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Return to Index of 2025 Meeting Minutes
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings held via Zoom videoconference and recorded for secretarial purposes only.
Note: No minutes for January meetings: January 9 (meeting canceled due to devastating Palisades Fire); January 23 and February 7 (special meetings/recording only).
MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 13th 2025
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Diana Daniele, Julia Nilsen, Kimberly Bloom, Karen Ridgley, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Courtney Macker, Haldis Toppel, James Alexakis, John Evans, Kevin Niles, Hagop Tchakerian
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Daphne Gronich, Dave Card, Michael Edlen, Lee Anne Sanderson, Jessica Rogers, Joanna Spak, Valeria Serna, Ella Nozar
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m. Sue Kohl read the Mission Statement.
2. Introductions / Roll Call. The President introduced the members and called the roll.
3. Certification of Quorum. The President certified quorum.
4. Approval of Minutes. The minutes of November 14, 2024, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. The agenda was as distributed. Upcoming meetings: February 27, 2025 (Topics TBA); March 13, 2025 (Topics TBA).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that the Council’s bank balance is $109,382.18. The large balance reflects a $50,000 donation to PPCC by the California Community Foundation. No conditions were placed on the use of the funds and we may have a discussion at a later date on how the funds should be used.
7. General Public Comment. [Note: the President deferred item 7 to the end of the meeting and called item 11.1 following the Treasurer’s Report.]
7.1. Carl Mellinger (resident; arborist) commented on the need to preserve and protect trees in the Palisades after the fire.
7.2. “Li” (woman representing World Central Kitchen) described the work that the WCK is doing to feed residents and others in the Palisades during the recovery. She noted that the WCK trucks are there first and foremost for residents of the Palisades who have suffered from the fire.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President gave a recap of the PPCC special meetings on recovery and the hazardous waste storage at Will Rogers.
8.1.2. The President announced that the Ronald Reagan Post 283 American Legion building will be used as a recovery support center: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PFCSC-flyer.pdf.
8.1.3. The President announced the appointment of a new PPCC committee on the rebuilding of the Palisades. The members are David Schwarz, Quentin Fleming, Lorie Cudzil, Beth Holden-Garland and John Padden. They will collaborate with the Land Use Committee on important issues involving recovery and rebuilding.
8.1.4. The President announced that she has appointed Julia Nilsen as the primary PPCC representative and Kaye Steinsapir as the PPCC alternate to the WRAC Mobility & Transportation Committee.
8.1.5. The President provided details about the Community Gathering of fire-impacted neighbors which will take place on Monday, February 17 from 5-8pm at St. Monica Catholic Community in Santa Monica. This will be an interfaith social gathering and she encouraged everyone to attend.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. JoAnna Rodriguez (Area One Representative) reported that residents of the Castellammare area are hoping to get traction on clearing the landslide in the area so that residents can access homes that are still standing, and the Army Corps of Engineers can come in and clear debris from homes that were destroyed.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives
8.4.1. David Card (Palisades Forestry Committee) reported on the status of street trees after the fire and on the need to preserve and protect as many trees as we can. He explained that trees were unnecessarily being removed from burn sites. Some trees that had made it through the fire were taken out by LADWP in areas where they should have remained. Homeowners need to keep watering
https://www.thebrittonfund.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025.1.16-Trees-Damaged-by-Fire-Guide.pdf
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information for government representatives: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades. SLO Espin reported on the status of PCH, which is being shut down constantly as the needs have been changing every hour and minute. He emphasized that anyone visiting the Palisades will need proper ID cards.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD11 (Councilwoman Traci Park). Ms. Grigoryan spoke at length about the work that CD 11 was doing to support the community during the recovery process. She reported that access passes to get into the Palisades are available at the West Los Angeles Recovery center at 10850 West Pico Blvd. (hours are 9 am to 7 pm, and close slightly earlier on the weekends). They are hoping Phase 1 of clean-up will be done as soon as March 31st.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass —Not present.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik – Not present.
8.5.5. Samantha Gallegos, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) – Not present.
8.5.6. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) – Not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons — None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committee.
9.1. Land Use Committee (LUC). LUC Chair Chris Spitz reported briefly that the LUC is excited about the formation of the new rebuild committee and that the two committees will collaborate on recovery and rebuilding. She reminded everyone of the LUC members (herself, Chair; James Alexakis, Steve Cron, Michael Edlen, Howard Robinson, Joanna Spak; Richard Blumenberg (advisor). The LUC is working on many issues, including a possible request to the City with regard to CC&Rs in the Palisades, which may be brought to the Board at the next meeting.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Presentations/Q&A on Wildfire Recovery. [Note: this item was called earlier in the meeting, following the Treasurer’s Report.]
Vahid Khorsand, President, LA City Board of Public Works, attended and gave a presentation on the work of the Public Works Dept., along with Ted Allen, LA City Engineer & designated City Debris Manager, and Julie Allen, LA Sanitation Assistant GM & chair of the Watershed Protection Task Force. Jenny Delwood, Deputy Mayor, was also present and participated in the discussion. The speakers all provided information and answered a wide range of questions by Board and audience members involving the status of infrastructure, power, water, swimming pools, debris removal and the like. The President thanked the speakers for attending and providing important information to the community.
11.2. (As time allows) The Future of PPCC and Pacific Palisades (discussion/possible action re plans / recovery / rebuilding). Time did not allow discussion of recovery / future rebuilding, although prior to adjournment board members raised questions and informally discussed various matters related to current post-fire conditions (no action taken).
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8.01p.m.
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MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 27th 2025
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Maryam Zar, JoAnna Rodriguez, Diana Daniele, Julia Nilsen, Allison Holdorff, Karen Ridgley, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Janet Anderson, Courtney Macker, Haldis Toppel, Valeria Serna, John Evans, Kevin Niles, Hagop Tchakerian
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Daphne Gronich, Dave Card, Michael Edlen, Lee Anne Sanderson, Jessica Rogers, Joanna Spak, Ella Nozar
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:04 p.m. Quentin Fleming read the Mission Statement.
2. Introductions / Roll Call. The President introduced the members and called the roll.
3. Certification of Quorum. The President certified quorum.
4. Approval of Minutes. The minutes of February 13, 2025, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. The agenda was as distributed. Upcoming meetings: March 13, 2025 (MySafeLA: Fire Safe Council); March 27, 2025 (Topics TBA).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that the Council’s bank balance is $109,428.08.
y. General Public Comment. [Note: the President deferred item 7 to the end of the meeting and called item 11.1 following the Treasurer’s Report.]
7.1. Carl Mellinger (resident; arborist) commented on local tree protection after the fire.
7.2. David Schwartz (resident, Area 3) disagreed with the initiative of rebuild restrictions particularly regarding retaining walls, stating that he heard a discussion about this topic on a local What’s App group.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President announced that the PPCC Executive Committee has reiterated the longstanding PPCC policy re Density and Public Safety:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Policy-Statement-Density-Public-Safety.pdf
8.1.2. The President has appointed Sharon Garrett as 2nd Alternate rep to the WRAC MTC.
8.1.3. The President reported on donations towards Palisades recovery/rebuilding.
8.1.4. The President announced that the Executive Committee has approved preliminary steps to be taken by the Rebuild Committee in connection with a possible survey of community opinion (explained further in item 9.2 below).
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. JoAnna Rodriguez (Area 1 Representative) reported on the problems of the compromised hillside near Positano in the Castellammare area, which continues to erode.
8.3.2. Sharon Kilbride (Area 7 Representative) mentioned that mudflow breached Area 7 and flooded homes and streets for five days, making a huge clean up mess.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives
8.4.1. Haldis Toppel (Theatre Palisades) asked everyone to please support Theatre Palisades Youth with a performance of the Gershwin musical “Crazy for You” at the Paul Revere Middle School theater.
8.4.2. Jessica Rogers (PPRA Alternate) mentioned that trees are being cut in the area. A tree was cut in half on her property by LADWP; there is a need to communicate better as this is changing the landscape of our neighborhoods.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information for government representatives: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades. SLO Espin reported that a new drone pilot program as a mechanism for public safety is being started in the Palisades. However, there is a range issue in that it is limited in being viewed miles away from the LAPD’s station if the drone is too far away for the data to be viewed.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD11 (Councilwoman Traci Park) reported on local water quality, public works at Rustic Canyon, and underground power lines at Temescal Canyon.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass — Not present.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, West-Coastal Deputy, Sup. Lindsey Horvath, reported on Phase 1 clearance in the Palisades and stated that they are making good time in that process.
8.5.5. Samantha Gallegos, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) – Not present.
8.5.6. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) – Not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons — None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committee.
9.1. Land Use Committee (LUC). The President read a report from LUC Chair Chris Spitz, who was unable to attend:
“I’m pleased to report that the LUC has been holding regular working meetings to discuss and address land use issues related to the recovery. We are working in collaboration with the important Rebuild Committee, as will be explained following this Committee report.
“The three motions on the agenda tonight are initial recommendations by the LUC to the PPCC board related to recovery and/or rebuilding. More recommended actions should be expected in the coming weeks.
“We hope that the board will agree on the importance of these motions, in particular the first motion involving CC&Rs and retaining walls. We trust that you have all read the proposed statement and request of LADBS that is set forth in the agenda.
‘In brief, the request is an effort to help preserve community character by asking that LADBS notify homeowners who are seeking to rebuild, prior to issuance of permits, of the fact that CC&Rs apply to many properties In the Palisades, and encouraging them to ascertain whether their parcel is subject to CC&Rs. The motion also makes requests related to homes in Tract 9300 that are within the Civic League purview, as well as notices pertaining to applications for permits to build retaining walls, again intended as an attempt to preserve community character.
‘Please note that i personally reached out to HOAs and residents in various areas of the Palisades, including residents in Tract 9300. I received several responses indicating strong support for the motion; no one has told me so far that they oppose the statement and request.”
9.2. Rebuild Committee (RC): Committee Chair David Schwarz reported that the RC is trying to get a survey underway and financed by donations for legitimate community needs to help with the Palisades rebuild.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Presentation & Q&A – The Path to Reconstruction. Marmol-Radziner: Leo Marmol, FAIA, Managing Partner, and Jonathan Schnure, Studio Director. Additional presentation by Steven Somers of Crest Realty. [Note: this item was called earlier in the meeting, following the Treasurer’s Report.]
The presenters gave an extensive and informative presentation on “The Path to Reconstruction” and answered numerous questions. The President thanked them for speaking with PPCC. [Note: see the written version of the presentation at the following link:
11.2. Proposed Motions sponsored by the PPCC LUC.
11.2(a): Motion for Board approval of a statement and request regarding CC&Rs and retaining walls.
The motion was made by the LUC (no second necessary because more than one voting member made the motion). Maryam Zar presented information about the motion and background. During discussion, questions were raised from meeting attendees about the section involving retaining walls. The board passed a motion (by Maryam Zar, second by Quentin Fleming) to desegregate (remove) the section involving retaining walls. A vote on the main motion (support for the Statement re CC&Rs with the retaining walls section removed) was then taken. Result: unanimous vote in support of the Statement (without the retaining walls section). See approved Statement and request in Attachments below.
11.2(b): Motion to support a CW Park motion for a report back on creation of a Climate Resiliency District (originally recommended by the WRAC board). The motion was made by the LUC (no second necessary because more than one voting member made the motion). Maryam Zar presented information about the motion and background. After discussion, a vote was taken. Result: the motion passed unanimously. See approved motion in Attachments below.
11.2(c): Motion to support a CW Park motion for a report back on inspection and repair of fire hydrants (originally recommended by the WRAC board). Maryam Zar presented information about the motion and background. After discussion, a vote was taken. Result: the motion passed unanimously. See approved motion in Attachments below.
11.3. Proposed Motion sponsored by Maryam Zar and Chris Spitz. Motion to support a CW Park motion for a report back on soils testing and remediation by the City/BOE on parks, parkways and medians in the burn zone in Pacific Palisades. Maryam Zar announced that the motion was being made by herself and Chris Spitz. CD 11 Planning Deputy Sarah Flaherty provided background and information about the motion. After discussion, a vote was taken. Result: the motion passed unanimously. See approved motion in Attachments below.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
ATTACHMENTS:
Item 11.2(a) – Approved Statement and Request:
“PPCC Statement and Request to Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety re CC&Rs
Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions”
“Many homes in Pacific Palisades are subject to recorded Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (“CC&Rs”), which are private agreements tied to the property’s title. These agreements regulate development standards, including structure size and height, setbacks, fence and wall heights, number and types of structures, landscaping, and aesthetic elements to create and preserve the neighborhood’s character.
CC&Rs often impose stricter requirements than local building codes and may include additional aesthetic guidelines.
Since CC&Rs are private agreements, the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) has historically not reviewed them during the planning and permitting process to ensure compliance.
However, in light of the Mayor’s and Governor’s executive orders expediting the “like-for-like’ rebuilding process—and the strong support from property owners and elected officials to maintain neighborhood character—Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) requests that LADBS inform all building permit, demolition permit and grading permit applicants in a single-family zone within the 90272 zip code area, as follows:
“Your parcel may be subject to recorded Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), which are private agreements that may impose additional restrictions beyond LADBS approvals. LADBS is not responsible for ensuring compliance with CC&Rs. Applicants are advised to obtain a current title report to determine if CC&Rs apply and to review them with their consultants before commencing construction.”
Moreover, with respect to parcels located in Tract 9300 in Pacific Palisades, we request that LADBS further inform all building permit, demolition permit and grading permit applicants in a single-family zone within Tract 9300 in Pacific Palisades, as follows:
“You are encouraged to contact the Pacific Palisades Civic League and to voluntarily comply with the Civic League Guidelines for development of single-family homes within Tract 9300 in Pacific Palisades. Contact office.ppcl@gmail.com.”
The method of providing such notifications to building permit, demolition permit and grading permit applicants could be to include the above notifications as part of the normal Plan Check Correction Comments issued to applicants, a new separate notification document provided to all building permit, demolition permit or grading permit applicants, or any other method of providing such notification, so long as such notifications are provided to applicants prior to the issuance of any building permit, demolition permit or grading permit.”
Item 11.2(b) – Approved motion: “Pacific Palisades Community Council IPPCC) has been the voice of the Palisades community for 52 years. Although devastated by the catastrophic Palisades Fire, our beloved community is strong and is determined to rise again. PPCC accordingly supports Council File 25-0006-S38, which calls for a report back on creation of a Climate Resilience District for the directly impacted and adjacent areas of the Pacific Palisades Fire, as an important tool to assist in achieving our community’s goal of rebuilding the Palisades.”
Item 11.2(c) – Approved motion: “Pacific Palisades Community Council, a member of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC), supports Council File 25-0172, which calls for a report back on inspection and repair of the City’s network of fire hydrants.”
Item 11.3 – Approved motion: “Pacific Palisades Community Council supports Council File 25-0006-S67, which calls for a report back on a plan to test and remediate the soil at park property, parkways and medians in the burn zone in Pacific Palisades.”
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MINUTES FROM MARCH 13th 2025
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Diana Daniele, Robert Trinkkeller, Kimberly Bloom, Karen Ridgley, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Janet Anderson, Jessica Rogers, David Card, James Alexakis, Kaye Steinsapir, Kevin Niles, Hagop Tchakerian
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Joanna Spak, Michael Edlen, Allison Holdorff, Lee Anne Sanderson, Daphne Gronich, Rick McGeagh, Valeria Serna, Andrew Frew
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. Chris Spitz read the Mission Statement.
2. Introductions / Roll Call. The President introduced the members and called the roll.
3. Certification of Quorum. The President certified quorum.
4. Approval of Minutes. The minutes of February 27, 2025, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. The agenda was as distributed. Upcoming meetings: March 27, 2025 (guest speakers: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and possibly LADWP); April 10, 2025 (appointment of Nominating Committee to nominate PPCC officer candidates for the 2025-26 term).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported that the Council’s bank balance is $109,351.97. There has not been much activity since the last report. A $2,500 donation was received which will be reflected in the next report.
[Note: the President called item 11.1 following the Treasurer’s Report.]
7. General Public Comment
7.1. Sue Pascoe (resident; CTN editor) requested that PPCC look into a possible waiver by the City of building permit fees; she also noted that the Park Advisory Board will meet next week and stressed that the park should reopen ASAP.
7.2. Jon Brown (resident, Palisades Bowl Mobile Home Park) explained that the Palisades Bowl MHP has formed a new Steering Committee, which has engaged with government officials as the park owner has denied access to the EPA and has refused to allow toxic waste and debris removal. He thanked PPCC for its efforts on the Park’s behalf.
7.3. Joe Hartnett (Alcima resident) advised that his residents’ group has access to new fireproof building materials.
7.4. Don Iselin (Huntington resident) expressed concerns from Huntington residents about the status of ROE forms, about insurance and about security. There is a need for patrols to protect equipment and building materials during the rebuild.
7.5. Austin Worrell (resident) referenced Build Back LA and research into demolition; he noted that residents are concerned about the cost of rebuilding and right of entry into the area. He attended the Malibu Town Hall on build back with coordination on building after the Woolsey Fire.
7.6. Richard Borowsky (retired firefighter) explained that he participated in fighting the Malibu Fire 31 years ago and found that a fire hydrant was dry at that time; this was unacceptable then and is unacceptable now; he stressed that all hydrants must be repaired so that water will be flowing.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The President announced that Jenny Li has been appointed to the Rebuild Committee.
8.1.2. The President reported on new PPCC representative appointments to the WRAC MTC: Kaye Steinsapir, primary rep; Sharon Garrett, Alternate rep (Julia Nilsen has resigned as primary rep).
8.1.3. The President encouraged everyone to patronize small businesses in the Palisades that are open and/or still operating (whether in person or online), including the Palisades Garden Café and Leslie of Paws & Claws for pet grooming; PPCC’s Youth Advisor Ella Nozar will be compiling a list of small businesses that are open or reopening.
8.1.4. Position letters written since the last PPCC meeting:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Letter-re-CCRsF.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Statement-and-Request-re-CCRsF-1.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Letter-Re-Hydrants.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Letter-Re-Soils-Testing.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Letter-Re-CDR-Motion.pdf
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Beth Holden-Garland (Secretary) reported that as we learn of Palisades small businesses that are reopening, this will be posted on PPCC social media. Businesses that are reopening should email PPCC to let us know of their status.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large) announced that President Sue Kohl has been chosen to receive the special “Woman of Impact 2025” award from Mayor Karen Bass. She will be honored by the Mayor at City Hall on March 14. Board members and attendees applauded the honor which is well-deserved.
8.3.2. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven) reported that during recent rains, CD 11 and StreetsLA placed K-rails in Santa Monica Canyon to protect against flooding, which fortunately did not occur. Over 400 people visited the Return to the Canyon event on March 1 and Canyon restaurants, including the Golden Bull, Café Defini and Muse are now open.
8.3.3. Karen Ridgley (Area Four) expressed the urgent need to develop an evacuation plan for the Palisades, citing her own and residents’ experiences with extreme congestion while trying to flee the Palisades Fire. She also added that there were cell phone service issues during the event.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives
8.4.1. David Card (Palisades Forestry Committee) explained the color coding on trees during debris removal and provided information on how to protect trees.
[Note: items 9 and 11.2 were called following 8.4.1.]
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information for government representatives: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades. SLO Espin reported that PCH has reopened with a soft closure (open to residents and contractors with passes only). He cautioned everyone to drive slowly in the burn zone. He also mentioned the upcoming L.A. Marathon and that streets will be closed until 2 pm.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), reported on several matters, including the lifting of the “Do Not Drink Water” restriction; the establishment of a temporary no parking zone in Castellammare; CD11’s work with Urban Forestry on protecting Palisades trees; the Ad Hoc Committee on LA Fire Recovery (she will let us know when and where the next meeting will take place); and the Councilwoman’s motion for a report on easing the burden on homeowners in the burn zone by waiving building permit fees (motion has passed in council and is awaiting a report back on the feasibility of a waiver). She also noted that all condominium and apartment building owners should submit ROE forms by the March 31st deadline; CD 11 is working to obtain confirmation that ACE will remove debris from multifamily buildings.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass — Not present.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, West-Coastal Deputy, Sup. Lindsey Horvath, advised that the Supervisor has worked with CD 11 on access to the Palisades Bowl Mobile Home Park for debris removal; FEMA and ACE have now obtained access to remove hazardous toxic debris, and they are working to clean up the remainder of the debris. He also reported on the Board of Supervisors’ work on several matters. Including moving LAHSA and other agencies into a single Department within the County. He said they are working on the beach bridge, plan to start mid April and “hope” to have the work complete by mid July. He also mentioned about getting tree waivers at palisadescallcenter@ecc.net. There will also be an audit on LAHSA homelessness services.
8.5.5. Samantha Gallegos, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen), announced that Senator Allen has introduced a number of bills that are pending in the legislature and may help Palisades residents, including a bill (SB 663) to provide a measure of property tax relief.
8.5.6. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) reported on several bills recently introduced in the legislature by Asm. Irwin, including bills dealing with mortgage payment forbearance and Fair Plan insurance issues. He also referenced the status of a proposed PCH Master Plan.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons — None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committee.
9.1. Land Use Committee (LUC). LUC Chair Chris Spitz advised that the Committee has been holding working meetings to discuss land use issues related to the rebuilding. The Committee is now recommending two motions that are on the agenda for board approval (items 11.2(a) and (b) were called during 9.1).
9.2. Rebuild Committee (RC): In the absence of the RC Chair, Quentin Fleming reported that the Committee has adopted an important “Statement of Rebuilding Goals and Guiding Principles” to guide its work: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Background-Rebuild-Committee-Statement.pdf.
He and fellow RC member Lorie Cudzil have recruited 20 volunteers to monitor meetings of the City Council Ad Hoc LA Recovery Committee. RC member John Padden announced that the RC is also focusing on public safety during the rebuild.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Presentation and Q&A – MySafe LA: LA Fire Safe Council. [Note: item taken out of order, following the Treasurer’s report/item 6.]
David Barrett and Dante Cornejo of the Fire Safe Council presented an informative slide show about the “My Safe Community Project” and fire safe measures that should be considered as we move forward with rebuilding. Mr. Barrett discussed topics such as providing defensible space, home hardening, and the importance of having a Fire Safe Council. He noted that Cal Fire will soon be considering new designations statewide of areas designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones; it is hoped that Pacific Palisades’ designation will be retained. He acknowledged some lack of funding in the city. He also said the blue circle dots on pavement help mark where hydrants are to the right of the dots.
11.2. Motions sponsored by the PPCC LUC. [Note: item taken out of order, during the LUC report/item 9.1.]
11.2(a): Motion for the PPCC Board to oppose SB 677 (Wiener). The motion was made by the LUC (no second was necessary because more than one voting member made the motion). Chris Spitz presented information about the motion and background. No questions were asked, and after an opportunity for discussion, a vote on the motion was taken. Result: the motion passed unanimously. See approved motion language in Attachments below.
11.2(b): Motion regarding Specific Plan notice and enforcement. The motion was made by the LUC (no second was necessary because more than one voting member made the motion). Chris Spitz presented information about the motion and background. A resident noted the need for affordable housing. The President explained that this motion dealt with the Specific Plan only and affordable housing was not the subject of the motion; Chris Spitz also noted that the topic of affordable housing in the Palisades may be considered at some point. Following discussion, a vote was taken. Result: the motion passed unanimously. See approved motion language in Attachments below.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:26pm.
ATTACHMENTS:
Item 11.2(a) – Motion to oppose SB 677 (Wiener)
“Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) has for 52 years been the voice of Pacific Palisades, the community at the epicenter of the Palisades Fire on January 7, 2025 – the most devastating catastrophe ever experienced in Los Angeles. Our experience with wildfires, and the extreme danger posed by limited routes of ingress and egress on our hillside streets during mandatory evacuations, has led PPCC to long oppose any efforts by government, whether directly or indirectly, to increase density in our low-density Palisades residential communities. https://pacpalicc.org/wpcontent/uploads/2025/02/PPCC-Policy-Statement-Density-Public-Safety.pdf.
“The extreme risk to public safety was made evident during the Palisades Fire, when residents under mandatory evacuation were forced to abandon cars and flee for their lives while emergency vehicles were impeded from entering burning areas. Increased density (more housing) will only exacerbate the risk as we continue to face the serious threat of wildfires during the reconstruction of Pacific Palisades and beyond. “PPCC therefore opposes SB 677 (Wiener), which mandates further streamlining and automatic approval of certain permits for increased housing development and places all areas within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), including the entirety of Pacific Palisades, at risk of public safety, by failing to provide for an unconditional exemption for areas within the VHFHSZ.
“PPCC urges our state elected representatives, Senator Ben Allen and Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, to vote No on the bill and to support the unconditional exemption of VHFHSZs from any attempt to waive the ordinary review, hearing, and comment process for permits that seek to increase density in these areas. We further request that our City Councilmember Traci Park bring a resolution in City Council forthwith to add opposition to SB 677 to the Council’s state legislative priorities for 2025-26.”
Background: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Wiener-bill-background.pdf
Item 11.2(b) – Motion re Specific Plan notice and enforcement
“Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) requests that during the reconstruction of Pacific Palisades, all applicants for building permits for multifamily or mixed used developments within the area of the Pacific Palisades Commercial Village and Neighborhoods Specific Plan (Specific Plan) be notified by the Los Angeles Dept. of Building and Safety (LADBS) of the provisions of the Specific Plan. PPCC further requests confirmation by our city officials and relevant agencies, including the Mayor, our Councilwoman, the Dept. of City Planning and LADBS, that the provisions of the Specific Plan will not be waived but will instead be applied and enforced as to all permit applications for multifamily or mixed used developments within the Specific Plan area during the reconstruction of Pacific Palisades.”
Background: According to recent reporting, at least one property owner may seek permission to build a large, multistory/multifamily building within the Palisades Specific Plan area which may violate certain Specific Plan provisions. It is possible that during the community’s reconstruction, other property owners may seek to do the same. PPCC has long supported application and enforcement of the Specific Plan. It is unclear whether the City’s streamlining of permits during reconstruction of the Palisades will include waiver or non-enforcement of Specific Plan provisions. See Specific Plan link at: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/about/community-specific-plans/.
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MINUTES FROM MARCH 27th 2025
Voting Members in Attendance: Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Chris Spitz, Cindi Young, Steve Cron, Julia Nilsen, Allison Holdorff, Karen Ridgley, Cindy Simon, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, Janet Anderson, Bruce Schwartz, Courtney Macker, Haldis Toppel, James Alexakis, Richard Blumenberg, Hagop Tchakerian
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Joanna Spak, Michael Edlen, Daphne Gronich, Jessica Rogers, Kevin Niles, Ella Nozar, Rob Weber
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. Quentin Fleming (Vice-President) read the Mission Statement.
2. Introductions / Roll Call. The Vice-President presided during the meeting in the President’s absence. The Vice-President introduced the members and called the roll.
3. Certification of Quorum. The Vice-President certified quorum.
4. Approval of Minutes. The minutes of March 13, 2025, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. The agenda was as distributed. Upcoming meetings: April 10, 2025 (appointment of the Nominating Committee to nominate officer candidates for the 2025-26 term); April 20, 2025 (topics to be announced).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Secretary read the Treasurer’s report in the Treasurer’s absence: the Council’s bank balance is $112,325.23, with recent donations of $100 and $500 and no unusual expenses. It has been difficult to track down PPCC mail at the Rancho Park Post Office. She encourages donations to PPCC via PayPal.
[Note: the President called item 11.1 following the Treasurer’s Report, and Item 11.2 following 11.1.]
7. General Public Comment – None.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. The Vice-President announced that the E.C. has sent a letter re hazardous coastal fire debris:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/PPCC-Letter-re-Coastal-Debris.pdf
8.1.2. The Vice-President reported on other position letters written since the last PPCC meeting:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/PPCC-Letter-Waiver-Fees.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/PPCC-Letter-re-SB-677.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/PPCC-Letter-re-Specific-Plan.pdf
8.1.3. The Vice-President explained that the President Sue Kohl and Area 7 rep Sharon Kilbride attended and represented PPCC at the “Flag Planting in Palisades – Resiliency!” event sponsored by the American Legion Ronald Reagan Post 283, on March 20, 2025.
8.1.4. The Vice-President announced that Mar Vista residents have reported seeing many lost pets in their neighborhoods. Palisadians who lost pets in the fire may wish to search in the Mar Vista area.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Sharon Kilbride (Area 7) reported that the new Santa Monica Canyon Alliance has been formed and is dealing with extra traffic on canyon roads from trucks engaged in the rebuilding. Their website is www.the-canyon.org.
8.3.2. Karen Ridgley (Area 4) is concerned about the storage of debris on Temescal Canyon Rd. LTC Nathaniel Weander explained that the Army Corps of Engineers is not storing debris along Temescal Canyon Rd., but instead is temporarily using the roadway to reduce the size of debris into smaller units that can then be placed in trucks and taken away to dumping sites.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives – None.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information for government representatives: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades. SLO Espin spoke about the fact that persons have been seen trespassing in the area and about the need to call 911 when suspicious activity is observed. He noted that the police haven’t seen any burglaries. He also explained the procedures involving the passes and checkpoints for persons entering the area, and about the increased traffic on our streets from trucks and other vehicles used by contractors and utility workers. He cautioned everyone to be mindful and to drive slowly.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), reported on several matters, including the upcoming ROE form deadline (March 31) and the fact that CW Park has visited the Recreation Center and bocce courts area. There are several EV chargers at the library. The Chipotle restaurant on Sunset Blvd. has recently reopened. She encouraged Palisadians to patronize local restaurants and other businesses that have opened. Ms. Grigoryan also spoke about the landslide in Castellammare on Stretto, where BOE is working on debris removal, which has necessitated road closures. She also notified the board about a Public Works project involving concrete repairs at 900 Napoli Drive, in which 1200 sq. feet of concrete panels have been removed. Finally, she advised that the Ad Hoc Committee for LA Recovery, chaired by CW Park, recently approved a motion by CW Park for a report back on testing and remediation of soil in the Palisades’ parks, parkways and medians. She also answered questions about undergrounding of utilities during the rebuilding.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Field Deputy, Mayor Karen Bass, greeted the board and reminded everyone of the March 31st deadline to submit ROE forms. She also advised that the Mayor is continuing her fire recovery briefings, which will now take place once a week on Tuesdays at 5pm via Zoom; the Mayor would like feedback from constituents affected by the fires.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, West-Coastal Deputy, Sup. Lindsey Horvath reported on the work of the Supervisor and noted the upcoming ROE deadline. He advised that the Supervisor has introduced a motion to create a new County Dept. of Homelessness which will be taken up soon. The new Dept. will consolidate and centralize homeless services. He also explained that work on the broken bridge over the beach pedestrian trail is expected to start by the end of April.
8.5.5. Samantha Gallegos, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) reported on several bills introduced in the legislature by Sen. Allen, including SB 715, which would ensure that post-disaster recovery, local environmental conditions, and climate change impacts are appropriately considered during regional housing need allocations.
8.5.6. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) – Not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons — None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committee.
x9.1. Rebuild Committee (RC): In the absence of the RC Chair, the Vice-President reported that the Committee has been working on a possible survey of community opinion, has formed a subcommittee on public safety which has been discussing possible increased patrols, and has also formed a 20+ group of volunteer monitors to attend meetings of the Ad Hoc Committee for LA Recovery. Several of the volunteers attended and spoke at the Ad Hoc Committee meeting on March 24, which was held at the CD 11 offices on Manchester Blvd. in Westchester.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Presentation and Q&A – LAUSD staff on rebuilding of Palisades public schools. [Note: item taken out of order, following the Treasurer’s report/item 6.] Dr. Debra Bryant, Executive Director of School Operations at LAUSD, introduced LAUSA reps who would provide information on the rebuilding of public schools in the Palisades, including Pali High, Marquez Elementary, Palisades Elementary and Canyon School: Carlos Torres (Director of the Office of Environmental Health and Safety) and Issam Dahdul (Director of Facilities). The speakers provided a Slide Show of the rebuilding stages, and gave extensive information on the rebuild of the schools as well as LAUSD’s efforts to mitigate environmental hazards during the rebuilding. Allison Holdorff (Sr. Advisor and District Director for LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin – and PPCC Area 5 1st Alternate) was also present. The speakers answered numerous questions from the board and audience. See the Slide Show presentation by LAUSD on the PPCC website at Palisades Fire Recovery Presentations: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/palisades-fire-recovery-presentations/. The Vice-President thanked the LAUSD speakers for their presentation.
11.2. Presentation and Q&A – LTC Nathaniel Weander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, on phase 2 debris removal. [Note: item taken out of order, following the Treasurer’s report/item 6 and item 11.1.] Lt. Col. Nathaniel Weander, joined briefly by Col. Eric Swenson, provided information about the work of the Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) and the status of debris removal. He stressed that the deadline to opt-in to the program is March 31, and explained that folks who opt in by the deadline can later opt out. ACE will not remove retaining walls or swimming pools. He noted that 6,300 properties are eligible for debris removal; to date, 4,397 have opted in, 700+ have opted out, leaving about 1,000 who have still not returned their ROE forms. ACE is working hard to finish debris removal in the Palisades by the end of May, and wants to begin work on PCH debris removal by June 1. There were several questions about eligibility of townhomes, condos, mobile homes and other multifamily units for debris removal by ACE. Col. Swenson explained that this is a decision for FEMA. At this point, FEMA has only authorized debris removal by ACE for single-family homes, and multifamily developments are not eligible. However, he also noted that this issue is being looked at and he believes there will be a new decision in the coming days. He stressed that all owners of units in multi-family developments should still submit completed ROEs by the deadline, and HOAs should do the same. The Vice-President thanked LTC Weander and Col. Swenson for speaking with PPCC.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm.
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MINUTES FROM APRIL 10th 2025 (pending)
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