Scroll down for all 2024 meeting minutes.
Return to Index of 2024 Meeting Minutes
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings held via Zoom videoconference and recorded for secretarial purposes only (May 23rd meeting to be held in hybrid format — online and in-person at the Palisades Branch Library, 861 Alma Real Dr., Pacific Palisades).
MINUTES FROM JANUARY 11th 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The PPCC mission was read by Sue Kohl.
2. Roll-call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
Voting members present: Maryam Zar, Sue Kohl, Beth Holden-Garland, David Card, Cindy Simon, Murray Levy, Steve Cron, Nancy Niles, Karen Ridgley, Julie Silliman, Andrew Wolfberg, Chris Spitz, John Padden, Alisa Wolfson, Barbara Kohn, Kevin Niles, Genevieve Bostic, Ryan Craig, Courtney Macker, Hagop Tchakerian.
Non-voting members present: Cindi Young, Bruce Schwartz, Michael Edlen, LeeAnne Sanderson, Daphne Gronich, Cathy Russell, James Alexakis, Jessica Rogers.
3. Introduction of attendees.
There were no special attendees.
4. Approval of Minutes. The October 26 and November 9, 2023 minutes were approved without objection.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The agenda was considered as presented.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer was absent but the President reported that our bank balance was $52,512.64, and that our annual holiday fundraiser event, the holiday dinner and awards gala, was a success, with many attending and positive cash flow from ticket sales and auctions. A full report from the treasurer is forthcoming.
7. General Public Comment. There was no general public comment.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The Chair reiterated that the 2023 Holiday event held on December 6th at the Draycott was a great success. Recap and pictures are available online.
8.1.2. The President reported on positions and letter since the last meeting which can be reviewed on line Crossing Guard , Metro TCN & Tree Protection Enforcement .
8.1.3. The President expanded on the Canyon School crossing guard matter, explaining that she had spoken to Michael Amster and subsequently sent an email to LATOD’s Fernando Navarrete, urging him to confer with DOT officials and make an exception to their standard hiring practices which precluded Canyon from being able to secure a willing candidate who lives in the area and is familiar with Canyon School. DOT responded with a pledge to revisit the issue and the Council Office as well as LAUSD are supporting us. Nothing new has transpired yet. Alisa Wolfson, Education category Primary Representative and Canyon Elementary mom said construction had begun at Canyon and the need for a crossing guard was felt more than ever. She said, at this point, they did not wish to dictate who to hire, just that they hire someone immediately. The President said she would pick up on that new development and reach back out to reh City and DOT to urge this matter along. Michael Amster from the Council Office and Allison Holdorff from LAUSD both said they would help. The President reminded them that they are cc’d on the email string.
8.1.4. The President offered updates regarding public safety matters and said she continues to work on a pole-top camera pilot focused on our parks and open spaces which seem to be an ongoing concern for residents who report vandalism and youth disruptions in and around the Palisades Rec Center. She said discussions are moving in the right direction with city and state agencies indicating their strong support for the pilot. With new information made available to the VP and others, she said she believes she can bring a presentation along with discussion and an action item to the board soon. She said a member of our board had generously donated enough money to install one new camera in our open spaces, at the least. More to come.
8.1.5. There were no developments to report regarding Potrero Canyon coastal access but the President said she had asked the Council office’s new district team and Sen Ben Allen’s staff to report to us at the next meeting.
8.1.6. The President announced that the Area Eight 2nd Alternate application window had closed with no applicants, but that one new applicant submitted interest in the hours after the close of the application window and that the Committee of the Three Chairs would consider it as an application received on a rolling basis.
8.1.7. The President announced that CD11 had hired a new Dist Dir., Juan Fregoso, whom she planned to meet with soon.
8.2. From Officers and Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Sue Kohl, Vice President, reported on a meeting she had with Flock regarding cameras. She was told they have two kinds: license plate readers and “condor” cameras which could pan, tilt and zoom (“PTZ”). She suggested those would be the better ones for us to use in our open spaces. She reported that the annual cost for each camera (which includes maintenance) is $3000 and that Flock now has a contract to work with LAPD (who would monitor the feed). She suggested we hear from them to learn more.
8.2.2. Beth Holden-Garland, Secretary.
Reported that the Mero TCN ordinance has passed LA City Council but that Traci Park has voted against it.
8.2.3. Dave Card, Chair Emeritus had no immediate report but said the Palisades Forestry Committee (PFC) would have draft suggestions to help fortify city enforcement of illegal tree removal for us to consider at an upcoming meeting.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives
8.3.1. Michael Edlen, Area Three 2nd Alternate expanded discussion of community safety and announced that he would help to raise money for a community fund that would enable a potential public/private parentship for pole top cameras that would address our current, and possible future, broadly shared public safety concerns, with a focus on our open spaces and parks.
8.3.2. Cindi Young, Area One 1st Alternate shared that the County run Point in Time (PIT) Homeless Count will be help on Jan 24, and PPTFH needs volunteers and hared a flyer.
8.3.3. Murray Levy, Area One primary shared with us that he had had a conversation and site visit with Traci Park, who very much understood and empathized with the community’s concerns surrounding hillside construction and large-scale development on and around Castellammare/Tramonto, but that no substantive change in policy or permitting support for the current project expected to soon be underway, was promised.
8.3.4. Karen Ridgley, Area Four primary reported the Asilomar Bluffs construction about which we heard in November was now underway. Some signage issues had arisen, but those were resolved with the help of Maryam and the tenacity of Karen and her Area Alternates (Sanderson & Gronich) as well as Michael Amster who quickly reached the right City departments and worked to get the signs moved to a less obtrusive location.
8.3.5. Chris Spitz, At-Large Rep reported that
a. the SAB Center had elected no longer to pursue a construction and development project for a think-tank headquarters in Area One (largely thanks to the work of the LUC and a letter by its co-Chair explaining the processes/steps that lay ahead),
b. the Metro TCN ordinance has been afformed at City Council, albeit with a narrow margin of votes in favor, and Traci Park, along with Yaroslavsky, Raman and Hernandez voting against it. No carve-out for locations closest to Pacific Palisades (as we had requested) were made, but the a sign location proposed near the Ballona wetlands was carved out.
c. She also gave a report on the City Board of Engineering Geotechnical Engineering Field Investigation Summary and Response to her questions regarding slides and erosion on the Via de las Olas bluffs. She shared two links for the board to review:
i. GED FI Summary: https://pacpalicc.org/wp–content/uploads/2023/12/FI–23–222–Via–de–Las–Olas–2–1.pdf
ii. GED Responses: https://pacpalicc.org/wp–content/uploads/2023/12/Via–de–las–Olas_responses–to–Chris–Spitzquestions.pdf
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. American Legion announced their CERT Training session which had recently begun. Information to be found on their website.
8.4.2. None
8.4.3. None
8.4.4. None
8.4.5. PPRA took a lead in the discussion of unpermitted food stand activity which the President pledged to follow up about and bring speakers to inform the community of regulations related to street vending.
They also mentioned the repairs needed on Sunset Blvd & La Cruz, which the city informed us are already underway, and they informed us about the very important work they are doing with Flock on license plate reader cameras which they plan to install on 14 private properties which have agreed to be part of the project. They are in close touch with LAPD and are well underway with plans. They will continue to update us as they progress.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported that a South American robbery gang had been apprehended and that the reduction in thefts is reflected in his most recent police report. He suggested we all remain vigilant, but that the Palisades continues to be safe and on the low end of crime trends.
With respect to the assistance that Flock Camera information can provide to LAPD, he said some wrong-doers will white out their plates or use temporary plates, but the information can be helpful because the cameras have high quality output and can help identify vehicles with even decals or scratches on the car. It can be very helpful.
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood reported that he helped cleaned up the Wilshire underpass graffiti and along the VA cemetery.
He said he would help us learn more about food vendor permits (County Public Health) and shared a link.
He reported that the Dog Park is proceeding with RAP having pursues Measure A funding for the Dog Park and the Rec and Parks Commission will be recommending it on the 28th of January. Lindsey Horvath’s office will be instrumental in helping expedite funding.
He reported on the Asilomar Stabilization Project and the recent mudslide in the bowl. He stated that RAP has implemented an interim measure to reduce the water (which BOE has determined is not coming from the stabilization project). He is working to uncover where it is coming from.
He explained that establishing a phone line for noise complaint reports is not forthcoming, but he is working with BOE to establish a mechanism by which community can complain about noise. It was suggested that PPCC write a letter.
Sue Kohl asked about Via de las Olas where it connects with Via de la Paz and the state of the bluffs there which need BOE attention.
8.5.3. Radmehr Noroozi, SD 24, Field Representative, Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood and Westside – not present.
8.5.4. Skylar Payab, AD 42, Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood – not present.
8.5.5. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass – not present.
8.5.6. Zac Gaidzick, Coastal and westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor, Lindsey Horvath said the 2024 homeless count is critical, and will be held on Jan 24th on the westside. See theycountwillyou.org. The President asked Zac if he could help us get SPA 5 leader to the meeting and see if she can help disaggregate the results for specifically Pacific Palisades. He said he would ask.
8.5.7. Allison Holdorff announced that the District will be funding cameras for Paul Revere Middle School, tables and shade for Marquez and they are standing by to help wit Canyon School.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives.
8.6.1. WRAC updates. Chris Spitz & Maryam Zar reported that the WRAC HOC met and determined that:
i. To support Traci Park (CF 23-0914), which calls for recommendations for a citywide program to designate streets where RVs/oversize vehicles can safely park with access to services.
ii. Request that the restriction in LAMC Sec. 41.18 on camping near designated sensitive uses be extended to expressly restrict dwelling in vehicles of all sizes.
iii. To invite Councilmembers Park and Yaroslavsky, along with Sup Horvath and Va Lecia Adams of LAHSA to an in-person event where they can answer regional questions related to homelessness concern.
8.6.2. PCH Taskforce meeting update – no formal update.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees and community groups.
9.1. LUC update & report:
Chris Spitz, LUC Co-Chair reported that the Committee is working on recommendations to address hillside construction issues. She also reported that she has received communication from the Director of the SAB headquarters project would not be progressing.
10. Old Business – none.
11. New Business.
11.1. [WRAC-recommended Motion]. The board took up the WRAC Recommended Motion to Support CF 21-1469-S2/ alternative corrective sidewalk repairs: (refers to City Council file 21–1469–S2), and passed the following two part motion unanimously:
“PPCC supports CF 21-1469-S2 in addressing the need for more cost effective and efficient processes for repairing sidewalks, which are dangerously risky throughout the Westside. PPCC further requests that the report-back include recommendations for measures to protect existing street trees during sidewalk repair. “
12. Adjournment – the meeting was adjourned at 8:10PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM JANUARY 25th 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission.
The meeting was called to order at 6:02PM and Chris Spitz read the PPCC mission.
2. Roll-call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
Voting Board members: Maryam Zar, Sue Kohl, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Dave Card, Cindi Young, Steve Cron, Michael Edlen, Daphne Gronich, Kimberly Bloom, Cindy Simon, Julie Silliman, Andrew Wolfberg, Chris Spitz, John Padden, Aileen Haugh, Alisa Wolfson (present for part of the meeting), Barbara Kohn, Genevieve Bostic, Ryan Craig, Gabrielle Gottlieb, Jessica Rogers.
Non-voting Board members: Joanna Spak, Quentin Fleming, Harlan Hogue, Alan Goldsmith, Rick McGeagh, Andy Frew, James Alexakis, Hagop Tchakerian, Bruce Schwartz.
The President certified that we have quorum.
3. Introduction of attendees: none [no special attendees]
4. Approval of Minutes. The January 11, 2024 minutes were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The agenda was considered as presented.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer reported that the account balance at US bank stands at $51,435.43. Most banking activity surrounded the holiday event. We have recently paid $1000 to our accountant. She reported that the Holiday event netted $7958.84, largely from tickets sales, auction and program advertising.
7. General Public Comment. There was no general public comment.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President reported on previous letters sent since the last meeting and said she had followed up with CD11 and DOT regarding the Canyon School crossing guard as well as the linked letter: https://mcusercontent.com/e67def3ada76c274bac379123/files/f8e178fa-d9dc-cec7-7b28-d680fe95fdcc/In_support_of_Dog_Park_2024.01.pdf
8.1.2. The president updated the board regarding public safety matters including cameras for open spaces. She plans to speak to LA Parks Foundation for cameras and has spoken to Flock for Condor cameras. Flock looks like it will be affordable for us. RAP has also price quoted foot patrols for us using a RAP vendor. Community funding seems to be a possibility, but RAP has advised that we may need to use their technology and camera resources in order to install cameras in the Park. The President will be meeting with RAP camera team in the upcoming week, alongside Sue Kohl and Michael Edlen.
8.1.3. The President announced that the outreach process for Potrero Canyon Park bridge project will begin in February. She also updated the board that the Potrero Canyon Park signs (which PPCC approved) have been printed and are awaiting installation.
8.1.4. The President updated the board regarding her conversation with new CD11 Dis.t Dir., Juan Fregoso, who has promised to work on amassing a coastal public safety team that includes Rangers, sanitation, LAPD and more, specifically for the coastline. The President said she is looking into council files to see what kind of support she can find for Potrero Canyon Ranger support. She has found a Council File that she and others are chasing to bring to fruition.
8.1.5. The President announced that the Board of Recreation and Parks Commissioners will meet at the Palisades Recreation Center on March 21, 2024. She urged Palisadians to attend. She and Dave Card also informed the board that the RAP Commission approved Measure A funds for the Palisades Dog Park (advocated for by PPCC and the Council Office), at the south end of Temescal Park.
8.1.6. The President reported that there are talks underway regarding a community garden in perhaps two places: one traditional one in the flat area adjacent to the playground and one native garden (suggested by Valerie Serna of Resilient Palisades) in the front area of the Park that is concave and lacking in sunlight, but is the site of many adverse youth activities that have concerned the community. Park Director Jasmine Dowlatshahi and CD11 Field Deputy Michael Amster believe using that space for a community garden will deter that activity.
8.1.7. The President updated the board on the status of CF 15-0389-S2 which seeks to confer preferential status to PPCC and BCC at City hearings & proceedings.
8.2. From Officers and Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Sue Kohl, Vice President, reported that talks continue with Flock regarding the Condor cameras. She had a call with them where some information was exchanged and the conversation continues, depending on what Rap allows. She also reported that the homeless count convened at Corpus Christi Church a few mornings ago, very early, and it went very well.
Cindi Young added that it went very well. Breakfast was donated for all, PPTFH outreach team from The People Concern also participated. The count seemed to reveal a few more homeless people than last year – this includes the beach area, although LAHSA had asked that the beach not be counted. The full count will be made available to the public in June.
8.2.2. Beth Holden-Garland, Secretary had no updates, but did voice her support for the community garden idea.
8.2.3. Dave Card, Chair Emeritus gave his updates above, in conjunction with the President. He also informed the board about city workshops around a master plan for the city’s tree canopy and its development. He encouraged the community and residents to visit the planning department website, as well as the last PPCC newsletter, to see how they can connect by zoom and in-person to join workshops.
Dave Card also asked for Michael Amster to give due attention to the retaining wall at the Palisades Recreation Center which seemed to be cracking.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Cindi Young, Area One 1st Alternate gave an update on the homeless count. See above.
8.3.2. Murray Levy, Area One primary was not present
8.3.3. Daphne Gronich, Area Four 2nd Alternate reported that a couple of residents on Lower Las Casas have complained about water and flooding from Sunset, where water pooled 3-4 feet out into the street, and they asked for storm drains to be checked. They’d like to have someone from BOE look at it and add storm drain access along the block so that water runs off better, before the water picks up speed and misses the one and only storm drain. She will take pictures of future rains to demonstrate the problem.
Daphne then invited an area resident to speak about a landslide that came down the bluffs and blocked the driveway to and from the Palisades Bowl mobile home area. It was reported that RAP provided sandbags in anticipation of the rains, which were helpful, but residents surveyed the area and found that there is a big storm drain that has a plastic-coated thick mesh covering it. EPA standards require a double netted mesh protection, but the concern is that if these are placed in a crooked manner, they create a barrier which prevents the water from draining. That may be what is happening, resulting in the water jumping the curb and descending upon the bowl residential area. The Bowl manager has pledged to keep the area cleared and tidy, so as to help the drain area clearance, and keep the downhill runoff to a minimum. The President asked if residents feel supported by city agencies and if they need help. She was told residents did feel supported but thought there needed to be better communication between city agencies. The President asked Michael Amster if he needs us to write to him with a review of all areas in the Palisades that need BOE attention due to settling roads or curbs that needs repair attention. He said that would be helpful and that he will have more to report at the next meeting, but that these are issues of funding and resource allocation, as well as getting multiple city agencies to come to together depending on the issues.
8.3.4. Chris Spitz, PPCC At-Large Rep, mentioned areas on Via de Las Olas as well as the area closer to Friends Street (Potrero Canyon Access Road) which have had emergency tape marking them for much needed BOE attention for more than a year. BOE has recommended capital funding for improvements, but there is no news as to when the remediation will take place or with what funding. There was consensus that city agencies need to collaborate and take these street and bluff repairs seriously. She also said there would be a leaf blower motion, forthcoming.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Jessica Rogers of PPRA reported that they have been in contact with LAPD to install no parking signs along Sunset and Palisades Drive in order to be able to enforce no parking/vehicular dwelling laws along those roads.
8.4.2. John Padden reported that PRIDE had installed a community clock at the corner of Sunset and Swarthmore, on the US Bank property, and was looking forward to the dedication event planned for Sunday, January 28th. He reported that the clock had been very well received by the community and he looked forward to seeing everyone at the ceremony, to be MC’d by Sam Lagana, along with pizza and sparkling cider. The president shared the informational flyer.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported that he sent out his crime update but wanted to report an increase in vehicle related crimes along the beach area. There is video footage and photographs of possible suspects, so an undercover operation is currently being considered. He will continue to update us. He reminded everyone not to leave wallets in cars while walking, surfing or enjoying the beach since those will be stolen and used while owners are enjoying the beach. He also suggested, again, not leaving keys on tires or generally leaving anything visible on car seats, even at night.
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood shared that CM Park introduced a motion to recognize Community Councils at city agencies. He announced a tree trimming and community clan-up event at the Brentwood Science magnet school – he invited everyone to attend. He said there will be others, and Pacific Palisades would certainly have one, as well. He reported that the Sunset Boulevard pothole is being addressed. He also announced that the prospects for a crossing guard for The Canyon School are slim. Canyon School is ranked very low in the priority list of LADOT for crossing guards. The President said she had communicated, since the last meeting, with LADOT and the Council Office that Canyon School construction had begun and that the need for a crossing guard at Canyon was even more urgent. She had flagged the matter saying the school is now experiencing a dangerous confluence of traffic elements that make it all the more urgent to have a crossing guard at the site. She asked that LADOT revisit the crossing guard matter and prioritize the hiring as pedestrians, passenger vehicles, mass transit busses, commercial trucks and now construction vehicles converge upon the school daily, adding to the flow and frequency of traffic.
A conversation ensued regarding the importance of impressing upon the City and LADOT how important it is to fill job vacancies in the Palisades when there are willing people to fill them, since it is difficult to fill thee spots as travel to the Palisades can be difficult for the usual applicant. Dave Card asked to see the list of criteria that comprise the priority determination for schools rankled high in need of crossing guards and Chris Spitz asked for the Councilwoman to interject herself into the situation and advocate for filling this important role, in person. Michael Amster said he would continue to escalate the matter. They will also explore other ways to increase safety on Entrada.
8.5.3. Radmehr Nowroozi, SD 24, Field Representative for Palisades, Brentwood and Westwood reported about street vending bills and the legislative regulatory landscape surrounding this microbusiness. In 2018 SB946 decriminalized and simplified street vending in CA. It said local authorities could no longer prevent vendors on sidewalks (public rights of way) unless the community health, safety or welfare was at risk, nor could they regulate the number of vendors in each community. It also limited the ways in which vendors could be cited (limiting fines) only if the health, safety or welfare of the community is at risk. Citations cannot carry serious charges – they must not be misdemeanors or felonies. This became a problem in SM with fire as well as health and public safety risks on and near the SM Pier. SB 1290 was an attempt by Sen Allen to bring about narrowly tailored enforcement mechanisms to protect the public health safety and welfare. It died due to push back from those who advocate for street vendors. SB 972 later passed decriminalizing sidewalk vending by creating a new category for retail food vending, but although Sen Allen voted for it, it did not adopt any of Sen Allen’s public safety provisions (which he had hoped would be incorporated into the bill). These bills have together created a landscape where local government has very few means by which to enforce limitations on street vending in their communities. Currently, the only enforcement and citation mechanism is with the County’s food safety regulators, per county health codes.
The president explained that this update was prompted by a concern on the part of some board members about street vendors on sunset boulevard, in front of Ralph’s in Pacific Palisades. The President learned that Ralph’s had issued a cease-and-desist order to these vendors and they had moved. Still, community members were interested to learn more about street vending laws, and so she asked Rad and Michael to provide the board with pertinent information.
Michael explained that if residents are concerned with the health and safety of the food being sold, they must contact the county department of public health; if residents are concerned about the obstruction of the public right of way (PROW) they must contact BSS (311 request) and the vendor would be obligated to show their permit to the BSS investigator; if residents are concerned about the threat of fire they should contact LAFD.
Chris shared that the city issues permits to food vendors, who must ensure that there is 5 feet of space for passage along with certain health approved elements at their stands/carts. She said years ago, PPCC took a position against street vending bills in the interest of seeing more local control. She said that fees would be even further reduced, according to the information from the CAO in connection with a recent motion in City Council. She asked what would happen if these vendors are cited and citations are not paid. Brian Espin responded with personal experience during enforcement, saying that the food items can be confiscated (discarded), but not the equipment. The vendor can appeal the citation, but nothing stops them from coming back the next day, and setting up again. He said the health department can confiscate the food but since there is no real penalty that comes with the citation, vendors do often return to the same locations, called ‘hot spots”, where the income is lucrative.
The President thanked everyone and acknowledged the need to create income and small business opportunities for traditionally underserved communities, but added that local control was important and that she would venture to guess that if Sen. Allen were to float another bill to bring back commonsense controls, the PPCC and others would be inclined to support more local control. Rad Nowroozi thanked the PPCC and reiterated that most vendors are good faith actors taking advantage of new business opportunities within the confines of the law.
8.5.4. Skylar Payab, AD 42, Field Deputy for Pacific Palisades & Brentwood, was not present.
8.5.5. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy for Mayor Karen Bass, was not present.
8.5.6. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal and Westside Field Deputy for County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, was not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives.
8.6.1. WRAC updates were tabled
8.6.2. PCH Taskforce meeting update from Lou Kamer, PPCC Transportation Advisor, was not given.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees and community groups.
9.1. Committee of the Three Chairs – Card, Spitz, Zar
9.1.1. Nomination of Area Eight 2nd Alternate for board affirmation was deferred to the next meeting.
9.2. PPCC Land Use Committee (LUC) — Steve Cron and Chris Spitz, co-chairs.
9.2.1. The LUC recommended a letter for board approval, putting forth suggested solutions to hillside construction problems to be sent to the Council Office. The letter was approved unanimously. (See the letter here: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/PPCC-Hillside-Construction-Letter.pdf )
10. Old Business: there was no old business.
11. New Business:
[11.1. Motions re Vehicle Dwelling & Parking]. Chris Spitz, At-large primary representative made the following two Motions regarding vehicle Dwelling & Parking. The board approved both motions.
11.1.1. Pacific Palisades Community Council supports CF 23-0914 (Park), which calls for recommendations for a citywide program to designate streets where RVs/oversize vehicles can safely park with access to services, including housing navigation, portable restrooms, automotive repair and septic tank disposal, and would also restrict RV parking in residential areas, commercial corridors and other sensitive areas.
This motion was seconded by Sue Kohl and passed unanimously.
11.1.2. Pacific Palisades Community Council requests that the restriction in LAMC Sec. 41.18 on camping near sensitive uses be defined to include dwelling in vehicles of all sizes as well as all forms of camping within 500 feet of sensitive uses, including libraries, parks, schools and day-care centers, and that Councilwoman Park bring a motion in City Council to amend LAMC 41.18 for this purpose.
This motion was seconded by Kimberly Bloom and passed with one abstention.
12. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:30PM, without objection.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 8th 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:05PM and Karen Ridgley read the community Council mission: http://pacpalicc.org/index.php/council–bylaws/.
2. Roll-call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
Voting members present: Maryam Zar, Sue Kohl, Jenny Li, Dave Card, Beth Holden Garland, Murray Levy, Steve Cron, Haldis Toppel, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Cindy Simon, Julie Silliman, Andrew Wolfberg, Chris Spitz, Bruce Schwartz, Aileen Haugh, Alisa Wolfson, Eric Dugdale, Kevin Niles, Genevieve Bostic, Ryan Craig, Hagop Tchakerian, Courtney Macker.
Non-voting members present: Cindi Young, Joanna Spak, Diana Daniele, Nancy Niles, Michael Edlen, Daphne Gronich, Betsy Handler, Harlan Hogue, Andy Frew, Richard Blumenberg, James Alexakis.
3. Introduction of attendees.
Introduction of new CD 11 District Director, Juan Fregoso, introduced himself and gave some background as to his experience and path to CD 11. He pledged to meet with the community on February 21st. He said he’d confirm a date for an onsite tour of the Palisades and a meet and greet with the community. In the last year he was the Director of Homelessness and Housing for Councilwoman Park. He has been with the City of LA for 9 years (CD 13 previously/Mitch O’Farrell) and so he’s new to the District but not new to the City. He was Field Deputy for Echo Park and Elysian Park and brings that experience to this role. He still oversees homelessness, as well as the District and CD 11 deputies. Part of the big vision is advocating for additional resources in the Coastal Zone. These efforts focus on additional resources to address tourism, disaster impact and more. He is currently hoping to secure a Coastal Care Plus team for the coastal zone. He is also looking to secure dedicated coastal rangers and dedicated DOT support for the coastal zone – but budgeting is an issue and that’s where they are advocating. Juan was asked when the bridge project contractor, Jacobs, would be coming to the community for feedback. He said that would be in March. The trail project is still ”slogging through.”
Michael Amster also introduced Dellarose Santos, who is a former LAHSA member and has a great deal of outreach experience and will be assisting the West LA office in the field with casework as well as focus on larger plans to address homelessness in the Northern part of the District. She said she looked forward to working with us all. She will help handle maintenance and infrastructure issues, as well as homeless issues and individualized case work. Questions arose regarding sidewalk repairs. Michael Amster said there is a long queue for those repairs and can take up to 10 years – and is a result of a class action lawsuit for failure to provide accessibility as required by federal law, that was settled by LA City several years ago. Michael said he and Dellarose work as a team and he remains our main point of contact.
LAPD SLO Brian Espin introduced Alisha Jordan, new Patrol Captain for West LA. Captain Jordan said she is excited about being here in West LA again – was here in 2001 as Sergeant. She’s been the Patrol Captain for 8 weeks. She looks forward to getting acquainted with Pacific Palisades. Has worked in investigations, narcotics and as a detective for the last almost 20 years. She enjoys the job and taking care of the community seriously. Every day, she speaks with her officers so they know what she expects and how they can communicate better to benefit the community. She looks forward to hearing from us to learn how to serve us better. She explained that she’s responsible for patrol rounds and indications of where for them to go or concentrate their rounds if there are problem spots. She likes hearing from the community and communicates with Brian daily. She likes to hear from the SLOs as well as the patrol officers. She often stays late to ensure that the officers have access to her. She also listens to her leadership team: sergeants and watch commander as well as SLOs. She plans to go out with them and learn more about her area of command. Dave Card told her about the PCH Task Force and encouraged her to attend. Captain Jordan said she has been working with LAPD Traffic West, and knows there was a traffic task force underway the last two days. She also said she’d be mindful of issues that arise related to the Genesis Golf Tournament coming to town soon, including traffic control and appropriate public conflict, including drinking in public. There were also questions about motorcycle and motorized bike gangs riding through town. Captain Jordan said she’s heard about this and was working out the best time and manner to deploy officers in the most effective way. Brian Espin said he would have more on this.
4. Approval of Minutes: The minutes for January 25, 2024 were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The agenda was considered as presented. The President announced that Jackie Wiley, Outreach Specialist from CA Dept of Financial Protection & Innovation would be our guest on February 22nd and the March 14th meeting would be hybrid with an in-person element at the Palisades Library meeting room.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer reported that our balance was $58,856.70. An outstanding check for the Park still remains to be cashed. We had a little more income from the wine fundraiser. The President explained that PPCC took in a $7500 donation from a Palisades Recreation Center patron who wished to donate by credit card, and that we will remit the donation (minus any fees charged to us by the PayPal processor) to the Palisades Community Center Committee, a local 501(C)(3) which accepts and disperses donations for the Park.
7. General Public Comment. There was no general public comment.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President reported on positions and letters/significant correspondence since the last meeting: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/PPCC-Hillside-Construction-Letter.pdf , https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CF-23-0914-Park.RV_.pdf and from last meeting: https://mcusercontent.com/e67def3ada76c274bac379123/files/f8e178fa-d9dc-cec7-7b28-d680fe95fdcc/In_support_of_Dog_Park_2024.01.pdf
8.1.2. The President gave an update regarding cameras for open spaces and that she has spoken to LA Parks Foundation tech people who informed her and VP Sue Kohl that we would have to use RAP tech and suggested we invest in an electric systems upgrade at the Park in order to accommodate cameras as well as better lights – both of which RAP offers and has implemented in other parks. He suggested we advocate with the Council Office for budgeting. The President said she would invite him to an upcoming meeting to tell us more and take questions. We are also considering foot patrols using a RAP vendor in order to help put more eyeballs on and around our park problem spots (to help LAPD). See more from Sue Kohl report, item 8.2.1. below.
8.1.3. The President confirmed that Michael Amster has confirmed that Jacobs Engineering will begin community outreach surrounding the bridge project, in March.
8.1.4. See above.
8.1.5. The President reminded everyone that the LA Park Commission will meet in Pacific Palisades, at the Rec Center on March 21st. The EC will send a letter of welcome and highlight out priority concerns, before then.
8.1.6. The President informed the board that she had recently learned that Al Fresco dining alcohol sales permits are planned to be issued through a ministerial “administrative process” with no community notice requirement. She wanted the board to be aware in case we wished to comment on that.
8.2. From Officers and Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Sue Kohl, Vice President, reported that her talk with RAP tech Jimmy Newsome was that cameras can’t be done without better lights, the lights need a new electric infrastructure, and he thought we needed about 15 cameras. He said a minimum $500,000 investment in the electric infrastructure upgrade was needed. Flock reps then called off the meeting planned for the next day. Hagob Tchakerian (Rotary/Service Clubs Alternate) suggested cameras on the main office building, which the President said the tech people said could be done. He also suggested that the cost was too high, but the President explained that the City has its own fees that tend to be exorbitantly high, but they are as they are. He also said Potrero Canyon had electric infrastructure because it has sprinklers. The President affirmed that Chair Emeritus Dave Card had confirmed that that’s true. Dave Card said there is a comprehensive electric blueprint that should be studied before an assumption is made that there is insufficient electric infrastructure to accommodate lights and cameras.
8.2.2. Beth Holden-Garland, Secretary – no updates.
8.2.3. Dave Card, Chair Emeritus – no updates.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Cindi Young, Area One 1st Alternate, reported that PPTFH remains in limbo as to substantive responses from the County to assert whether beach areas were counted in the LAHSA Point in Time homeless count.
8.3.2. Murray Levy, Area One Primary rep, had no Hillside construction updates.
8.3.3. Karen Ridgley, Area Four Primary rep, said rain issues persist at both the Palisades Bowl as well as Tahitian Terrace communities but both areas report having seen some improvement in the runoff and rain issues. The Las Casas storm drain issue persists, and they hope CD11 can help secure a commitment for more storm drains being constructed at Las Casas, so as to stave off the kind of pooled runoff water that encroaches into the street, making it impassable. She also mentioned construction noise which goes on now on Saturdays. There was some disagreement as to the necessity of Saturdays (though the end of April), and the President said she would help resolve that communication break down and see if we can keep Saturdays off the construction schedule. Daphne Gronich, Area Four 2nd Alternate, asked about a video of intruders in Asilomar bluffs/Seabec Circle sent by LeeAnne Sanderson (Area Four 1st Alternate) and also requested that talks continue regarding mitigation of water run off on Las Casas. The President asked Michael Amster to follow up. SLO Espin said he send the video to the crime analysis division and is waiting for follow up or identification information. He will keep us posted. SLO Espin was asked to do more to put information out to the community when crime occurs. Courtney Macker, PPRA Primary rep, asked if in his absence someone else at the West LA headquarters could send notifications and inform the community of crime occurring or things to be watchful for. Haldis Toppel, Area Three Primary rep, shared that in the past she had her “e-cam” messages which she compiled with information that she was able to get from the LAPD West headquarters by calling the front office and asking for information. The President said she was glad Haldis reminded us all that she provided this citizen service to the community for a very long time, and lamented her inability to call and get similar caliber information any longer. The President asked SLO Espin to confer with his LAPD command team and come up with a way to get information flowing to Palisadians.
8.3.4. Chris Spitz, At-Large rep, gave a presentation about a pilot measure regarding street takeovers citywide, which is an activity that disrupts communities. The intersection of PCH and Temescal Canyon Road is one of the top five areas of concern for street takeovers in LAPD’s West division. According to a police report, during 2020-2022 there was some concern over instances involving vehicles doing “doughnuts” on Temescal (although not in the PCH intersection), and now CD11 (Kevin Brunke) and LAPD (Brian Espin) are willing to work with us to see if this activity is still ongoing. There had been a suggestion to add surveillance cameras or rumble bars – but we’re told that the measure most likely to be utilized on Temescal, if warranted, would be hardening the center line with bollards that prevent doughnuts (and u-turns). Mr. Brunke assured Ms. Spitz that community input would be sought before any installation occurs and that our Field Deputy Michael Amster would be our liaison on this matter.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives. None.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available).
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO) Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), reported on the home invasion on Charmel. The suspect is still in custody because this was violent as an armed invasion.
SLO Espin also reported that we’ve seen more of the motorcycle gangs. Last week a gang of young people on bikes went to the Chevron store in the Palisades and looted it (took items). This will appear in the next crime report. Brian says he knows they also steal from CVS, but they don’t report it (they file for insurance and let it go, it seems).
The President asked about the response time to the “hot prowl” that involved a deadly weapon. SLO Espin said they knew who the offender was though a network of tracking task forces that have been implemented throughout LA. In the case of the invasion on Charmel, the offender was being watched and so he was able to be apprehended quickly. SLO Espin stressed the importance of cameras which helped in identifying the suspect. SLO Espin also said that a Street Racer task force was deployed, by Capt. Gabaldon after hearing from the community regarding fast cars peeling through our village streets and could be seen on the roads today. The President read an email exchange with the Captain and thanked him for the quick turnaround. SLO Espin said they use social media and photographs to identify and find the speeding drivers.
Alisa Wolfson (Canyon School/Education Primary) asked if the home invasion was related to another break-in in the neighborhood. SLO Espin said the suspect is responsible for a few burglaries in the Palisades.
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood, reported that as to the street takeover program, the LA Dept. of Transportation is happy to have conversations with the community. Measure HLA is on the March ballot, and if it passes, CM Park has made a motion to figure out how to implement HLA, if it were to pass.
Streets LA, LADWP and LA SAN report 600 mud or landslide reports across the city and more than half have been addressed. 460 tree emergencies have been reported with more than 90% addressed. Locations in Pacific Palisades are also being addressed. Michael introduced a Feb. Winter Storm County survey. He’d like Palisadians to take the survey.
Michael further reported that Jacobs will conduct outreach for the bridge project feedback in March.
He also said that the grading at the Paseo Miramar project is almost done, so the bulk of the impact on the community has passed.
8.5.3. Radmehr Nowroozi, SD 24, Field Representative, Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood and Westside, was not present.
8.5.4. Skylar Payab, AD 42, Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood, was not present.
8.5.5. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass, was not present.
8.5.6. Zac Gaidzick, Coastal and Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor, Lindsey Horvath, was not present.
8.5.7. Allison Holdorff (senior advisor to LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin) reported that in August, LAUSD will install cameras at Revere. She also noted that Kenter Canyon will have a great community building event over the weekend. The President asked why the cameras took three years from approval to installation, and why so expensive. Ms. Holdorff explained that this was a district-wide camera program, so they shelved the original order and funded this new one with special purchase orders and a new timeline. They saved a ton of money and are rolling the cameras out as fast as they can.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives. None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. Committee of the Three Chairs (David Card, Chair; Chris Spitz and Maryam Zar). The committee nominated Daliah Setareh as the 2nd Alternate for Area Eight, to join the team of Andrew Wolfberg (Primary) and Eli Safaie-Kia (1st Alternate). Daliah was confirmed without objection. The board welcomed her to the PPCC.
9.2. PPCC Land Use Committee (LUC/ Chris Spitz, Chair). The LUC recommended that the board adopt the letter linked below as a statement of opposition to a proposal by the LA Dept. of City Planning (DCP) to change construction noise thresholds. DCP proposes lowering these thresholds without submitting to a community comment and City Council review process. LUC recommends opposition to both the substantive lowering of thresholds as well as the streamlined process of adopting the changes.
The proposed position was presented to the Board after discussion and review of relevant materials. See the LUC report at: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/LUC-Report-re-Construction-Noise.pdf. The board unanimously approved the position and the following letter: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Draft-PPCC-letter-CEQA-construction-noise.pdf.
10. Old Business. None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Motion re Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers. Resilient Palisades (Ryan Craig) and Chris Spitz made a motion in strong support of CF 24-0055, requesting support for measures to enforce the city’s restriction on gas-powered leaf blowers. No second was necessary because the motion was brought by two voting members.
Motion Background: Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) has long-supported regulations restricting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in residential neighborhoods. Advocacy by determined, environmentally conscious Palisadians led to enactment of the existing ban in Los Angeles. A respected community environmental organization and member of the PPCC board, Resilient Palisades, has engaged in educational outreach campaigns to Palisadians and gardeners (in both English and Spanish) on harm caused by gas-powered blowers. In addition, in 2023, Resilient Palisades coordinated and funded purchases of nearly 50 commercial electric blowers for gardeners who work in the Palisades and committed to give up their gas-powered blowers. Unfortunately, over the years PPCC has regularly heard reports about residents’ illegal use of gas-powered leaf blowers and inadequate enforcement of the ban.
Motion: PPCC strongly supports the motion in Council File 24-0055 (Raman), requesting a report-back on measures to better enforce the City’s longstanding restriction on gas-powered leaf blowers within 500 ft. of residences, as well as development of an educational program and outreach to residents, landscapers and gardeners with information about the current regulations, the environmental impact and available rebate and trade-in programs.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 22nd 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:05 PM and the PPCC mission was read by the president See PPCC Bylaws: http://pacpalicc.org/index.php/council–bylaws/.
2. Roll-call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
The President certified that there was quorum.
Voting members present: Maryam Zar, Sue Kohl, Dave Card, Jenny Li, Murray Levy, Steve Cron, Nancy Niles, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Julie Silliman, Andrew Wolfberg, Mary Mueller, John Padden, Andy Frew, Kevin Niles, Genevieve Bostic, Ryan Craig.
Non-voting members present: Joanna Spak, Michael Edlen, Leeanne Sanderson, Cindi Young, James Alexakis.
3. Introduction of attendees:
The President introduced Jackie Wiley from the California Department of Financial Protection & Innovation, Targeted Outreach Specialist, to speak about DFPI and trending scams. She explained that she had first heard Jackie speak at a forum convened by ASM Jacqui Irwin, and invited her to speak to PPCC with important information. Her presentation included the following information, and was accompanied by a presentation now linked here: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DFPI-PYFF-_-PPCC-2-22-2024.pdf
Millions of Californians are falling prey to frauds and scams (especially seniors). it’s important more than ever to learn how to protect your personal and financial information. DFPI’s targeted outreach specialists seek to protect California consumers from unfair, deceptive, and abusive practices that have led to financially damaging millions of consumers. Her enduring advice was: be skeptical of emails looking for help and ALWAYS GO TO THE SOURCE! Do not open links and check emails to make sure the sender is who it proports to be.
Some topics covered will be:
- Cyber/Internet Scams
- Telephone Scams
- ID Theft
- Online Services and more…
4. Approval of Minutes: Draft February 8, 2024, minutes were approved as presented.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The President explained that the next meeting would be held on MARCH 7th, by zoom (virtual). We had planned a March 14th in-person (hybrid) meeting but the bridge project outreach team of Jacobs Engineering and Arellano Consulting would be hosting their first community meeting on the 14th of March (misadvised by the Council Office as to our meeting dates), and we do not wish to jeopardize that, so we have pushed our meeting up one week to March 7th.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer reported that our balance is $51,543.73 and very little activity since the last meeting.
7. General Public Comment. There was no general public comment.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President updated the board that the community meet/greet with new CD11 District Dir., Juan Fregoso is planned for Thursday February 29th.
8.1.2. The President reminded everyone that the LA Park Commission will meet in Pacific Palisades on March 21st at the Palisades Recreation Center and that she will be sending a letter of welcome, and community priorities, beforehand.
8.1.3. The President updated the board that the Palisades Rec Center Sr. Park Director informs her that the retaining wall that had been cracked near the Field of Dreams has undergone some district repair and is almost fully repaired.
8.1.4. The President reported that a mind boggling back and forth continues as some members of the community follow up regarding Will Rogers Beach undercount.
8.1.5. The President suggested a possible DA candidates Forum with BCC after the primary election. The board seemed to like the idea.
8.1.6. The President deferred to Karen Ridgley, Area 4 Rep, for a report on Saturday construction at Asilomar Bluff stabilization project.
8.1.7. The President reviewed letters sent since last we met: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/PPCC-letter-construction-noise.pdf and https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CF-23-0914-Park.RV.pdf and https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Council-File-24-0055-Raman-leaf-blowers.pdf
8.2. From Officers and Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Sue Kohl, Vice President – None.
8.2.2. Jenny Li, Treasurer – See Treasurer’s Report, item 6.
8.2.3. Beth Holden-Garland, Secretary – None.
8.2.4. Dave Card, Chair Emeritus reported that PFC is now an incorporated nonprofit organization. He also reported on receiving 18 new trees for the Rustic Canyon Rec Center that were donated by Roberta Conroy and will be planted in the next few weeks. He reported that he would be bringing a motion to approve the purchase of new trees for the Palisades Recreation Center, to replace the Torrey Pines we purchased previously, which have unfortunately died.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Karen Ridgley, Area 4 rep, reported that drilling operations on Saturdays have been suspended for the Asilomar Stabilization Project. Unfortunately, other work continues, and noise is still quite loud. Karen has asked to delay Sat. morning starts to 10am, and for a suspension of machinery noise (beeps). She also reported on a bench donation that has been brought to her attention. The Foundation bench program on the part of City Parks has been suspended and they are looking for new ways/new places where she can donate a bench. Karen is looking for suggestions (PRIDE, Pali Rec Center Park…?)
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Genevieve Bostic, reported that the PP YMCA will be holding its first inaugural Spring Festival and Egg Hunt on Saturday March 30th. They are looking for sponsors. (see https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/YMCA-Impact-Report-2023.pdf)
8.4.2. Ryan Craig, reported that Resilient Palisades will be holding their traditional annual Earth Day Even on the Village Green on Sunday April 14th. The President also pointed out that RP founder, Ingrid Steinberg is being recognized as Woman of the Year at the Palisades/Malibu Joint Chamber. We congratulated her.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available)
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) – SLO Espin was not present but sent his report and promised a robust update at the next meeting.
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood reported that the Councilwoman is working to reduce copper wire across the city with two motions to create a task force to address this theft as well as a rewards program to encourage reporting. He reported that the CM is working on a CC Motion to grant CCs the same priority time for speaking at City Hearings and Meetings (at the request of PPCC President). He also reported that the CM has a motion involving Measure HLA, which would require the DOT and DPW and LAFD to study the impact of Measure HLA on their operations.
Michael also reported that during the storm he elevated the road clearance near Will Rogers Park for City crews so that the Genesis tournament traffic will not overly adversely impact the Palisades. He also reported on a County survey for damage recovery: https://recovery.lacounty.gov/february-2024-winter-storm/ which he encouraged all to take.
He further reported that the Sunset Blvd. sink hole that has since been paved and remedied continues to cause problems for the roadway in front of the City parking lot, and will continue to be addressed by DWP and Bureau of Street Services.
He reminded everyone to attend the Potrero bridge project outreach meeting on the 14th and apologized for having provided erroneous information to Jacobs Engineering, which led them to set their first community meeting date for March 14th.
Michael invited everyone to join him and Juan Fregoso on the 29th of February for a meet and greet, as well as a tentative beach clean-up event at Will Rogers beach, Tower 15, on the 20th of April. Lastly, he said there will be a resource fair on March 17th (SM Blvd. and Corinth) at the LA Municipal Building, providing resources including tax preparation help.
8.5.3. Allison Holdoff, LAUSD Dist. 4 board Member, Nick Melvoin, Senior Advisor was not present.
8.5.4. Radmehr Nowroozi, SD 24, Field Representative, Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood and Westside was not present.
8.5.5. Skylar Payab, AD 42, Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood was not present.
8.5.6. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass was not present.
8.5.7. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal and Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor, Lindsey Horvath was not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives.
There were no reports from Advisors or Representatives.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees and community groups.
There were no reports from Committees or community groups.
10. Old Business: None.
11. New Business: None.
12. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM MARCH 7th 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. PPCC Secretary, Beth Holden-Garland read the Community Council mission: http://pacpalicc.org/index.php/council–bylaws/.
2. Roll-call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
The President called roll and certified that we had quorum.
Voting members present: Maryam Zar, Sue Kohl, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Dave Card, Murray Levy, Diana Daniele, Haldis Toppel, Karen Ridgley, Betsy Handler, Cindy Simon, Julie Silliman, Andrew Wolfberg, Chris Spitz, John Padden, Barbara Kohn, Ryan Craig, Genevieve Bostic, Aileen Haugh, Kevin Niles, Gabrielle Gotlieb, Courtney Macker.
Non-voting members present: Nancy Niles, Leeanne Sanderson, Quentin Fleming, Harlan Hogue, Cathy Russell, Daliah Setareh, James Alexakis, Cindi Young, Joanna Spak, Hagop Tchakerian, Jessica Rogers, Alan Goldsmith.
3. Introduction of attendees.
The President introduced guests: Matt Negrete - Jacobs Engineering Project Manager for the Potrero Canyon Bridge Project, Erin DeMarco – Jacobs Engineering, Deputy Project Manager, Jose Beristain – BOE Engineer & Interim Project Manager, and Jason Jackson, Arellano Consultants (the outreach contractor) Project Manager.
Matt Negrete began the presentation by welcoming the community to the process to unfold. He said tonight they would address project background, current approach, stakeholders (private and public), environmental issues (why no EIR) and the community outreach process. He said he will serve as the Project Manager from Jacobs Engineering and that he has been doing Transportation projects for the last 25 years. He understands the outreach and the technical side of the project and is familiar with technical challenges as well as stakeholder challenges. He is excited to tackle this.
He introduced Jose Beristain with the bridge improvement division of BOE, who has been on the project for many years. He’s been familiar with this project since 2009, in the initial grading and landscaping phase and now for the bridge project. He said Jacobs is “an A team,” especially matched with Arellano and the outreach team. He explained that there are two open coastal development projects that are simultaneously in the works: the trail and the bridge. He explained that in 2016 BOE completed a feasibility study evaluating a tunnel versus a bridge for coastal access, and it was determined that the bridge would be the better option. So that’s why we are here. In 2021, he explained that an $11M grant from Sen Allen’s office made the bridge possible.
In terms of where we are today, he said they are working alongside Caltrans in the PID (infancy of the project life) phase. They are getting together project initiation documents, going through environmental phase and looking at some preliminary alternatives at this time.
Matt said the big picture is that over the next two years, Jacobs will work in partnership with the City and with Arellano to reach out to the community. They will be going through environmental documentation, and preliminary engineering including surveying in the field and mapping as well as geo tech and the environmental impact and some engineering work to figure out crossing alternatives. They will be working with SPF Architects on design (later phase which will also entail multiple outreach meetings for community engagement). Jacobs is on board for two years to make environmental clearance and will be coming to the community more than once. He made clear that the lateral trail project is also being worked on by a separate set of people as a separate project.
He spoke about community stakeholders (as well as public stakeholders). He was on the December call and understands the concerns that community members have raised over public safety aspects of this project. He pledged that sensitivity to the safety of the bridge is a real concern for them, and they plan to make sure anything they do here improves safety in the area, and does not detract from it. They plan to listen and implement feedback. They’re here to listen and not just to talk.
Public stakeholders, he explained, are the CA Coastal Commission, Caltrans, the Council Office and LA County Beaches and Harbors as well as the City Dept. of Public Works. He said they’d be doing an environmental study on this project (not an EIR), although going through the CA Enviro Quality Act (CEQA) as well as the Fed Enviro Protection Act (NEPA). They expect a categorical exclusion to be issued. Caltrans will determine how much environmental impact clearance they will need, but it will be something.
Jason Jackson from Arellano introduced himself and said he was looking forward to the project for both outreach and design. He explained the communications tool kit and working with the CO and Sen Allen’s office to leverage their communication outreach in order to engage the community to take part in the outreach to unfold. Snail mail and flyers posted will also be part of the outreach. There is a website with a fact sheet as well as contact details. Social media and messaging will be consistent and meet with approval to communicate the right message to the public in order to involve as many and as broad a part of the community as possible. Next week’s meeting is to build project awareness to answer baseline questions and bring everybody up to speed. They will be looking to engage new people who may not know about the bridge and want to learn more, and share their ideas.
The second meeting will be in Sept and will bring back the initial draft of concept, presenting that to the public, getting input as well as workshop feedback. This meeting will determine any gaps in thinking (of planner v. community members). The third outreach meeting for this phase will be to bring the final project look – the “preferred alternative”, to the community for approval and ultimately Council Office approval. The next meeting is Thursday, March 14 by Zoom. People will be able to comment in the chat or in the meeting. He encouraged everyone to go to potrerocanyonpedbridgesurvey.org and take the survey to answer questions about habits and intended use for the bridge, as well as locational questions. This is all useful information that will be helpful to them.
The President asked for an email for project feedback and said some of this info has been distributed last week and will be again. Jason said: www.potrerocanyonpedbridge.org is the website. Email: potrerocanyonpedbridge@lacity.org
The President asked if outreach will include the roughly 50 local organizations that PPCC had introduced for outreach. She was told there is an approved tool kit that they will use. She also reminded everyone that while the bridge is desired by the City of LA as a gateway into the City from this western edge, and that communities beyond the Palisades may welcome it, the impact of the bridge will be felt by this community for generations to come, and she asked the outreach team to put that feedback into perspective when they receive it. We will host this bridge for a long time to come and the impact of the bridge is important to our community because it’s not a short-term impact – we will be dealing with the impact of this bridge for generations to come.
The President said she thought there would be more than three outreach meetings planned. Jason explained that we are in the Enviro phase right now and there will be three meetings in this phase, to emerge with a “preferred alternative”. Other two phases will entail three more meetings each.
Chris Spitz asked if a coastal development permit will be obtained for this bridge. Response: There is an existing coastal development permit for the park and they’re not sure if they’ll have to amend that or seek a new permit for the bridge. She asked whether there will an assessment of need for this bridge during the outreach meetings, where people will be able to express their concerns as to the need for this bridge. Response: The 14th will be an introduction to the project to gather feedback from the community. There will be opportunities for people to express their thoughts. However, the project is planned to move forward with implementation of the elements of safety that the community expresses.
Jose said for the past 10 years he’s seen the community sentiment waiver from wanting the bridge to not wanting the bridge back to wanting the bridge. He said the City delayed the Jacobs Task order for the project in order to determine community consensus, but that they are moving forward based on the guidance of the Council Office, which advises that “everybody wants the bridge.” The President clarified that no one has ever been able to determine whether everybody wants the bridge, but that the most recent consensus was to move ahead to the outreach phase so that people could learn about the bridge and its elements (not conceptually but practically) in order to determine whether or not we “want” the bridge. Everyone will have issues and concerns and there are many questions surrounding the project, so the sooner we get into this phase and outreach comes to the community, we’ll better be able to gauge what the project reception looks like, as will the Council Office. Jose reiterated that the Council Office is driving this project. The President encouraged everyone to engage with the outreach phase. Jose said many concerns will be addressed in this phase, but not every issue will be addressed in this preliminary phase. He encouraged engagement. Jason informed everyone that Juan Fregoso was the lead on the project for the Council Office (Councilwoman Traci Park).
The President thanked the team and bid them farewell until March 14th, for the first outreach meeting planned at 6PM. See the video of the Bridge Project presentation here: https://youtu.be/sU3JrqTVuLU
4. Approval of Minutes: The draft February 22, 2024, minutes were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The agenda was considered as distributed. The President noted that the next meeting will be virtual only, on March 28, with VP Sue Kohl presiding
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer reported that our balance is $51,567.52, with no substantial transactions recorded.
7. General Public Comment. There was no general public comment.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President reported on her meeting with CD11 Dist. Dir. Juan Fregoso in Pacific Palisades on Feb. 29, alongside Dave Card, Sue Kohl, Julie Silliman, Harlan Hogue and others, as well as Michael Amster, who accompanied Juan.
She said Juan had been a pleasure to host through the park and Potrero Canyon and that he had been very interested in learning about our Pali Rec Center needs and priorities, as well as pressing Potrero Canyon matters. She said he noted that our bathrooms needed the planned upgrades that CD11 has already set into motion. He also saw the state of our playground (with sandy pit) and acknowledged that the park desperately needed money to be spent on upgrades. She noted that he is often sympathetic to our issues and “asks,” but that he has an entire district to preside over and sometimes may forget wat he’s seen or acknowledged were. She said the trajectory of our camera discussions was shared with him and he understood that we were asking for a handful (five) cameras to be mounted in strategic spots on existing building and infrastructure to help us keep eyes on the park in order to help LAPD and the community address issues of vandalism and youth pranks, including fireworks, that have not subsided. She noted that Juan seemed to think we had asked for a substantive electric infrastructure upgrade at the park, but both Sue and Maryam made it clear (both at the meeting and later in communications) that this was not the case – that an infrastructure upgrade had been suggested by RAP tech (Jim Newsome) but that we had asked (again and again) for the existing infrastructure (both at the Rec Center and in the Canyon) to be considered and camera options be suggested based on existing electric systems that can support the placement of cameras, in the immediate term.
The President later concurred with Sue Kohl and Dave Card who mentioned the city road that acts as a driveway to the Rec Center, which desperately needs repaving. This road serves many parking spaces for the park and has been left unfinished after the improvements of Potrero Canyon, which created 30 new parking spots around the front circle, which is now, by comparison, new and pristine while the city (non-RAP) road remains pockmarked and sub-par.
8.1.2. The President said she would defer to the Jacobs/Arellano team present to talk about the information they shared with her in a recent call.
8.1.3. The President reported on a letter that was written ahead of the LA Rec & Parks Commission meeting in Pacific Palisades on March 21: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Commissioners-letter-PPCC-Fin.pdf.
8.1.4. The President reported on Pali Rec Center talks ongoing for cameras and foot patrols saying she continues to work toward bringing a full proposal for cameras and foot patrols.
8.1.5. The President deferred to Chris Spitz, At-large Rep regarding the Will Rogers Beach undercount from the PIT Homeless Count.
8.1.6. The President that she would invite the joint Palisades/Malibu Chamber, which has increased its Palisades activity, members, and board participation, to present to PPCC in the months to come, after the legal merger of the two chambers is complete.
8.1.7. The President reminded Area Reps that they had received an email from her regarding fiber optic lines replacing land lines in Pacific Palisades and that was a cause for concern among some. She had spoken to Ham Radio operators in the Palisades and asked them to present their operations to us in a field trip of sorts. This would prepare us for discussion at the board.
8.2. From Officers and Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Sue Kohl, Vice President: Sue Kohl reported that she met with Juan Fregoso on the 29th and pointed out to him the need for paving on the road leading up to the Recreation Center. Juan agreed and said he would talk to General Services to see if they can spare the resources to pave this segment of city road that leads into the park, where new parking spots and road have already been laid.
She also reflected on her meeting with Jimmy Newsome of RAP technology, reiterating that it was his suggestion to upgrade the electric system at the park, and that we has asked for him to study the existing electric structure and advise what could be done by way of cameras, immediately.
8.2.2. Jenny Li, Treasurer: Treasurer’s Report (Item 6) only.
8.2.3. Beth Holden-Garland, Secretary – None.
8.2.4. Dave Card, Chair Emeritus – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz, At-Large rep, reported on additional landslide activity on Via de las Olas (area near Friends St.) and on the PIT Homeless Count and the beach undercount. She reiterated that PPTFH was told by LAHSA not to count the beach areas (Will Rogers and the area along PCH) and that the count would be done, respectively, by Rec and Parks and Caltrans. She and others (including Maryam, Sue Pascoe and Kim Clary, PPTFH Count Coordinator) had many communications with LAHSA over whether and by whom beaches in Los Angeles, including Will Rogers, were officially counted, and why PPTFH was told not to count the beach areas here. LAHSA has now stated that Caltrans did count the PCH area and that Venice Beach and Will Rogers Beach inexplicably were never officially counted (although PPTFH had done an informal count of the beach as well as the PCH area and their numbers were recently relayed to LAHSA). The PPTFH numbers will not be included in the official PIT Count numbers that are eventually released to the public. We will attempt to obtain further clarification.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives. [None]
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) – presented after the meeting was formally adjourned.
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood – presented after the meeting was formally adjourned.
8.5.3. Allison Holdorff, LAUSD Dist. 4 board Member, Nick Melvoin, Senior Advisor – not present.
8.5.4. Radmehr Nowroozi, SD 24, Field Representative, Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood and Westside – not present.
8.5.5. Skylar Payab, AD 42, Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood – not present.
8.5.4. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass – not present.
8.5.5. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal and Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor, Lindsey Horvath – not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives.
8.6.1. Chris Spitz, WRAC Vice-Chair, report on recent WRAC motions/developments – deferred.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees – None.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Replacement trees for Pali Rec Center Playground. EC sponsored motion (no second necessary as motion was made by a committee of more than one voting member).
The board unanimously approved a $500 expenditure for replacement trees at the Palisades Recreation Center, per the details presented below.
Approved purchase of: Three 15-gallon Quercus Tomentella / Island Oaks (for the playground area) at the wholesale price is $75.99 each, for a total of $227.97 + $195 delivery + sales tax = approximately $475. The wholesale nursery/grower says they’ll be ready for sale around June. Price may vary slightly by then. For description and photos see: https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/1484.
12. Adjournment.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:12PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM MARCH 28th 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:05 PM. David Card read the PPCC Mission Statement.
2. Roll Call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
The Vice-President (presiding in the absence of the President) certified quorum.
Voting members present: Sue Kohl, Beth Holden-Garland, Dave Card, Murray Levy, Michael Edlen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Julie Silliman, Andrew Wolfberg, Chris Spitz, John Padden, Ryan Craig, Rick McGeagh.
Non-voting members present: Alan Goldsmith, Joanna Spak, Cindi Young, Leeanne Sanderson, James Alexakis, JoAnna Rodriguez.
3. Introduction of attendees – There were no guest speakers.
4. Approval of Minutes – The draft minutes of March 7, 2024, were approved as presented.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The Presiding Officer indicated that the agenda was as distributed and provided the following information about upcoming PPCC meetings:
April 11, 2024: Zoom meeting; President to announce the appointment of a Nominating Committee to nominate PPCC officers for the 2024-25 term. Frank Renfro, Palisadian and private security consultant familiar with current community issues, to present the option of mobile security trailers which may be a possibility for the park and other locations.
May 23, 2024: Expected in-person (hybrid) meeting with a presentation by Doug McAllister, VP of External Affairs (CA) from Frontier, regarding fiber optic lines and the cycling out of copper land lines in our community.
6. Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer was not present but had submitted a report which will be given at the next PPCC meeting on April 11, 2024.
7. General Public Comment – None.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The Presiding Officer explained the upcoming PPCC officers’ election schedule (Bylaws Art VII): April 11: appointment of Nominating Committee (first PPCC meeting in April); May 9: Committee nominations announced & nominations open from board members (first PPCC meeting in May); May 23: board nominations remain open until 15 minutes before scheduled close of meeting (second PPCC meeting in May); June 13: officer candidates forum (if needed) and election of officers (first PPCC meeting in June); new officers’ term begins July 1, 2024.
8.1.2. The Presiding Officer noted that the recent LAPD Zoom Town Hall to address park matters has been uploaded to the PPCC YouTube site and can be seen here: https://youtu.be/Qs5RtJ8WTmM.
8.1.3. The Presiding Officer read aloud the following statement from the President (included in the meeting agenda)
“I continue to work with RAP to re-engage their technology team to come out to the Palisades Recreation Center and reassess the existing buildings and electric infrastructure for a handful of cameras trained on hotspots, in order to assist park staff and LAPD in monitoring, deterrence and law enforcement.
“I thank SLO Espin, Sgt Alpert, and Capt. Gabaldon for the very informative community meeting regarding park matters last Wednesday. It was important for the community to learn that arrests of juveniles are not likely to take place (but for the most egregious offenses) and that we can expect to see other remedies applied to the current issues that concern the community regarding dangerous conduct at our local park. I note that it is exceedingly important for the community to be made aware when steps are taken to deter this conduct or efforts are made to approach the people who can address the conduct – whether families or schools – and for the community to know that due attention is being paid to ongoing conduct that is a source of concern.
“Toward that end, I have asked RAP to engage a certified vendor of theirs to provide this community with weekend foot patrols at the Rec Center. While I have received a quote for monthly service for two patrolmen, I do not have the specific parameters of service, and hope to bring that to the PPCC when I do. I have a call scheduled now with the RAP GM on April 9th, and hope to report back at our first April meeting. I must admit that it has been difficult getting the City’s attention on this matter and having them work with 3 us toward solutions. I thank the Council Office and RAP GM, Jimmy Kim along with Chinyere Stoneham in his office and Sonya Young-Jimenez for their attention. I commend the Capt. and SLO for their recognition that something needs to be done, and for the dedication of resources (deferred from other needs) to weekend task forces in the Palisades in order to address out ongoing concerns at the park, until RAP and the City confer to formulate a plan that substantively addresses the issues at stake (fire, vandalism, violence).”
8.2. From the Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Vice-President Sue Kohl – None (except for reports as Presiding Officer, above).
8.2.2. Treasurer Jenny LI – Not present (see item 6 above).
8.2.3. Secretary Beth Holden-Garden reported that the PPCC Instagram has grown to nearly 400 followers in the past year that it has been launched, and we have 1,000 followers on Facebook. She also reminded everyone to please send her information about upcoming events or announcements to post on our social media.
8.2.4. Chair Emeritus David Card – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Karen Ridgley, Area 4 Rep, reported on the status of the Asilomar bluff stabilization project. She also related concerns about unstable geologic conditions (fissures that may lead to landslides) on the cul de sac end of Asilomar (not in the area of the stabilization project); this area has now been fenced off with warning tape. During SLO Espin’s report (item 8.5.1), she noted concerns from residents of Puerto del Mar, who have noticed that teens or other persons have been entering the nearby bluff area through a broken fence at the dead end and engaging in unsafe and/or illegal activities such as lighting fireworks, smoking, doing drugs, etc. She asked for additional police presence by way of periodic patrols. LAPD SLO Brian Espin stated that he would attempt to arrange for additional patrols of the area. She also spoke about the need for a property line map on Puerto del Mar showing what is city property, what is park property and what is private property; she will follow up with Michael Amster to obtain a map. Finally, she noted that a stop sign had suddenly gone up on Miami Way and wondered if the City or LADOT gives advance notice when traffic signs are to be installed. There was some discussion about the fact that this may have been at the request of neighbors due to speeding or “donuts” happening in the area, but no one had an answer as to the process in terms of giving notice of traffic sign installations.
8.3.2. Murray Levy, Area 1 Rep, noted that a slide in the Castellammare area (below the large proposed project on Tramonto) had spilled onto PCH and has been blocking one lane completely for about a month, resulting in traffic back-ups on PCH and Sunset Blvd. (from Palisades Dr.), and many drivers using Tramonto and Porto Marina as alternate routes (a shortcut) to PCH between 4-6pm. He has seen almost head-on collisions and there are no sidewalks. He asked if a patrol car can sit in the area at those times until the debris is cleared up. SLO Espin stated that he would see about having LAPD Traffic assign officers to the area to help monitor the traffic situation.
8.3.3. Chris Spitz, At-large Rep, reported on several items:
a) The LA City Attorney, Hydee Feldstein Soto, has created a new division in the C.A.’s office, the “Community Law Corps,” which consists of Deputy City Attorneys who are tasked with answering questions from constituents citywide about civil matters of all kinds. This new program has replaced the former Neighborhood Prosecutor program, which involved criminal matters. Our former Neighborhood Prosecutor, Deputy C.A. Veronica de la Cruz, is now assigned to the Community Law Corps for our district. Palisadians can send emails with their questions regarding civil (not criminal) matters to: communitylawcorps@lacity.org. Questions about these matters can also still be directed to CD 11/Michael Amster.
b) LAMC 41.18 (an ordinance which PPCC and WRAC support) was a topic on a recent LAHSA Commission meeting agenda. The At-large Rep explained that LAHSA is the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority – the regional planning body that coordinates housing and services for homeless / unhoused persons in Los Angeles County (including in the City of Los Angeles). She also noted that PPCC has a Glossary of terms related to homelessness on the website, under Resources/reports & summaries, that she recommends to anyone interested. She reminded everyone that PPCC supports the use of 41.18, the City’s so-called “anti-camping” ordinance, which regulates dwelling in the public right of way, including our sidewalks and public spaces, for public safety and accessibility. The At-large Rep and Brentwood CC Chair Carolyn Jordan both attended the LAHSA meeting and gave public comment on behalf of our respective councils, in support of 41.18. The At-large Rep also commented, in her capacity as Vice-Chair of WRAC, in support of the ordinance. There were many speakers both pro and con and the meeting lasted over 3 hours. It was unusual for that Commission to be hearing this topic since neither LAHSA nor the County Supervisors has authority or jurisdiction over this City of LA regulation, but Sup. Horvath, who chairs the Commission and is critical of 41.18, directed that the agenda include this topic. Councilwoman Traci Park’s staff has thanked us for our comments in support. In addition, Carolyn Jordan authored an op ed which was published in the Westside Current on the efficacy and use of 41.18 in her community; the At-large Rep commended the op ed to everyone and noted that it can be found on the Westside Current website, www.westsidecurrent.com [title: “41.18 Serves Its Purpose”].
c) In regard to the second Via de las Olas slide and unstable geologic conditions, Michael Amster has recently advised that the Bureau of Engineering (BOE) Geotechnical division would investigate the conditions; it was believed that the investigation would happen last week, but we haven’t heard back; hopefully an update will be provided soon.
d) Residents continue to contact the At-large Rep and ask questions about the status of the bridge and lateral trail. Regarding the bridge, a recording of the 3/14 bridge outreach meeting is posted on PPCC’s Potrero Canyon webpage [https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/potrero-canyon/] and on the BOE webpage about the project [https://engineering.lacity.gov/about-us/major-projects/potrero-canyon-pedestrian-bicycle-bridge-project]. The next outreach meeting will occur in Fall 2024. As to the Lateral Trail status: The trail, which PPCC supports, is a required element of the overall park project, called for in the current Coastal Development Permit. In a recent message to Michael Amster that was conveyed to the At-large Rep, BOE explained that it is working on a preliminary layout of the trail, which would lead to a consultant then being hired to work on alternate routes, to obtain community input, to conduct any necessary reviews and produce a final design; this is all necessary for Caltrans, which must eventually give permission for the City to locate the trail on Caltrans property We don’t have a timeline yet and there are apparently still funding issues. The At-large Rep has asked for the BOE project manager to come to PPCC and explain the status further; so far there hasn’t been a response
e) Regarding the Planning Dept.’s proposed change in the Construction Noise Threshold (which PPCC has opposed): the Planner in charge has advised that the Planning Director still hasn’t made a determination on the Noise Threshold changes, but they will let us know if and when that occurs.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. The Presiding Officer reported in the absence of Genevieve Bostic (YMCA rep) that the Palisades-Malibu YMCA will now be holding its Spring Festival and Egg Hunt at Simon Meadow on Saturday, March 30 [now changed to April 6], 2024, from 9:30am to 1pm. There are sponsorship opportunities.
8.4.2. Ryan Craig (Resilient Palisades Rep) reported again that Resilient Palisades will hold the organization’s traditional annual Earth Day Event on the Village Green on Sunday, April 14, 2024, from 9 am to 1pm. He noted that PPCC, the Palisades Forestry Committee and other Palisades and other LA groups will be joining and will have tables at the event. He invited everyone to attend.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available)
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), reported on crime in general and said that although burglaries were up one from last year, the number was lower than he expected in the Palisades. Theft was up due to the online reporting system (10 more thefts this year than last year). He spoke about the multiple areas far and wide being targeted by the South American gangs. He also acknowledged the receipt of emails from many Palisades residents regarding teenage crimes; talked about the limitations for LAPD when victims do not file police reports; and said he still is not receiving many filed reports about juvenile activities, although CVS had filed a few in the past. SLO Espin hosted the Community Safety Town Hall on March 20th to discuss issues the community has been experiencing. He believed it was successful and he appreciated the large turnout. The Presiding Officer and other board members thanked SLO Espin for holding the informative Town Hall (see item 8.1.2 above for the recording link).
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood – Not present.
8.5.3. Allison Holdoff, LAUSD Dist. 4 board Member, Nick Melvoin, Senior Advisor – Not present.
8.5.4. Radmehr Nowroozi, SD 24, Field Representative, Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood and Westside – Not present.
8.5.5. Skylar Payab, AD 42, Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood – Not present.
8.5.6. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass – Not present.
8.5.7. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal and Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor, Lindsey Horvath, attended and provided an extended report on the activities of Supervisor Horvath and the County Board of Supervisors. On homelessness in the County, he stated that since the emergency was declared LA County has helped transition 38,000 people into interim housing and 23,600 into permanent housing. He also stated that outreach teams have doubled and 11,000 at-risk people were prevented from becoming homeless.
As to the recent LAHSA Commission meeting and positions regarding LAMC 41.18: He explained that Supervisor Horvath had included the ordinance as an agenda item in the interest of transparency, because of recent reports concerning LAHSA’s analysis of 41.18. He stated that he believes people are aware of the Supervisor’s position on the ordinance, and reiterated that neither LAHSA nor the County has jurisdiction over City regulations and no action was taken.
Zac also thanked the PPCC members and others from the Palisades who had questioned why PPTFH Count volunteers were told by LAHSA not to count our beach areas and who had inquired about the extent to which beach areas in Los Angeles had actually been counted. In addition, he thanked the PPTFH volunteers for going ahead and counting the areas and submitting the numbers to LAHSA, so that the Count could include an accurate number for Pacific Palisades. As to the Supervisors’ recent directive calling for an audit of LAHSA operations, he was unable to answer a question from At-large Rep Chris Spitz as to how this audit would differ from the comprehensive audit of City homeless initiatives ordered by U.S. Judge Carter in the LA Alliance case (which according to news reports would also include an audit of LAHSA operations). Zac stated that he would investigate the audit situation and get back to us with an answer.
Zac also announced that new Covid vaccines are available; he encouraged everyone to get them.
In response to questions from board members (including Area 7 Rep Julie Silliman and At-large 1st Alternate Alan Goldsmith) regarding the collapsed bridge portion of the bike path (whether better signage and fencing would be installed) and about sand build-up on the path from recent storms (completely covering portions of the path), Zac indicated that he would attempt to obtain answers as to the timing of work on the collapsed bridge portion and he agrees better signage is needed. Chair Emeritus Dave Card noted that at a recent PCH Task Force meeting, it was mentioned that Rachel Fox of the Supervisor’s office was assessing the bike path bridge repairs. Zac said he would speak with Rachel. As to the sand build-up, Zac agreed that this is an ongoing issue and that he has learned that the City is working to periodically clean up the sand. He will attempt to obtain more information. The Presiding Officer also noted that sand had built up in the tunnel under PCH due to the storms, and that Sharon Kilbride and her team of volunteers had worked to remove the sand and clear the tunnel.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives.
8.6.1. Chris Spitz (PPCC rep to WRAC and WRAC Vice-Chair) reported as follows:
She explained the WRAC process and noted that two WRAC motions supported by PPCC – one to support CM Park’s motion in Council regarding regulation of RV park, and the other to request amendment of LAMC 41.18 to include dwelling in vehicles of all sizes as restricted near sensitive uses – were recently passed by a majority or more of member councils; as a result, these have become adopted WRAC positions and letters have now been sent to elected officials. In addition, last night, a motion that originated from PPCC and Resilient Palisades – to support the Council File calling for a report back on enforcement of the ban on gas powered leaf blowers – also passed by a majority of member councils; a WRAC position letter will be sent shortly.
She also provided information about the three WRAC committees on which PPCC participates and which are actively involved in reviewing regional matters and in recommending motions to the WRAC board that may eventually come to PPCC for consideration: 1) the WRAC Land Use & Planning Committee (Maryam Zar, Committee Chair & PPCC primary rep; Joanna Spak, PPCC alternate); 2) the WRAC Mobility & Transportation Committee (Steve Lantz, PPCC primary rep; Lou Kamer, PPCC alternate); 3) the WRAC Homelessness Committee (Cindi Young, PPCC primary rep; Maryam Zar, PPCC alternate; Chris Spitz, Committee Vice-Chair (non-voting)). Matters that may be coming to the PPCC board in the future include two land use-related motions (to be reviewed initially by the PPCC LUC) and a motion to oppose proposed congestion pricing on the 405 (in the Sepulveda Pass) and the I-10 (west of the 405) unless transit options are in place.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees – None.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business – None.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 7:14 PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM APRIL 11th 2024
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:04 PM. The President read the PPCC Mission Statement.
2. Roll Call of Board members and Certification of Quorum.
The President called role and certified quorum.
Voting members present: Maryam Zar, Sue Kohl, Jenny Li, Dave Card, Murray Levy, Steve Cron, Michael Edlen, Daphne Gronich, Kimberly Bloom, Rick McGeagh, Eli Safaie-Kia, Chris Spitz, John Padden, Courtney Macker, Richard Blumenberg, Genevieve Bostic, Ryan Craig [note: Gabrielle Gottlieb also present; see item 8.4.1. below]
Non-voting members present: Alan Goldsmith, Joanna Spak, Cindi Young, James Alexakis
3. Introduction of attendees.
The President introduced Frank Renfro, Palisadian and private security consultant, who provided information about another security option that the community may wish to consider mobile security trailers. See the recording on our YouTube website: https://youtu.be/eg0ueftPp7Q?feature=shared
4. Approval of Minutes. The draft minutes of March 28, 2024, were approved as presented.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.
The President indicated that the agenda was as distributed and provided the following information about upcoming PPCC meetings:
April 25, 2024: Possible presentation by Californians for Safer Communities.
May 23, 2024: Expected in-person (hybrid) meeting with a presentation by Doug McAllister, VP of External Affairs (CA) from Frontier, regarding fiber optic lines and the cycling out of copper land lines in our community.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer reported that PPCC’s account balance is $47,880.85. Expenditures include $448.00 for insurance renewal (a savings from past years) and $1978.25 to Miracle data for our annual expenses related to our website, emails, and web hosting platforms as well as a website fix that had to do with our donation interface (enabled donors to click a button to cover costs) and also repaired the donation link, which went down shortly after our 2023 holiday gala.
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. Valeria Serna (resident and member of Resilient Palisades). Valeria noted that the Resilient Palisades Earth Day Celebration will take place on April 14 from 9am-1pm. She also expressed concern about plans to install synthetic turf on the Palisades baseball fields. Some comments were exchanged. The President asked Valeria to attend the upcoming PAB meeting to express her concerns, since the decision would likely be made there, and in conjunction with the City’s Department of Recreation & Parks.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President has appointed the Nominating Committee, per PPCC’s bylaws, to nominate candidates for PPCC officer positions. The Committee Chair, for the third time, is Steve Cron. Other members are Quentin Fleming, LeeAnn Sanderson, Andrew Wolfberg and Mary Mueller, with Parliamentarian Danielle Samulon as an advisor to the Committee (non-voting). The President explained that PPCC officers serve one-year terms and are elected each year by the board. The current officers’ terms will end on June 30. The Nominating Committee will announce its nominations at the May 9th meeting; board members will then have the opportunity to nominate either themselves or other candidates until 15 minutes before the scheduled close of the May 23rd meeting. A candidates’ forum will be held if there are multiple candidates for any office and the officers’ election will take place on June 13. The new officers’ term begins on July 1, 2024.
8.1.2. The President deferred her report on a conversation with LAPD Sgt., Scott Alpert
8.1.3. The President deferred her report on a conversation with RAP GM, Jimmy Kim
8.1.4. The President reported that she followed up with the County Supervisor and her westside staff about the Marvin Braude bike path failure, but has heard nothing of substance in return.
8.1.5. The President reported that PPCC is Co-hosting a beach clean-up event with CD11 on 4/20 at Will Rogers Beach, as well as partnering with Resilient Palisades on their Earth Day event at The Village Green – and we need people to sign up and volunteer at our table.
8.1.6. The President reported that BCC and PPCC are discussing a District Attorney candidate forum for late September.
8.2. From the Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Vice-President Sue Kohl announced that she has been informed by leaders at PPTFH that LAPD Officer Adam Margin has been re-assigned to the Pacific Palisades beach detail. She welcomed him back and noted how effective he had been in the past when he was part of the LAPD team in the Palisades.
8.2.2. Treasurer Jenny LI – None (except for Treasurer’s Report, item 6 above).
8.2.3. Secretary Beth Holden-Garden – Not present.
8.2.4. Chair Emeritus David Card – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Daphne Gronich, Area Four 2nd Alternate, read a report from Primary Area 4 rep Karen Ridgley on the status of the Asilomar Stabilization project and more. See the report here: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Area-4-Report-4.11.pdf
8.3.2. Murray Levy, Area One Rep, reported that the homeowners’ associations in Castellammare and Paseo Miramar in Area One wish for their areas to be designated as “Hillside Construction Regulation Supplemental Use Districts” (HCR-SUDs) and are seeking PPCC’s support. He explained that he had discussed this with At-large Rep and PPCC LUC Chair Chris Spitz, who had in turn spoken with CD 11 Planning Deputy Jeff Khau about the process, and that she had learned from Jeff what would be required for the designation to take place. Chris explained further that the LUC had looked into the HCR ordinance briefly in February, in connection with its work to recommend possible solutions to the construction problems being experienced in Area One, and had learned that various amendments are being considered for the ordinance and that HCR designation might be an option to be studied in the future. The LUC had explained this to the board and in the letter that was sent to CM Park in February with recommendations for possible solutions to the construction problems. She also noted that Jeff Khau had advised her that in order for CM Park to consider taking action to designate any areas as HCR SUDs, a sufficient showing would have to be made to CD11 that a substantial majority of homeowners had received notice of the proposal and actually agree with the designation, and also that maps with clearly drawn boundaries of the proposed HCR SUDs must be submitted. Jeff gave as an analogy the process of obtaining street humps (a petition in support must be signed by 2/3 of residents on the street). He indicated that the entity to take the lead on this request should be the HOAs. The President explained that PPCC could then support and advocate for the requests if the required showing was made, and that such requests could also be made by other hillside areas of the Palisades that may wish to be designated as HCR HUDs. This will be discussed again in the future.
8.3.3. Chris Spitz, At-large Rep, reported (in her capacity as WRAC Vice-Chair & PPCC rep to WRAC) that an AT&T representative will speak at the WRAC board meeting on April 29th to explain why AT&T is also seeking to cycle out of maintaining copper land lines on the Westside. The AT&T rep provided informational flyers which Chris will make available to the President to in turn share with the PPCC board as she deems appropriate. As At-large Rep, Chris reported on two additional matters: First, as to unstable geologic conditions on Via de las Olas, Michael Amster advises that he has learned from BOE that the roadway has been examined and BOE sees no cracks or other indications that it is in danger of giving way; Chris has suggested that fencing should be installed along the rim where the landslides had occurred and that warning signs should be put up, in place of the emergency tape in the area. Next, as to Potrero Canyon, Chris has let Recreation and Parks (RAP) know that due to winter storms, cracks and fissures have reappeared in the Friends St. trail and other park trails, and that overgrown brush is crowding the trails and impeding passage. The RAP maintenance supervisor Robert Buenrostro responded immediately that he had also seen these conditions and was concerned; that RAP maintenance would begin work on filling in the cracks; and that he had notified Kristen Ly of BOE to have the landscape contractor cut back the brush along the trails.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Gabrielle Gottlieb, PPWC reported that they are holding their annual birthday celebration for 90 year old (plus) Palisadians, on May 4th from noon to 3PM. There will be a speaker and a surprise guest.
8.4.2. Genevieve Bostic, PPYMCA reported that the YMCA held their Spring Festival the previous weekend and had a great turn out. Simon Meadow has also inaugurated a Butterfly Garden, now on the side of a walking path, a Learning Tree, and soon a movie night. There is also teen programming, which LAPD welcomes for offering activities for teens. Genevieve also said the Y is looking for teen volunteers to be Counselors in Training at summer camp over the summer months, as well as volunteers (young and old) for the Thursday food bag donations.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available)
8.5.1. Brian Espin, Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), reported that crime is generally up since last year about 55%. Thefts are up, including package thefts and retail item theft. These are not isolated to youth bad acts. LAPD is tracking the trend city wide and working to stem the tide. The South American “ smash and grab” crews have slowed down from a few months ago and that has been welcome news. He reported that more patrol resources have been allocated to the park, and vandalism is down. He reported that the Department is going paperless, so the reports might be harder for him to generate and email until he learns the system better (not efficient right now), and he asked for patience. Officer Bermudez was promoted to SLO in another community. In his stead, LAPD has re-hired Adam Margin for Pacific Palisades’ beach detail. Officer Margin is familiar with the community and has hit the ground running. SLO Espin welcomed him (as did VP, Sue Kohl, in her announcements). The President asked SLO Espin to bring Officer Margin to an upcoming PPCC meeting to meet the community.
8.5.2. Michael Amster, CD11 (CM Traci Park) Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood, reported that slope slippage at Via de las Olas and Via de la Paz, as well as slippage at other locations, are on his radar for monitoring. He is working on getting city engineering crews at Dept of Public Works (DPW) or Dept of Building and Safety (DBS) out to assess.
CD11 recently brought together a beautification team for the district that helps with trash pick-up, brushing sand, and clearing weeds. Palisades Drive might be a location where they visit soon.
He announced the 4/20 Beach Clean-up at Will Rogers, Tower 15 at 9AM. The first few attendees will get free parking.
Michael shared the street slurry map and discussed that he will be pressing the city department of street repairs to prioritize and elevate road repairs along Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades. (See related motion passed, below.)
Rick McGeagh, Area Seven 1st Alternate, brought up the slide at Will Rogers State Park Rd., and asked to make sure Streets LA would clear the road and that the City would make repairs to the road and shore up the slippage of rock and debris onto a road that is the only means of ingress and egress for residents. Michael said the road has been cleared already, and he is working to secure K-Rails as a temporary fix to prevent further slippage.
Rick also brought up the Marvin Braude Bike Path failure. Michael said CM Traci Park is looking for a solution and may have a council motion to secure funding for a repair.
The President also gave a nod to Eli Safaie-Kia, who has worked with City and State agencies to clear Sullivan Canyon Rd., Mulholland, Westridge and Topanga Fire road, which have all been cleared though a city/state collaborative process that he and the President have been nudging along.
8.5.3. Allison Holdoff, Senior Advisor, LAUSD Dist. 4 board Member Nick Melvoin – Not present.
8.5.4. Radmehr Nowroozi, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) Field Representative, Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood and Westside – Not present.
8.5.5. Skylar Payab, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) Field Deputy, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood – Not present.
8.5.6. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass – Not present.
8.5.7. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal and Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath – Not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and WRAC Representatives.
8.6.1. Chris Spitz (PPCC rep to WRAC and WRAC Vice-Chair). (See comments in item 8.3.3 above).
9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. PPCC LUC (Chair Chris Spitz). The LUC Chair explained that the LUC had reviewed and was sponsoring/recommending to the board a WRAC-recommended motion requesting compensation for transfers of PROW easements (see motion text below). No second was necessary as the motion was made by a committee with more than one voting member. Following discussion, a vote was taken and the motion below passed unanimously:
“Pacific Palisades Community Council requests that the city receives monetary compensation and/or receives community benefits for the transfer of easements in the public right of way, equivalent to the fair market value of the property transferred, and that this value received is invested in the Community Plan area affected.”
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Motion to prioritize repaving/reslurrying portions of Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades. See BSS map: https://labss.maps.arcgis.com/apps/View/index.html?appid=af0a4dab5c594ab8bbb22b525c 628c95. Motion made by Michael Edlen; second by Chris Spitz:
“In light of recent storms and the impact of heavy rains on Sunset Boulevard in Pacific Palisades, resulting in large potholes and crevasses that are an impediment to safe driving along much of Sunset Boulevard from Marquez Avenue to Allenford, we ask that the city prioritize the repaving and resurfacing of Sunset Boulevard, hastening the scheduled time
from 2027/2028 to the 2024 resurfacing schedule, as a matter of public safety and a
safeguard against city liability.”
Following discussion, a vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously.
11.2. Discussion: Slope Slippage and Hillside Erosion in Pacific Palisades (no action taken). The board discussed the need for the City of L.A. to address numerous specific areas, as listed below; a further discussion and possible motion will take place at an upcoming PPCC meeting. The list of areas of known geologic instability, previously brought to the attention of the City, is as follows (additional areas may be added after further discussion):
a. Asilomar Bluffs (Area Four residents have sounded alarms and asked the Asilomar remediation project managers to also look at stabilizing this bluff),
b. Via de las Olas Bluffs (residents have long alerted the City to this area, and have some current feedback to share – see item 8.3.3 above),
c. El Oro Lane (M. Amster and City Engineers have come out to survey this site and determined that it requires a substantive street reinforcement, but for now, have lines the sidewalk and eroding gutter with sandbags),
d. Via Bluffs at Beirut/Mt. Holyoke (this location has been sent to BOE for assessment, but no field studies have yet been conducted),
e. Will Rogers State Park Road (City roads managed on State parkland – current suggestion is K Rails implemented along the road as a stopgap measure until the State and City collaborate for a proper remedy),
f. 500 block of Bienveneda (sidewalk slippage has prompted city crews to put signs up warning pedestrians to stay clear).
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 PM.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM APRIL 25th 2024 (pending)
_________________________