve without qualification, regardless of the election outcome. If an individual is unwilling to serve with any other candidates for election, he or she should withdraw his or her name from nomination.
Nothing in this Statement of Principle is intended as an endorsement of any particular candidate nor is it intended to require a change in the current Bylaws of the PPCC.
Respectfully submitted:
GEOFF SHELDON
JIM REA
STEVE BOYERS
ITEM 8.3 — Part Two of Three – PPCC LEGAL COUNSEL RON DEAN RESPONDS:
Dear Janet and Steve,
Here is my response to the Amended Statement of Principle submitted today by Jeff Sheldon, Jim Rea and Steve Boyers. Although this amended proposal uses some different words from the first proposal, it does not address any of the concerns I expressed earlier (copied below), namely that it violates free speech rights and is inconsistent with the current Bylaws. My concerns remain unchanged. – Ron Dean
I read the Policy Statement submitted. Because some of the principles as set out are inconsistent with the Bylaws and others are inconsistent with free speech, it would have to be up to the Bylaws Committee to propose Bylaw amendments to appropriately accommodate these concerns.
For example, (a) insofar as it limits what a candidate for office can say (about an opponent) it would violate free speech rights and limit debate. So where it says you can’t “discredit” another candidate, this is ambiguous. For example, to say “the other candidate doesn’t care about the motorcycle issue as much as I do” is that discrediting?
(b) Requires a candidate to promise to serve no matter who else is elected. This changes the rules for qualification for office, in that it adds another condition in order to be qualified.
(c) Shall not discourage another to run for office. Again, this would be a free speech issue.
My recommendation is that if the Council is interested in pursuing that, it can, by majority vote, refer it to the Bylaws Committee.
Thanks,
Ron
ITEM 8.3 — Part Three of Three – LANGUAGE REFERRED BY THE CHAIR TO THE BYLAWS COMMITTEE:
AMENDED NON-BINDING SENSE OF THE BOARD
STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLE
As an organization, we believe that we should be striving to achieve the highest aspirations in how we conduct ourselves as well as in our ultimate objectives.
Our Statement of Principle was an expression of our attempt to prevent the organization from devolving into negative campaigning. This is why we suggested a prohibition from seeking to discredit candidates for officer positions within the organization.
While we continue to believe that the expression of positive sentiments are of paramount importance in community elections, we amend our Statement of Principle by the deletion, in its entirety, of the former third paragraph. Our Amended Non-Binding Sense of the Board Statement of Principle now reads as follows:
“ We believe that the credibility of the PPCC, whose stated mission is “ . . . to protect and improve the quality of life in the . . . Community” can be achieved only by an election process that is, in fact, fair and transparent, and which is perceived to be fair and transparent. Any election of PPCC officers, which is not truly fair, or which the community perceives as unfair, jeopardizes the credibility and effectiveness of the PPCC and the achievement of its ultimate purpose.
Therefore, we adopt the following Statement of Principle with regard to the election of any individual as an officer of the PPCC
All candidates for officer positions should be willing to serve without qualification, regardless of the election outcome. If an individual is unwilling to serve with any other candidates for election, he or she should withdraw his or her name from nomination. “
Respectfully submitted:
GEOFF SHELDON
JIM REA
STEVE BOYERS
ITEM 10.1 — Casden Project Motion (Recommended by LUC and WRAC)
“Whereas the proposed Casden project is only one of several projects in the West Los Angeles region along the Expo Line,
PPCC recommends the DEIR, ENV-2008-3989-EIR, be redrafted to reflect these additional projects and their cumulative impacts upon regional infrastructure: water, traffic, sewerage, power, schools, parks, and public safety departments (Fire and Police).
PPCC also requests a 60-day extension to review and comment on the DEIR.”
ITEM 10.2 – MOTION PROPOSED BY Richard Cohen and recommended by the Y Committee – Richard, Jack and Ted.
“PPCC supports to consensus agreement expressed in the attached draft letter which was arrived at by a process of negotiation between community members and the YMCA pertaining to landscaping, fencing and use issues on the property.”
The following letter gives details of the agreement.
May 3, 2012
Mr. Norman Kulla Northern District Director and Senior Counsel, Council District 11 Councilmember Bill Rosendahl 1645 Corinth Ave., Room 201 Los Angeles, CA 90025
Dear Norman,
On behalf of the Palisades-Malibu YMCA Board of Managers, we thank you all for the time and thoughtful input you have provided, over the last several months, about improvements and uses of the YMCA’s property at Sunset Boulevard and Temescal Canyon Road.
We are thrilled to have the agreement between the YMCA and the Committee on the conceptual design for the Beautification Plan for Simon Meadow. This week, we will submit the final plans to you, for the Committee’s final approval, then to the Zoning Administrator for “sign-off,” and concurrently to the Coastal Commission. We will take swift action to create the necessary documents for final approval and permits.
Regarding Beautification Plan and property uses, YMCA volunteers and staff have taken all suggestions very seriously and made major modifications to our plans based on the ideas and concerns expressed by the planning committee.
With the Committee’s approval and support for the Beautification Plan, the YMCA will do the following:
1. Operate in full compliance with permits, zoning requirements and deed restrictions;
2. With the exception of Coastal Commission requirements, which may be completed in advance, complete construction of all elements identified on the Landscape Plan, as a single project.
3. Create and participate in a collaborative community advisory group that will meet on an on-going basis, quarterly and more often as needed, to address concerns that arise regarding the uses of Simon Meadow as they affect the general community. The community advisory group will be known as the YMCA Planning Group (“YPG”) and will consist of three appointees from the community: one member appointed by the President of Pacific Palisades Community Council, one member appointed by Temescal Canyon Association, and one member of the community appointed by the Councilmember of District 11; three people representing YMCA volunteer and staff leadership. A member of the Los Angeles City Council district office staff and a member from the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy/Mountain Recreation Conservation Authority will be invited to attend and be a participating member at all meetings. YMCA staff will coordinate the meeting schedule, which will begin immediately.
4. Restrict the use of banners and signs, except the identity sign and donor recognition plaques, to not be placed within 100 feet of the Sunset Boulevard curb, and so that messages are not obviously visible from the public rights-of-way at Sunset Boulevard or Temescal Canyon Road.
5. Restrict moon bounce use to a maximum of three times per week. When used in conjunction with events designated in the permits (day camp, Christmas tree lot and pumpkin patch), moon bounce hours of operation will align with the permitted hours of event operation (see Appendix). When in conjunction with other events, moon bounce use will be limited to a maximum of six hours. In cases where evening event operation is permitted, moon bounce use will end at sunset.
6. Restrict the use of storage trailers, portable restrooms and other similar temporary activity structures so that they are not placed within 100 feet of the Sunset Boulevard curb.
7. Restrict catering trucks to occasional use.
Norman, your excellent leadership of this community discussion process had led us to this compromise. Please find our signatures of commitment, below.
We share a goal of improving our community, and we believe this process has led us to an agreement that will serve our community well, for the future.
Sincerely,
Rob Lowe Carol Pfannkuche
Palisades-Malibu YMCA
821 Via de la Paz, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
P 310-454-5591 F 310-573-0060 W www.ymcala.org/pm
_________________________
MINUTES FOR MAY 24th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, Aurelia Friedman, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Barbara Marinacci, Richard Wulliger, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz.
Voting Alternates: Christy Dennis, Quentin Fleming, Geoff Shelden.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Steve Cron, John Glasgow, Schuyler Dietz, Alex Mack, Andrew Wolfberg, Carol Bruch, Amy Kalp.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Richard Cohen read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:02 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Jennifer Malaret moved and Jack Allen seconded the minutes for May 10, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously with Harry Sondheim abstaining. The next meeting is June 14, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda. Reports and updates may be pushed to the end of the meeting with one additional candidate for Vice Chair.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of May 24, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,773.59, which consist of USB Checking $6,633.97, Smith Barney account $18,135.09 and Post Office account $4.53. Ted reported that an additional fifteen (15) member checks were received since the last report.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Election Committee for Election of Area Representatives. Janet Turner reported that the Committee is at work with Chris Spitz serving as Chair. Nominations are now open. Candidates must submit candidate statements (100 words or less) and photos no later than July 2. See below [attachment].
7.1.2. Incumbent Area Representatives. Janet Turner explained that all area representatives must notify the Chair in writing whether or not the incumbent will run for reelection by the first meeting in June, i.e., June 14, 2012. Statements will be accepted at the end of the meeting should any board members wish to wait to submit their statement until after the results of the election are made public. They must submit a candidate statement of 100 words or less and a photo by July 2, 2012.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
(1) Potrero Canyon has imported 93,000 cubic yards of dirt that is being stockpiled up about the rim. 320 odd loads came in one day, being the highest day of dirt import. The riparian habitat may be pumped from under Patterson drive. As previously reported, there will be a storm drain built on Swarthmore; construction is expected to be completed by this year’s rainy season. (2) Sunset Safety Week – the kick-off is planned for the fall, 2012. The next meeting will be at Palisades Charter High School and is expected to cover responsible driving for juniors and seniors. CD-11 would like to tie in all of the schools around the corridors in Pacific Palisades. Christy Dennis asked to receive the date of the next meeting as soon as possible. Stuart Muller asked if pedestrian safety would be discussed; Joaquin said that it would. (3) Fourth of July – CD-11 will be working with the organizers regarding race fees and the parade. CD-11 is also working with the Palisades Tri organizers to help keep their event costs down as well. (4) Noise ordinance – facilitated by Amy Kalp, a draft ordinance is being reviewed by CD-11 and others. (5) DWP Substation – CD-11 is setting up a meeting with the Councilmember, DWP and the LAUSD to discuss how it is going with alternative site selections. Ted Mackie asked if the state parkland was still on the table as an alterative site; Joaquin stated that the parkland was not on the list. (6) Others – Paul Glasgall has issues with the re-paving program relative to the Highlands community and other Palisades areas. Joaquin reported that CD-11 is working on setting up a meeting with street services. Janet Turner reported that Jim Rea has made calls regarding Akron and that Akron was put on a “utility hold” to wait for completion of the sewers before the street is re-paved. Joe Alvaraz expressed that lights on Sunset are not working; Joaquin suggested that an email be sent about specific locations. Harry Sondheim asked about the stump that has been left at the corner of Almar and Northfield; Joaquin stated that he can put in a request but the stump is unlikely to be ground but invited Harry to send an email. Schuyler Dietz asked about a light on Palisades drive being recalibrated; Stuart Muller explained that this light and a few others in the Palisades are purposely set like that, i.e., “resting reds”. Richard Cohen asked when the ATSAC system was going active and the lights on Sunset will operate together; Joaquin suggested that board members use the contact information previously distributed for the ATSAC engineers.
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore – Officer Moore could not attend.
Amy Kalp reported that there will be another Sunset Safety week meeting and the program will start late summer. (2) The Castellammare and Sunset intersection was looked at based on a recent accident. Putting in more striping is not an option because of the existing light. Further trimming of the tree by the bank is being considered. (3) LADOT and CalTrans also looked at the light at Sunset and PCH but no changes are expected. The markings are appropriate and the remaining issues relate to law enforcement.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Historical Society (Dick Wulliger). Dick announced that on 6.14.2012 there would be the annual members meeting at 12:30 p.m. at Aldersgate Lodge. There will be a presentation on the “Ramona Myth.’ Membership is $20 (PO Box 1099) and $10 will be charged for the lunch.
7.3.2. PCH Task Force. Barbara Kohn reported that a tour was given of the facilities that monitor cameras at various intersections throughout the city and how signalization is modified. One of their goals is to keep PCH moving and that is why the lights on Sunset cannot be synchronized. There will likely be a longer delay at the Coastline light due to loop changes associated with construction.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. LUC Update.
Chris Spitz reported that there are two upcoming meetings that will take place on May 31, 2012 and June 7, 2012. On May 31, 2012 there will be a discussion surrounding a by-right development including a retaining wall on the Potrero rim where the commissioners have expressed interest in hearing from the community council. The regular LUC meeting will be on 6.7.2012 where Dana Prevost will be speaking on geology and landslide areas in the Palisades. Both meetings are taking place at 12:30 in the community room at the library.
9. Old Business.
9.1. PPCC 2012 Officers Election, Candidates Forum to be chaired by Quentin Fleming.
Quentin explained that each candidate who has been nominated and who has accepted the nomination would get 5 minutes. They can speak for themselves of have others speak on their behalf or both. After everyone has received their 5 minutes, there will be questions and answers from the floor. The candidates are: Barbara Kohn for Chair, Haldis Toppel for Chair, Chris Spitz for Vice Chair, Paul Glasgall for Vice Chair, Jennifer Malaret for Secretary, Joyce Wong-Kup for Secretary and Ted Mackie for Treasurer.
9.2. Candidate Speeches. Candidate statements are attached below. Ted Mackie, running uncontested and “web-master for life,” declined to speak. In addition, Christy Dennis and John Glasgow spoke in support of Joyce Wong-Kup’s nomination for Secretary and Sam Lagana, a Marquez Knolls resident, spoke in support of Haldis Toppel’s nomination.
9.3. Question and Answer. Quentin Fleming ran a brief question and answer session. See details below [attachment].
10. New Business.
10.1. Brad Torgan, Republican Candidate for State Assembly District 50.
Introduction: Janet Turner introduced Brad Torgan. Presentation: Brad stated that his core values are limited government, fiscal restraint and civil liberty. His background is as an attorney, planning, working on behalf of the parks and historic preservation. Brad is openly Republican and prides himself on working across the aisle to achieve reform in areas such as pension reform, structural tax reform, education reform where we are 48th in per pupil spending, and regulatory reform where over regulation causes uncertainty and serves as a hidden tax. California’s climate is so hostile to business that we are chasing out businesses, the middle class and resources that this sector brings. Questions: Jack Allen asked if Brad had pledged not to raise taxes. Brad responded that he had signed no pledge. Jack asked if Brad would support an oil extraction tax. Brad thinks both oil and carbon extraction tax should be considered in the context of the entire package of structural tax reform. Ted Mackie asked where do you stand on Propositions 28 and 29? Brad opposes these propositions not because he opposes “sin taxes” but because there is no guarantee the money will be spent in CA (29). Brad is ambivalent on changing term limits (28) because there are pro’s and con’s. Richard Cohen asked how strongly Brad favors CEQA. Brad stated that he has been involved in all areas of CEQA and believes it works pretty well now although perhaps time lines could be changed a bit. The problem is in the abuses by developers and city officials who do not want to make the hard decisions. On the other side when grocery unions are attacking Walmart it is not because of a CEQA problem. Steve Cron asked about Brad’s statement that we are over-regulated questioning the banking industry’s demise and effect on our economy. Geoff Sheldon asked about the high-speed rail. Brad responded that as a planner he likes it but it has become a mis-managed boondoggle that we cannot afford now. Quentin Fleming asked about taxation and what structural reforms specifically were being considered. Brad stated that “everything should be on the table” – extraction tax, our sales tax in terms of what is taxed and what is not, etc. Dick Wulliger asked about the $16 billion state budget deficit and how it will be tackled. Brad stated it would be worse because the FaceBook IPO is not bringing in the revenue expected. Spending by the community college system, such as Santa Monica’s two-tier tuition structure and waivers, should be looked at.
11. General Public Comment.
11.1. Business Improvement District (“BID”).
Chris Hope was in attendance and reported that he has been working on the BID with Susan Carroll and Lori Sale. Arnie Wishnik, Bill Bruns and others have been coming to the organizational meetings. Chris explained that there used to be a $40K plus grant available from the City for consulting. This program no longer exists due to budget constraints. There has been a proposal to raise local funds for consulting and $5,000 has been raised on loan funds. The group is seeking letters of intent to be involved. The group is looking to do a property owner BID and it is difficult to get current information on the actual landowners. The BID area encompasses the village and Marquez Knolls only. The BID will assist business owners with business promotion, marketing, maintenance, tree trimming, etc. The BID only requires 50.1% approval for all owners to go along. Palisades Partners is currently not part of the process due to on-going litigation.
11.2. Joyce Eng, a member of the public, spoke about neighbors on the 800 block of Radcliffe who are concerned about a particular residential development. The Chair referred the resident to Stuart Muller, the Area Rep.
11.3. Jack Allen wanted to clarify that the PPCC has been very involved in City issues for a long time. Jack expressed that while we can influence our local council member, he/she needs seven others to get anything else done. Jack worked with Lila Gordon to get Plan LA created to address citywide events (such as the development of Century City) that impact the Palisades.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:59 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
Item 7.1.1 — Area Representative Elections, PPCC Bylaws (February 23, 2012)
Sec. 2. Notice of Elections.
A. 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.
B. Posting of the Notice of Elections will consist of delivering copies of the Notice of Elections to any weekly newspaper that is distributed in the Pacific Palisades, to the Chamber of Commerce, and by posting copies in the Pacific Palisades Public Library and Post Office as well as on the Council Web site.
Sec. 3. Nomination Process.
A. Dissemination of election procedures. Any incumbent, as well as any person indicating an interest in becoming a candidate, shall be given a copy of these election procedures.
B. Boundaries.
1. The boundary for the At-large Representative is the Pacific Palisades Area shown on the Boundary Map of Pacific Palisades, as contained in Attachment “C” to the Bylaws.
2. The boundary of each Area is shown on the Boundary Map of Pacific Palisades, as contained in Attachment “C”.
C. Nomination Papers. Only the candidate can prepare the document submitting or withdrawing his/her own nomination.
D. Filing Deadlines. July 2, 2012 is the deadline this year.
1. All candidates. Any candidate, including any incumbent running for reelection, must submit a Candidate’s Statement prior to or at the regularly scheduled July meeting, at which time the chair will announce the list of candidates. If there is a person whose name has not been announced who it is believed has erroneously been left off the list of candidates, that person or someone designated by that person must be present at that July meeting with that candidate’s statement and must submit the statement to the chair immediately following the announcement of the list of candidates.
2. Additional requirement for incumbent. Prior to or at the first Council meeting in June, each area incumbent must notify the chair in writing whether or not the incumbent will run for reelection. At the first Council meeting in June, the chair shall announce the names of the incumbents who are running for reelection. If the chair is not notified at or before that meeting, the incumbent will be deemed conclusively not to be running.
E. Notice Procedure. Any notification or statement required by this nomination process.
1. shall be given by personal delivery to the Chair or, to the presiding officer at a Board meeting, or
2. shall be sent by email to the Chair, or
3. must be mailed to the Pacific Palisades Community Council, P.O. Box 1131, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, by a delivery process which shows a U. S. postmark indicating it was mailed at least seven days prior to the date of the July meeting and which requires a return receipt. Timely submittal of a posted document is determined by the official U.S. Postal Service postmark. Business or home office meter-stamp dates are not acceptable as evidence of timely submittal.
F. Withdrawal of Nomination. Any person who decides to withdraw must notify the chair in writing of that decision. Such notice shall be given as provided in “E. Notice Procedure” above. Votes for candidates who withdraw shall not be counted.
G. Candidate Statement.
1. It is suggested that each Candidate’s Statement include, but not be limited to the following:
a) Number of years residing in Pacific Palisades,
b) Number of years at current address,
c) Position on issues the candidate believes are of importance to the Community or to the candidate’s area.
2. Length–maximum of 100 words
a) The Chair or Vice-Chair shall count the number of words in each Candidate’s Statement.
b) The name and address of a candidate shall not be included in the word count.
c) The use of abbreviations and acronyms is encouraged in order to save space.
d) If a Statement is over 100 words, it will be edited by the Chair or Vice-Chair.
Item 9.2 — Candidate Statements; Summary of Comments
(1) Joyce Wong-Kup, Candidate for Secretary
My name is Joyce Wong Kup. Thank you for considering me for the position of Secretary.
I emigrated from Hong Kong to the U.S. with my family at age 9. We settled in San Francisco, where I grew up. I attended U.C. Berkeley, where I studied Rhetoric and also met my future husband Eddy, and then U.C. Davis School of Law, where I was introduced to land use and environmental law during a summer clerkship. Upon graduation, I moved to Los Angeles, where Eddy had been working since graduating from Berkeley, and we settled down in the Westwood/Rancho Park area.
Professionally, I took on a fellowship with a public interest law firm specializing in land use matters. After that, I joined the land use and environmental department of a major international law firm, starting as an associate and then continuing as a counsel. There, I advised private and public clients on CEQA and NEPA compliance and litigation, California Planning and Zoning law, and federal and state environment laws and regulations. I worked on all aspects of project development and permitting, representing clients in both the administrative process and in litigation. For example, I provided CEQA counsel to the City of Los Angeles on its long-range master plan to modernize LAX and defended the City in CEQA actions challenging the master plan. I represented a private developer on the proposed mixed-use development of 500+ acres in Los Angeles County. I also represented various residents associations and environmental groups in challenges against proposed development projects.
In June 2009, my husband and I moved our family into our current home in Marquez Knolls. My husband had grown up in the Palisades – having gone to Palisades Elementary, Paul Revere Middle School and Palisades High – and had always wanted to return to the Palisades to raise a family. Since moving here, I have been a stay-at-home mom caring for our two young children. During the past year, I have become involved with various community matters – leading the community’s efforts to oppose the DWP’s proposed substation next to Marquez Charter Elementary School and assisting another residents group to monitor and evaluate the proposed 49-unit apartment project at 17000 Sunset. Most recently, I joined the MKPOA Board as Secretary.
I believe that my professional background will be useful to serving as PPCC Secretary. Additionally, I hope to contribute my professional expertise to the PPCC’s involvement in local land use issues. Beyond that, as a newcomer, I will bring a fresh point of view to the table. I believe that I am uniquely in touch with, and representative of, the many younger families that have come to make up this community in recent years. I am very interested in representing and advocating on behalf of those interests. If elected and entrusted to do so, I will do it with the same intensity and commitment that some of you have seen with respect my work on the DWP matter.
The fact is, both my husband and I come from hard-working immigrant families. Since our early adult years, we both have worked extremely diligently to establish ourselves, and we can proudly say that we made it here on our own. I will bring the same work ethic and intensity to the PPCC. If you believe that I will be value-add to the PPCC as Secretary, please vote for me. If not, I would be happy to support the PPCC in other appropriate ways, if called upon. I thank you in advance for your support and hope to have the opportunity to serve the PPCC and the community.
(2) Jennifer Malaret – Candidate for Secretary
Good evening. My name is Jennifer Malaret and I have the privilege of knowing and serving with many of you. I accept the Nominating Committee’s recommendation to continue as Secretary and as an Executive Board member of the Council.
Over the past year, I have enjoyed fulfilling my duties as an Officer. I have kept the minutes of the meetings, followed the membership of the board, kept electronic records for each motion passed and assisted the Chair with documents and record keeping. When the Chair has assigned duties to me, such as research, writing and attendance at meetings, I have fulfilled those requests immediately and to the best of my ability. When matters have been brought to the Executive Board, I have always responded in a timely manner, with meaningful input and have shown consistent personal professional courtesy to my fellow board members.
For the past two years, I have been busy representing the Council in our work with other stakeholders, Neighborhood Councils, the CD-11 Office and at City Hall. I am an attorney and have done research, drafted language, created motions, and contributed to the communication of our Council’s position on many issues. I have spent thousands of volunteer hours on key items including zoning code reform, group homes, the Citywide Sign Ordinance, and the fire department’s allocation of resources. I believe that I have represented the Council in a competent and professional manner throughout the City. I have taken the time to develop relationships with Planning, community leaders and elected officials and serve on several citywide coalitions. One of my more personal moments took place at City Hall when a speaker advocate approached me in the hallway immediately after I had given oral testimony on behalf of PPCC regarding the controversial and emotional group home issue. This woman approached me somewhat aggressively and I was initially taken a bit aback. Then she touched my shoulder, leaned closer and said quietly into my ear using measured words, “I may not agree with what you said in chambers but I respect the way in which you said it.” That meant the world to me. I am an advocate. I am willing to listen. I seek to make decisions with what I call “informed reason”. I recognize that there are always balancing forces. Often there may be competing interests. Trustworthiness goes hand in hand with respect and compromise, two components necessary to reaching agreements and achieving preferred outcomes for our community. I have worked hard to bring these things to the table on behalf of the board and the Palisades. I believe that with this approach or a similar approach we all benefit.
I am willing to continue to serving as the council’s Secretary and, as an Executive Board Member, welcome the opportunity to become further involved in the administration and leadership of the organization. Towards that end, I have spent the last year increasing my outreach efforts not just in my own neighborhood but also throughout the entire Pacific Palisades. I am a 21-year resident in the Palisades with three children – one in elementary school, middle school and going to high school. We attend local schools and worship in a local church where I have volunteered and served on leadership, charity and fund-raising boards. Along with my family, I am active in local youth sports organizations including the Y, the Rec. Center, the PPBA, the Palisades Tennis Center and Catholic Youth sports. I also serve as Secretary and an Executive Board member of the Recreation Center’s Park Advisory Board. I have become very active in long term planning for our city parks and volunteered to supervise the new “teen council”. I am passionate about our town, our youth, and our mountain and coastal resources.
Finally, it has been a pleasure to work with many members of this board and residents in my role on the council, as a member on various committees and as your liaison to the Pacific Palisades Park Advisory Board. I believe that those of you on the Board with whom I have worked directly have had a positive experience and found me to be committed, hard working, dependable and reasonable. Relative to those of you I have not worked with, I ask for the opportunity to work with you in the coming year and to get to know you better. We share a collective goal of improving the quality of life here in Pacific Palisades. I ask you for your vote and support of my nomination for the 2012 / 2013 Secretary of the Pacific Palisades Community Council.
(3) Chris Spitz – Candidate for Vice Chair
Good evening – Like Barbara, I too am not one to toot my own horn and I did not seek this nomination. I’m honored by the Nominating Committee’s trust in me and I’m also grateful for the support of my family — Jeff and Hannah — who are here tonight. It’s a privilege to speak to you about why I’m running for the position of PPCC Vice-Chair.
First, a few words about my background: As you can see from my resume, I’m a long time Palisades resident and an experienced attorney. I’ve been an active community volunteer and have assumed leadership roles, initially with my daughter’s schools and local activities and later with larger community issues. I treasure the friends and connections I’ve made in the Palisades as a result.
As with many of you, problems in my immediate neighborhood led to my involvement seven years ago with PPCC and PPRA. I very much appreciated both organizations’ support in opposing a proposed over-height front yard enclosure. I became a board member and a Vice-President of PPRA; six years ago I was appointed to represent PPRA on the PPCC Board, where I’ve actively served ever since. Another neighborhood concern led to my appointment by Councilman Rosendahl to the Potrero Canyon Community Advisory Committee, chaired by George. I’ve also successfully served with George for three years on the Planning & Land Use Committee of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC), and this year, I was invited to become a Steering Committee member of PlanCheckNCLA – an organization devoted to providing information Citywide about Planning measures.
Participation in all of these organizations has broadened my knowledge and brought into focus the importance of considering issues with an open mind and with respect for all areas and constituencies of our community.
Of course the role of the Vice-Chair is to support the Chair and to provide leadership in the Chair’s absence. Along with Barbara and Jennifer, I’ve been supporting our Chair on an as-needed basis for the past two years and have fully demonstrated a willingness and ability to assist as well as provide leadership.
I’ve been a passionate public advocate on many issues, some of which are highlighted in my resume. I believe I am respected by policy-makers and City officials and am an effective voice on issues of important community concern.
I’m particularly proud of my three-year effort with Barbara in leading a Citywide coalition calling for cell tower regulation reform – an effort that we believe will achieve success. I’m also proud of our work with City officials and industry reps to improve the aesthetics of cell towers.
Recently, I became Chair of the Area Representative Elections Committee. Our Committee has already made important recommendations to enhance the ballot and pre-election process.
As you know, I’ve also served for two years as Chair of the Land Use Committee. I’ve spent many hundreds – I daresay thousands — of hours in all the tasks required of me. I’ve been an effective Committee leader and I will bring these qualities to bear as PPCC Vice-Chair.
I would like to see the important work of the LUC continue into the next year with knowledgeable and dedicated members. As Barbara has noted, this is critically important because of the proposed sweeping overhaul of the Zoning Code. It is imperative for PPCC’s leadership to stay on top of this serious policy matter and to take a proactive stance to protect our neighborhoods and Specific Plan.
While all of our LUC members have tackled issues and have been leaders in other important areas, from my perspective the persons who have contributed the most by far to our successful work (in addition of course to George) are Barbara and Jennifer. Their contributions have been invaluable. For example, together we analyzed the complex Core Findings Ordinance and crafted language protecting our Specific Plan which was ultimately approved by City officials and will become a part of the City’s Zoning Code. Barbara’s and Jennifer’s work ethic is second to none and they are reliable, consistent colleagues. Barbara is the Committee’s go-to person on CEQA matters. She also brings a wealth of knowledge, an experience-based perspective and creative ideas and solutions to problems. We are indebted to Jennifer for her incredible dedication, insight and leadership on the CCFO and sign ordinance, as well as for her razor-sharp legal analyses.
Barbara, Jennifer and I have demonstrated that we work very effectively together. We also share a common goal: to represent the interests of the entire community with professionalism, honesty, integrity and resolve.
I enthusiastically support all the goals Barbara has outlined, including actively participating to improve our business district, and continuing our important police, fire and budget committees. I’m particularly glad that we have a new education rep to offer a new perspective to our deliberations. I’d also like to hear from our long-time as well as new Board members about what you believe we should be focusing on. Call or email me any time!
I want to work with each of you on the big issues we will face going forward. Together we can make a difference. I am honored to ask for your vote. Thank you very much for your consideration.
(4) Paul Glasgall – Candidate for Vice Chair
The focus and direction of the Community Council should be the local well being of our community.
Doing what we can to keep police and fire services at a level commensurate with our needs. Sidewalk, street repairs and tree upkeep improved to make our community as it has been and should be.
While we should work with other community organizations on common interest problems we should not spread ourselves too thin.
Our town must be revitalized and business improved along a wide front of services.
(5) Barbara Kohn – Candidate for Chair
It is not my nature to speak about my accomplishments and service to the community, but I am particularly proud that my achievements were recognized with the 2009 Community Service Award.
Twelve years ago when I was elected Area One Representative to the Council I had more than 35 years experience as a volunteer community activist including participation in a Citizen Advisory Committee to the City Attorney. Now for more than a decade I have been fulfilling my responsibilities representing my constituents by reaching out and learning the pulse of my area.
Now I would like to address my thoughts on the role of the Chair and 5 Key Issues facing our Community:
Under Janet’s leadership, the role of Chair has expanded, and the voice of the Palisades is effectively heard throughout the City. I have been assisting the Chair with technological support and correspondence in addition to speaking at hearings.
The council’s influence has been exponentially expanded.
I believe in the committee structure and its ability to evaluate complex issues and successfully influence the public process. Our committees, including budget and land use, have become an integral part of our organization. This will continue if I am Chair.
I believe in an “open door” leadership philosophy: I answer my phone, I timely respond to emails, and I enjoy collaborating with board members and residents throughout the community.
As Chair one of my goals would be to agenize meetings for member information sharing: what is your organization doing, your outreach, your goals, how can the council assist you? Administratively, I would enhance support for new board members by developing member portfolios, and evaluate a possible expanded role of technology for the council.
I ask for your vote to support my “vision” on the following 5 key issues affecting our community,
1. Zoning,
2. Budget,
3. BID (Business Improvement District),
4. Telecommunication and Utilities
5. Safety
1. In the next two years, the City will undertake comprehensive zoning code reform, called “form based zoning”, the first phase of which will threaten our open space and possibly “up-zone” our single-family neighborhoods with higher density. I will continue my 30 year philosophy of protection and preservation of the coastal and mountain resources, the character of our residential neighborhoods, and uphold our zoning codes, Specific Plan and Community Plan.
2. The City’s budget deficit means that we need to find alternative ways to protect our park resources. For six years, I’ve served as Councilman Rosendahl’s appointee on CD-11’s Regional Prop K Oversight Committee. As recently as last October, I ensured availability of $100K in allocated monies for Prop K projects for the Palisades Park. Relative to state parkland, as a founding member of the “Getty Villa Community Relations Committee” I am proud to tell you that our model was replicated and incorporated into the Community Council’s Committee agreement with the YMCA and the City, a committee on which I also served.
3. Perhaps one of the most important issues to the community at large is the BID . . . as a council member with years of retail business experience I was invited to participate in the organizational efforts and subsequent meeting for the proposed Business Improvement District (BID) for the Village Specific Plan. The necessity to invigorate our town’s commercial area is of paramount importance. If elected to Chair, I will continue and expand the council’s collaboration with the members of BID as well as other interested constituents.
4. I have spent hundreds of hours collaborating with Chris on Cell Tower Ordinance reform. We are and will remain at the forefront in the drafting of municipal telecommunication legislation. Concerning DWP’s proposal for a substation in the Palisades. As Chair, I will welcome area residents in discussions that are fully transparent and where all interested parties are invited to participate in resolving the location issue.
5. With your help, as Chair I will continue outreach to our elected officials to ensure we receive our equitable share of available police and fire resources.
It is an honor to be considered for this position. Please take time to review my resume and consider my qualifications and my years of service. Please cast your vote for me for Chair. I would consider it a privilege to serve as your Chair.
(6) – Haldis Toppel, Candidate for Chair
I would like to share with you my vision for reinvigorating the spirit of the Board through mutual respect, transparency, focus on local issues, and effective leadership.
Mutual Respect: We are all volunteers who give of our time, energy, and experience because we care for our community. Opinions, suggestions, and concerns need to be heard with interest; debates should be conducted with respect for the individuals; opposing viewpoints should be expressed with courtesy and without fear of reprisal. Most of all, diversity of opinions needs to be embrased, not discouraged.
Transparency: Business and discussions on all matters must be conducted in an open forum. Written and verbal communication should be measured as if it will be published on the front page of the local newspaper.
Local Issues: We need to focus on the needs of our community first. It is the PPCC role to be an advocate for community issues brought before the Board either by Board members or the public. This does not preclude monitoring developments outside of our community if they have a potential impact on the quality of life of Palisades residents or businesses.
Leadership: Leadership is ultimately measured by its achievements and the legacy it leaves behind. I have contributed to much of the fabric of today’s PPCC. I have rescued the annual Citizen and Sparkplug event from demise when cost and dwindling attendance had made it economically untennable and it was cancelled. Today, it is a sellout event. In cooperation with the Bylaws Committee, I have created the current PPCC boundaries and have drawn the map along with the descriptions of the Areas. I have instituted the e-mail communication system that seemlessly transfers from Chair to Chair. I have suggested the formation of the LUC, desiged our letterhead, the name tags, and the color newsletter which Christy is now taking to new heights. I have done so under the last five Chairs of PPCC. I have also served as Chair of many professional and community organizations in the past. At my son’s high school I have created a charity event that is attended by over 1,000 guests. I have re-vitalized the Marquez Knolls Property Owners Association with 1,250 homes from a nearly defunct status to one of the most effective HOAs in Pacific Palisades. I plant a seed and allow it to grow. What can I do for PPCC? Time will tell.
Item 9.3 — Questions and Answer Session, Candidates Forum
(1) Question for the Chair: What do you hope to achieve as Chair and what are your goals?
Chair: Haldis Toppel stated her goals were to continue to improve the quality of life in the Palisades, to listen to the board and achieve goals important to individuals. Barbara said that she would address comprehensive zoning reform, BID, the budget, telecommunications and safety. Barbara would like to continue working with the people on the board who have the expertise, knowledge and those who have been working on matters of the council so that the goals of the community can persevere. Barbara would like the council to participate more with those involved in BID.
(2) Question for Chair: What are your thoughts on the Specific Plan? Barbara responded that she has been defending the Specific Plan for thirty years and is a very strong supporter of the Specific Plan adopted in 1985. Violations will set a precedent that could lead the Palisades down the wrong path. Projects must continually be evaluated. As recently as five years ago, there was an issue of a second car wash in the Palisades and Barbara was strongly opposed to the car wash but Barbara felt it was critical to keep the conditions intact. Haldis responded that the Specific Plan was put in place for a good reason which was to preserve and improve the character of this community. Haldis stated that she supports the Specific Plan because it is in line with the Guiding Principles of the PPCC.
(3) Question for the Chair: How involved should the PPCC be in issues – local or citywide? Haldis responded that we need to look at the needs of this community first. It is important to assess issues outside of our community, ala the California Incline that will affect this community. We need to weigh resources available to us because we have board members who are volunteers with families. Time and interest need to be budgeted on issues outside of the Palisades. Barbara Kohn responded with her perspective that the PPCC is operating in a modern time. Things within the City of Los Angeles have changed and there is collaboration by the PPCC with other neighborhood councils. The same issue in the Palisades, such as cell towers, impact other neighborhoods in the City. Barbara feels it is critical to look at other areas throughout the City for example being a part of the Westside Regional Alliance of councils. There are 15 members on the City Council that vote on our local issues. For example, on No Oil it was critical to get support from all areas of the City so that the beaches in the Palisades could be protected. Haldis claimed that it was her idea to establish the LUC so that land use issues. Barbara responded that t it was not important who came up with the idea of the LUC but rather what matters was the actual reaching out like Barbara has been doing since the 1970’s.
(4) Question for the Chair: What is your view on the committee structure? Barbara responded that she would definitely keep the committee structure that is necessary to getting the work of the council done. Barbara also would consider adding more committees depending on the volunteer willingness of the board. Haldis stated that there is no need to change the current structure.
(5) Question for All Candidates: Are there any things that you’ve seen the council do that was very well done and that you might have done differently? Joyce stated that she thought the election process has been done well, and regrets that the council did not take a position on the DWP matter. Jennifer responded that a positive is that our board members get to meetings and are “heard” effectively throughout the City even when on a shortened time frame and she would like to see improvements in the process surrounding how the by-laws are drafted and updated. Chris Spitz said that she is very impressed by our board’s capable ability to analyze complex and important issues and would like to see more active involvement by the council to discuss our business district. Paul Glasgall responded that the PPCC did a great job having the forum to respond to the proposed Firestation 69 cutbacks and that the LUC has done a tremendous job. Paul would like to see more help on things considered more local when needed such as the DWP with more participation. Barbara responded that she is proud of the participation by the newer members of the council and would like to see more people in the public coming to our meetings and playing a larger role. Barbara also wants to see more freedom in agendizing issues and adequate time to discuss them at meetings. Haldis said that one of the biggest improvements on the council was bringing in second alternates to increase participation. The negative she sees is actually a positive and that is the emotion, care and dedication that members bring to the council.
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MINUTES FOR JUNE 14th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Haldis Toppel, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Barbara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Steve Yusi, Barbara Marinacci, Richard Wulliger, Donna Vaccarino, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz and Aurelia Friedman.
Voting Alternates: Gordon Wong and Janet Anderson.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Kurt Toppel, Christy Dennis, Carol Bruch, Norma Spak, John Glasgow, Schuyler Dietz, Alex Mack, Quentin Fleming and Geoff Shelden.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Chris Spitz read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:10 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Harry Sondheim moved and Jennifer Malaret seconded the minutes for May 24, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously with Jim Rea abstaining. The next meeting is June 28, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of June 14, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,773.59, which consist of USB Checking $6,633.97, Smith Barney account $18,135.09 and Post Office account $4.53. Ted reported that there have been 328 contributions received from the newsletter. Christy Dennis asked how the newsletter contributions were doing. Ted responded that the number responses were higher than last year but still not as high as the council has been hoping for.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. PPCC Nominations. Janet Turner asked if there were any additional Officer nominations. There were none. Janet announced that the PPCC Nominations for Officer are now closed.
7.1.2. Area Representatives. Janet Turner stated that tonight was the last night for Area Representatives to submit their statements for candidacy this year. Janet announced that Marguerite Perkins Mautner would not be running again for Area 8 Representative. Marguerite stated that she has enjoyed serving on the council for more than 20 years and felt that it was time for someone else to have a chance to represent the Riveria. Marguerite stated that she hoped to “be around” in some capacity next year.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Norman Kulla.
(1) DWP Task Force – they are soliciting seven to twelve members to work with DWP to identify solutions for the need for an additional substation in the Palisades. Norm reiterated that they would not be looking at the parkland site near Firestation 23. (2) Steve Boyers asked about photographs regarding auto parts across from Rivas Canyon near the pathway and Sunset Boulevard. Norm stated he would follow-up. (3) LADBS Over-the-Counter Grandfathering of Expired Permits under the old Baseline Hillside Ordinance – Chris Spitz reported that residents, the LUC, CD-11 and the City Attorney’s office have been exchanging correspondence on this regard. Jane Usher is very concerned and a senior attorney has been assigned to investigate the entire process under which these extensions have been taking place. We were notified this morning that the City had reversed an extension for one particular project on Castellemmare.
7.2.2. Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore.
(1) 520 Beinveneda Search Warrant for marijuana – Officer Moore reported that the harvest appeared to have been completed and 14 new plants were taken with a street value of approximately $700. The search was of both the house and garage; no one appeared to be living there and the property was being used solely for the purpose of growing marijuana. Officer Moore stated that unusual activity was noticed such as additional vents in the garage, tapping into electrical sources, etc. (2) Burglaries – Officer Moore reported that home break-ins have tapered off but car break-ins have jumped especially in the Alphabet Streets, El Medio Bluffs and Temescal Canyon Park. Stuart Muller asked about the theft of a microwave door; Officer Moore said that there was a related theft and it could possibly have been related to a dispute. (3) LAPD Costs – Quentin Fleming asked about LAPD overtime for the LA Kings victory celebration in downtown Los Angeles. Officer Moore stated that he had gotten paid overtime and the Captain has been allowing over-time towards the end of the budget period for Officer Moore to attend PPCC meetings. (4) PCH Safety – Carol Bruch asked about trucks parking in red zones, street crossings, and other safety concerns near Sunset and PCH. Residents are being told to call LAPD to ticket parked cars and request police presence. Carol wondered how much time LAPD could commit and spend. Officer Moore said that it varies day-to-day based on call volumes and location. LAPD usually will not write the red zone tickets; that is done by parking enforcement (traffic division) reached via 311. Chris Hope asked about how to get parking enforcement around the village area of the Palisades late at night. Officer Moore said that LAPD would respond and could take action if parking conditions were causing a hazard.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. DWP town Hall Meeting Held June 6, 2012.
Jim Rea referred the Board members to the front page of the Palisadian Post which summarized the recent meeting. Mr. Zimmer (LAUSD) advised CD-11 that the Marquez site is completely unacceptable and if it got past LAUSD and the City Council lengthy litigation has been threatened. Christy Dennis asked if the PPCC has taken a formal position. Jim Rea said that the matter is in the LUC’s hands and it was his personal opinion that the LUC and/or PPCC should vote sooner rather than later. Janet Turner stated that the Councilmember has already come out against both sites that are opposed in the community – generally PPCC advises the Councilman of the community’s wishes which have clearly been heard and are being acted on. Jim Rea expressed his agreement, stating that we now have to digest what the new task force is going to be about it, and who is going to be appointed. Chris Spitz expressed that the issue may be more appropriately brought to the entire Board and not to the LUC.
7.3.3. Palisades Charter High School. Harry Sondheim wanted to acknowledge the cooperation of the school relative to signage on Temescal Canyon. The school reduced the number of signs consensually and immediately. Stuart Muller thanked Harry for his work on banners located along Sunset Boulevard.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Climate Change Adaptation Committee Report.
Committee Scope: Steve Boyers reported that Laura Mack has been contributing to the committee and will be heading up education programs. Nancy Dolin has been working with the committee as well. Rob Lempert is a Palisadian resident and senior scientist at the Rand Corporation who has been providing technical and science based assistance. Vicki Warren, Janet Turner, Gil Dembo and Jim Rea also serve on the committee. The committee would like to create a web site and blog in order to participate in a leadership capacity in the community. The committee will be focusing on those things that are truly impacting the Palisades, learning about what can be done about them, how to inform the community and encourage our area to become more energy sustainable. Update: The City of Los Angeles is forming a new working group to study sea level rise and resulting impacts.
9. Old Business — None.
10. New Business.
10.1. PPCC Officer Election.
Introduction: Janet Turner stated that holding an election is part of a democratic process. Janet stated to all of the candidates that if they are not chosen it doesn’t mean they are not qualified or appreciated it is just that a choice has to be made. Any and all candidates can be involved in PPCC after the election and are encouraged to do so no matter what the results. To any Board member that is disappointed in the results, Janet asked that they be respectful of the majority opinion. Ballot: Quentin Fleming passed out the ballots and Harry Sondheim validated their receipt by voting Board members. Vote: 24 Board Members voted. Count: Quentin Fleming and Harry Sondheim left the room and counted the votes. [See Item 10.3 below.]
10.2. Postmaster, USPS Pacific Palisades, Charles F. Hearne; also Yvonne Schmidt in attendance.
Introduction: Mr. Hearne reported that he has run more than 18 operations and is not new to the USPS. He does not make policy and feels that existing policies are sufficient. Mr. Hearne reported that carriers are on the streets one to two hours earlier so that mail is delivered before the end of the day meaning before 6 PM. He plans to have carriers start even earlier, working from 6:30 am to 2 PM. Mr. Hearne has more than 20,000 deliveries in the City and needs phone calls from residents to help if they see or experience delivery problems. Discussion: (1) Harry Sondheim expressed that vacation slips have not been given to carriers in a timely manner. Mr. Hearne acknowledged they have issues with vacation holds and problems with residents who vacation far more often than the 30 days maximum. Mr. Hearne asked that the community help the USPS, for example by letting them know when you are coming back because the post office is not a mail holding center. Carol Bruch said that you can use on-line services for this and can have mail delivered on the day the residents return. (2) Christy Dennis said she is very grateful for our USPS and that they are doing a great job (Yvonne, Maria, etc.) particularly for non-profits and newsletters. (3) Joe Almaraz asked about combining the two Palisades facilities. Mr. Hearne said it would never happen because the lack of parking is the primary problem. (4) Stuart Muller asked for the direct phone number to the Palisades Branch office. (310) 454-3275 is the phone number for the annex; (310) 459-7607 is the proper phone number for the retail unit. (5) Stuart Muller asked about PO Box deliveries – Mr. Hearne said that PO Box delivery is at 11 AM and that the sign stating that it is at 10:30 am will be changed. (6) Stuart Muller objected to USPS banners that violate the Specific Plan and are up for longer than 30 days. Mr. Hearne asked for that in writing because the USPS often uses outside contractors; Stuart stated that he would follow up with a letter. (7) Chris Spitz stated that our service here in the Palisades has been excellent. (8) Jack Allen – Jack reported delivery problems in the Alphabet streets where mail is mis-delivered (i.e., Bestor going to McKendree and vis-a-versa). Mr. Hearne said that these are the problems he can fix. (9) Marguerite Perkins Mautner said her mail carrier (Karen) delivers the mail timely between 12 and 2 PM but if there is a substitute the mail is not delivered until around 5 PM. Mr. Hearne says he now asks carriers to do the unfamiliar route first and then go to the regular route at the end of the day. (10) Gil Dembo praised the ladies in the retail division here in the Palisades and likes that the lines move very fast. (11) A public member asked how mail was sorted. Mr. Hearne said that the mail arrives prior to 7 a.m. Machines sort the mail by house number. If it goes to the wrong house it is the carrier’s fault because the carrier still has to look at where the mail is being put. (12) George Wolfberg asked if it would be possible to get a zip code changed. Mr. Hearne said no, reminding those in attendance that changes going on by the federal government are going to massively change and reduce the USPS manpower and facilities. (13) Donna Vacarrino asked about continued Saturday delivery. Mr. Hearne said that the agency wants to have a five-day delivery schedule but does not know what will happen at the higher level. (14) Kurt Toppel asked about number scans on residences. Mr. Hearne says those bar codes allow the tracking of carriers relative to tracking the time and location for carriers and how the speed and spacing of their performance is taking place. (15) Norma Spak asked about a replacement for her retiring carrier. Mr. Hearne said that there are many qualified replacements. (16) An audience member asked about using GPS technology for routing. Mr. Hearne said that this would be very expensive and that technology is used sparingly and only in areas with major, major issues. (17) Janet Turner reported email complaints including a loss of a certified delivery, a 14-minute wait for service, poor service in Route 12.
10.3. PPCC Officer Election Results. Quentin Fleming announced the election results: Barbara Kohn for Chair, Chris Sptiz for Vice Chair, Jennifer Malaret for Secretary and Ted Mackie for Treasurer.
10.4. Los Angeles Animal Services, Small Animal Rescue Team, Officer Armando Navarrete.
The City of Los Angeles’ Wildlife Program has been in place for approximately seven years. We have had only one assigned officer for our City; however recent news is that a second officer may be transferred and added. In the Palisades, we have almost every type of wildlife imaginable. Relative to coyotes, cats are the number one prey. For all wildlife, food is what they are looking for (food that people leave out or fruit trees). (1) Jim Rea spoke in support of living with coyotes that have been here long before humans populated the Palisades. (2) Nancy Dolin asked about coyote activity levels; Officer Navarrete said coyotes come out at any time during the day, not just early morning and dusk. (3) Nancy Dolin asked about the mountain lion recently shot in Santa Monica. Officer Navarrete said he was not sure because that lion did not have a tag, however more big cats are being seen in the area. (4) An audience member asked how many coyotes are in the Santa Monica Mountains and what is a sustainable number. Officer Navarrete said that they are working to get an answer and that the coyotes are surviving easier than before because more food is being left out by humans. (5) Steve Cron asked about the increase of snakes in the highlands. Officer Navarrete said to be concerned about those snakes that have a diamond shaped head and rattle; their department will respond to snake calls 24/7. (6) An audience member asked what to do about skunks. Officer Navarrete said skunks are becoming more active during the daytime and it is good for humans and dogs to stay away from skunks. (7) John Glasgow asked about coyote noise. Officer Navarrete said that is generally a sign that the coyotes recently made a kill. (8) Norma Spak reported that there is a regular pack of coyotes in Los Liones canyon, along with rattle snakes, etc.. (9) Paul Glasgall thanked Officer Navarrete for coming to the Palisades Highlands to meet with residents. Email contact information for animal issues, including search and rescue is: Armando.navarrete@lacity.org.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:45 PM.
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MINUTES FOR JUNE 28th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Janet Turner, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Richard Cohen, Babara Kohn, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Richard Wulliger, Donna Vaccarino, Joe Almaraz, Chris Spitz and Aurelia Friedman.
Voting Alternates: Janet Anderson and Susan Orenstein.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Amy Kalp, Norma Spak, Carol Bruch, John Glasgow, Cathy Russell and Ernie Meadows.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Marguerite Perkins Mautner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Janet Turner called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:08 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. George Wolfberg moved and Harry Sondheim seconded the minutes for June 14, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously. The next meeting is July 12, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of June 28 , 2012. The total account balances equal $25,044.92, which consist of USB Checking $6,905.30, Smith Barney account $18,135.09 and Post Office account $4.53. Balances were reported after the $500 payment to PAPA subsequent to the prior PPCC Motion that the PPCC will donate annually to PAPA for the parade.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Update on Will Rogers State Park Road. Janet Turner reported that Will Rogers road has been repaved and that, thanks to Amy Kalp’s efforts, the yellow-line center striping will be completed. Janet Turner stated that the residents would like more signage but what they really would like is more parking enforcement.
7.1.2. Update on the Homeless. Janet Turner reported that the County of Los Angeles has continued to connect with the Palisadian homeless where two people have been placed in detox, a veteran has been placed in housing and one other has accepted a voucher. Twenty-four homeless persons have been connected with and Janet praised Officer Michael Moore for his great work with the homeless. Harry Sondheim and Norma Spak asked if this process meets with the panhandlers on PCH and Sunset. Officer Moore said yes; we cannot force people off the streets and the idea is to undertake the lengthy process needed to get persons off the streets.
7.1.3. PAPA. Janet Turner reiterated that PPCC made its annual donation of $500 to the Pacific Palisades Parade.
7.1.4. Temescal Canyon Association (“TCA”). Janet Turner reported that TCA has named Richard Cohen as their Second Alternate on the PPCC Board.
7.1.5. Chair Emeritus, Richard Cohen Retires. Janet Tuner thanked Richard Cohen who is retiring as Chair Emeritus for his dedication to PPCC. Janet noted that Richard took on many of the hard jobs and in particular was instrumental in getting a good result for the YMCA and the Simon Meadows. On a personal note, Janet thanked Richard for all of his support and experience relative to PPCC’s policies and procedures. Janet presented Richard with an engraved memento for his years of service.
7.1.6. PPCC Vice Chair, Haldis Toppel. Janet Turner thanked Haldis Toppel who is retiring as PPCC’s Vice Chair.
7.1.7. PPCC Chair, Outgoing Janet Turner. Janet Turner thanked the PPCC Board and expressed how happy she was to serve as PPCC’s Chair. Janet thanked each of the Executive Committee members and committee chairs. Janet particularly appreciated being able to “fight for justice” and believes we did make a difference in many ways: we saved the jaws of life, traffic issues on Will Rogers road, impacted core findings, progress on a new cell tower ordinance, protection of our PRIDE benches, banners are now off of Sunset, real partnerships with LAPD and LADOT, the Von’s driveway was re-aligned, the Waldorf stoplights, preventing sale of city assets, kept advertising out of the parks, our council has a blog and Facebook page, and we now have county funds and resources for outreach to our homeless. Nancy Freedman from the Brentwood Community Council was in attendance and thanked Janet for her work and leadership.
7.1.8. Area Representative Elections. Janet Turner said that statements are due July 12th and preferred prior to July 2nd. Chris Spitz referred attendees to the PPCC website for notice and election rules. Norma Spak asked board members to email the election notice to HOA’s in their areas. Barbara Kohn encouraged board members to think about anyone interested in running regardless of whether they live in their area. Janet Turner asked incumbents to get people to vote in each of their respective areas. Chris Spitz reported that the ballot format is being changed and connected to the envelope to make it easier for residents to vote.
7.1.9. Newsletter. Janet Turner would like the newsletter to be sent out flat rather than folded, but this change would cost an additional $2,000. Janet is working with Christy Dennis to price a different version of how to fold our newsletter and make the appearance more effective. Paul Glasgall spoke in favor of change and suggested that votes in each area be made public because that would expose how sad it is how few residents in the Palisades actually vote. Paul thinks if the newsletter is better, fundraising would increase, more ballots would be cast and more people would attend PPCC meetings.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office.
Joaquin Macias reported that (1) The City contractor in Potrero is aiming to end hauling by September, 2012 which would turn the 12 month hauling process into approximately 20 months. Stuart Muller asked about fines; Joaquin reported that no fines have been assessed yet. Joaquin said that Sue Pascoe as seeking some information. (2) Film LA – some have requested a meeting with CD-11 regarding “excessive” filming. That meeting will take place. Jack Allen asked to be included. (3) Sunset Safety – CD-11 is working with a group to design promotional materials originally aimed at late summer but scheduling for this effort may be moved back. (4) DWP Taskforce – CD-11 has received 15 names, there are 3 PPCC members being considered (Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea and the Area 1 representative; CD-11 will consider the Chair). (5) Noise Ordinance – CD-11 has been communicating with the City Attorney about the feasibility of this ordinance. (6) Ramp Jam – so far traffic has been flowing. (7) Street Services – CD-11 is waiting for a list of questions and concerns before they meet regarding the re-paving program. (7) Stop-Light Timing – Stuart Muller reported no one from ATSAC had contacted him and the situation remains the same. George Wolfberg said that ATSAC never gave Santa Monica Canyon people a briefing regarding their work and there have been serious issues with the signal at Mesa and West Channel road. Jack Allen expressed displeasure about the new stop sign installed in Santa Monica canyon by the elementary school. Marguerite Mautner Perkins reported a problem with the light also at Sunset and Amalfi.
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore.
(1) Huntington Robbery: Juveniles were walking and robbed by two young adults who demanded cell phones and money (ref: article in today’s Palisadian Post). LAPD’s primary concern is whether it is a one time thing or if these assailants will return and prey on other residents. LAPD requests residents to call “ASK-LAPD” if suspicious persons are noticed. Carol Bruch asked about time, whether weapons were used (Officer Moore said no) and if this had anything to do with the Venice 13 gang (Officer Moore stated no). (2) Bicycle thefts – are starting up again. Locks have been cut in carports and residential courtyard areas. The community leaves garage doors open at night and bicycles are inside; LAPD asks the community not to make thefts easy. (3) Pali High Graduation – Joe Almaraz asked if there were problems because he experienced noise on Sunset Boulevard and saw trash in the morning. Officer Moore said that if a call came out, it would have been a loud party call where the response would be to disperse. Officer Moore did not have personal knowledge of any complaints. (4) Dick Wulliger reported he had heard positive comments about Officer Moore and Captain Nathan, and that the Palisades has the lowest rate of crime with the largest problem being theft from automobiles, from a former Patrol Commander of West Los Angeles who is a member of LAPD’s Board of Rights of which Dick is also a member. (5) George Wolfberg asked about the TAGRS program where photographs of graffiti are taken and felony action can be taken; Officer Moore had not been followed up on. George Wolfberg also stated that “877 ASK LAPD” doesn’t particularly work well for cellphones because of the automatic call routing and repetition of messages, as well as machine noises for the benefit of the hearing impaired, that are extremely annoying when you are using a blue tooth device. There are substantial time delays in getting an operator on the line. Officer Moore stated that he would try to get ahold of someone in LAPD Communications to try to follow-up on this problem. A public member expressed that LAPD’s lack of resources is why many homeowners pay substantial sums to hire private protection. (6) Latimer road – Steve Boyers reported that the Rustic Canyon area is having problems with construction parking overspill from Mesa Road and Upper Mesa Road. Dangerous conditions are reported where there are no sidewalks and garbage cans are being moved. Harry Sondheim concurred and said that he has reported these same problems to no avail. (7) Car Vandalism with a Note Left – In response to John Glasgow’s question, Officer Moore responded that this was likely connected to a domestic dispute. (8) Amy Kalp reported that white pedestrian crosswalk limit lines have been completed on Sunset/Monument just in time for the parade.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Dept. of Recreation and Parks, Palisades Recreation Center.
(A) Summer 2012 at the Recreation Center: Jennifer Malaret reported that summer is in full swing for the entire community and many summer activities remain in need of new and continuous registration. (1) Pre-school Day Camp, Sign Ups needed ~ the center had 7 campers for the first week. Campers did self portraits, made a back pack, prepared and ate fruit shish-kabobs, had a tumbling activity, mini sports clinic, library day, water play day, and took a field trip to Robeks Juice. Many of the campers did not want to go home when their parents at the end of the day! Camp fee per week is $175 with a one-time $50 registration fee that covers the cost of the two camper shirts given to each child. (2) New Art & Play Classes for Children, Sign Ups Needed ~ Little Picasso is a beginning drawing class for 3 to 5 years of age (Wed 2:15 to 3:15). Cost is $85 for 8 weeks. Batteries Not Need is an active play class for 3 to 5 years of age (Tues 2:15 to 3:15). Cost is $85 for 8 weeks. Krafty Kids is an arts and crafts class for 6 to 8 years of age (Thurs 4:15 to 5:15). Cost is $85 for 8 weeks. (3) Clubs and Seniors ~ the free activities of badminton, line dancing and volleyball into Club activities. The monthly fees due are $10 for each club. This was done as a result of the Center going to a Direct Cost Recovery center July 1, 2012 and the center will continue to work with seniors to keep fees low. (4) Adults and Senior Programming ~ The Recreation Center offers adult basketball league, $525 per team, plays on Thursday nights, league is 10 weeks long with playoffs. Adult Pick Up Softball League, $40 per person for 13 weeks, meets on Mondays from 9 PM to 10:30 PM. Mature Fitness, $90 for 13 weeks, meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Tai Chi Ch’uan, $120 for 13 weeks, meets every Friday from 10 AM to 11:15 PM. (5) Teen Summer Classes and Programming, Sign Ups Needed ~ At the recommendation of our newly formed Teen Council, Teen Pick Up Basketball now meets every Monday from 6 PM to 9 PM in the small gym. The cost is $40 for the 10-week session. A recreation staff will be on hand to coordinate and officiate the pick up games. Ages are 13 to 17. Friday Night Dodge Ball meets every Friday from 6 PM to 9 PM in the big gym. The cost is $40 for 10-week session. Two recreation staff will be on hand to coordinate and officiate the games. The center needs sign ups in both of these classes. (6) Summer Sports Camp ~ 19 campers attended the first week ranging in ages from 6 to 12. Campers had a great time playing traditional sports as well as recreational/PE sports and games plus every Wednesday is water play day (slip-n-slides, water guns and water balloons). Many of the campers are signing up for additional weeks and bringing friends with them. Parents love the camp and are worn out after a day of Sports camp. The center is offering 2 friends deals for 1 week only to any patron who has not already taken advantage of this deal. Cost of camp is $200 per week with a one-time $50 registration fee that covers the cost of the two reversible jerseys the campers must wear each day for camp. (7) Sports Clinics ~ The Recreation Center offers 11 sport clinics this summer. Cost of each clinic is $100 and each clinic meets once a week for 8 weeks. Clinics are broken up into different age groups, coed and girls and sports. (8) Junior Adult Basketball League offering – The Recreation Center offers a basketball league for 16 to 25 years of age. Cost of Team entry is $525 per team, plus $25 official fees per game. Games will be played on Wednesday evening and on Saturdays. Plans are to offer two league games. (B) – Problems with Off-Leash Dogs Continue – Jennifer reported that the only on-going or noted problem at the park continues to be off-leash dogs, both in the open spaces and on the tennis courts. The Park Director and OPS are ordering and plan to post more signs; however, cooperation for the community is requested to please keep your dog on leash while enjoying the Recreation Center. (C) Fall 2012 Youth Sports – Flag Football, Coed & Girls Basketball. Cost is $150; registrations start July 1 and end on August 31st. (D) LAPD Facility – the contractor has advised the Recreation Center that the building permit has finally been issued in order that the right of entry (“ROE”) process may finally begin. The start date for construction continues to be unknown.
7.3.2. California Incline.
George Wolfberg reported that Santa Monica has gone through the process of the draft EIR and a final EIR has now been produced. There is a link to the 628-page report and George is reading the document particularly with regard to traffic impact and has drafted questions (see below) [attachment]. George encouraged concern residents to write to Santa Monica’s city council and Mayor Richard Bloom – particularly if they have a nexus to Santa Monica in terms of job, property, kids going to school, etc. The hearing date will be July 10, 2012. George summarized three areas of concern: (1) limited work hours rather than 24 hour round-the-clock, (2) Moomat-Ahiko turning changes and answer for traffic channeling is just not going to be sufficient to accept re-directed traffic (particularly because cones have been permanently placed on PCH), and (3) Appian Way is not being opened to allow traffic to flow straight down to Pico parallel to ocean and this would be a helpful change. Action: Janet Turner suggested that PPCC will send a follow-up letter reiterating our prior points and also encouraged residents with a connection to Santa Monica to please write in.
8. Reports from Committees – None.
9. Old Business.
9.1. Why PPCC is not a Neighborhood Council (“NC”)? Janet Turner said that this topic has been postponed until a later agenda date.
10. New Business.
10.1. California State Senator, Ted Lieu.
Background: the Senator said that his parents were immigrants who settled in Cleveland, Ohio and the family went into retailing. The Senator had an amazing education, went into the Air Force and is currently a reserve officer. The Senator is an attorney who has worked in political campaigns, served in the Assembly before joining the Senate. Re-Districting: the district will change this fall as previously reported and he represents approximately 950,000 persons. Questions: (1) Coastal Commission – he would not support legislation recently proposed relative to the Malibu project which would take away the commission’s ability to question real property ownership. (2) CEQA “Watering Down” Legislation – the Senator said last year’s bill did not change CEQA to expedite any appeals; AB 900 took that model to apply that rubric to other projects but at this point there are no applications under that process. The Senator supported both as they modified a legal process and did not affect CEQA projections. (3) Santa Monica Mountains and MRCA – Richard Cohen said that the council is interested in maintaining the scenic beauty and assuring public use. There have been budget issues threatening closures. Also, many here are unhappy with photo enforcement on MRCA property in Temescal Canyon. MRCA’s management of parkland seems to have no accountability; the Senator was not aware of these issues but invited the PPCC to send information to his office. (4) Bullet Train Funding – the Senator stated that Governor Brown is pushing the project and he would likely support it because it is a $12 billion economic stimulus to the central valley, San Francisco and Los Angeles. (5) Goals – the Senator said job creation and state fiscal responsibility is a number one priority because we need revenue enhancement. The state budget is in place and in November the governor’s initiative needs to pass or else there will be devastating cuts. In addition, important issues are: the environment, animal protection, and lesbian and gay issues. (6) Proposition 13 – the Senator feels it was damaging in terms of shifting power to Sacramento that it never had before. He would like to see corporation and business protections reduced while homeowners continue to enjoy protections.
10.2. WRAC Response to Councilmember Parks Motion; see attached PPCC Motion and background information.
WRAC Vice Chair Jay Handal, speaker. Background: Janet Turner explained that there is legislation going through City Council relative to trash collection. The City wants to force residents to use one particular vendor. Councilmember Parks believes this is a bad idea and has criticized community councils and neighborhood councils for not weighing in. Therefore, WRAC and PPCC have written a motion demanding more and appropriate notice (60 days) before items are heard by the City Council, etc. See Motion. Discussion: Jack Allen wanted a modification to say, “provided that 60 day notice has not been given.” Harry Sondheim asked that WRAC’s motions in the future consider and incorporate community councils to also receive notice and be a part of their process. Jay Handal explained that the motion was originally written for city groups and agreed that communicating and including community councils is important. Action: Harry Sondheim moved and Richard Cohen seconded the motion. The motion was adopted unanimously.
10.3. City of Los Angeles 2012 Budget – What We Have Not Been Told.
Budget Advocate Co-Chair Jay Handal, speaker. Presentation: Jay Handal said that the City’s budget has been balanced based on projections and cuts to services that do not account for the growth in pension obligations that will total up to 30% of the general fund in the future. The next Mayor will be saddled with huge debt and continued 5% increases to unions who are still not sacrificing. The budget does not deal with unfunded items “core services” items like street services, sewer lines, etc. The Budget Advocates are meeting in two weeks and are drafting a statement that they will be asking each Mayoral candidate to sign (identify core services, bring them back to the people, no more fee increases or taxes until good stewardship can be demonstrated). Jay said that in the end it just might be an initiative, a referendum or a “live within your means” ballot initiative that includes meaningful pension reform. Jay reminded PPCC that we are in the fifth year of fiscal emergency. Discussion: (1) Janet Turner asked about departmental budget cuts. Jay said this has been done because people are working fewer hours and there are less services (for example tree trimming is now on a 40 year cycle having grown from 15 years and 25 years). Jay said we should not be balancing the budget by taking away services. (2) Richard Cohen asked about the Mayor’s reluctance with the unions because of his role in larger democratic politics. Jay said that this is discussed but just not in City Hall. (3) Carol Bruch asked about increasing income so that public servants (education, police and fire) can be paid more. Jay said that the Budget Advocates are talking about collecting what the City is actually due first and foremost. There is no unified billing and collection system and that won’t change because we don’t have IT money and personnel in place to do that. While there are very hard working city employees, there are others that are over-compensated and there is no way to evaluate budget efficiency in the City.
11. General Public Comment.
11.1. Dick Littlestone attended the meeting and spoke on the following: (1) needed street repaving, (2) Dick said that DWP should provide better service and have better billing and (3) a thank you to Janet Turner for her fine work as Chair.
11.2. Nancy Dolin wanted to report the location of a free book exchange on Monument and Bashford and her believe that is a wonderful improvement to bring the community together. Nancy would like to see more book exchanges throughout town.
12. Adjournment. Janet Turner adjourned the meeting at 8:48 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
Item 7.3.2 — California Incline Bridge Replacement Project EIR/ Email from George Wolfberg to Mr. Polland. Comments on the first half of the EIR.
Mr. Pollard,
Your careful attention to the many issues of public impact from this important project is obvious. Upon first examination of the EIR / EA I see several areas that need to be strengthened or where the document appears incomplete. These comments /questions reflect a review of about half the document. Any information you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
• Why was Fourth Street removed from the traffic detour? Where is the traffic that was to be sent to Fourth St. going to go?
• Will ATSAC / ATCS be tied into the traffic-queue generating signal at 7th and San Vicente as well as the CalTrans signal @ Entrada/West Channel Rd/Chautauqua?
• What is your confidence that all of the TR items which depend upon “Seek” actually will be accomplished. I know you are acting in good faith, but a stronger commitment would be more assuring.
• Regarding TR13, please describe the location of the “left turn lane.”
• What is your plan for the turbulence-creating coned exit ramp from the pier lot –1440?
• I again note with great interest your construction and striping plans [Figures 1-6 and 1-7] for a separated bike-ped facility along part of the incline. What is not clear is how the bikes/peds will transition at each end of the facility. Can we get more detail on this? This info was requested in 2011. I am sure the expert riders will ride on the main road, particularly downhill, and not in the facility. You should consider as one option a bike-only phase for the California-Ocean intersection [these are used in Davis, CA to great success]
• 16-hour construction plan is noted and appreciated. 24-hour construction would be even more appreciated.
• I am encouraged by your plans for (dynamic) signage throughout the City and beyond as well as pedestrian controls at Moomat Ahiko and Ocean. The lack of access to Appian Way is an unfortunate oversight and I urge you to include it. As you well know, Southbound traffic on Ocean between Moomat and Pico is significantly impeded by the two signalized crosswalks installed for the convenience of the Hotels as well as the frequent turning of taxis in this area– your traffic engineer, at a minimum, should revisit this area to update to current conditions. I believe that without these further changes, Moomat will be gridlocked and impacts will ricochet up the highway further impacting Santa Monica Canyon and Pacific Palisades.
Best regards,
George
ITEM 10.2 — WRAC Motion: Please note: Although this WRAC motion was originally written for the Neighborhood Councils they decided to also include the Community Councils. As modified per Jack Allen; 10.2 discussion above.
“Be it resolved that Pacific Palisades Community Council requests that Councilmember Parks submit a motion to the full City Council mandating the following:
1- All “important” issues should be sent to the Neighborhood and Community Councils 60 days prior to their first hearing so that they may have time to reach out to their stakeholders and take a position. A good example of this is the weekly notice from the Planning Department, which alerts NC’s, and CC’s to the permits pulled for their district. Each City Department head should be responsible to work with the NC system and the Community Councils as a partner, not an adversary.
2- The Department Of Neighborhood Empowerment shall compile and regularly update a contact list of all Neighborhood Council Board members.
3- The City Council and all of its committees shall allow a five-minute public comment period to all speakers that are officially representing their Neighborhood Councils or Community Councils.
4- All Council District offices shall meet regularly with their Neighborhood Councils/Community Councils and work with them to develop plans allowing for greater NC and CC input in the decision making process.
5- The Education and Neighborhoods Committee shall look into the funding of the Department Of Neighborhood Empowerment pertaining to its capacity to fulfill its mission. An additional staff position shall be funded with part of the job description being to track all impending legislation and department hearings and to notify the Neighborhood Councils in a timely manner.
6- Provided that 60-day notice has not been given, Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils should be allowed to request a postponement of all upcoming legislation so that they may properly notify their stakeholders and have time to meet and take a position.
This body asks the Chairman to consider the above information when reviewing how NC’s and CC’s interact with their stakeholders and the City government.”
Background Information: WHEREAS COUNCIL MEMBER PARKS HAS MADE A MOTION, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PERRY, REQUIRING NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCILS TO REPORT BACK TO E & N ON HOW NC’S (and CC’S) PERFORM OUTREACH WITH REGARDS TO CITY ISSUES.
WRAC, in its regular meeting dated 6/20/2012, approved the above response to the motion for the following reasons:
Neighborhood Councils, by charter and ordinance, are mandated to be the link between the City government and the citizens of Los Angeles. Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils recognize their responsibility in this matter. In an effort to do so, many NC’s and CC’s have created newsletters, blast e-mails, events, town halls and other forms of outreach.
BUT, the City of Los Angeles has not, for the most part, established any kind of procedures that would allow Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils to fulfill this duty. In fact, many of the current procedures are set up to work against any input from stakeholders and their elected Neighborhood Councils or Community Councils. What follows are only a few examples:
A- Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils are NOT advised in advance of issues. In many cases, Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils are never apprised of issues; thereby making it impossible for the NC’s and CC’s to get the word out, get feedback, and deliver said feedback to the elected officials. Many issues only come to the attention of the NC’s and CC’s within 72 hours of the issue being heard by the City Council. As the elected officials must realize, NC’s are bound by the Brown Act and do not have the ability to respond officially within such a short period of time. There isn’t even enough time to file a Community Impact Statement. Short notice also makes it difficult for CC’s to respond quickly.
B- The current DONE contact list is several years out of date. It is virtually impossible to get any kind of timely notice to the entire Neighborhood Council system. The present policy only allows each individual board member to update their personal information. The Secretary of each NC should be given a password and allowed to provide this information for their entire Board. Failure to do so should result in DONE hiring temp staff to do it for them with the salaries being deducted from the NC’s yearly funding assessment.
C- When Neighborhood Council and Community Council members, many of whom have to take time from their work, appear before a Committee or the whole Council, they are routinely given two minutes to report or give public comment on an issue. It is extremely difficult to give any kind of reasoned response in this short time allotment. If the City Council really wanted input from official NC and CC representatives they should allow a reasonable time period for official input. Only last year, a Committee Chair combined four agenda items into one public comment period. Speakers were given two minutes to speak on four very different items. Not only did this negate any kind of meaningful input, but also it was disrespectful of the NC and CC representatives who took the time to travel downtown with the hope of real participation.
D- The relationship between Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils and their respective Council offices is a mixed bag. Some Council offices work closely with their NC’s and CC’s, and actually request their input on certain issues. There are other Council offices that could care less about NC’s and CC’s, and would actually like them to go away. Some don’t even have the courtesy to return phone calls. If the goal of your motion is to explore ways for better citizen input – it has to start at the top. E- There has been a systemic demolition of the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment caused by the City’s inability to generate revenue and cut expenses in a more prudent way, but there has been no reduction in the amount of services that they are required to provide. There is no question that this lack of a proper staffing level has caused the Department and the NC system to falter in their ability to stay fully informed. The staff at DONE has been reduced from a 2008 level of 49 employees with 18 field reps, to the current level of 15 employees with 7 field reps. During the same time period, the number of Neighborhood Councils has risen from 89 to 95. DONE is the NC’s direct conduit to the City government and is in the best position to notify the Neighborhood Councils about upcoming legislation. Someone should be assigned to keep track of upcoming hearings and meetings but each current staff person is already trying to handle the workload of three previous workers.
F- City Council members are busy people, but if they really wanted Neighborhood and Community Council input they would show up at meetings to hear it. Public testimony at full Council meetings is a farce. The members are talking on cell phones, meeting with constituents, or leaving the chamber for large periods of time. How can Neighborhood and Community Councils take their role seriously if the decision makers don’t or if, as in some cases, they have already decided how to vote and could care less about what we have to say or the amount of time it took us to formulate our recommendations.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR JULY 12th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Ted Mackie, Janet Turner, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, Paul Glasgall, Barbara Marinacci, Donna Vaccarino, Quentin Fleming, Steve Yusi, Stuart Muller, Bob Locker, Richard Wulliger, Norma Spak, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz
Voting Alternates: John Glasgow
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Richard Cohen (acting Secretary), Carol Bruch, Flo Elfant, Amy Kalp, Cathy Russell, Andrew Wolfberg
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Janet Turner read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Marguerite Perkins Mautner moved and Janet Turner seconded the minutes for June 28, 2012. The minutes were adopted unanimously. The next meeting is August 9, 2012 (there is no second meeting in July).
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of July 12, 2012. The total account balances equal $24,903.86, which consist of USB Checking $6,764.24, Smith Barney account $18,135.09 and Post Office account $4.53. Ted reported that 352 contributions totaling $10,301 have been received to offset the costs of PPCC’s newsletter.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the President.
7.1.1. Thank You to Out-Going President and New President Emeritus, Janet Turner. Barbara Kohn praised Janet Turner for her excellent work as Chair of the PPCC and presented an engraved crystal memento. Barbara also presented a certificate from Betsy Butler that praised and thanked Janet for her service to the community.
7.1.2. Appointment of Special Advisors. Barbara Kohn appointed two Special Advisors as Members of PPCC’s Board: Amy Kalp (Public Safety, Police and Fire) and Flo Elfant (Disaster Preparedness). Flo Elfant reminded the group of the need to focus on emergency preparedness.
7.1.3. Appointment of Legal Advisor. Barbara Kohn appointed Ron Dean, Esq. as PPCC’s Legal Advisor with consent of the Board.
7.1.4. PPCC 2012 Area Representative Election Deadline.
The deadline for the receipt of indications of intention to run for elected representative will be closed at midnight tonight, July 12, 2012. There are candidates intending to run for each area. Kelly Comras has filed for Area 1, Andrew Wolfberg, John Schwartz and possibly Reza Akef for Area 8, plus incumbents for all of the other areas. One gentleman spoke from the floor indicating interest in running for Area 4 Representative. He was advised of the procedure and deadlines for filing.
7.1.5. PPCC Organizational Representative Reminders. Prior to August 1, 2012 the PPCC will be reminding designated organizations to certify their representatives by the deadline of October 1, 2012. Notice and Informational Contact: PPCC Vice President, Chris Spitz.
7.1.6. PPCC Committees.
All Board Members, including Area Alternates were asked to contact the President via email or telephone prior to September 1, 2012 relative to what committee they would like to serve and actively participate on. The President will constitute the final committee lists in October, 2012 after the Area Representative elections and appointment of Alternative Area Reps. The President is a member of each committee. The Chair announced the following PPCC Standing Committees, listed in alphabetical order:
*Area Representative Elections: Chris Spitz, Chair
*By-Laws and Governors Handbook Update: George Wolfberg, Chair
*City/State Budget: Jim Rea, Chair
*Climate Change Committee: Steve Boyers, Chair
*Committee of Three Chairs: Richard Cohen, Chair
*Community Service Award: Janet Turner, Chair
*Disaster Preparedness: Flo Elfant, Chair
*Holiday/PPCC 40th Anniversary Dinner Committee: Janet Turner, Chair
Date of party is Dec 13, 2012.
*Homeless in the Palisades: Janet Tuner, Chair
*Information Technology/Outreach: Janet Turner, Chair
*Land Use: Chris Spitz, Chair
*Newsletter: Christy Dennis, Chair
*PCH Taskforce: Stuart Muller, Chair
*Public Safety, Police and Fire: Amy Kalp, Chair
*Scenic Sunset: Harry Sondheim, Chair
*Sparkplug Award Nominations: Chair to be appointed
*Sparkplug Dinner Event, Spring 2013: Christy Dennis, Chair
*Village Business District Committee: Jennifer Malaret, Chair
7.1.7. PPCC 2012 Newsletter. Barbara announced that the newsletter is progressing with improvements in presentation.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office.
Joaquin Macias reported that: (1) an anticipated meeting to address filming in the bluffs has not yet been scheduled. (2) DWP Taskforce: still waiting on feedback from DWP. CD11 has list of 15 people for participation. (3) Traffic: Coastline and PCH continues to be a problem with induction loops out of service for construction. DOT reports that induction loops at Mesa and Channel are faulty and will be fixed which should resolve the traffic back up problem in that area. (4) Potrero Canyon: Sue Pascoe will likely gain access to Potrero Canyon as a journalist to report on progress of the restoration project under way. (5) Sunset Safety Committee is moving forward and will be tying in with “Watch the Road,” a similar program citywide. (6) Sylmar Ground Project – Joaquin will check on the status of grounding wire off PCH. (7) Joaquin presented a certificate to Janet Turner, outgoing President, from Councilperson Rosendahl. Joaquin reads the certificate in praise of Janet.
7.2.2. Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”).
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore reported that: (1) Police Response Time: Officer Moore referenced the story in Post two weeks ago about slow police response time which was written by Sue Pascoe. Since the writing of the story Michael Moore has gathered information on the situation in question explaining the delay in response. The call to 911 reported a person playing basketball at a neighbor’s property and the neighbor was not home. There was no apparent crime beyond possible trespass, but it was possible that access was gained with permission. This constitutes a “non-coded call”, not an emergency response. Prior to responding the patrol car closest to the incident received a call to transport a prisoner in a domestic violence incident. Such transports are treated as high priority as domestic violence requires an immediate separation of disputants. The dispatcher reassigned the initial call and response was achieved in about 2 hours. Michael believes that it is possible that the trespassing basketball player was a former roommate. Lesson to be learned: How one reports an incident to a 911 operator will determine the urgency of response. If an apparent intention to cause harm to person or property is communicated then the response may be more rapid if there are competing calls and priority must be considered. (2) No news on the marijuana drug incident on Bienveneda. (3) Paseo Miramar Burglary: Officer Moore hiked the area. There is the possibility that access was gained to burgled homes through the park, but this is not known. There was no homeless encampment in evidence. The area is not suitable for homeless habitation due to high hiker traffic. Michael believes that the burglary was by a professional, not a homeless person. (4) Homeless at PCH and Sunset: There is frequent outreach to homeless from the authorities trying to persuade the homeless to accept help. It is a lengthy process but is proceeding.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Thank You to Haldis Toppel. Janet Turner asked to be recognized and called Haldis Toppel forward to thank her for her many years of service to the Council. Janet spoke of Haldis’ contributions to the Council and presented her with a memento of her service. Haldis accepted the gift and gave brief remarks of appreciation.
7.3.2. Potrero Canyon, Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks Permit for Six Additional Lot Sales; PPCC Conditional Support Letter Dated July 3, 2012. Stuart Muller reported that the Coastal Commission approved today the future sale of six additional lots abutting Potrero Canyon. Reza Akef reported that the Coastal Commission approved the future sales without completing negotiations with the City of Los Angeles on a Zoning Information bulletin that is expected to contain terms, conditions and limitations with regard to private property development affecting Potrero Canyon. It is still possible that the City and Coastal Commission will complete and adopt the ZI (hopefully inclusive of conditions and recommendations made by PPCC’s Land Use Committee) prior to the actual sales of these lots to private parties.
7.3.3. 17405, 17415 & 17428 Castellammare Dr.; Public Hearing July 10, 2012. Reza Akef reported that one property was denied. Testimony was received on the other two properties and decision was taken under consideration. These properties are on Castellammare on the turn behind the commercial building occupied in part by the Spectrum Athletic Club. The property that was denied without further consideration was the address that previously had plan-check reinstated (perhaps improperly over-the-counter in Van Nuys) under the old building codes rather than the new Baseline Hillside Ordinance.
7.4.4. Palisades 4th of July Parade. Carol Bruch noted that the Pacific Palisades 4th of July parades had been disappointing and Amy Kalp reported a late start and gaps between entries this year. The Board discussed management of the parade. Following this discussion, it was determined that many PPCC Board members in attendance at the meeting would volunteer money and time to help the Parade Committee with suggestions and parade planning.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. LUC. Next Meeting is August 2, 2012 at 12:30 in the Library’s Community Room. Board Members and the public are welcome to attend.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business – None.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. The President adjourned the meeting at 8:25 PM.
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MINUTES FOR AUGUST 9th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Janet Turner, Norma Spak, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Gil Dembo and Joe Almaraz.
Voting Alternates in Attendance: None.
Advisors and Non-Voting Alternates in Attendance: Amy Kalp, Flo Elfant, John Glasgow, Quentin Fleming, Richard Cohen and Brenda Theveny.
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Gil Dembo read the Mission Statement.
2. Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm.
3. Certification of Quorum. 13 voting members required. The President certified that a quorum was present at 7:06 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Janet Turner moved to adopt the minutes and Gil Dembo seconded adoption of the minutes dated July 12, 2012. The minutes were unanimously adopted. Next Meeting: September 13, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The President considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie gave the Treasurer’s report dated August 9, 2012. Total account balances as of August 9, 2012 were $17,865.38. The 2012 newsletter has had 152 responses so far. Any donations from the 2012 newsletter will be opened along with the ballots on, or after, September 7, 2012.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns from the President.
7.1. Announcements from the President, Barbara Kohn.
7.1.1. Update, PPCC 2012 Area Representative Elections. Barbara reported that the names were being read a second time for the public record. Barbara read the names of each of the Area Candidates. Ballots are due to be postmarked by September 7, 2012.
7.1.2. PPCC Organizational Representative Reminders. Barbara referred the public to the website and announced that it is time for rotation. Barbara appointed Chris Spitz and Jennifer Malaret to head this process.
7.1.3. PPCC Committees. Submit Your Preference(s). Barbara announced that Janet Turner is the Chair of the Three Chairs Committee. The Executive Committee will undertake revisions to the Board of Governors’ Handbook. Barbara announced the tentative members of the Bylaws Committee.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
7.2.1. Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
Joaquin announced that (1) DWP Substation – CD11 met with DWP to review the potential candidates for the committee. It will be comprised of 10 persons to remain manageable. The final list is expected at the end of this week and there should be an announcement during August 2012 with meetings beginning shortly thereafter. DWP would like to be completed with their siting evaluation by the end of October 2012. (2) Potrero Canyon – Phase 1 is wrapping up in the next 6 weeks and the second phase contract has been awarded. Import fill for Phase 2 is expected October 2012. (3) Swathmore Storm Drain is expected to be completed by November 2011. Vehicle and material storage details are still being discussed. One open traffic lane is trying to be maintained as open, though traffic will be directed. (4) Street Lighting – Joaquin asked if are there any stairways in the Palisades that need old lighting to be replaced or new lighting installations needed. If so, then please forward information to CD-11. (5) Sunset Safety Week – the tentative date is the week of 9/25/2012 provided that the final rendering of banners is timely approved. This event will address speeding and safety on Sunset, particularly in the Village area where there are many pedestrians. Schools will receive this awareness information as well. Stuart Muller asked how long the banners would be up. CD-11 stated for as long as three months, along with lawn signs and school safety events during drop-off times. George Wolfberg asked about enforcement of school busses down Sunset. CD-11 stated that this was being considered and that there is an on-going debate as to whether school busses are allowed on Sunset Blvd. by code. Stuart Muller asked about pedestrian safety programs for middle and high school aged children. Joaquin said this would be covered including a banner that says, “look and then step.” Stuart Muller also expressed concern with traffic back up that results when students do not wait to cross the street and walk across Sunset despite active traffic situations. CD-11 also stressed enforcement because the act of enforcement is important to achieving resident compliance with safety rules. Questions: (1) Potrero Brush Clearance – Chris Spitz thanked CD-11 for ensuring that some of the brush was cleared. (2) Gil Dembo reported that at Church Lane and Sunset traffic people were no longer being used although bridge construction is continuing. CD-11 stated that this is actively being reviewed and Metro has put traffic control officers back out there where they will remain until the current Wilshire closures are re-opened. (3) Jack Allen wanted to clarify the issue of school busses on Sunset. CD-11 stated that the state code does not allow loading and unloading of students on secondary highways; however, private busses are not held to this standard. Also Metro stops are not appropriate stops for school busses. Mike Bonin: (1) Mike announced that Councilmember Rosendahl’s cancer treatment is going well and that he is still working while treatment is on going. Treatment is expected to last another several weeks and the Councilmember is grateful for the kind outpouring of support. (2) Pioneer Woman of the Year Award – the award is given for pioneering spirit of a woman within various districts and this year the award is going to Haldis Toppel.
7.2.2. Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”), Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore.
Philip Embody, SLO from Brentwood appearing in SLO Moore’s absence. (1) Crime is stabilized with the burglary problems looking better; however doors and windows must remain locked and items removed from your car at night. (2) Vandalism – appears to be teen related with those kids hanging around the park. The Teen Council event last Friday night was attended by hundreds of teens and this is exactly what our community should be encouraging. Questions: (1) Flo Elfant warned residents against leaving garage door openers in their cars because then a car break-in turns into a home break-in. (2) Gil Dembo asked if Brentwood has the same Wednesday night noise issues along Sunset that are experienced in the Palisades. Officer Embody said Brentwood has not voiced similar complaints.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Cell Towers/New Installations and Updates (Chris Spitz).
Chris Spitz gave a detailed description of the cell tower installations proposed and on going in the Palisades. (1) Mt. Holyoke – Chris reported on the last LUC meeting regarding this installation and read portions of the Palisadian Post article. This article explained that the permit was on hold and would not be filed while AT&T is exploring all other options. Chris explained that the LUC has taken no action because of the early stage and now because of the fact that AT&T has put the matter on hold. Chris stated that the PPCC would put the matter on its agenda if this proposed installation were going to go forward. (2) Riviera – the Verizon tower proposed for East of Capri on Sunset has gone through the permitting process, along with an appeal that was denied. Construction will begin at the end of 2012. AT&T’s light pole tower at Sunset and Napoli is now on hold indefinitely. (3) Highlands – five towers have gone through the permitting process and the Coastal hearing was yesterday (likely approved because of little or no opposition. (4) Riviera Ranch Road and Sunset – no information. (5) Amalfi, south of Sunset – must be further modified and we do not have further information. All of these installations are in the public rights of way. Cell Tower Ordinance – the City Attorney has suggested we need a “champion” to bring forward cell tower reform legislation and get it onto the City Council agenda. Discussion: (1) Jack Allen expressed that Councilmember Rosendahl began this effort three years ago and he should be the one to lead this legislation through.
7.3.2. City Watch/Mayor’s Forum, Community Care Facilities Ordinance (Jennifer Malaret).
Jennifer reported that the forum went well with representatives from both sides of the issue able to present and discuss. Jennifer communicated to board members the coalition’s current summation, stating: Put simply, this is a land use issue with the very nature of low density housing at stake. The opponents of CCFO want to legalize boarding house uses with unlimited occupancy citywide in all low-density zones. Housing advocates postulate that all low density areas of the city should be open to unlimited occupancy and are pushing to redraft the zoning code by default to identify low density properties as essentially affordable apartment housing on a room by room rental basis. This effectively raises density to R3 multiple family levels throughout the entire city without: any public notice, environmental impact report-infrastructure, saturation/physical spacing controls, over-crowding/occupation limits, and/or performance standards. All low-density residents and HOAs across Los Angeles should be aware of this by now. A home is the biggest investment people make. There is no ‘right’ to arbitrarily and capriciously redo city codes with such widespread significant impacts without due process. Thus, the top five reasons to support the community care facilities ordinance are: it’s good public land use policy, it will establish the most liberal parameters in the country for licensed group homes with seven residents or more, Los Angeles has a strong reasonable accommodation ordinance, the evidence of a citywide problem is overwhelming and the opposition of this ordinance has not been forthcoming about a number of issues (including: how and where chronic homeless with mental health issues would be placed and spaced and supervised in low density neighborhoods, how and where parolee/probation homes would be placed and spaced and supervised in low density neighborhoods, and how and where so called ‘wet houses’ [homes where chronic drug and alcohol abusers can use off the street] would be placed and spaced and supervised in low density neighborhoods). Discussion: (1) Gil Dembo stressed the importance for these homes to be licensed. (2) Joe Almaraz expressed concerns about possible “flop” houses in the Sunset and Chautauqua areas.
7.3.3. Public Safety (Amy Kalp).
Barbara congratulated Amy Kalp’s successful graduation from the police academy. Captain Nathan attended and gave Amy Kalp her certificate with kind words in support of Amy and our PPCC. (1) Amy also stated that she is continuing to work on the issues surrounding motorcycles on Sunset. (2) Residents in community are the eyes and ears of the LAPD in our community and Amy stressed community awareness.
7.4.4. Disaster Preparedness (Flo Elfant).
Flo stated that the two recent earthquakes are a reminder of our need to focus on neighborhood safety plans in the event of an emergency. This is particularly important because of the isolated geography of the Palisades. Flo suggested purchasing water supplies that are now packaged with a five-year shelf life.
7.5.5. Helicopter Noise (Jack Allen).
Jack stated that he has been getting complaints and this has become an issue citywide. Barbara said that a meeting has already been held to discuss noise from private, police and other helicopters. Amy Kalp reported that there is an AB Motion coming forward. Jack suggested this as a future agenda item.
7.5.6. Area Alternates (Janet Turner). Janet Turner reminded the Area Alternates that a new candidate statement needs to be submitted and reviewed by the Committee of Three Chairs.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. LUC, August 2, 2012 Meeting (Chris Spitz).
(1) Potrero Canyon – project development is being monitored in conjunction with the ZI Bulletin that is currently being negotiated. Most homeowners are working with the Coastal Commission and the City. The Coastal Commission approved the future sale of six more canyon lots. (2) Sunset Canyon – there is no hearing set on the pending appeal. (3) Cell, CCFO, ACE and the Citywide Sign Ordinance – no action has been taken by City Council and the City Attorney advises that these ordinances are moving slowly. (4) Form Based Zoning – Donna Vaccarino will be working on hosting an event with Erik Lopez to get information on this effort. PPCC is hoping to host this event in the library with an invitation extended to local organizations and Brentwood organizations and stakeholders.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Councilmember Eric Garcetti, Candidate Mayor Los Angeles.
Introduction: Mr. Garcetti grew up in Los Angeles with Mexican and Jewish parents and talked about his family experience throughout Los Angeles as he was growing up. Mr. Garcetti spoke about giving back through teaching, charitable endeavors of his mother and getting into politics because he wanted to take action and get involved in public service. Mr. Garcetti spoke about the importance of neighborhoods and the disconnection with City Hall, including those problems he experienced during his tenure working with the City of Hollywood. His run for Mayor is as a result of celebrating Hollywood’s success while still being concerned about the preservation of important neighborhoods and the creation of additional parks. Parks are essential to livable communities, along with increasing the number of schools and bettering the performance of schools. His colleagues had elected Mr. Garcetti President of the City Council for the past four years (and these have been difficult years). He felt very successful about the recent pension and civil service reforms that were achieved this past year. His mission as Mayor will to help make sure that residents believe in this City again. Issues to be tackled are transportation, economic and educational in order to make the City of Los Angeles a great city. He asked that residents go to ericgarcetti.com. Questions:
1. LAFD – We’d like our engine back at Station #69. Can you help us? Mr. Garcetti responded that the Palisades is geographically cut off (ala Eagle Rock) and isolated area. He reminded the council that he worked with Rosendahl on the motion to restore resources for Fire Station #69; however it needs to be a combination of high volume and isolated geography. The shut down of the incline will also affect the Palisades in terms of safety.
2. For more than three years, the issue of cell towers in the public right of way has concerned our community; to address this concern, PPCC has been calling for much-needed revision of the City’s Above Ground Facilities Ordinance. As you know, both the PLUM Committee and Public Works Committee, on which you serve, recently approved the City Attorney’s recommended revisions to the ordinance, specifically including: expansion of the notice requirements, enhancement of the aesthetic provisions, limitation of the utility pole exemption, and imposition of permit duration limits. (A) Where does this recommendation stand in regard to the full Council? YES I will support getting the ordinance on the agenda. (B) Do you support these proposed revisions and will you pledge to use your best efforts to agendize the matter in Council at the earliest opportunity? YES. (C) Mr. Garcetti says that we cannot use increased demand to take away full scale our aesthetic standards and view sheds. One big problem is that there are no design standards within the City and Los Angeles should be the leader in terms of beauty and design. Cell towers a good example of where aesthetics have just been ignored.
3. Please explain: what does R1 mean and will you fight efforts to up-zone and increase density in R1 zones? Mr. Garcetti is a strong believer in preserving residential neighborhoods. The community plan should not be changed and, in fact, Hollywood downzoned its community plan.
4. What is your opinion on Form Based Zoning? How do you rank the pro’s and con’s of Form Based Zoning over the existing City of Los Angeles’ Euclidean based code? Mr. Garcetti stated that this is an important issue. In Los Angeles there are not amenities close to where everyone lives. He would like to look more at the use than monochrome looking structures.
Given your opinion of the pro’s and con’s, what impact do you foresee on Pacific Palisades over the next 18 months given that our area, comprised of primarily R1 and Open Space, has been TARGETED in Phase 1 of the Planning Department’s 5 Year Comprehensive Zoning Code Reform?
And, is this part of an overall Citywide movement to “up zone” our residential areas in response to, among other things, the cost of housing, the shortage in housing supply and City Hall’s desire to have increased density near its transportation (R) centers/zones?
5. What is your stance on the Community Care Facilities Ordinance? Will you protect the character of low-density residential zones by continuing to outlaw boarding homes as they have been outlawed since the 1950’s and agree that the definition of a “boarding home” should be limited to no more than one lease per single-family dwelling structure? Mr. Garcetti was one of the councilmembers who seconded the motion to look at this. Before a positive vote he feels that several issues need to be addressed: (A) laws on the books regarding blight are not being enforced and can be enforced by our City Attorney with a more aggressive take, and (B) United Way and other advocacy groups are threatening litigation ala medical marijuana and billboards.
6. Public Question: a resident was a crime victim and it took 2 ½ hours for LAPD to get to his home. LAPD stated that there was one patrol car assigned to the Palisades and the resident feels that there is no enough police presence. In exchange for the taxes paid, why are we getting a police car rather than Beverly Hills residents who get an entire police force? What can be done? Mr. Garcetti responded that truly it is difficult for neighborhoods to recover from crime once it becomes consistent. The issue is the same as LAFD where our response time is likely lower because of our isolated geographical location, traffic and low call volume. The City has been better about following police statistics and he would like to see management of the crime issue become better at being predictive. He would like to work and see that there are additional police resources even in low crime areas because crime should be brought down everywhere. Mr. Garcetti thinks this will be possible as the City Budget recovers.
7. Public Question, DWP and Renewable Energy: Can we have an energy policy from the Mayor and City Hall to DWP? Also what about the computer billing system? Where does the City Council stand on feed and tariff as a way to encourage solar power? Mr. Garcetti would like to see at least a ten-fold increase in efforts to increase and improve solar power throughout the city. Solar will save the city money but it is a financing issue. DWP’s billing system needs to be more user friendly and he supported putting the Ratepayer Advocate on the ballot. We now have Fred Pickle serving as our Ratepayor Advocate to analyze charges and billings.
8. Public Question, Mt. Holyoke Tower: Do we have a guarantee that it will not go there? Mr. Garcetti explained that it should not go there and that while we can work to get aesthetic compromise federal law prohibits consideration of health concerns. Mr. Garcetti stated that he would be willing to add his voice to the discussion. Barbara explained that this matter would be on the September 2012 agenda for a discussion before the board. Richard Cohen explained that the PPCC is a voice in the process and can be effective in getting installations moved, modified and prohibited.
9. Public Question: There is emphasis on cutting expenses but not on finding revenue (parking meters, divisions, purchasing). Is there a concerted emphasis to increase revenue and collections without cutting services? Mr. Garcetti explained that two years ago as Council President he commissioned CORE to analyze these various issues. Two things missing are revenue we get when the economy gets back on track and then getting revenue back when it needs to be collected or is not truly encumbered. Relative to collections, the City never wrote off its’ uncollectible debt. However, there is no question that money is being left on the table or “gold in the gutters” as Councilmember Rosendahl has referred to the parking revenue issues. Mr. Garcetti is against the small business tax. Mr. Garcetti supports getting rid of the gross receipts tax in its entirety and has been supportive of efforts to chip away at the gross receipts tax because that also generates job.
10. AEG (Quentin Fleming): Quentin asked Mr. Garcetti to look at his report on the billions of dollars being left on the table as a result of the Farmer’s Field development.
11. Billboards (Gil Dembo): Gil asked about what the status is with billboards and control over the billboard companies? Mr. Garcetti discussed his experience with billboards in Hollywood and construction boards. Efforts have been made to keep money local to help with neighborhood cleanup. He had worked with getting a super-graphic ban on billboards in Echo Park to get them out of residential areas. He said we need money for inspectors and to compound industry litigation that is often threatened by each sign. (A) existing signs, legal or not legal, (B) we need state help on digital regulations because these billboards can be a hazard, (C) he would support the regulation of billboards as Mayor.
11. General Public Comment.
Chris Hope gave an update on the Business Improvement District where they are hoping to hire a consultant based on pledges they have received from landowners (mostly in the commercial district).
12. Adjournment. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 8:57 pm.
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MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 13th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Janet Turner, Norma Spak, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Steve Boyers, Marguerite Perkins Mautner, George Wolfberg, Joyce Brunelle, Barbara Marinacci, Donna Vaccarino, Gil Dembo, Joe Almaraz, Bob Locker, Aurelia Friedman
Voting Alternates: Eric Dugdale
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Carol Bruch, Steve Cron, John Glasgow, Cathy Russell, Quentin Fleming, Richard Cohen, Brenda Theveny
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Jennifer Malaret read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The President certified that a quorum was present at 7:04 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. No changes were proffered to the Minutes circulated to Board Members. The President deemed the Minutes approved. The next meeting is September 27, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The Chair considered the agenda. Item 7.3.1 will be held over until September 27, 2012.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of September 13, 2012. The total account balances equal $21,557.08, which consist of USB Checking $21,552.55 and the Post Office account $4.53. The SmithBarney account has been closed. Ted Mackie reported that our recent mailing produced 151 contributions totaling $4,310.00 to offset the total newsletter cost of $7,384.96. A negative balance of -$3,074.96 needs to be covered through future donations to the council.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the President.
7.1.1. PPCC 2012 Area Representative Elections.
Barbara Kohn announced the election results: Area 1 – Norma Spak, Area 2 – Paul Glasgall , Area 3 – Jim Rea, Area 4 – Harry Sondheim, Area 5 – Jack Allen, Area 6 – Stuart Muller, Area 7 – Steve Boyers, Area 8 – John Schwartz, At-Large Representative – George Wolfberg. Terms for the newly elected Area Representatives will begin October 1, 2012. Barbara thanked the election committee that counted the ballots.
7.1.2. Thank You to PPCC’s Outgoing Area Representatives. Barbara thanked Marguerite Perkins Mautner, the outgoing Area 8 Representative. Barbara acknowledged her outgoing status as the Area 1 Representative as a result of her new position as PPCC President.
7.1.3. Area Representative Alternate Statements.
Barbara announced that anyone interested in being appointed as an Area Alternate should submit a statement to Janet Turner. Barbara encouraged Area Representatives to nominate anyone that they may know of who is interested; Janet Turner announced that existing Area Alternates have to also submit a statement. Please direct statements to: janetturner30@aol.com. The committee of three chairs is comprised of: Janet Turner, Shirley Haggstrom and Richard Cohen.
7.1.4. Announcement of PPCC Organizational Representative Rotations. Terms for newly appointment organizations and their representative board members begin on October 1, 2012. The Organizational Representatives for 2012/2013 are listed below [see attachment].
7.1.5. Thank you to PPCC’s Outgoing Organizational Representatives – Barbara thanked the Garden Club (Barbara Marinacci; though Barbara is remaining on the Board as the Palisades Beautiful’s appointment), YMCA (Carol Pfannkuche), and the Lion’s Club (Joe Almaraz). Aurelia Freeman is also leaving as youth rep.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
CD-11 Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
Joaquin reported that (1) Councilmember Rosendahl’s health allowed him to recently return to City Hall. His treatments and pain levels have improved and CD-11 is very pleased. (2) Sunset Safety Week – the program will be delayed beyond September and is now expected to take place during early 2013. (3) AGF Ordinance – passed City Council and Joaquin thanked Chris Spitz for her efforts. (4) Potrero Canyon – the road is being taken out and the current Phase 1 contractor should be finished in several weeks. The second contractor will begin shortly and stockpiling of the dirt will continue. Donna Vaccarino asked about the next auction for lots. Joaquin did not have a date; perhaps in the next several months. (5) Swathmore Storm Drain Project – has begun and should be finished in October 2012. (6) DQP – Councilmember did respond to PPCC’s letter and agreed that there should be broader representation and a “public aspect” to the task force meetings.
LAPD, Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore and Officer Chris Smythe.
Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore reported that: (1) recently crime reports have been delayed, though the problem has been remedied, (2) crime is down. Questions: (1) Jack Allen asked about skateboarding on Bestor and Monument, nothing that a recent policy had been adopted by the City Council. Officer Moore responded that they could take action if they are under age, not wearing a helmet or otherwise violating a traffic ordinance. (3) Any rules about what bicyclists have to wear? Officer Moore said only relative to persons under age wearing a helmet; there are no other regulations regarding clothes or footwear. Officer Smythe stated that (1) August 29 Task Force – performed pursuant to a grant, 104 citations were issued over an eight-hour period. In the evening, Sunset Blvd. enforcement was concentrated upon, both motorcycles and Palisades residents who drive too fast (up to 70 miles per hour). Questions: (1) What about the motorcycle club that rides on Sunday afternoons? Officer Smythe responded that riding as a group is not illegal but groups can be broken up if individual riders are pulled over for speeding. (2) Aside from task force operations, are efforts made to control speeding on Sunset? Officer Smythe responded that there are.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Police and Public Safety. Amy Kalp deferred her report to the LAPD. Amy thanked Officer Smythe’s task force for his work on traffic enforcement in Pacific Palisades.
7.3.2. PCH Task Force.
George Wolfberg reported that the task force met last week during which Officer Smythe was in attendance. The task force continues to work on moving the limit line. There was a report on the California Incline. The work will not be run 24/7 as the Palisades requested but there will be a bid component that relies on the speed of completion, along with incentives for quick construction and penalties for delays. Relative to construction, it is not expected to start until 2014. Questions: (1) Are there any results of re-routing of traffic? George said nothing has happened yet.
7.3.3. Historical Society. Eric Dugdale reported that during prohibition bootleggers would bring alcohol down from Canada to Venice. After prohibition, gambling boats three miles off the coast in the Pacific Ocean were opened. A book has been written about these events. On September 24, 2012 there will be a presentation at Theater Palisades starting at 7:00 PM and the public is invited to attend this most entertaining event.
7.3.4. Disaster Preparedness. Flo Elfant encouraged community members to contact her relative to information regarding community disaster preparedness and to always stay aware of their own, their family’s and the community’s need in times of a disaster.
7.3.5. YMCA. Richard Cohen reported that the YMCA expects a building permit for its permanent fence, landscaping and pathway with Coastal Commission approval in mid-October. Following that approval will be fund-raising and Richard is very pleased that the community has come together on the aesthetics and encouraged community participation with the financial donations required.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Land Use Committee, September 2012 (Chris Spitz).
Opposition to Cell Tower Installation at 302 Mt. Holyoke; AGF Ordinance heard before City Council on September 11, 2012; Report and Motion Below (AT&T, Residents, Chris Spitz; LUC Recommended Motion [see attachment].
AGF ORDINANCE: Chris Spitz: the PPCC and PPRA have worked for more than 3 years to procure a municipal ordinance regulating structures in the public right of way. Note report below. They City Attorney has been directed to draft an ordinance encompassing the five key points, read by Chris to the public audience. 302 MT. HOLYOKE CELL TOWER: (A) AT&T Representatives (AT&T (Kevin Tanaka and Rob Searcy)) – Kevin talked about the current level of phone and data usage. Kevin expressed that AT&T would like to have a community meeting to present alternatives that their engineers have been working on in order to get recommendations from the community and answer resident’s questions and concerns. Rob stated that the challenge was to optimize a site that had been in existence for eight years and to find a consensus on a site with the community. Rob expressed that the concerns of the community had been heard and they are now looking at a design and location more agreeable to the community. One thing they considered was the existing facility via replacing the existing equipment and putting it in an underground vault. A second was going north of the current location but that is more in proximity to other homes. (B) Residents – Trevor Nielson expressed that AT&T has not been working with the community. The community does not want this facility in the neighborhood. The coalition supports the PPCC”s Motion. Roz Nieman spoke about her concerns with four children residing directly next to the proposed tower and relative to her concerns about children and the public who use the park. Roz asked that AT&T suspend its installation until AT&T delivers a master plan that gets approved by the City and community. Rod Aragon spoke on behalf of local real estate agents and property owners located next to the proposed tower. Rod suggested that transferability of property is the issue going forward. The coalition presented the PPCC with its book, petition, and signatures. Karen Dawn spoke about the buzzing and noise from the existing facility. Karen expressed that it is unfair for AT&T to now come back and expose this same neighborhood to a second tower. (C) PPCC – Chris Spitz reported that the LUC unanimously supports the motion presented. Chris Spitz read the LUC’s Motion. Chris Spitz moved and Jennifer Malaret seconded the motion. Discussion: (1) Jim Rea said the most significant aspect of the motion is the master plan process. Does AT&T do this in other communities? (2) Gil Dembo asked if the master plan included all carriers and expressed that it should include all carriers. (3) Reza Akef asked why AT&T doesn’t work with other carriers more often. (4) Jack Allen stated that there are reasons to oppose cell phone towers but fear is not a reason to oppose cell phone towers based on his understanding of science. Action: The motion passed unanimously.
8.2. Climate Change Committee.
Presentation of the PPCC Climate Committee. Background: Steve Boyers stated that the Climate Committee believes that near-term selection and construction of a new power station should not be the first step, rather this is the last step. Steve stated that the Climate Committee wants to work with the Council, the DWP Task Force, and the community at large to: (a) Explore the possibility that the Palisades can eliminate the need for a new DWP substation and assure dependable, clean energy for the Palisades; (b) How? An aggressive commitment toward energy efficiency and renewable energy measures throughout the community. First Step: To measure and understand both the community’s historic energy patterns and projected energy demands. Second Step: The development of measureable goals and strategies to reach these goals in partnership with the DWP Task Force. As part of this process, we believe that the DWP Task Force requires the appointment of at least one individual with sufficient expertise to assist the task force in evaluating and implementing any proposed community-scale sustainable projects. (c) Request the opportunity to present to the PPCC and the DWP Task Force measureable goals and strategies to be achieved in partnership with the PPCC and DWP Task Force to educate and incentivize our residents and businesses to effectuate such solutions. Among the goals that we believe should be considered is a community-wide energy reduction campaign. As a community, the DWP issue may represent a unique window of opportunity for us to work with the City and to leverage some of the DWP’s currently allocated money for a new substation, into a sustainable energy future for the Palisades. Action: Steve asked that the Climate Committee work with CD-11, DWP, and the DS 104 Task Force to determine whether a new substation is in fact required in the Palisades. The committee would like to understand the past energy usage and demands. Then the committee would like to develop goals and asks that in-house expertise be a part of community wide energy reduction campaign. The committee feels that energy alternative uses would be helpful to the dispute between neighborhoods.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. DWP Turf Removal and Native Plant Garden Project in Temescal Canyon (Michael Terry; Tom Gibson, Department of Recreation and Parks Architect).
Background: Tom Gibson spoke about water conservation efforts facilitated by native plant gardens and low water plant gardens. Temescal Canyon Park has had a native plant garden for many years worked on by Barbara Marinacci and Michael Terry. In May 2012 approximately 174 new plants were installed. The plan is to use DWP rebate monies to expand and enhance the garden. The proposal would almost double the space of the native plant garden by taking out approximately 12,000 square feet of turf that uses a lot of water. Michael Terry wants the community to be aware of the project, get feedback and to support the project. Volunteers work the last Saturday of every month. Discussion: (1) Gil Dembo acknowledged the community should support Norma Spak and Shirley Haggstrom for their work with native plants along with Randy Young and that this second project. (2) a resident expressed that the DWP turf rebate is $1.50 psf and is open to all Los Angeles residents.
10.2. DWP Substation; DS 104 Task Force (CD-11, LADWP).
(A) Victoria Cross/ DWP – Victoria claimed that the City Attorney indicated that this type of task force does not fall under the Brown Act because a formal motion of a legislative body did not create it. The City Attorney stated that the Potrero Canyon was covered by the Brown Act because there as a formal action made by the City Council to create that committee. DWP stated that they have no issue with the Brown Act, but wanted smaller meetings to get work done and feared that if the meetings got too large it would impede a working body. DWP suggested making the minutes available to the public after the meeting. Relative to the task force, DWP heeded PPCC’s comments and made its initial decisions to keep the working group as small as possible. DWP stated that Mr. Glasgall was excluded because the Highlands is not an option and people from the Highlands should not be involved in the decision making process. DWP has since added Kelly Comras (Area 1), Paul Glasgall, Gil Dembo and Amy Kalp. DWP believes these new additions adequately represent PPCC. DWP said that the Marquez Knolls was weighed heavily but there are many different opinions among those particular people. Whatever site is chosen is going to be somewhere around Marquez – Marquez is really the target area.
Discussion:
(1) Jack Allen wonders why Area 5 isn’t represented because their concern is that a second station won’t get built and their neighborhood will continue to have an overloaded.
(2) Steve Boyers – on the issue of composition, the task force would be well served to have someone of expertise in the energy and power system area.
(3) Randy Young said that were here tonight because of the DWP’s failure to build adequate power resources. Randy stressed how important it is to have experts on the DS 104 Task Force. We cannot just depend on the DWP – the community needs its own experts. Randy said that state park land is protected by state law and is protected, that land is not available to the DWP. Randy said the landslide issue has been known for 40 years and to have not provided expertise and alternatives is the failure of DWP.
(4) Community member wants an expert independent of the DWP.
(5) Kaye Sleinsapir spoke on behalf of the Coalition that wants the recusal of PPCC’s members that are potentially biased and have conflicts of interest including Barbara Kohn and Norma Spak and possibly other Temescal Canyon Association members on the PPCC. Other coalition members echoed Kaye’s sentiments.
(6) Richard Cohen stated that every board member is entitled to take a position and our bylaws are very clear that Barbara has acted properly. The PPCC has not taken a position on this issue because it is not ripe – there is clearly no issue of community consensus.
(7) Joyce Wong-Kup made numerous accusations against Barbara Kohn and the PPCC, largely consisting of the same claims of bias and conflicts of interest expressed by Ms. Sleinsapir.
(8) Shirley Haggstrom spoke in defense of the PPCC and Barbara Kohn given that she was in attendance at the DWP meeting which being challenged by Ms. Sleinsapir and Ms. Wong-Kup. Shirley reported that, during that meeting, the state park representative said that the state park land is not available, pros and cons of every site were discussed as a group and the accusations that are now being made are “bogus.” Shirley asked that the Coalition stop attacking the PPCC, our organizations, our neighborhoods and the community. Shirley asked that the Coalition step back and let the DS 104 Task Force do its work.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 9:08 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 7.1.4 – ORGANIZATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES, 2012/2013
Business and Commerce:
Chamber of Commerce: Joyce Brunelle
Alt. Ben Meyerson
Cultural/Ethics/Aesthetics:
Palisades Beautiful: Barbara Marinacci
Alt. Theatre Palisades: Andy Frew
Education:
Palisades High: Steve Yusi
St. Matthew’s School Parents Council: Mark Roosa
Historian:
Historical Society: Dick Wulliger
Alt. Eric Dugdale
Civic Organizations:
PRIDE: Geoff Sheldon
Alt. Civic League: Donna Vaccarino
Recreation:
AYSO: Janet Anderson
Alt. Club Soccer (Pali Blues): ______
Environment:
Temescal Canyon Association: Gil Dembo
1st Alt. Richard Cohen
2nd Alt. Susan Orenstein
Service Clubs:
Pacific Palisades Women’s Club: Catherine Ruddy
Alt. Riviera Masonic Lodge: Bill Snyder
Residents Association:
Pacific Palisades Residents Association: Bob Locker
Alt. Brenda Theveny
Youth Representation: TBD
ITEM 8.1 – AGF ORDINANCE REPORT AND MOTION
LUC Report Re Cell Tower Motion – 9/6/12
Background:
Exploding use of smartphones in the past few years has led to proliferation of cell towers in public rights of way (PROWs) in all areas of the Palisades, along Sunset Blvd., PCH, Palisades Drive and on local residential streets.
LUC members have had firsthand experience with proposed or existing PROW cell towers; currently over 20 PROW towers (some freestanding, most so-called “utility pole” installations) are known to exist in Pacific Palisades; an example is located at the NE corner of Via de la Paz and DePauw. At least 9-10 more such installations to our knowledge are currently planned or in process.
PROW installations often appear without notice to alarmed residents; due to current inadequate regulations there is no required notice and almost no ability to protest utility pole towers.
PPCC has been involved at times (notably in the Riviera and the Highlands) with efforts to ascertain community preferences in terms of location and design of proposed towers; this has been a difficult process, as residents routinely object to placement near their own homes, even in areas where coverage gaps are acknowledged and relocation next to other homes would result in more opposition.
In some cases residents reject industry claims as to alleged coverage gaps; the issue is complicated by the fact that residents are usually not equipped to assess the technology adequately, and it is difficult for the ordinary public to verify the actual strength of the various types of coverage (e.g., voice, data, interior structure) in a given area.
Regardless of the actual extent of coverage, residents typically oppose the siting of cell towers in residential areas on the grounds that towers near homes are an aesthetic blight, may substantially reduce property values, may be harmful to health, or may have other public safety impacts.
AGF Ordinance Revision:
PPCC attempted to address this growing problem by passing a motion in 2009 calling for specific revision of the AGF Ordinance (in line with the Zoning Code CUP provisions) and for a temporary moratorium on PROW towers until enactment of a new or revised ordinance. PPCC also supported (as did all other WRAC members) a WRAC motion in 2010 calling for comprehensive reform of the City’s cell tower regulations.
The LUC will report separately on the current status of proposed revision of the AGF Ordinance; as of this writing, two City Council committees (Public Works and PLUM) have recommended certain amendments which the full Council will take up on September 11; PPCC has written a letter to all Councilmembers supporting the committees’ recommendations, requesting additional amendments, and urging that the Council enact a temporary moratorium on PROW installations (which PPCC had previously requested in its 2009 motion).
302 Mt. Holyoke and Neighboring Streets:
The matter has been brought to a head by AT&T’s recent proposal to install a new PROW cell tower at 302 Mt. Holyoke, next to homes and near the entrance to a public park and scenic overlook at Via de las Olas and Mt. Holyoke (above the intersection of PCH and Temescal Canyon).
There is no dispute that the proposed tower would be an aesthetic blight on one of the most scenic areas of the Palisades.
Councilmember Rosendahl officially opposes the tower at 302 Mt. Holyoke.
The LUC has been informed by opposing residents that more than 90% of residents on Mt. Holyoke and neighboring streets have signed or are expected to sign a written petition opposing a tower at that location or anywhere on neighboring streets (petition process ongoing as of this writing); in addition, opposing residents maintain that 205 self-identified Palisades residents have signed an online petition opposing the installation (street addresses unknown).
Approximately forty residents attended a prior LUC meeting to protest the tower, including the across the street and immediately adjoining residents who forcefully spoke in opposition; yard signs stating “No Cell Tower on Our Block” have been placed at numerous area homes. To date no residents have come forward to the LUC to indicate support for the tower.
AT&T representatives claimed at the prior LUC meeting that the installation is necessary to enhance coverage in the immediate Via bluffs neighborhood (not for a wider area of the Palisades); that FCC licensing rules supposedly require AT&T to enhance coverage in the area (a claim that neither the LUC nor the Palisades Post has been able to verify); and that the proposed site at 302 Mt. Holyoke was chosen as the “least obtrusive” of other available sites (including an existing AT&T utility pole tower with older equipment dating from 2003, located three houses to the north on Mt. Holyoke).
In contrast, some Via bluffs area residents who are actually AT&T customers maintain that their AT&T coverage is already adequate, while others acknowledge that their coverage is poor; whether adequate or not, residents state emphatically that enhancement of their AT&T coverage is not wanted, even if “needed,” if it means putting a cell tower either at 302 Mt. Holyoke or near anyone’s home in the area.
Because the tower would be a “utility pole” installation (currently exempt under the AGF Ordinance), an AGF permit would only be required for the power cabinet, not the pole portion of the installation; we also understand that a Coastal permit is required at this location for the entire installation.
AT&T has claimed that it is not planning to file an AGF permit application at this time while it considers other alternatives – all of which, according to AT&T, would involve placing a tower (or adding more antennas to existing towers) in the PROW near other homes in the same Via bluffs neighborhood – a result that residents have made clear they would oppose as well.
AT&T has indicated that it did file an application for a Coastal permit but that application is on hold pending AGF permit proceedings; the LUC has no information to the contrary.
A Bureau of Engineering (BOE) official confirmed to the LUC on September 5 that no AGF application was on file for 302 Mt. Holyoke and that AT&T was still weighing its options. However, area residents state that they recently observed and documented AT&T representatives conferring on-site at 302 Mt. Holyoke and making identification marks on the sidewalk and/or adjacent street, leading to concern that AT&T may soon be taking action at this location. To date, AT&T has not responded to three separate LUC email inquiries in the past few weeks requesting a status update. PPCC has requested that BOE provide notice to PPCC of all AGF applications.
Reasons for Motion:
The LUC believes that consistent with PPCC principles it is the right thing for PPCC to express opposition to the installation at 302 Mt. Holyoke; we further believe that PPCC should not oppose this specific proposed tower alone without also taking a strong, global position relative to all PROW installations in the Palisades.
Even if AT&T decides not to go forward with the installation at 302, it will likely attempt another location near homes on Mt. Holyoke or on neighboring streets, leading to repeated and potential block-to-block opposition by residents who may become pitted against one another in order to prevent installation near their own homes.
PPCC has seen this situation before and is likely to see it over and over again as cell providers continue aggressive efforts to locate towers in residential areas which residents will oppose, and will likely call upon PPCC to oppose, in piecemeal fashion. The LUC believes that this is an untenable situation.
Preservation of the character of the community and recognition of the importance of consensus on matters of community concern are hallmarks of the PPCC Mission Statement. The LUC recognizes that enhanced cell reception is needed and wanted in many areas of the Palisades, but that residents also want a say in decisions about design and siting.
With this in mind, the LUC recommends the attached motion calling for specific opposition to the proposed tower at 302 Mt. Holyoke, as well as opposition to all other proposed PROW installations without 1) advance written notice to residents, relevant homeowner associations and the PPCC, prior to the filing of any permit applications and/or commencing construction (in cases where permits may not be required, e.g., currently exempt utility poles); and 2) the development of a master plan for PROW installations in the Palisades with meaningful input from the local community.
The LUC submits that this is a reasonable attempt to set forth a policy to address the growing problem of PROW proliferation in a comprehensive manner.
LUC Recommended Cell Tower Motion – 9/6/12
PPCC opposes the proposed installation of wireless telecommunications (WT) antennas and related equipment (cell towers) at 302 Mt. Holyoke, and in all public rights of way (PROWs) in Pacific Palisades without 1) WT providers, including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, providing advance written notice of all proposals for cell towers in PROWs to all property owners within 500 feet of the proposed facility, to relevant homeowner associations and to the PPCC prior to the filing of any permit application or, in cases where a permit may not be required (e.g., equipment upgrades, currently exempt utility poles), prior to initiating construction; and 2) WT providers developing and implementing a master plan for all PROW installations in Pacific Palisades. Such master plan shall be established with meaningful input from the local community and shall include, without limitation:
an assessment of current coverage capabilities and projected coverage requirements, including voice, data and interior structure coverage;
a feasibility analysis as to existing, available and proposed new sites;
a portfolio of design options, including light pole and “stealth” designs, for community input and recommendation;
a survey of community opinion regarding coverage, location and design.
ITEM 8.2 –CLIMATE CHANGE COMMITTEE; Draft of Pacific Palisades Climate Committee Purpose (BOYERS)
Founded in 1973, the Pacific Palisades Community Council has as its purpose:
To be a forum for the discussion of community issues.
To be an advocate for the Pacific Palisades to government and private agencies upon those issues where there is broad community agreement.
To assist other organizations in the Pacific Palisades which request help in accomplishing their objectives or purposes, and which the Council chooses to support.
Founded in 2011, the Pacific Palisades Climate Committee has as its purpose:
To provide a forum for discussion and outreach related to climate change issues affecting the community.
To serve as an advocate for the Pacific Palisades to government and private agencies upon those climate change issues where there is broad community agreement.
. To partner with other organizations to achieve climate mitigation and adaptation objectives which the Committee and Council choose to support.
The Committee will develop action plans as needed to fulfill its purpose.
ITEM 10.2 – DWP SUBSTATION; DS 104 TASK FORCE
As reported by various media, the following letter was sent by PPCC’s Executive Board on September 4, 2012 and is attached for informational purposes hereto.
September 4, 2012
Councilmember Bill Rosendahl Ms. Victoria Cross
West Los Angeles District Office Los Angeles Department of Water & Power
1645 Corinth Avenue, #201 111 North Hope Street, Rm. 1531
Los Angeles, CA 90025 Los Angeles, CA 90012
Re: URGENT / Distribution Station 104 Task Force Committee (“DS 104 Task Force”)
Dear Councilmember Rosendahl and Ms. Cross:
Pacific Palisades Community Council’s (“PPCC”’s) Executive Committee voted to submit this correspondence for the record in response to information received from Joaquin Macias on August 30, 2012 regarding the DS 104 Task Force
1. Potential Violation of the Brown Act: DS 104 Task Force “members” have been selected and appointed by the City of Los Angeles and the DWP. We contend that DS 104 Task Force meetings, like those of the Potrero Canyon Community Advisory Committee, must comply with the Brown Act, including seventy-two (72) hours notice given to the public in advance of any and all meetings and the ability of the public to attend. Thus, the September 6, 2012 meeting proposed by Ms. Cross must be cancelled and properly rescheduled. On an issue of major community wide concern it is critical that the DS 104 Task Force, operating under Brown Act requirements, be open-minded and representative of the community they represent.
2.Reform of DS-104 Task Force Members: The overwhelming number of currently appointed members (80%; 8 of 10) are Marquez Knolls residents, MKPOA officers, or members of a Marquez related coalition. In contrast, the DWP and CD-11 letter dated June 6, 2012 had pledged to “involve” and “work collaboratively with the community,” “establish a community task force,” and form “an environmental non-profit organization to work with LADWP.” The Palisadian Post reported on June 14, 2012 that “an ‘independently facilitated’ task force [would include] representatives selected by local schools, the Pacific Palisades Community Council, City Council, DWP and others.” Currently, PPCC has not been asked to select a representative. Temescal Canyon Association was not chosen to participate, nor was any state park representative. There is not one business owner or Chamber of Commerce representative to speak for the Marquez, Palisades Highlands or Sunset Beach area businesses potentially affected. There is no neutral, “at large” representative appointed to speak on behalf of all any and all affected Palisadians. And the list goes on. Thus, PPCC’s Executive Board demands that DWP and CD 11 reconstitute the DS 104 Task Force with a more balanced representative group of community citizens..
3.Request for DWP and CD-11 Representatives to Attend PPCC’s September 13, 2012 Meeting – As this matter will be on the agenda and open for public discussion at PPCC’s regular board meeting on September 13, 2012 we hereby request your attendance to respond to questions and the growing back-lash that is occurring as the public is becoming aware of the current composition of the DS 104 Task Force.
Respectfully,
Barbara Kohn, President
Pacific Palisades Community Council
Cc: Mike Bonin, Norman Kulla, Joaquin Macias (CD-11)
EXHIBIT A – TEXT
September 17, 2012
Jennifer Malaret
Secretary,
Pacific Palisades Community Council
Re: September 13, letter from Coalition
Dear Ms. Malaret,
You have asked me, as Council counsel, to review the Coalition’s September 13, 2012 letter and give an opinion on whether I believe any Council member should refrain from voting on any issue relating to the proposed DWP distribution station.
The Council members involved have disputed many of the allegations in the letter but even assuming the correctness of each of those allegations there is no basis for any recusal. This is because being elected to the Council does not bar anyone from expressing opinions either during or outside of Council meetings. Nor does the expression of an opinion or activism in support of that position preclude a Council member from participating in the debate or voting on that issue. It is not so for public elected officials so it is certainly not so for a member of a community advisory committee with no legislative authority.
Nor have the views of those Council members been represented as the conclusion of the Council. To my knowledge, the Council has not taken a position on the questions involved and will do so only after a thorough hearing and vigorous debate.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions.
Very truly yours,
RONALD DEAN
_________________________
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 27th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Steve Yusi, Jim Rea, Jack Allen, Joyce Brunelle, Ted Mackie, Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Barbara Marinacci, Harry Sondheim and Richard Wulliger.
Voting Alternates: Richard Cohen, Quentin Fleming, Cathy Russell and Brenda Theveny.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Amy Kalp, Cliff Nelson, Cathy Russell, Susan Orenstein, Norma Spak, Schuyler Dietz, Flo Elfant, Geoff Shelden and Alex Mack.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Alex Mack read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Barbara declared the minutes for September 13, 2012 approved without objection. The next meeting is October 11, 2012.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The President considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of September 27, 2012. The total account balances equal $21,782.08, which consists of USB Checking $21,777.55, Smith Barney account is now closed, and Post Office account $4.53.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the President.
7.1.0. President’s Opening Statement.
By way of follow-up to the last PPCC Board meeting, Barbara delivered the following comments (at the inception of the meeting, prior to the purposes being read): Before we get to the agenda I want to say a few personal thoughts regarding our last meeting. First, I believe everyone present at the Sept 13 meeting felt, as well as heard, the intense emotions expressed. I want to thank all of you, (Council members) as well as those here tonight that were in the audience at our last meeting…. thank you for maintaining parliamentary procedure and personal composure. The understandable intense parental protective nature that was expressed clashed with the Council’s usual process…concern for children, for all children everywhere, I know, is shared by everyone…no one, none of us want to harm children or put children in harm’s way. PPCC process is an example watched by future leaders of our community and perhaps leaders of our government (our youth representative participants) and I want to thank you again and acknowledge the exemplary manner exhibited by you all at our last meeting.
7.1.1. October 1, 2012. Start of PPCC’s Fiscal Year. Barbara stated that Area Representatives begin two- year terms (Bylaws VIII.2B) and Organizational Representatives begin one-year terms (BL VIII2.A).
7.1.2. Thank You to Outgoing Area and Organizational Representatives. Barbara thanked Marguerite Perkins Mautner (Area 8), Barbara Kohn (Area 1), Barbara Marinacci (Garden Club), Carol Pfannkuche (YMCA), Joe Almaraz (Lions Club) and Aurelia Friedman (Youth Representative).
7.1.3. Area Representative Alternate Statements. Submit to Janet Turner. Postmarked or Emailed No Later than October 4, 2012.
7.1.4. PPCC Committees. Barbara reminded all Board Members to please submit their committee preferences to her prior to the next meeting. Barbara circulated a list for the purpose of expressing interest in serving on PPCC committees.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office.
Joaquin Macias reported that (1) 405 freeway will be closed this weekend; brief discussion ensued. 2. Swarthmore storm drain project will conclude shortly. 3. Remains of body found Saturday is reported as UCLA student missing, an evident suicide. 4. DWP taskforce has met, leaves the report to Jim Rea later in the meeting. Some expressed concern that alternative energy was too quickly dismissed by DWP; this will be revisited in following DWP meetings. 5. Potrero – current phase is almost complete. Cal Trans is being consulted for permission to store imported fill adjacent to PCH, near the haul road signal. 6. Bill continues chemotherapy, no update on his health. 7. Questions: Ted asks about the “certainty” of DWP that alternative energy approaches are pointless. Joaquin reports that this set of issues will be revisited. Chris reports that there are openings in the chain link fence surrounding Potrero Canyon that allow trespassing. Citizen asks about Paul Revere School pedestrian safety. Joaquin says that a study has recently been requested and it is a pending issue. Same gentleman questions the practices of cell tower installation companies.
Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”). Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore was not present.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Police and Public Safety.
Amy Kalp reported that (1) Last night’s Wednesday evening motorcycle task force issued more citations than last time, that is, more than 104. It was a big success with details to follow when operational security is lifted. (2) Knock-Knock burglary occurred recently on Sunset in Brentwood recently. The crime occurs when a perpetrator knocks and then forces the door open when answered. Be aware. (3) Youthful perpetrators have egged houses and cars. Local grocers/markets have been asked by LAFD to watch for purchases of eggs by teenagers late at night. (4) Also, the body found in Los Liones has been identified, as previously mentioned, as the missing UCLA student.
7.3.2. DS 104 Substation Task Force.
Jim Rea submitted the following report via email (and delivered similar comments orally at the meeting: Rea Report: The DWP Taskforce for selection of a location of Distribution Station 104 met Wednesday, September 19th at 7:00 at the Palisades Lutheran Church. The meeting was closed to the public and only Taskforce members, LADWP staff, CD-11 staff and school district staff were allowed to attend. Summaries of Taskforce discussions along with meeting materials will be posted on a website and made available to the public. I will provide the address to the website when it is made available. Meeting opened with Norman Kulla making the announcement that the sole purpose of the taskforce was to identity a location for the new distribution station. DWP General Manager Ron Nichols then emphasized that no amount of alternative energy, reduction of consumption or any other mitigating measures would eliminate the need for the distribution station, so our only task was to find a location that the taskforce could recommend. Gil Dembo asked if they had considered the PPCC’s proposed resolution asking for funds to underwrite an analyst to evaluate the data. Nichols said they had no intention of doing so. Joyce Brunelle asked why, given the millions of dollars at stake in this project the DWP couldn’t spend 10 to 20 thousand dollars for an analyst. Nichol’s response was that any study costing 10 to 20 thousand wouldn’t be worth the paper it is written on, that half a million would hardly scratch the surface of the necessary analysis. Nichols said repeatedly that he considered the Taskforce to be additional staff in the evaluation of the alternatives and recommendation of the location. It was made clear that the DWP has considered several sites (not just the two contested sites) and that we will be able to see the evaluation of each of those sites. The facilitator went over the process that the Taskforce will follow: (a) Present Site Selection Criteria -proximity to load center, size and configuration, needed improvements, and accessibility’ (b) Identify existing and new sites, (c) Evaluate Sites, (d) Public Workshops to gather public input, (e) Site recommendations, and (f) Board of Water and Power Commissioners make the final decision (which is not binding on Taskforce recommendation). The DWP gave the Taskforce a brief overview of the major components in the power distribution system, from generator to the home and where the distribution station fits in that network. They showed all of the local distribution stations that provide service to the local area. The agenda for the next meeting, to be held on October 3 at 7:00 (the same time as the first Presidential debate) will be to: Review the need for the Distribution Station and all of the sites that have been considered by the DWP to date. Discussion: (1) Nancy Dolin asks about the availability of reports and handouts from the past meeting. Coming soon, says Jim.
7.3.3. University Synagogue, 1:30 PM, October 21, 2012, Robert Stern Speaker “Understanding the November 6 Ballot Initiatives and Measures.” Barbara, in George Wolfberg’s absence, provided information on this event which is scheduled for 1:30 PM on October 21, 2012.
7.3.4. CERT Training at Palisades Charter High SchooL. Steve Yusi said that there would be training for 7 consecutive Tuesdays at the high school starting at 3:00 PM October 2. If this class is full there will be another soon in Malibu and others can easily be organized for groups of 15 or more.
7.3.4. Palisades Emergency Information. Alex Mack reported on the organization of an Internet based information-sharing site to communicate information specifically on emergencies in the Palisades. There will be Facebook and Twitter access. Alex will work with SLO Moore and the council office to facilitate the organization of the site. Discussion: Harry Sondheim asked why should use social net-working. Alex explained that mobile users and youth are particularly suited to his approach, which is easy and inexpensive.
7.3.5. Disaster Preparedness. Flo Elfant and Joyce Brunelle both addressed the importance of disaster preparedness. Flo offered to attend meetings and provide copies of her handbook.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Land Use Committee. Chris Spitz reported that PPCC’s Executive Committee sent a letter relative to the NBC Universal Evolution Plan and in support of the City’s Specific Plans (including the Pacific Palisades Specific Plan) and areas zoned as open space. See letter below [attachment].
8.2. Climate Change Committee.
On behalf of Steve Boyers (not in attendance). President Barbara Kohn reported the following: With respect to the DWP substation, the Climate Change Committee members are as disappointed as all of our other residents that the DWP is not viewing energy efficiency as a primary issue for the Taskforce. The Climate Change Committee hopes that with the data promised to the Taskforce at its next meeting, the Committee will have an opportunity to review, understand and evaluate for ourselves the need for a new substation or, alternatively, perhaps a down-sized substation that could be located elsewhere, or even to propose that any energy gap be filled in by means of sustainable energy solutions. But, for the moment, the Committee thinks that we should wait to see what happens with the DWP and the Taskforce at their next meeting. With respect to other issues before the Climate Change Committee, as soon as the DWP issue reaches some stasis, we are preparing to go forward with an educational and action program. The purpose of these programs will be to educate the community about the increased dangers from fire, sea level rise, and other negative impacts of climate change on our local area and suggest practicable steps that the community can take to mitigate and otherwise deal with the potential negative impacts of climate change. In pursuing these goals, the Committee will continue its role as one of the primary neighborhood organizations working with the City of Los Angeles, local and state-wide initiatives to keep us better informed of the rapidly increasing data in the field of climate change and its impact on our lives.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Speaker, Kevin James for City of Los Angeles Mayor.
Tim Lindberger, his staff person hands out brochures. Background: Mr. James gave his professional resume, including moving to L.A. in May 1987 to work as lawyer at Gibson Dunn and Crutcher. Then to U.S. Attorney office, then back to private practice. Was chairman of Aids Project LA, so has not-for-profit experience. Was on KRLA talk radio for some years. Presentation: Entered mayor’s race because he feels that over recent years the opportunities for young people in L.A. have been going away. Years ago LA was a magnet for bright young people, now not so much. This is a matter of concern and must be reversed. Priorities:
(1) Bring jobs back to LA as a business-friendly city. First, we must eliminate the gross receipts tax. We need a competitive business tax, but not the gross receipts tax. We must streamline the permitting process. It takes too long presently to open a new business.
(2) Budgeting: we are on the brink of bankruptcy. It is complex to solve the budgeting problems, but we must. No more one-year gimmick fixes. Salaries and pensions are the key elements. His opponents do not have the independence to address these issues.
(3) Infrastructure: Infrastructure money must be spent on infrastructure. DWP is not upgrading or replacing crumbling power lines. Water mains are not being upgraded. We need independent audit of DWP.
(4) Education must be improved. We cannot attract workers without decent schools.
(5) L.A. is second only to Chicago as the most corrupt city in the U.S. As a former prosecutor he understands how to address corruption. Ticket fixing recently exposed is an example. Simply exposing corruption is often sufficient to fix corruption. He also calls for a part time city council. He feels that if part time then people with professions who do not wish to leave could serve on the Council.
(6) Transportation – Airport transportation is not good. The light rail stops 1.5 miles from the airport; makes no sense. Install right hand turn signals in addition to left turn arrows to facilitate traffic flow.
(7) Public Safety – AB109, early release, means more criminals on the street. Though supposedly not violent, they are. With a high unemployment rate the crime rate will rise due to problem of early release of unemployed criminals. Police policy needs to be changed to make policing more efficient. Also, we need LAFD to have GPS.
Discussion: Q&A: (1) Dick Wulliger – re Billboards, would you sign the proposed ordinance, with the various shortcomings evident in the law. Follow-up question by Richard Cohen: Have you taken outdoor advertising money? He states that he hasn’t taken outdoor advertising money, but if he did it would not affect his judgment on these matters. He claims to be the candidate with the most individual donations and to be quite independent. (2) Jim Rea references the budget advocates report – What about streamlined and effective collections department for money owed to the city? He suggests that it is possible to change the collection letters from the Finance Dept to the City Attorney’s office letterhead for great impact. (3) Harry Sondheim asks about his view of the community care ordinance. He claims credit for his radio show in bringing together the Granada Hills and the Palisades citizens who were concerned about the facilities. There are elements that he doesn’t like about the ordinance but is very concerned that the law must withstand legal challenge. Harry follow-up: Will you stand in defense of quality of life in residential neighborhoods? Answer: Yes, in defense of the law. We can fire city employees who break the law. (His answer was not actually responsive). (4) Quentin asks his view of the AEG Farmers Field development. He angrily recites a variety of concerns about the project. He comments on the financing, traffic, tailgating, public transportation. He feels that the culture of football tailgating requires the use of cars to transport barbecues, suggesting limited use of public transit by attendees. He supports a stadium in the City of Industry. This would avoid the problems, financing burden, etc. for L.A. but our hotels and restaurants would still benefit. He supports the expansion of the Convention Center to 1 million square feet, but without the football stadium. (5) Chris Spitz – our station 69 engine, will you help us get it back? He responds: He is also a hillside resident and understands and supports the restoration on the basis of public safety. The way to save our emergency services is to tell police and fire fighters that they will not get the raises they desire. Until we have greater business revenue there is insufficient money to pay them. He notes that he can threaten bankruptcy if they unions do not provide the givebacks, reductions in pensions, and other cuts. He believes that on the current path we will actually go bankrupt so it is imperative to make cuts for the city to survive. He notes that DWP pension is excluded from the LA employee’s pension reform proposals. As a negotiating tactic we should bring all unions together at the same time so that there are similar cuts across all of the unions. It would be more effective to be able to simultaneously deal with fire, police, DWP and the various other workers all at once. (6) Barbara asks about the DWP taskforce – can we upgrade the current station? DWP says no, but by what authority? He notes that the DWP lied to us on the solar initiative. DWP lied about the energy cost adjustment factor, per Wendy Gruel.
11. General Public Comment.
11.1. Elliott Zorensky reported that the contractors responsible for the ATSAC program are required, if requested, to remove graffiti paving and replace with clean cement.
11.2. Nancy Dolin reported that there are several more “little libraries” in the Palisades and urges citizens to contribute books and utilize the service.
11.3. Brenda Theveny reported that storm drain street repairs are first done inadequately; according to Chris Spitz such repairs in front of her home were later repaired more fully.
11.4. Reza Akef reported on the response by LAFD to the recent fire. He expressed concern that Palisadians were less than polite and understanding of the needs of firefighters during the recent fire. He objected to people expressing impatience with traffic delays and other inconveniences caused by necessary work by the LAFD.
12. Adjournment. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 8:55 PM.
ATTACHMENT: ITEM 8.1 – PPCC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LETTER RE: UNIVERSAL EVOLUTION PLAN AND PROTECTION OF THE CITY’S SPECIFIC PLANS, INCLUDING THE PACIFIC PALISADES SPECIFIC PLAN.
September 25, 2012
VIA EMAIL – mariana.salazar@lacity.org
Ms. Mariana Salazar, City Planner City of Los Angeles Department of Planning
Re: NBC Universal Evolution Plan, ENV-2007-0254-EIR
Dear Ms. Salazar:
Pacific Palisades Community Council (“PPCC”) has been the voice of Pacific Palisades, CA for forty years. PPCC’s Executive Committee voted to submit this correspondence for the record relative to the Universal City proposed expansion (file no. referenced above).
PPCC strongly supports the integrity of the City’s Specific Plans, including the Pacific Palisades Specific Plan; we object in the strongest possible terms to any amendment that would remove any property from the Mulholland Scenic Parkway Specific Plan (MSPSP) or otherwise compromise the integrity of the MSPSP or any Specific Plans in Los Angeles. We further object to any change in zoning that would result in the loss of property currently zoned Open Space or that would result in a Sign District in or near the MSPSP or any Specific Plan areas.
Respectfully,
Barbara Kohn, President Pacific Palisades Community Council
cc: Councilmember Bill Rosendahl, Mike Bonin, Norman Kulla, Joaquin Macias (CD-11) Councilmember Tom Labonge, Carolyn Ramsay, Renee Weitzer (CD-4) City Planning Commission
_________________________
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 11th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Jennifer Malaret, Ted Mackie, Kelly Comras, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Stuart Muller, Steve Boyers, John Schwartz, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Steve Yusi, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Janet Anderson, Catherine Ruddy, Bob Locker and Alex Mack.
Voting Alternates: Steve Cron and Richard Cohen.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: John Glasgow, Clifford Nelson, Mark Roosa, Donna Vaccarino, Andrew Wolfberg, Norma Spak, Chris Hope, Laura Mack, Bill Snyder, Quentin Fleming and Andy Frew.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Jennifer Malaret read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:09 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. The President deemed the minutes for September 27, 2012 approved. The next meeting is October 25, 2012 where Los Angeles Fire Department Captain Christopher Cooper will be speaking on the topic of Emergency Preparedness.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The President considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of October 11, 2012. The total account balances equal $21,608.84,which consists of USB Checking $21,614.31 and Post Office account $4.53. Contributions received in response to the 2012 election ballot newsletter now total 155.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. October 1, 2012 – Start of PPCC’s Fiscal Year. Barbara announced that Area Representatives begin two- year terms (Bylaws VIII.2B). Organizational representatives begin one-year terms (BL VIII2.A). All existing and new board members were reminded to review the bylaws, found on PPCC’s website: www.pp90272.org.
7.1.2. Thank You to Outgoing Area 8 Representative, Marguerite Perkins-Mautner. Barbara thanked Marguerite for serving the PPCC for twenty years. Barbara expressed that Marguerite has been an exceptional board member and thanked her for her devotion to the PPCC, particularly her efforts with the holiday party and famous meatballs she would prepare for the annual event. Marguerite spoke and said how much she enjoyed serving on the council and reported that she already reserved the venue for PPCC’s holiday 2013 party. Ted Mackie also thanked Marguerite for her years of service and suggested she be referred to in future years as the “Area 8 Representative Emeritus.”
7.1.3. Welcome to Newly Elected (Kelly Comras (Area 1) and John Schwartz (Area 8) and Returning Area and At-Large Representatives. Barbara welcomed the new publicly elected Area Representatives, Kelly Comras and John Schwartz.
7.1.4. Welcome to Returning Organizations and Organizations Now Eligible to Send Representatives. Barbara welcomed new organizational members for 2012/2013 which are: Theater Palisades (Culture, Ethics, Aesthetics); St. Matthew’s Parish School (Education); Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club, the Riviera Masonic Lodge (Service Clubs) and the Pacific Palisades Baseball Association (Recreation). [See attachment.]
7.1.5. Distribution of Community Service Award (CSA) Guidelines. See guidelines attached below. Barbara stated that nominations are due October 27, 2012. The winner will be announced at the November 8, 2012 PPCC meeting and invited to the PPCC December holiday party meeting on December 13, 2012.
7.1.6. PPCC Sub-Committees. Barbara circulated a list of committees and encouraged all board members to sign up for their committee(s) of interest.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office. Joaquin Macias was unable to attend.
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore. Officer Moore was unable to attend. Barbara Kohn reported that SLO Officer Moore would be attending only one PPCC meeting per month in the future.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Police, Fire and Public Safety (Amy Kalp). Amy Kalp was not present. ( 1) Donna Vaccarino reported that the Wednesday night motorcycle noise was very loud yesterday. (2) Richard Cohen reported that a house for sale on Bienveneda was taken over by many teenagers who had a “flash party” at the vacant house on Saturday night. Richard stated that there was a large police response.
7.3.2. DWP DS-104 Substation Task Force (Kelly Comras, Jim Rea).
Jim reported that at the most recent Task Force meeting:
(1) DWP went through their support for why the new substation is needed. One reason given was that the existing station has gotten as high as 33% above capacity in recent years.
(2) DWP confirmed that it had the alternative of not building a new substation in the Palisades because, as alternative, DWP could extend lines from the existing station down Sunset. DWP does not want to pursue that alternative because of inefficiencies, expense and construction requirements. (3) DWP presented 13 sites that it had looked at in prior years. The Task Force reviewed the 13 sites and commented on their interest level in each of the sites.
(4) DWP asked Task Force members to vote on four stations they wanted to see additional information on. Los Liones, Marquez, the Marquez Business district sites were not on the list.
(5) DWP asked the Task Force members to bring any new alternative sites they want considered. Kelly Comras said that the Task Force would be meeting again next week.
Discussion: Barbara Kohn asked if the DWP’s power point presentation was on line so we could circulate it. Chris Spitz asked about residential properties on Sunset. Jim stated that those were the Coaloa property, the Bernheimer Gardens site and the 17900 Sunset multi-family zoned properties. Kelly stated that there was a residential property in the Paseo Miramar area on the list. Jim reported that he met with the property for sale below the land that DWP currently owns and Task Force members are interested in that property as an alternative site. Jim stated that access would likely be from Marquez down the canyon. Questions: (1) Andrew Wolfberg asked if the new substation would satisfy the needs of the Palisades or will this come up again? Jim and Kelly did not know but will ask at the next Task Force meeting. (2) Ted Mackie asked about the size of the site the DWP needs. Jim said DWP claims one flat acre. (3) Ted Mackie asked about a map of the addresses of alternative sites. Barbara stated that the DWP’s presentation has a map. (4) What about the extreme geological instability of the site at the bottom of Marquez Canyon and why are we considering putting key infrastructure there? Kelly said that most areas of the Palisades are geologically unstable. (5) Barbara Kohn gave background on the November 2011 meeting she attended where DWP presented a map and represented that they looked at many parcels and eliminated many for a variety of reasons. DWP said at that time there were three elements that had to fit into certain spaces. Last November 2011 the only two parcels potentially acceptable were the Los Liones land and the Marquez DWP owned property. Barbara asked Jim to confirm that they were putting “everything back on the table” and Jim stated this was correct. Thus, Barbara expressed that DWP should be aware of the geography in the area.
7.3.3. Announcements from Area Representatives – None. Barbara encouraged future reports from Area Representatives.
7.3.4. Historical Society. Dick Wulliger reported that the Annual LA Archives Bazaar is coming up at the Doheny Library, October 27, 2012 from 9 am to 5 pm. Dick said that there will be approximately 80 display booths with information including a tour of the LA Archives, how LA became the center of car culture, postcards, LA homesteads, film screenings, etc. The Palisades Historical Society will have a booth. The event is free and the public was encouraged to attend.
7.3.5. Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club. Catherine Ruddy announced that the Home Tour would be the second Sunday of November. Last year over $100,000 was raised and all of that money goes back to the community. Four homes will be on the tour this year. Attendees can park at Palisades Charter High School and take charter busses around. There will be a holiday boutique. Tickets are available on-line and Catherine will bring tickets to the next PPCC meting.
7.3.6. YMCA Coastal Commission Hearing. Kelly Comras reported that the Commission approved for construction of the fence at today’s hearing in Oceanside, CA.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. “Three Chairs” Committee.
Report on Nominations for Alternate At-Large and Area Representatives. See below [attachment]. Motion by Three Chairs Committee for board approval of Alternate Representatives. Harry Sondheim moved for a board vote of the approval of the Area Alternates. John Schwartz seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Barbara requested a motion to approve the three youth representatives. Chris Spitz made the motion and Harry Sondheim seconded the motion to approve the three youth representatives. The board approved the motion unanimously. [See attachment re 7.1.4 below.]
8.2. Bylaws Committee (George Wolfberg). Report on October 4, 2012 meeting. George Wolfberg reported that the By-Laws Committee had its first meeting and will be meeting monthly until a recommendation is ready for the Board to consider.
8.3. Land Use Committee (Chris Spitz).
Chris reported that the Committee has been considering (1) lot sales at Potrero Canyon and the prior PPCC motion that a Zoning Information Bulletin should be implemented. Chris reported that the ZI bulletin is now in place and will apply to the lots being sold in October 2012 and in the future, (2) the Mural Ordinance that was re-drafted and went to the Central Planning Commission this morning. LUC did not take a position on this ordinance. Chris reported that the Ordinance as drafted would prohibit murals on residential property with less than 2 units, and (3) WRAC is hosting a Town Hall meeting where the City Attorney Carmen Trutanich will be speaking on October 29, 2012 at 6:30 PM.
8.4. Climate Change Committee (Steve Boyers).
Steve Boyers stated that the Committee: (1) Is still working on the DWP issue while not interfering with the Task Force’s work. The Committee is concerned with efficiencies, new technology and a broader context of what can be done. The DWP appointed a head of energy efficiency in 2010 and the Committee is hoping to meet with this individual to talk about ideas that may include or benefit the work of the DS 104 Task Force. Relative to rising sea levels, the PPCC was the first community council to express concern about that issue. (2) Has been looking at articles on the impacts of global climate change worldwide and is considering a blog for the Climate Committee. Steve reported that PBS recently had a special on the efforts the City of Chicago has been implementing in response to global changes. (3) May reach out for grant funding to implement some of its programs or to procure staff. (4) Meets in the Conference Room at the Law Offices of Steve Boyers at 5 PM. Discussion: George Wolfberg reminded the committee about Proposition O.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business – None.
11. General Public Comment.
11.1. Andrew Wolfberg reported that a Will Rogers fundraising event last weekend generated an embarrassing amount of public drinking, trash and inappropriate behavior. Janet Anderson reported that AYSO did not have their field space because the fields were being used for parking and there were issues with inappropriate parking fees being imposed. Janet said that problems were encountered at Palisades Charter High School also where shuttle busses were being run. John Schwartz reported that the event was very loud and it was very dangerous with people drinking and driving. Barbara Kohn and Steve Boyers suggested contacting CD-11. Catherine Ruddy also stated that LAFD would also have records on the event.
11.2. Stuart Muller requested more monitoring of the traffic lights along Sunset Boulevard. Andy Frew expressed that traffic has been slower since the timing has been implemented. Barbara Kohn expressed that this was another issue for Joaquin Macias.
11.3. Quentin Fleming asked about the Palisades Partner’s bid package. Barbara Kohn said that the zoning is R3V1, low density with a surface parking lot. Richard Cohen said that he has reviewed the offering memorandum for the property and the package has details about zoning, height limitations and the Specific Plan. The purchase price is so high that only sophisticated buyers/developers are going to be interested.
11.4. Chris Hope reported that last week there was a Business Improvement District group had a meeting and questioned the zoning of a triangular area of land more in line with their “BID” efforts.
12. Adjournment. Steve Boyers moved to adjourn the meeting. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 8:37 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM 7.1.5 – COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD (CSA) GUIDELINES
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD GUIDELINES PURPOSE: The purpose of the Community Service Award is to honor long term and continuing outstanding volunteer service by an individual to a Pacific Palisades neighborhood or to the community-at-large. GUIDELINES: Nominations: Any organization or individual in the community may nominate a candidate. There is no limit on the number of nominations an individual/organization may submit. Only nominations submitted specifically for this award are eligible for consideration, although materials written for other awards may support the nomination. Nominations must be submitted in writing to the Chair of the Pacific Palisades Community Council at PO Box 1131 or by email to the Chair of the PPCC in accordance with the time frame suggested below. Community Service Award Selection Committee: The Chair shall appoint a Committee of not less than three (3) current members to review the nominations and select one or more persons to receive the Award. Prior to the Committee selecting persons for the Award, the Committee Chair shall circulate by email to other current members of the Board a list of those persons who have been nominated and ask that if any member of the Board desires to submit comments about any nominee, they should submit any comments to the Committee Chair within five days. Recipient: The recipient must be an individual. Each recipient’s service should be of a voluntary nature and not merely the beneficial outcome of official or business-related work that the recipient is engaged in. The Award: The award shall be chosen and prepared by the Committee and presented to the Recipient(s) at the Annual Pacific Palisades Community Council December Pot-luck Meeting. The Recipient(s) and their family members shall be guests of the PPCC. The Palisades Americanism Parade Association (PAPA) shall be notified of the names of recipients so they may be included in the Annual July 4 Parade. (Notify PAPA @ PO Box 1776, PP 90272).
SUGGESTED TIME FRAME: First October Meeting: • Distribute Award Guidelines and discuss the Award. • Submit Press Release to relevant publications soliciting nominations. Second October Meeting: Appoint Award Selection Committee. Deadline for receipt of nominations: The last Saturday in October. November meeting: Committee announces award winner(s), notifies the winner(s), notifies the Press [including Santa Monica Mirror, Brentwood Media (Palisades 90272), Palisadian-Post and other local media if appropriate] and the Board of Governors. Winners are invited to the December Meeting Pot-luck. Award Presentation.
ITEM 7.1.4 — PPCC Organizational Representatives and Youth Representatives – 2012-2013
Business and Commerce: Chamber of Commerce: Joyce Brunnelle Alt. Ben Meyerson
Cultural/Ethics/Aesthetics: Palisades Beautiful: Barbara Marinacci Alt. Theatre Palisades: Andy Frew
Education: Palisades High: Steve Yusi Alt. St. Matthew’s School Parish School: Mark Roosa
Historian: Historical Society: Dick Wulliger Alt. Eric Dugdale
Civic Organizations: PRIDE: Geoff Shelden Alt. Civic League: Donna Vaccarino
Recreation: AYSO: Janet Anderson Alt. Pacific Palisades Baseball Association: Bob Benton
Environment: Temescal Canyon Association: Gil Dembo Alt. Richard Cohen
Service Clubs: Pacific Palisades Women’s Club: Catherine Ruddy Alt. Riviera Masonic Lodge: Bill Snyder
Residents Association: Pacific Palisades Residents Association: Bob Locker Alt. Brenda Theveny
Youth Representation: Alex Mack, Schuyler Dietz, Caelin Koncan
ITEM 8.1 – REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEE OF THREE CHAIRS.
Here are the recommendations for Area Alternates from the Committee of Three Chairs. THEIR AREA REPRESENTATIVE HAS APPROVED ALL OF THESE CANDIDATES. [Note: Complete report not recorded in minutes.]
_________________________
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 25th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Jennifer Malaret, Ted Mackie, Janet Turner, Kelly Comras, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Stuart Mueller, Joyce Brunelle, Barbara Marinacci, Steve Yusi, Geoff Shelden, Gil Dembo, Catherine Ruddy, Alex Mack.
Voting Alternates: Andrew Wolfberg, Eric Dugdale.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Amy Kalp, Carol Bruch, Steve Cron, Chris Hope, John Glasgow, Laura Mack, Mark Roosa, Donna Vaccarino and Schuyler Dietz.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Schuyler Dietz read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Barbara Kohn deemed the minutes for October 11, 2012 approved. The next meeting is November 8, 2012. The following meeting will be December 13, 2012 and will also serve as PPCC’s Holiday Party. There is only one meeting in December.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The President considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of October 25, 2012. The total checking account balances equal $21,566.78 in USB and the Post Office Account. Ted Mackie encouraged all board members to check their name and phone number listings on the PPCC website for accuracy.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Reminder re Community Service Award (CSA). Barbara reiterated that nominations are due November 10, 20122. The winner will be announced at the November 8, 2012 PPCC meeting and invited to the PPCC December holiday party meeting.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilman Rosendahl’s office – Joaquin Macias.
(1) Potrero Canyon – the first phase is more than 90% complete. Dirt is being imported to stockpile after which time they will move to Phase 2 that will start with additional importing of dirt. Adjacent property owners are being contacted relative to work needed to complete to finish the remainder of the project. CD-11 is anxious for the lot sales coming up in the next few weeks to be completed.
(2) YMCA has pulled permits and work should start soon to beautify the area.
(3) CD-11 is working on gathering information on the Santa Monica “Party House” issue.
(4) Vivre Cliquot Event – last year this event ran smoothly with LAPD, rangers and parking enforcement present. This year, LAPD was not involved and problems as previously reported resulted. CD-11 has talked to the organizers and will be setting up meetings with PPCC and the community to ensure that next year’s event does not cause the same problems.
(5) Paul Revere Middle School – CD-11 is working on getting additional information regarding parking issues.
(6) Councilmember Rosendahl’s health is better than before from all accounts.
(7) Percent for Art – George Wolfberg said that when facilities are constructed a percentage of funds are used for art. George Wolfberg asked for additional information from CD-11.
(8) Sunset Safety Week – may be the third week in January 2013. Prior to this event there will be a multi-agency meeting.
Sr. Lead Officer Michael Moore.
(1) Burglary from motor vehicles are going up as a result of people leaving property in their cars.
(2) October 30, 2012 House Party event at 2009 La Mesa – Andrew Wolfberg expressed that there is concern over this “House of Rock” event. Barbara Kohn has requested that CD-11 set up a meeting to discuss impacts on local neighborhoods, not just Santa Monica and particularly with regard to traffic from these types of uses.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Police, Fire and Public Safety.
Amy Kalp reported that (1) Missing Markings on Monument Street – for over a year there has been no crosswalks or lane dividers. Amy persuaded the city not to remove the crosswalk at Monument and Bashford. Lines have gone in at Monument and Sunset and also at Will Rogers. (2) Harry Sondheim reported that when the city is digging up our streets to get work done they do not re-level the streets and that is cause for a bumpy ride. Harry stated that he will be emailing Joaquin Macias about this issue in Area 4 and encouraged other board members to contact him if they have concerns in their own areas of representation. Chris Spitz and Stuart Muller reported that generally the streets are repaired after a period of time.
7.3.2. DWP DS-104 Substation Task Force (Kelly Comras, Paul Glasgall, Jim Rea, Amy Kalp).
Jim Rea said the Task Force is looking at the underlying details for four properties including geology, access, ownership, etc. The Task Force will be looking at these properties for another two or three meetings. The Task Force wants to vote on four Tier 1 properties, Tier 2 properties as possible substitutes for Tier 1 and the last basket is Tier 3 that would be properties that the Task Force feels have no community support. Carol Bruch stated that the Task Force meeting should allow public comment and provide information to the public not just on Tier 1 but also on the Tier 2 and Tier 3 properties. Jim Rea responded that the Marquez Canyon property and the Marquez Business district are now in Tier 3 but that it is possible these sites will be reconsidered at a later date. Paul Glasgall stated that the Task Force is looking for the least contentious group of properties that within their geographical boundaries may be able to make it through the environmental and development process. Jennifer asked what standard was being used by the Task Force to decide which properties were ranked as Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 and suggested that the “test” criteria be made available to the public. Jennifer asked what outreach was being done in Area 3 outside of the Marquez Knolls given that two of the four preferred Task Force sites are elsewhere in Area 3. Jim replied that no additional outreach had been done. Jennifer asked where the public website that had been promised could be found. Jim said that there had been problems with initiating the website because of translating the material into Spanish.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Holiday Dinner. Barbara asked for volunteers and food for up to 60 people. A sign-up was circulated.
8.2. Scenic Sunset. Harry Sondheim reported that he contacted Palisades Charter High School and excess banners were removed. Harry is looking into the signage and banners at the Lutheran and Presbyterian Churches regarding their signage and banners. Stuart stated that the Chabad signage should be on this committee’s list.
8.3. Climate Committee. Jim Rea reported that the committee is working on several grant proposals including to the Woman’s Club and the DWP. Once these grant proposals are finalized they will be sent to the PPCC for approval. Catherine Ruddy brought brochures for the PPWC’s Home Tour that is the second Sunday in November.
8.4. Land Use Committee (“LUC”). Chris Spitz reported that the next meeting is November 1, 2012 at 12:45 pm in the library. Topics will include the party house, possible Palisades master plan, possible presentation regarding zoning code reform, and Design Review Board President Rick Mills will attend regarding Specific Plan guidelines.
8.5. Business Improvement District (“BID”).
Chris Hope reported that the group has been meeting for almost a year and has hired Steve Gibson of Urban Place Consulting as their consultant. The BID area needs to be contiguous so the high school and Marquez areas cannot be included. Chris explained that BID is essentially self-taxation where the money goes to local needs, not the general fund. $10,000 has been raised and a total of $40,000 is required. Chris asked any property owner or village tenants to please attend meetings on November 7, 2012 in the morning at Steve’s Oak Room and an evening meeting at Boca at 7 PM. Discussion: (1) Jim asked how the BID gets adopted and once adopted how paid for. Chris said this is what the consultant is helping with. A simple majority of the Commercial Village property owners who participate in the election will control. Gil Dembo clarified that the city pays for various improvements and the cost is paid over time by special assessments (taxes) on Commercial Village property owners.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Emergency Preparedness.
10.1.1. Guest Speaker: Los Angeles Fire Department Captain Christopher Cooper. Also in attendance: Captain Mike Ketaily, Los Angeles Fire Department Station 69. Presentation: Functions are to reach out to the communities in the City of Los Angeles and to provide disaster-training classes so that the public is capable of standing on their own until the time LAFD resources can be deployed. A pair of gloves is arguably the most important home resource to ensure people can use their hands. Topics discussed include Red Flag definition, parking restrictions, notice and contacts (local identification is free at Alert.lacounty.gov); evacuation centers including Palisades Recreation Center, Palisades High School, Rustic Canyon Recreation Center (people and animals are both welcome); local emergency resources including LAFD Stations 69, 23 and 19 along with LAFD Battalion 9, Battalion Chief and LA County Fire Battalion 5, Stations; store information on an encrypted hardened flash drive; Questions: (1) Mark Ryavec asked: when paramedics role why do the engines go along also given high gas prices and limited resources? Captain Cooper explained that the paramedic truck only has two people and they are busy doing CPR. Another team is needed to start an IV drip, carry people down the stairs, labor needed to move obese persons, and do all the additional things needed while the two paramedics are busy doing CPR to save the life. Paul Glasgall asked if the second engine was also used for physical access if needed and the Captain confirmed that yes, forced entry, is another reason. (2) Carol Bruch asked about how and where the information on what to do comes from. The Captain said that the joint information center will give out a consistent and defined message through the media for what they want residents to do. The joint information center was just used during Carmaggedon and the movement of the space shuttle Endeavor. We still have ham radios (ACS system) throughout Los Angeles.
10.1.2. Guest Speaker: Susan Jensen, LAFD, Senior Instructor – Disaster Preparedness Unit (Susan.jensen@lacity.org). Presentation: It has been four years since she has done Community Emergency Response Training (“CERT”) training in Pacific Palisades. There is CERT Training for teens also. “Drop, Cover and Hold” is one of their standard basic messages LAFD puts out for people to remember. Topics reviewed during the 17.5 hours required for certification: CERT curriculum, program overview, LAFD “Dalmatian booklet” which contains basic earthquake preparedness also located at http://www.cert-la.com. SOS Survival, located off the 405, carries a wide variety of products.
10.1.3. Emergency Preparedness – Board Members and Community. Flo Elfant brought her handbook and encouraged homeowners to invite neighbors to their home where she is happy to speak and attend. Flo reported that the American Legion Hall has a very sophisticated resource list including a list of local ham operators. Sally Lamb was in attendance with her new book as well. Steve Yusi encouraged the public to educate themselves and check out many of the great products available.
11. General Public Comment.
Janet Turner reported that the day after election if Proposition 30 does not pass there will be a $6 billon cut in public education, including a tremendous cut in the number of days that our children attend school. Janet encouraged members of the public to become educated on the ballot issues and to go to the polls and vote.
12. Adjournment. Harry Sondheim moved to adjourn. Joyce Brunelle seconded the motion. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 8:49 PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 9th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Jennifer Malaret, Ted Mackie, Janet Turner, Flo Elfant, Paul Glasgall, Harry Sondheim, Jack Allen, Stuart Muller, John Schwartz, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Dick Wulliger, Janet Anderson, Catherine Ruddy, Bob Locker and Alex Mack.
Voting Alternates: John Glasgow, Mark Roosa, Donna Vaccarino and Richard Cohen.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Chris Hope, Andrew Wolfberg, Reza Akef, Brenda Theveny and Schuyler Dietz.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission. Richard Cohen read the Mission Statement.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm. Introduction of the Board and audience.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Chair certified that a quorum was present at 7:06 pm.
4. Adoption of Minutes. Barbara Kohn deemed the minutes for October 25, 2012 approved. The next meeting will be the PPCC Holiday Party in the Temescal Canyon Dining Hall on December 13, 2012 that is also the PPCC Holiday Party. This will be the only meeting in December. The next meeting will be January 10, 2013.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The President considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported the financial status as of November 8, 2012. The total checking account balances equal $21,512.78. Ted reported that all bills are paid and the PPCC is solvent.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. Community Service Award (CSA) Nominations. Barbara stated that nominations are due this Saturday, November 10, 2012. PPCC and the local press will announce the winner prior to the December 13, 2012.
7.1.2. Holiday Party. Barbara encouraged Board Members to complete the sign up for the holiday event that will take place on 12.13.2012. Janet Turner encouraged ideas and donations towards entertainment for the event.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives.
Councilmember Rosendahl’s office – Not in attendance.
Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”) Senior Lead Officer Michael Moore in attendance.
Officer Moore reported that (1) LAPD Bomb Squad (literature was provided to the board and the public). The device left at Fire Station 69 was a C02 cartridge attached to a mousetrap. The device was technically called a small explosive device, hence the reason for the bomb squad’s presence and need to explode the item. The responsible part is not known. (2) LAPD detectives went to Hesperia to investigate suspects that they believe were involved in cars parked in the Temescal Canyon area. The typical crime was to break into vehicles, take credit cards and then use the stolen cards immediately to shop at Target. Though they cannot be charged with the vehicle entry they can be charged with fraudulent use of the credit cards. Paul Glasgall asked if these suspects were tied to the break-in at Sotheby’s. Officer Moore responded that it was possible and it was agreed to follow-up. (3) Recreation Center – a suspect was arrested and confessed to over 100 vehicle break-ins. The investigation of this individual is continuing. (4) Jack Allen asked about the Halloween BB/Air-Soft gun shooting incident. Officer Moore said the investigation is continuing and therefore could not comment.
Los Angeles Fire Department (“LAFD”).
Captain Ketaily reported that: (1) Bomb Scare – he was at Station 69 when the device was delivered through the mail slot in the front door. Captain Ketaily described the device and the firefighters reported the event to LAFD’s arson unit. LAFD contacted LAPD and it turned into a full-scale incident from 11 AM to 2:30 this past week. The Captain stated that he was very glad with how things were handled. Chris Spitz asked about who put it there and why. Captain Ketaily stated that they did not know – could have been an intent to scare or harm or a resident dropping off an unknown device. (2) Increase in traffic accidents – two of them involving teenagers and another was a PCH head on collision. (3) LAFD’s Tweet – Alex Mack stopped by and informed Station 69 about the availability to Tweet about on-going incidents in the Palisades. (4) George Wolfberg asked about the bike rider who was hit and Temescal Canyon and PCH. The Captain was not familiar with this event, though he reported that Station 69 had responded.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. DWP DS-104 Substation Task Force.
Paul Glasgall reported that the Task Force discussed electro-magnetic forces (“EMF”s) and not particular sites. Discussion: (1) Richard Cohen asked what the DWP says about EMF’s emissions. Paul responded that the EMFs from the transmission lines are far more powerful than those that come from the substation. One of the concerns about selecting a station is that the cables would come in from overhead cables as opposed to underground ones. (2) Stuart Muller asked if the power would come first to the Via location and then to the new location. Paul said likely the power would be coming down Sunset. (3) Chris Hope reported that he spoke to Victoria Cross at the DWP regarding renewable and sustainable energy sources. If the base load is high during the time that solar would be producing there would be an opportunity to reduce needs; however, Victoria Cross has not provided any follow-up detail. Paul responded that the DWP’s mission is to generate enough electricity to meet the power needs of the community and while some solar would be helpful it does not offset what the projected needs are. Chris asked if there was a report on that. Paul was not aware of such a report or where that report/information would be. (4) Barbara Kohn asked to see the projected growth for the Palisades in the next 20, 30, or 40 years; is it commercial or residential? Paul agreed and commented that likely the power-need increase it is not population growth but rather larger homes and increased devices. (5) Reza Akef reported that substations hum while they produce energy. He suggested that people listen to the power station to hear the noise that it makes.
7.3.2. Area Representatives, Duties and Obligations (Barbara Kohn, Board Members). Discussion of Goals and Outreach, Q&A.
Barbara Kohn praised Jim Rea for reaching out via letter (hoped to be published soon in the Post) to provide contact information and outreach to his constituents in Area 3. Barbara encouraged all Area Representatives to make contacts with the HOAs, community groups, organizations and resident blocks to solicit feedback on issues relevant to Palisadians. Discussion: Janet Turner encouraged area and organizational representatives to contact her with any questions or requests for assistance. Janet acknowledged Flo Elfant, Harry Sondheim, George Wolfberg, and Richard Cohen as past Chairs of the PPCC and encouraged Board Members to consider their expertise.
7.3.3. Historical Society. Dick Wulliger reported that the next event is going to be “Pacific Palisades during WW2” presented by Randy Young and Roger McGrath. The public is invited on November 19, 2012 at 7 PM at Theater Palisades.
7.3.4. BID. Chris Hope reported that the group met and discussed zoning restrictions relative to what property owners could be assessed as part of the BID effort.
8. Reports from Committees.
8.1. Land Use Committee (Chris Spitz, Donna Vaccarino).
Chris Spitz reported that the LUC was sponsoring a Motion to approve a PPCC-sponsored Planning Department Forum on January 26, 2013, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. The topic of the forum will be the Los Angeles Department of Planning’s Comprehensive Zoning Code Revision. All residents and representatives from area HOAs, resident groups, etc. in Pacific Palisades and Brentwood will be invited to attend. Alan Bell, Deputy Director, Los Angeles Department of Planning and Eric Lopez, City Planner will be in attendance. The Zoning Code Revision effort is part of a $15 million program for which Alan and Eric will explain the process, funding and participation from stakeholders. Donna asked that the Youth Representatives attend as “PPCC Ambassadors” to welcome guests and the speakers. Schuyler Dietz, Youth Representative, volunteered to help. Discussion: (1) Ted asked what issues were likely to come up as part of the reform. Donna responded making the Code more friendly and looking at the increase in density near transportation corridors. Jennifer Malaret added that one early draft of the Zoning Code reform effort purported to modify R1 zoning and Open Space designations first so, given that much of the land in the Palisades is R1 and Open Space Donna’s efforts are very important such that we can get details on possible impacts to the Palisades. Donna suggested posting a link to the Specific Plan and Community Plan on the PPCC’s website. (2) George Wolfberg said that he was on the committee for the Brentwood-Pacific Palisades Community Plan. That committee very carefully identified Open Space. For example, schools are on areas designated as Open Space such that if a school closes it would be harder to develop that land as anything other than a park or some sort of other Open Space use. (3) Richard Cohen asked about cost. Donna responded that the library is free but Theater Palisades would allow us to use their space for 50% of their usual fee, along with the cost of light refreshments. Action: Chris Spitz made the motion and George Wolfberg seconded the motion for PPCC to host the Planning Department Forum on 1/26/2012 at a location TBD from budget not to exceed $300. The motion passed unanimously.
9. Old Business – None.
10. New Business.
10.1. Climate Change Committee.
Donna Vaccarino gave the report for the Executive Committee approval for PPCC grant application to the Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club. Motion to approve grant application – see proposal and application materials below [attachment]. Presentation: Donna reported that the PPWC Grant Application was completed. The program “Children Investigate the Environment” is the subject of this $2,500 grant request. The ability to work with 25 local students is proposed where the topic of study would be water and energy use in our community. The location is to be determined, perhaps the library or Temescal Canyon. The partnership would be with the Armory Center for the Arts in Pasadena, CA where Donna serves as their architect and Donna disclosed her long-term association with the Armory. Questions: (1) Harry Sondheim asked about how students would be selected. Donna said that has not been decided; the Armory and the Climate Committee would work with the schools to determine which students could attend. Harry would like every student at every school to have the opportunity to be considered rather than a teacher or a principal picking what students get to participate. Donna agreed. (2) Chris Hope commented that he hoped the students who participated in this program would return to their schools and present on what they had learned. (3) Barbara Kohn asked if the program could be videotaped and then shown to classrooms. Donna said this is not in the budget but she would certainly inquire. (4) Janet Turner expressed her approval for PPCC’s effort to expand into offering educational opportunities for the community. Her caveat is that the PPWC does not always give the full amount of the money requested; Janet requested clarification about whether we are approving the application or receipt of the grant even if not fully funded. (5) Richard Cohen said that there is far more to this than exposing children to education and this is a great departure from what the PPCC has ever done before. PPCC is a forum and has been charged with supporting other groups; however, PPCC receiving a grant means that we are responsible for administering the grant monies and the program. Richard questioned how to administer grants and what type of liability/insurance needs the PPCC may be exposing itself to. There are many issues associated with accepting a grant and moving forward with a program is really a lot of responsibility that departs from our history and mission that is not a step that should be taken lightly. Janet responded that PPWC does not have stringent reporting requirements and this is a small grant for a small program where the Climate Committee members will be responsible for administering the program. Donna added that a time and date need to be given to PPWC and certainly details need to be worked out relative to taking children into the classroom and onto a field trip. (6) Stuart Muller expressed reservations about educating the broader community about ecology and was concerned about the PPCC’s ability to administer any program. (7) Jack Allen agreed that the PPCC should not get into running programs, it is too involved. (8) Barbara Marinacci asked about what six schools are involved; Donna said that it has not been determined what schools would be interested. (9) Harry Sondheim asked what would happen if more schools are interested and Harry thinks the more relevant issues are those raised by Richard, i.e., placing children in the care of PPCC. Harry expressed that until more details are given (how selected, liability, etc.) he cannot vote in favor. (10) Dick Wulliger commented that he is very much opposed to the PPCC taking a direct role rather than asking for money or supporting a local organization. (11) Paul Glasgall, Chris Hope and Flo Elfant went on record as opposing the motion. (12) Chris Hope suggested that we learn more information on the specific grant itself and what other councils do in terms of community outreach. Richard Cohen suggested about having a smaller discussion first with the Executive Committee about expanding the role of the Council. (13) John Schwartz expressed support for the Armory but questioned what PPCC’s Mission statement really is. (14) Reza Akef said the positive of sponsoring programs is that it helps spread the word about the PPCC; however if PPCC is willing to consider applying for money for one purpose it should be considering other causes. Action: Donna moved to approve the grant application to the PPWC, subject to further discussion between the PPCC, PWCC and the Armory relative to needed requirements to accept the grant if given. There was no second on the motion; thus no action has been taken. Janet Turner suggested the matter be tabled due to the absence of Steve Boyers and Jim Rea. The President determined that there was nothing to table; no action was taken on the motion. Jack Allen moved that the President notify the PPWC to suspend consideration of the grant application. Harry Sondheim seconded the motion. The motion passed with Donna Vaccarino, John Glasgow, Schuyler Dietz and Catherine Ruddy abstaining.
10.2. Committee of Three Chairs. Janet Turner moved to approve Reza Akef as Second Alternate for Area 8. Richard Cohen seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
11. General Public Comment.
11.1. Alex Mack reported that he continues to work on his Twitter information project for emergency and day-to-day information. LAPD supports the project and will provide daily updates. LAFD has also begun tweeting. Alex is working to approach the schools and families to sign up so that people are following the same forum and are following the same information. Alex sent a document to the PPCC that explains how to sign up and use Twitter.
11.2. Janet Turner announced that the Mayor’s Budget Day is November 17, 2012 and encouraged board members to attend.
11.3. Harry Sondheim asked for board members to join the Scenic Sunset Committee.
11.4. Janet Turner asked for RSVP’s to the PPCC’s website by board members and encouraged the RSVP’s to include the number of persons attending (spouse, family member, etc.).
12. Adjournment. Ted Mackie moved to adjourn the meeting. Chris Spitz seconded. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 8:57 PM.
ATTACHMENTS
ITEM NO. 10.1.1 – MOTION TO APPROVE PPCC’S GRANT APPLICATION TO THE PACIFIC PALISADES WOMAN’S CLUB [Note: motion to approve application fails for lack of second; motion to suspend consideration of application passes.]
Proposal for “Children Investigate the Environment” Workshop
Prepared by the Pacific Palisades Community Council
in conjunction with the
PPCC Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Committee
Overview
The Pacific Palisades Community Council proposes to host a Children Investigate the Environment (CIE) workshop for 25 local 4th grade schoolchildren. The CIE program was developed as a series of workshops by Amory Center for the Arts in Pasadena. We would contract with the Armory Center to provide instructors, curriculum and art materials for the two-hour workshop.
As presented at the Armory Center, the CIE workshop program is actually an eight-week program of 2 hour sessions. We propose to work with CIE instructors to develop a single 2 hour module to be presented for this workshop.
Purpose of the Event
The Council seeks to raise the awareness of water conservation issues by inviting children to come together in this workshop and produce art reflective of the commitment to the goals of conservation. We will use promotion and publicity of the event to deliver the message to the community that water conservation is an important issue for the community and an issue to which our children are committed.
Selection of Attendees
The Council would approach each of the six area elementary schools, providing each with materials to explain the workshop and would request that each school hold a drawing among interested students. Assuming all six schools chose to participate, we would select four students from each school to attend. If fewer schools choose to participate, we will divide the number of student spaces available by the number of participating schools to determine the number of students to choose.
Promotion and Publicity
We anticipate taking the following steps to promote the event and raise public awareness about water conservation issues:
Modify existing materials from the Armory Center’s program to reflect the local offering here in the Pacific Palisades;
Develop a limited, special purpose website with information about the event;
Issue a one or more press releases to local media;
Submit a letter to the editor of the Palisadian Post announcing the program;
Photo-document the actual event along with photographs of all of the art produced by the student participants;
Submit a follow-up feature article the Palisadian Post describing the successful event;
Placement of all photographs, articles, releases and other materials on the special purpose website;
We will attempt to secure permission to display the art from the event in the Pacific Palisade Library conference room for 2 weeks after the completion of the event. Student art is regularly exhibited in this room throughout the year.
Location and Date
We have spoken with personnel at the Pacific Palisades Public Library about the possibility of using the large conference room at the library (where the PPCC regularly meets). It is of sufficient size and has adequate tables, chairs and lighting to carry out the event.
Due to the short lead-time available to the Council, we respectfully request permission to finalize the date for the event along with the reservation of the library space by November 26, 2012. Discussions with library staff lead us to believe that several acceptable Saturday morning or afternoon dates continue to be available during the calendar year 2013.
Budget
Direct Program Costs $1,200 Armory Center
Facility Rental 250 City of Los Angeles (Library)
Refreshments 100
Publicity and Promotion 1,000
Total Budget $2,550
Additional Information
Additional information regarding the Pacific Palisades Community Council may be found at our website http://www.pp90272.org.
Children Investigate the Environment Program
Children Investigate the Environment explores the relationship between science and art. Both science and art involve close observation, experimentation and the development of new ways of understanding the world. This interdisciplinary program has existed since 1987. It is an 8-week program involving 4th graders where students explore the local natural environment. Learning takes place through hands-on experiences and active inquiry while developing students’ visual art skills. They create drawings, paintings, sculptures and on-site installations as a way of processing information and creating personal connections to their experiences and discoveries.
Children Investigate the Environment was developed as a unique collaboration among the Armory, Pasadena Unified School District, City of Pasadena Water and Power Department, and City of Pasadena Department of Public Works. This program has been recognized as exemplary by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Program Goals:
Provide students with visual art experiences in a natural environment while integrating science concepts.
Develop visual art skills by working with various art materials and processes in order to communicate their observations and ideas.
Give students multiple opportunities to observe natural phenomena through the eyes of artists, naturalists and scientists.
Encourage the exploration of the arts as a way of thinking and a process, while also focusing on a specific artistic endeavor that results in a product.
PACIFIC PALISADES WOMAN’S CLUB
GRANT REQUEST APPLICATION
About the PPWC
The Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club is dedicated to enhancing and preserving the quality of life in Pacific Palisades in the areas of education, recreation, beautification, community services and other charitable causes. Our primary event is the annual Home Tour and Holiday Boutique, from which significant funds will be raised and awarded to a variety of community non-profit organizations. The fund distribution will be voted upon by the Club membership.
General Grant Focus
Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club awards grants to assist organizations that work in the areas of Arts and Recreation, Community and Charitable Organizations, Education and Beautification. To be considered for a grant, applicant organizations must be based in the Pacific Palisades and/or provide services that benefit the Palisades community. Eligible projects must have city/county approval and any required permits at the time of the grant request. The full amount of awarded grants must be spent within the fiscal year, unless otherwise reviewed and approved by PPWC, and funds must be spent to fully support designated projects. Organizations that are defined as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) are eligible for consideration with a limit of one application per organization. Preference is given to applications showing a broad community outreach. Applications that are focused on maintaining the distinctive character of Pacific Palisades are of particular interest to PPWC.
Date of Application: October 31, 2012
Legal Name of Organization (to which grant would be paid):
Pacific Palisades Community Council
Address:
P. O. Box 1131, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Contact Person:
Barbara Kohn, President
Phone:310-454-8185 Fax:
Email:pacpalicc@aol.com
Is your organization an IRS 501(C)(3) not for profit? __X__Yes ____No
If no, please explain stat
Please describe the organization’s purpose and how it benefits our mission to enhance and preserve the quality of life in the Pacific Palisades.
Founded in 1973, the Pacific Palisades Community Council has as its purpose:
To be a forum for the discussion of community issues.
To be an advocate for the Pacific Palisades to government and private agencies upon those issues where there is broad community agreement.
To assist other organizations in the Pacific Palisades which request help in accomplishing their objectives or purposes, and which the Council chooses to support.
Has your organization received a grant from the PPJWC in the past? __x__Yes ____No
If yes, please describe how the funds were used and provide photos if applicable.
The most recent grant received was for a wireless microphone system used at every PPCC meeting. Thank you very much for providing this grant.
Grant Request Amount: $ 2,550
Briefly explain the purpose of your grant request and how you will spend this funding if your organization is selected to receive a grant.
Host a “Children Investigate the Environment” workshop for 25 local 4th grade students.
If you receive partial funding for your grant request, will you be able to move forward with your project? __X_ Yes ____ No
Please detail any additional fundraising plan or sources.
Outreach to private individuals in the community.
Please return this application by November 1, 2012.
In the areas of Arts/Recreation and Education:
melissaanna@vrpe.com
In the areas of Beautification and Community/Charitable Organizations:
pat.heather@verizon.net
By Mail:
P.O. Box 292
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Attn: Melissa Anna/Heather Gilhooly
LETTER FROM STEVE BOYERS IN SUPPORT OF GRANT APPLICATION TO THE PACIFIC PALISADES JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB.
Dear Fellow PPCC Board Members:
As Chairman of the Climate Change Committee, I feel it appropriate for me to comment upon the application that has been submitted to the PPWC on behalf of the PPCC.
Founded in 1973, the Pacific Palisades Community Council has as its purpose:
To be a forum for the discussion of community issues.
What could be more current than to promote a discussion of how environmental change is affecting our community and to begin to involve community parents and youngsters in the discussion of such an important issue at an early, and in an age appropriate manner? This is what the grant application to the Woman’s Club seeks to accomplish.
The manner in which this “community discussion” will take place may be somewhat different than in the past, but the purpose of the grant application furthers one of our avowed purposes: to be a forum for the discussion of (important) community issues. With this grant the Climate Change Committee will certainly be on the road to being a forum for a discussion of these increasingly important ideas.
How different is the result for the PPCC, if we are fortunate enough to be a recipient of a modest sum of money to become a forum for this increasingly important community issue, than our current practice?
Assuming we do our due diligence and protect against reasonable risks in the administration of the grant and the program implementation, I believe that it is a logical and consistent step for the PPCC to further its first stated purpose, i.e., of being a forum for the discussion of community ideas.
The key objection I believe is that the PPCC will be receiving money for the furtherance of expanding its “forum” for the discussion of community ideas and managing a forum for discussion of these ideas. This may be an evolutionary step in our growth as a community – based organization, but I do not view it as contrary to either the spirit or the expressed purpose of the PPCC.
The PPWC is a small grant and the program should not be beyond our capacity to manage. The grant does not involve the use of taxpayers’ funds and the legal and financial issues should be manageable. I should add that we must do our due diligence as an organization and if it turns out that there are unacceptable risks or practices, after we do our homework, then I will be first in line to suggest that we pass on the opportunity. But, at the present time, we have not had the time to perform our due diligence, something we can do once the Board approves our going forward.
In effect, if the Board approves us going forward at the next meeting, it should condition such approval on the CCC reporting back to the Board about the program and its planned operation before the program actually commences or a dime of the PPWC money is spent.
It may be a different type of discussion, but it is certainly a forum for a discussion of community issues, and issues which will become increasingly important for us to understand and cope with over the next decades.
To assist other organizations in the Pacific Palisades which request help in accomplishing their objectives or purposes, and which the Council chooses to support.
In the event the PP Woman’s Club authorizes a modest grant to the PPCC, it will do so because the Woman’s Club has decided that its purpose of benefitting the education of the residents of the Palisades with respect to learning about climate change and energy conservation measures is important to the Woman’s Club and the community.
By engaging in an annual grant program, I think it is clear that the Woman’s Club is reaching out and requesting the local community to help it accomplish its objective of enhancing the quality of life in Pacific Palisades.
Some partial quotes from the PPWC grant application are set forth below:
About the PPWC
The Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club is dedicated to enhancing and preserving the quality of life in Pacific Palisades in the areas of education, recreation, beautification, community services and other charitable causes.
General Grant Focus
Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club awards grants to assist organizations that work in the areas of Arts and Recreation, Community and Charitable Organizations, Education and
Beautification. To be considered for a grant, applicant organizations must be based in the Pacific Palisades and/or provide services that benefit the Palisades community.
In conclusion, I would respectively suggest that what may be a modest evolution in how the PPCC operates is still consistent with its avowed purposes, particularly the first stated purpose, to serve as a forum for the discussion of community ideas, and its third stated purpose of assisting other Palisades organizations.
I think the key issue is not whether we can properly undertake such an endeavor consistent with our mission statement, but whether the PPCC chooses to support this endeavor, in this manner, and at this time.
I, for one, believe that this step is a step forward by PPCC in the continued service of its community.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Boyers, Chair
PPCC Climate Change Committee
[Motion to approve fails for lack of second; motion to suspend consideration of grant application passes; see above.]
_______________________
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 12th 2012
Voting Members in Attendance: Barbara Kohn, Chris Spitz, Ted Mackie, Jennifer Malaret, Janet Turner, Jim Rea, Harry Sondheim, Stuart Muller, John Schwartz, George Wolfberg, Barbara Marinacci, Dick Wulliger, Geoff Shelden, Gil Dembo, Bob Locker.
Voting Alternates: None.
Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: Flo Elfant, Christy Dennis, John Glasgow, Andrew Wolfberg, Donna Vaccarino, Richard Cohen, Brenda Theveny.
Start of Business Meeting
1. Reading of Community Council’s Mission — None.
2. Call to Order and Introduction of the Board and Audience. Barbara Kohn called the meeting to order at 7:22 pm.
3. Certification of Quorum.
4. Adoption of Minutes — None.
5. Consideration of Agenda. The President considered the agenda.
6. Treasurer’s Report. Ted Mackie reported that the accounts were paid and accounts balances remain positive.
7. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
7.1. Announcements from the Chair.
7.1.1. PPCC Holiday Party. Barbara Kohn thanked the volunteers responsible for set up and all those on the council who contributed to tonight’s event.
7.2. Announcements from Governmental Representatives – None.
7.3. Announcements from Board Members and Advisors.
7.3.1. Janet Turner thanked Barbara Kohn for her creativity and hours of dedication contributed toward tonight’s event.
7.3.2. Christy Dennis thanked the MKPOA for donating the helium for the balloons and the sound system. Christy also acknowledged Jim Rea for his work on the sound system.
7.3.3. Donna Vaccarino stated what a privilege it has been to serve on the Council and thanked the TCA for the ability to attend a meeting in this beautiful canyon. Donna reminded the Board that on January 26, 2013 the PPCC would host a civic meeting at Gilbert Hall relative to the Planning Department’s zoning code overhaul. The Board and public are invited to attend. Chris Spitz reminded the Board about all of the PPCC’s work on Core Findings and urged the Board to follow this issue.
7.3.4. Jennifer Malaret thanked Janet Turner for attending the City’s Public Safety Committee Meeting where the vote was unanimous to forward the CCFO to full City Council within the following month. Jennifer also announced that she attended the PLUM committee hearing on Tuesday relative to the Citywide Sign Ordinance and urged Board Members to follow the issues related to billboards as reported in the LA Times and other publications.
8. Reports from Committees — None.
9. Old Business — None.
10. New Business.
10.1. 2012 Community Service of the Year Award, Marguerite Perkins-Mautner (presented by Norman Kulla).
(1) Norman fondly recalled working with Marguerite during her many years of service on the community council. Norman congratulated Marguerite on her receipt of the award as Marguerite has demonstrated what community service and civic involvement looks like. Norman expressed that the City of Los Angeles is very grateful for Marguerite’s efforts and making the City a better place to live and work.
(2) Marguerite spoke and expressed her gratitude for the acknowledgement but more for the opportunity that she had to serve the Palisades community since 1961 when she became a member of the Riviera Homeowner’s Association. Marguerite told the audience that she was appointed to the council by Lila Gordon and has served the PPCC ever since that time on prominent commissions including Vice Chair from 1998-2000. Marguerite fondly recalled riding in the July 4th parade and organizing the holiday party for many, many years.
(3) Barbara Kohn thanked the committee (Richard Cohen, Jack Allen and Harry Sondheim) who recommended Marguerite for this award. Barbara noted Marguerite’s contributions to the PPCC that were numerous, including dinner committees, community representations and outreach, the newsletter, Vice Chair and HOA responsibilities.
11. General Public Comment – None.
12. Adjournment. Barbara Kohn adjourned the meeting at 8:10 PM.
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