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Return to Index of 2026 PPCC Meeting Minutes
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings held via Zoom videoconference and recorded for secretarial purposes only.
MINUTES FROM JANUARY 8th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley/Lee Anne Sanderson*), Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil (partial attendance/Cindy Simon*) Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Rick McGeagh, Valeria Serna, David Card, Kevin Niles, Daphne Gronich, Alley Michaelson, Courtney Macker, Donna Vaccarino (*became voting member upon primary’s departure)
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Cindi Young, Allison Holdorff, Michael Edlen, Bonnie Burgess, Richard Blumenberg, James Alexakis, Fay Vahdani, Jim Kirtley, Ella Nozar
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. Julia Nilsen 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.
[Note: Item 11.1 (Councilwoman Traci Park) was called following Item 3 and prior to Item 4 (Approval of Minutes) below.]
4. Approval of Minutes. The minutes of November 13, 2026, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. January 22, 2026 (LAFD Chief Jaime Moore invited); February 12, 2026 (topics to be announced).
6. Treasurer’s Report. In the Treasurer reported that our balances are as follows:
US Bank: $ 43,969.25 (note: $5,000 is being held for a donation to the community celebration event in March, so the effective balance is less this amount).
Schwab: $ 337,340.30 (note: grant checks totaling $12,000 have not yet cleared, so the effective balance is less this amount).
The Treasurer is also working on a report of the expenses for the Gala in December (to be finalized).
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. Diane Bleak (resident) thanked Steve Cron for his service to Area Two. She also suggested that PPCC should: hold hybrid meetings; identify audience members during roll call; advocate for a medical clinic in the Palisades; and post more frequently on Facebook, Instagram and Next Door.
7.2. Richard Lombari (resident/Pali LTRG Vice-Chair) thanked PPCC for supporting the LTRG Remembrance event on January 7, 2026.
7.3. John Alle (property/business owner) expressed his disappointment that individual needy Palisades residents did not receive FireAid funds, while large amounts were donated to others without accounting for how the money was spent. He also suggested that FLOCK LPR camera operators should be asked to provide video to identify individuals who recently stole yard signs from private property. The President explained that these cameras are license-plate readers which record vehicles only and do not capture images of individual persons; the LPR cameras are also placed mainly at intersections, not sited throughout residential areas. [See remarks by LAPD SLO Espin in Item 8.5.1, below.]
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. Recap and remarks on the one-year anniversary of the Palisades Fire: January 7, 2026, Fire Anniversary Commemoration/Remembrance Event. The President commented on the many events that she attended, including the moving Remembrance Ceremony hosted by the American Legion Post 283 and the Pali LTRG (which PPCC helped sponsor with the approval of the Executive Committee); the “They Let Us Burn” protest event organized by residents, where some legitimate points were made; the special Project Chimney event sponsored by the House Museum; and the beams of light that were shown over Caruso’s Palisades Village in the evening.
8.1.2. Recap: January 7, 2026, House Museum Commemoration Event (chimney project). [See Item 8.1.1, above.]
8.1.3. Recap: January 1, 2026, Rose Parade / Rising Together Float – PPCC President Sue Kohl and Pali LTRG President Jim Cragg, participating. The President detailed the events of the day, explaining that she and Jim Cragg were honored to represent the Palisades community and walk alongside the beautiful “Rising Together” float, sponsored by the California Community Foundation, which featured a floral Phoenix rising and won an award in the Rose Parade. She remarked on the thousands of persons lining the Parade route who indicated their support for the fire victims on the float, and noted that this was one of the best experiences of her life.
8.1.4. Recap: December 11, 2025, PPCC Awards Gala. The President provided a recap of the successful Awards Gala held at Spruzzo Restaurant. She related that Spruzzo’s service and food were excellent, that Jimmy Dunne wrote and performed a special song for Councilwoman Park, accompanied by members of the Event Committee who served as his backup dancers, and that a fun time was had by all! [See recap and photos at https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/awards-guidelines/.]
8.1.4. New event: January 9, 2026, One-Year Remembrance of the Fire, 10am-11am at City Hall, Council Chambers, 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles. RSVP: https://forms.gle/mh6x9ZT5TA9jhTqq7. The President encouraged everyone to attend this special ceremony at City Hall on January 9th.
8.1.5. Reminder: Community Renewal Celebration — new date March 22, 2026. The President explained that PPCC and many other community organizations are sponsoring this celebration which will now take place on March 22 instead of on January 25 as earlier noticed. Planning for the event is ongoing and more details will come soon.
8.1.6. Update: ACE Building Materials proposed materials yard and point-of-sale center/permit hearing January 5, 2026. The President briefly explained this family-owned business and the proposed project, and reported on the hearing of ACE’s application for a “long term temporary permit” to operate a building materials yard at the vacant Shell Station lot. A decision on the permit was postponed so that ACE can coordinate with LADWP on a safe ingress and egress route during LADWP’s work on Via de la Paz. Jessica Zakarya, one of ACE’s co-owners (in attendance) expressed admiration for PPCC’s work, thanked us for our support and advised that ACE will work with LADWP to ensure that ingress and egress to the site will be safe and convenient.
PPCC EC 1st Letter: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/PPCC-EC-Ltr-ACE-Rebuilding-Yard-Permit.pdf
PPCC 2nd Letter: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/PPCC-EC-Ltr-ACE-Yard-2.pdf
Background: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Memo-PPCC-Bd-ACE-permit.pdf
8.1.7. Update: PPCC-NORC Community Survey – Status of NORC Report on Survey Results and distribution to the press. The President announced that NORC has completed its report on the results of the Community Survey and that PPCC this week issued a press release about the report. With the approval of the Executive Committee, the press release was sent out to news media nationwide via the “PR Newswire” service. VP Quentin Fleming will be the point person to answer questions about the report. [PPCC press release: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PPCC-Press-Release.pdf.]
[NORC report: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Report_NORC-and-PPCC-Final-1.pdf.]
8.1.8. Farewell and thank you to Steve Cron (longtime Area Two Primary Representative, now resigned); welcome new Primary Carole White and new 1st Alternate Diana Daniele; the Area Two 2nd Alternate seat is now open; instructions on how to apply for the seat will be distributed. The President thanked Steve Cron for his service to PPCC and the community. She also explained that as a result, Carole White is now the Primary and Diana Daniele is the 1st Alternate [per PPCC bylaws, when the Primary seat becomes vacant the Alternate seats move up accordingly]. A notice detailing how to apply to become the 2nd Alternate will be distributed soon. Steve Cron (in attendance) stated that it was his pleasure to serve on the PPCC Board representing Area Two; he explained that although he has moved from the Palisades and doesn’t feel he can adequately represent Area Two at this time, he isn’t going away entirely and we’ll see him again.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus – None.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. JoAnna Rodriguez (Area One) explained that a resident on Posetano Road in Area One is very concerned because another homeowner is engaging in construction on a hillside portion of Posetano seemingly without implementing normal hillside safety measures; for example, there are no retaining walls, the caissons are very small, and an electrical cord is dangerously placed across the public street. JoAnna has asked CD 11 for help but has not heard back. Reza Akef (Infrastructure Committee Chair) suggested that she contact palisadespermitconcierge@lacity.org. Chris Spitz (At-large & Land Use Committee Chair) also suggested that Rodriguez follow up again with CD 11 Planning Director Craig Bullock and Palisades Deputy Arus Grigoryan.
8.3.2. Kimberly Bloom (Area Five) announced that residents of the Alphabets Streets, which are leading in the reconstruction efforts, have expressed concerns about whether street trees will be replanted and about the destruction of the tree canopy and other vegetation in the area due to the fire. She asked if the Palisades Forestry Committee (PFC) can help with this issue. Dave Card (PFC President) indicated he would speak about the matter in his organizational report [see Item 8.4.1 below].
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Dave Card (PFC) announced that the PFC is working on a Master Plan for street trees in the entire Palisades. The whole process may take over a year and assistance may be needed with street tree designations. He gave information about how to plant and secure street trees. He also noted that the PFC has now planted over 100 trees in the last three years, as they committed to do at past PPCC meetings; the last two trees were recently planted at Aldersgate. The PFC also assisted in planting twelve native trees (Sycamores and Live Oaks) in honor of the twelve individuals who died in the Palisades fire, in the park area along Temescal Canyon Blvd. (south of the former Palisades High continuation school).
8.4.2. Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA) noted that the Y has extended free memberships for fire victims.
8.4.3. Donna Vaccarino (PP Historical Society) announced that an informal gathering will take place at 2pm on Sunday afternoon, January 11, 2026, at Founders Oak Island across from Aldersgate Lodge on Haverford, to rededicate the Island after the fire. Pastor Catie Coons (interim Pastor of the Methodist Church) will give remarks (the Methodists were the original Palisades founders) and there will be a native land recognition by Tongva and Chumash representatives. All are invited.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO) for Pacific Palisades, announced that the past week’s crime map shows no crime in the Palisades. He emphasized that the crime map data is based on crimes that are actually reported to LAPD; low-level criminal activity that may be occurring but is not reported is not reflected. He also noted that due to our low crime statistics, an additional LAPD patrol car that had been temporarily assigned to the Palisades has been rerouted to other areas of the City with higher crime numbers; the Palisades will still have one dedicated patrol car assigned to our area. Officer Espin also confirmed that FLOCK LPR cameras are license-plate readers which only record vehicles (those that pass by the locations where the cameras are sited), not individuals.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park) – present early in the meeting but left before government reports were called.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass, recounted that she was pleased to be able to attend the moving PaliLTRG Remembrance event at the American Legion on January 7, for which the Mayor had presented a wreath. She explained that the Mayor had been in the Palisades that morning at a private vigil honoring the fire victims at the Self-Realization Fellowship, and had ordered that City government flags be lowered to half-mast and that City Hall be lit blue to honor the victims. Ms. Ensley also gave updates on the status of the library and recreation center rebuilds, and the planned establishment of a new one-stop rebuilding center on the lot next to Marquez Elementary in the Palisades, where representatives of LADBS, Planning, LADWP and other City agencies will be located to provide information and answer questions.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, provided updates on several LA County measures. He also remarked that he and the Supervisor were honored to attend the PaliLTRG Remembrance ceremony, which he found very moving; he further announced a Community Picnic for fire victims, sponsored by the Supervisor, to take place at Pepperdine University on Saturday afternoon, January 10, 2026. All are invited.
8.5.5. Sean Regan, District Representative, Congressman Brad Sherman – not present.
8.5.6. Sophia Liebman, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) reported that the Senator was pleased to attend the Remembrance ceremony yesterday. She also reported on his new committee assignments in the coming legislative term and noted that he is working on bills involving insurance and rebuilding matters, as well as issues related to mobile home parks.
8.5.7. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) stated the Assemblymember was also pleased to attend the Remembrance ceremony, and that her office is looking for local office space in the Palisades and may relocate to a space within the PRC office.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons.
8.6.1. Allison Holdorf (Education), Senior Advisor to LAUSD Member Nick Melvoin, reported that Pali High students will very likely (“99%”) return to classes at the Palisades campus by January 22, 2026.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. Land Use Committee / LUC (Chris Spitz, Chair). Chair Spitz did not comment further on the ACE Building Materials yard matter which had been discussed during the Chair’s announcements. She instead explained that the LUC will meet with CD 11 Planning Deputy Craig Bullock and Planning Dept. officials to obtain information and an understanding of how state density bonus laws interact with or supersede the Palisades Specific Plan and may impact other areas of the Palisades, most recently as applied to a tall (3-story) mixed-use project proposed for a vacant lot on Sunset Blvd. in the commercial Village.
9.3. Rebuild Committee (David Schwarz, Chair). VP Quentin Fleming explained that a professional public relations firm provided input on the press release about the NORC report and assisted with its release nationally via PR Newswire (as approved by the Executive Committee). He reported that the survey report so far has been referenced in the New York Post (NYP) and on Air Talk with Larry Mantle (89.3FM), where Fleming was interviewed. Joel Pollak (resident and NYP opinion editor, in attendance) commented that the survey was “extremely well done” and noted that a significant takeaway from the results is the fact that the community overwhelmingly distrusts government to lead the Palisades’ recovery. Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) expressed her opinion that a discussion about the survey is needed. Chris Spitz (At-large) stated that in a second phase, NORC will conduct a follow-up survey, which Fleming indicated may take place in about six months. He also remarked on the importance and purpose of the survey: to provide the most rigorous, scientific and reliable set of data about the opinions, needs and priorities of Palisades residents, which in turn will inform decision-makers as to how and where to direct funding and on the way forward for recovery that the community actually supports.
9.4. Infrastructure Committee (Reza Akef, Chair). Committee update. Chair Akef explained that the Committee has been meeting with LADWP and other officials and agencies and will continue to meet about the community’s important infrastructure needs. Discussions include all aspects of infrastructure repair, installation and rebuilding, including undergrounding and other infrastructure needs, such as water meters, curbs, streets, street lighting and street trees; all will need to be coordinated going forward. The Committee is reaching out to include different Palisades neighborhoods in the conversations and will report back to the Board on the Committee’s efforts.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Guest Speaker Councilwoman Traci Park.
The President welcomed Councilwoman Park, who began by thanking the Pali LTRG for the moving event on the anniversary of the fire and PPCC for our work over the past year. She spoke about the suffering we all experienced, the challenges and economics involved with the rebuild, the work of her office and her efforts in City Council to push forward numerous measures to assist in the Palisades’ recovery. She also provided a status update about street lighting in the Palisades, which is dark at night due to nonfunctioning or destroyed street lights, her efforts with Street Lighting to get street lights up and running, and about LADWP’s work to install a one-stop-rebuilding center on the vacant lot adjacent to Marquez Elementary School. She explained that this work does not involve installation of an electrical distributing station. The President thanked the Councilwoman for speaking with us and for all her efforts on our behalf this past year.
11.2. Habitat for Humanity Presentation.
The President welcomed representatives from Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA). Melissa Morales-Quezada showed slides and explained what HabitatLA has been doing and continues to do in the Palisades to help with the recovery. She described their multi-phase recovery plan and programs for vulnerable Palisadians. She and other HabitatLA representatives emphasized that contrary to misinformed public perception of our community, there are many needy Palisadians who require assistance and services after the tragedy. HabitatLA will continue to provide services to those in need. The President thanked the representatives for speaking with us and for their work.
[See a recording of both of the above speakers (items 11.1 and 11.2, CW Park at the beginning; HabitatLA at about 1:38 on the recording) at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISWm78787eA .]
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 p.m.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM JANUARY 22nd 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Maryam Zar (late arrival), Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Daphne Gronich (until Sanderson arrival)/Lee Anne Sanderson (late arrival), Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Valeria Serna, David Card, Rich Wilken (until Gronich replaced by Sanderson for Area 4/Daphne Gronich (after Sanderson arrival), Kaye Steinsapir, Courtney Macker, Harris Smith (until Vaccarino arrival)/Donna Vaccarino (late arrival)
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Allison Holdorff, Michael Edlen, Warren Jacob, Cindy Simon, Bonnie Burgess, JoAnna Spak, Cameron Pfzenmaier
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:02 p.m. Kimberly Bloom 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.
[Note: Item 11.1 (LAFD Chief Jaime Moore) was called following Item 3 and prior to Item 4 (Approval of Minutes) below.]
4. Approval of Minutes. The minutes of January 8, 2026, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. February 12, 2026 and February 26, 2026 (topics to be announced); Special Meeting March 5, 2026 (discussion of NORC Survey Report); NORC representatives will attend and answer questions about the report.
6. Treasurer’s Report. See report re the Awards banquet, grants & other expenditures:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Treasurers-Report-1-22-26-awards-grants-other.pdf.
[Treasurer not present; no report other than as linked in the agenda, above.]
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. John Alle (property owner) repeated his questions from the last PPCC meeting about a large FireAid grant to an individual in the Palisades. The President responded that while she and others may have personal opinions, any issues regarding the grant in question are being addressed by FireAid.
7.2. Diane Bleak (resident) stated concerns about four matters: 1) a burglary occurred recently in the 1300 block of Avenida Cortez; 2) two burned cars are still left on Palisades Dr.; 3) streetlights are out on Sunset Blvd. between Bienveneda and Marquez Ave.; 4) the PPCC Area Two 2nd Alternate should represent her area of the Highlands.
7.3. Jill Smith (resident) and Sue Pascoe (resident/Circling the News) both asked when the AECOM report will be made public. The President: City officials say it will be coming soon; Reza Akef (Palisades builder/PPCC Infrastructure Committee Chair): it should be released by mid-February.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. Recap: City Council event on January 9, 2026: One-Year Remembrance of the Fire. The President explained that this was a wonderful event at City Hall, presented by CW Park, to recognize the anniversary of the fire. Many Palisadians attended and it was very emotional.
8.1.2. Resignation of Area Six 2nd Alternate David Schwarz; seat now open (application notice distributed on January 10, 2026; deadline to apply 5pm on February 9, 2026. Areas Two and Eight 2nd Alternate seats also open; deadline to apply 5pm on February 7, 2026 [see also Item 9.1 below]. The President reiterated that David Schwarz has resigned and noted the open 2nd Second Alternate seats for Areas Two, Six and Eight and the deadlines to apply.
8.1.3. PPCC Committee updates/changes:
1) Rebuild: resignation of Chair, committee dissolved. The President explained that since the Committee Chair has resigned and the Survey results have now been reported, the Committee’s focus and work are largely complete and it has therefore been dissolved; the Executive Committee will handle follow-up regarding the NORC Survey. The Infrastructure Committee will deal with logistics of rebuilding along with undergrounding and other infrastructure issues.
2) Land Use, Infrastructure, Grants: The President announced the addition of the following new committee members. Land Use: Reza Akef; Infrastructure: Hank Wright; Grants: Kevin Niles.
8.1.5. UCLA Wildfire Evacuation Survey: https://form.jotform.com/253075820563053. All are encouraged to take the survey.
8.1.6. Update: Community Celebration, March 22, 2026, 2-6pm at Pali High. The new date, time and venue were announced. Planning for the event is taking place and more details will come soon.
8.1.7. Update: Permit fee waivers – City Council Budget & Finance Cmte Meeting, January 20, 2026. The Budget Committee unanimously approved waiving permit fees as recommended by the City CAO. The matter will now be heard by the full City Council.
8.1.8. [New] Students Returning to Pali High. Palisadians are encouraged to come to Temescal Canyon Rd. at 8am on January 27, and line the street near the school as students return to the campus that day, to welcome them back and cheer them on.
8.1.9. [New] Emergency Preparedness Committee/Emergency Neighborhood Preparedness Training. Two Palisades community leaders, Josie Tong and Elissa Ashwood of Team Palisades, have requested that PPCC form an Emergency Preparedness Committee on which they would be willing to participate. The President suggested that anyone interested in serving on such a committee should contact her and she will put them in touch with Ms. Tong & Ms. Ashwood. A special all day training program on neighborhood emergency preparedness will take place on January 31, 2026, at 15223 La Cruz Dr. (PRC HQ). The sessions will be led by representatives of the American Red Cross, the L.A. Dept. of Emergency Management, and Ms. Tong/local community leaders. PPCC will include information about the event in an upcoming Mailchimp bulletin.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Quentin Fleming (Vice-President). Update: Press Release distribution and NORC Survey Report. The Vice-President explained that the press release about the Survey Report was distributed nationwide by a newswire service on January 7, 2026. The Report and Survey have been mentioned in several news reports. He was also interviewed about the Survey on AirTalk with Larry Mantle (NPR/LAist). He noted that two representatives from NORC have confirmed their attendance at the Special PPCC Meeting on March 5 to discuss the Survey results and their methodology.
8.2.1. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) reminded everyone that there is a soils sample drop off site at the PRC HQ, which will also host office hours for Assemblymember Irwin.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Andrew Wolfberg (Area Eight) announced that the Genesis Invitational Golf Tournament will take place at the Riviera from February 19-22, 2026. He and nearby residents have worked well with CD 11 and the Tiger Woods Foundation to address issues with that tournament, and are hoping that they can reach out to the LPGA for cooperation on neighborhood concerns in advance of the U.S. Women’s Open Golf Tournament scheduled for the 1st week of June, 2026.
8.3.2. Lorie Cudzil (Area Six) recently noticed that logs were dumped on Temescal Canyon Rd. near the trees planted for the 12 fire victims. She reached out to Arus Grigoryan of CD 11 and is thankful that Arus was able to get the logs taken away.
8.3.3. Daphne Gronich (2nd Alt. Area Four) read from a statement with a neighbor’s questions about brush below the Tahitian Terrace property which is a fire hazard. She was told that brush issues should be reported to LAFD Brush Clearance.
8.3.4. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven) reported on: problems related to design flaws with the beach bike path repair project as the path runs into the Roosevelt Tunnel; an issue with a truck parked in the County parking lot; and residents’ unhappiness with tall scaffolding at the new Canyon School building. She also reported on the recent PPTFH Homelessness Count in the Palisades and thanked the Palisadians who participated. They found 15 unhoused individuals, 7 tents and 9 vehicle dwellers along the beach area rom Entrada to Coastline Dr., with none in the Village area. The number of vehicle dwellers is a substantial reduction from 2024, when 43 vehicle dwellers were found.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Dave Card (PFC) reported that the organization is continuing to facilitate planting of street trees in upper Santa Monica Canyon. There is information on the PFC website about what trees are appropriate to plant.
8.4.2. Valeria Serna (Resilient Palisades) advised that the organization is hosting a community celebration to promote electrification on February 1, 2026, from 10am-3pm at Paul Revere.
8.4.3. Rich Wilken (Optimist Club) announced that there would be a memorial service for longtime Optimist member Conrad Solum at St. Monica Church in Santa Monica, 2:30 pm on January 23rd.
8.4.4. Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) gave a recap of the special “rededication” ceremony which was held on January 11, 2026 at Founders Oak Island and noted that the event was successful.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO) for Pacific Palisades, announced that once again the crime map shows no crime in the Palisades. The map does not reflect low-level criminal activity that may be occurring but is not reported. He encourages everyone to file police reports. He also reported on the burglary that occurred in the Highlands as well as the situation with the burned and abandoned cars.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), reported as follows:
- LADBS is being alerted to the debris and trash at a vacant property in Castellammare.
- Complaints about activity at the old Jack-in-the-Box property have been reported.
- The permit fee waiver motion passed In the Budget & Finance Committee and must now go before the City Council for a vote.
- The City is working to balance Zone Zero regulations with preservation of our urban forest.
- Work on Posetano is going forward.
- The Tramonto bulkhead needs a complete fix; funding is being secured.
- CD 11 thanks PPTFH for organizing the recent Homeless Count in the Palisades.
- Extensive street tree planting is not recommended due to the work on undergrounding and infrastructure repairs; a Master Plan is needed before street tree planting begins.
- Regarding street light outages in the Palisades: the Bureau of Street Lighting is understaffed and the budget does not allow more electricians to be hired. CD 11 is experiencing many outages due to copper wire theft. Report outages to 3-1-1. A priority will be placed on repairing street lights along Sunset Blvd. and near schools and standing buildings.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass – not present.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, provided updates on LA County measures, on the beach bike path repair status, and on a letter that the County is preparing to state that the Gladstones bus turnaround will not trigger application of SB 79.
8.5.5. Sean Regan, District Representative, Congressman Brad Sherman – not present.
8.5.6. Sophia Liebman, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) – not present.
8.5.7. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) – not present.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons.
8.6.1. Allison Holdorff (Education), Senior Advisor to LAUSD Member Nick Melvoin, reported on the return of Pali High students to the Palisades campus on January 27, 2026. In addition to everyone being encouraged to come to Temescal Canyon Rd. on the morning of the 27th to cheer on the students, there will be a 9th grade orientation on the 26th and the Dept. of Angeles is giving gifts to returning teachers. Contact Allison for more information on how to volunteer with this project.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. Three Chairs Committee (Maryam Zar, Chair; David Card, Chris Spitz). Update: applications
for now open 2nd Alternate positions in Areas Two, Six and Eight. See notices:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PPCC-Areas-28-Alts.-Notice-2026.pdf
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PPCC-Area-6-Alt.-Notice-2026.pdf
Deadlines to apply: February 7, 2026 (Areas Two and Eight); February 9, 2026 (Area Six). Chair Zar related the above information and explained the process. She encouraged eligible persons to apply.
9.2. Land Use Committee (Chris Spitz, Chair). Committee update: Three-story mixed-use project proposed for 15113 Sunset Blvd. (now-vacant lot in the commercial Village) under state “Density Bonus” law. Public LUC meeting: February 11, 2026, 6pm via Zoom (owners/developers confirmed to attend). Chair Spitz first announced that ACE Building Materials has been granted a long-term temporary permit to operate the proposed materials yard at the intersection of Sunset Blvd. & Via de la Paz for a period of one year, to be renewed annually. We have received the Determination Letter which Chair Spitz has not been able to review in detail, but she noted that PPCC’s position letter and requested conditions are referenced in the Determination and several conditions on the permit’s issuance are listed. It is expected that ACE will work with LADWP on ingress and egress from the site. Those interested in seeing the Determination Letter should contact the LUC Chair.
Chair Spitz also explained that the LUC has prepared a preliminary report about the proposed 15113 Sunset Blvd. project and controlling state “Density Bonus” law which will be distributed and posted on the website. All are invited to hear more about the project at the public LUC meeting on February 11 at 6pm; the agenda will be distributed via PPCC Mailchimp and posted on the website in advance of the meeting. [LUC report: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/LUC-Report-re-15113-Sunset.pdf.]
9.3. Infrastructure Committee (Reza Akef, Chair). Committee update. Chair Akef explained that members of the Committee had a positive meeting recently with LADWP officials. Issues involving transformer boxes for underground utilities arose, and the Committee is pushing for the boxes either to be undergrounded or to be placed in parkways/the public right of way. Other issues under discussion include installation of street lights and cell towers/cell facilities. The planting of street trees in the PROW, which the PFC is now undertaking, may conflict with the siting of transformer boxes or other infrastructure in the PROW; it was suggested that this issue should be taken up by PPCC at a future meeting. Chair Akef hopes that LADWP will come and present to PPCC at the last meeting in February.
9.4. Grants Committee (Quentin Fleming, Chair). Committee update. Chair Fleming noted that the Committee has received two additional grants applications and is awaiting more information on two earlier applications; the Committee will be meeting soon to review outstanding applications and to decide on recommended grants.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Guest Speaker – Los Angeles Fire Dept. Chief Jaime Moore.
The President welcomed Chief Moore, who related his background and extensive experience with LAFD as well as his goals for the Department going forward, which include rebuilding trust in the LAFD and strengthening community relationships. He answered numerous probing questions from the Board and community members. He also introduced his assistant Stephanie Bishop and the new LAFD Ambassador for the Palisades, Dwayne Laurent, who will be present to meet with residents at the new one-stop rebuilding center scheduled to open adjacent to Marquez Elementary. The President thanked the Chief for speaking with us and answering our questions. See a recording of his presentation at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPGfrZlRj7s.
11.2. As time allows: Motion to Support CF 25-1484 (Park) – Regulation of sober living density. Sponsored by Chris Spitz and Quentin Fleming (similar motion to be considered on 1/26/26 by the Board of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils / WRAC) — Deferred due to lack of time.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:24 p.m.
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MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 12th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li (late arrival), Beth Holden-Garland, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, James Alexakis, Kevin Niles, Rick McGeagh, David Card, Daphne Gronich, Cameron Pfzenmaier (until Steinsapir arrival)/Kaye Steinsapir (late arrival), Courtney Macker, Donna Vaccarino
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Allison Holdorff, Michael Edlen, Bonnie Burgess, JoAnna Spak, Diana Daniele, Lee Anne Sanderson, Jessica Rogers, Rich Wilken
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:02 p.m. Lorie Cudzil 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 January 22, 2026, were approved as distributed.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. February 26, 2026 (topics to be announced); March 5, 2026 (special meeting with NORC representatives to discuss NORC Survey, 6pm via Zoom).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The President read the Report in the Treasurer’s absence:
TOTAL FUNDS: $462,431.79
US Bank balance: $41,140.04 (5K of that amount is a donation earmarked for March event)
— most recent notable activity is payment of $2,545.00 for Newswire to publicize survey results
Schwab account: $421,291.75
— most recent notable activity is payment of $5,000 grant to Temescal mural project; $100,000.00 donation from FireAid
— FYI: total dividends and interest earned in 2025: $9,658.44; dividends and interest earned in January 2026: $951.45
[Note: Item 11.1 (UCLA Evacuation Survey Presentation) was called following Item 6 above, and Item 9.1 (3 Chairs Committee Report) was called following item 11.1 and before Item 7, Public Comment.]
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. Haldis Toppel (resident) encouraged residents to consult with tax advisors to obtain all the benefits to which they are entitled under the complicated rules. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) noted that the County Assessor will be at the PRC on February 28 to answer property tax questions.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Update: Permit fee waivers – unanimous approval by City Council on February 3, 2026. The President remarked on the City Council’s decision and thanked Councilwoman Park for bringing this forward.
8.1.2. Formation of new PPCC Emergency Preparedness Committee (members TBA at the meeting). The President announced that she has formed this new committee, with the following members: Cindi Young, Chair; Elissa Ashwood, Patric Cohen, Lou Kamer, Kambiz Kamdar, Josie Tong, Hank Wright, members.
8.1.3. E.C.-Approved Letter Supporting Streetscape Improvements along Sunset in the village: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PPCC-Letter-Village-Streetscape-Improvements.pdf. The President noted that the letter is based on PPCC’s prior request of Caruso to harmonize the Village streetscape; the proposed improvements will harmonize and beautify the Village area.
8.1.4. Letter to PPCC from LAFD Chief Moore, January 29, 2026:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PPCC-Letter.pdf. The President noted that Chief Moore has sent us this explanatory letter.
8.1.5. Community Renewal Celebration, March 22, 2026 – Request Board approval of $5,000 PPCC event sponsorship contribution; press release:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Community-Celebration-2026-PressR1.pdf. The President spoke about the events being planned for the Celebration at Pali High, to take place on March22 at 3pm. PPCC is helping to sponsor the event along with many other Palisades organizations. She asked if the Board had any objection to making a sponsorship contribution of $5,000 toward the event; there were no objections, and the President deemed the request approved.
8.1.6. [New] Voter Registration FAQ. The President encouraged all eligible residents to register to vote in the upcoming election and noted that an FAQ for displaced fire victims, from the County Registrar, is linked on our website.
8.1.7. [New] Website Committee. The President has appointed a new committee to work on development of a new PPCC website, which is over 10 years old and needs updating. The members are herself, VP Quentin Fleming and At-large rep Chris Spitz.
8.1.8. [New] Appointment of Dave Card to Infrastructure Committee. The President confirmed that she has appointed Dave Card as a member of the Infrastructure Committee.
8.1.9. [New] Jimmy Dunne Seniors Club Valentine’s Day Dinner, February 13th. The President announced that this special event will take place on Friday at the American Legion and promises to be a wonderful evening, with a concert, dinner and wine, all for only $55. Those who want more information should contact her.
8.1.10. [New] Letter from Horvath – SB 79 and Gladstones project. The President advised that we have received a letter from Supervisor Horvath regarding SB 79 and the Gladstones project, which we will post on our website and distribute via PPCC Mailchimp
[See https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PPCC-Letter.pdf.]
8.1.11. [New] YMCA Brunchin’ event for dads and kids. The President reported that this fun event sponsored by the Lowe Family YMCA will feature games and food; it will take place on February 28th at Simon Meadow.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) provided information on upcoming events: Friday 2/13: LA County Registrar to be present at the PRC to answer questions about voter registration from 10am-2pm and every other Friday thereafter; Sunday, 2/22: the Palibu Chamber will host a Palisades Recovery Expo from 11am-2pm; Saturday, 2/28: the County Assessor will be present at the PRC to answer questions and provide information about property taxes from 9:30-11am.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large) announced that the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC) will host a Candidates Forum with all candidates for CD 11, on Sunday, March 1st, from 1-3 pm at First Lutheran Church of Venice, 815 Venice Blvd. More information to come. All are invited.
8.3.2. Lorie Cudzil (Area Six) reported on disturbing incidents at CVS involving groups of teens believed to be Pali High Students stealing items and taunting adults who seek to intervene and stop the behavior. She introduced Joe Ramirez, Commander of the American Legion Post 283, who spoke about his recent observation of the activity and interactions with the rude students as he was attempting to stop the behavior, as well as his successful efforts to engage with the Pali High Dean of Students and the CVS store manager to work on solutions to the problem. He stressed that this behavior cannot be tolerated in our community. His remarks were well-received by meeting attendees, who thanked him for his efforts.
8.3.3. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven) followed up on her previous reports about flaws with the beach bike path: the problem involving the bike path running into the walking path at end of the tunnel under PCH has been rectified; the problem with the slope at the end of the tunnel (which could lead to mudslides in heavy rains) has not been corrected.
8.3.4. JoAnna Rodriquez (Area One) noted that film shoots on Tranquilo have occurred without proper advance notice to residents. This has led to parking issues which have adversely impacted the neighborhood. She also noted that there have been multiple burglaries in the area. Joannna Spak (Area One 2nd Alternate) followed up about a series of burglaries in vacant homes in Castellammare. LAPD and private security companies worked together on the issue and suspects have been arrested.
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/.
8.5.1. Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO) for Pacific Palisades, announced that there have been 20 reported crimes in the Palisades since January. LAPD engaged in a productive partnership with private security regarding the Castellammare burglaries, which resulted in 3 members of the burglary crew being taken into custody. He noted that the Genesis golf tournament is next week and the community should plan for increased traffic in the area. He acknowledged that CVS is working with Pali High officials, LAPD and school police on preventative measures to curb illegal and/or disruptive student behavior at CVS. Officer Espin also spoke about the arrest of a suspect in the theft of one of the Torah scrolls at Chabad of the Palisades, and he addressed a question from Carole White (Area Twp Rep) about burnt cars along Palisades Dr.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), reported as follows:
- The Conservation Corps in working on cleaning up various street and sidewalk areas, including along Bienveneda and Temescal Canyon Rd. near Pali High.
- The LADWP repair project on Via de la Paz at Sunset is still ongoing and the intersection remains closed.
- There is an LADWP newsletter with information about the Santa Inez Reservoir status.
- There have been many street lighting repair requests and over 600 street lights are out in the Palisades; the Bureau of Street Lighting is working on the repairs, which takes time.
- Her office is working with FilmLA to resolve the film shoot problems in Castellammare.
- The Posetano Rd. construction is ongoing.
- The Palisades Bowl debris removal has begun.
- She thanked the Pali LTRG for the successful Valentine’s Day Seniors Luncheon.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass – not present.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, explained that the Supervisor’s motion for a rebuild authority in the burn zones of unincorporated areas of the County has passed. He also spoke about other matters, including guidance on tax reassessment; new performance measures in connection with the launch of the new Dept. of Homelessness; and the letter from the Supervisor regarding SB79 and the Gladstones project. He will also investigate the status of a new National Park study for our beach areas which originated with U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu.
8.5.5. Sean Regan, District Representative, Congressman Brad Sherman – not present.
8.5.6. Sophia Liebman, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen), spoke about several bills that the Senator has sponsored or co-sponsored, including SB 877, SB 878, SB 894, SB 982 and AB 1642.
8.5.7. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin), noted that he will be at the PRC offices on February 24th from 10am-2pm to answer constituents’ questions.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons – None.
x9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. Three Chairs Committee (Maryam Zar, Chair; David Card, Chris Spitz). (a) Committee update and potential recommendations for open 2nd Alternate Area Representative positions – Areas Two, Six and Eight. (b) (Tentative) Board election of 2nd Alternate Area Representatives (TBA at the meeting). Chair Zar announced the nominees as follows: Area Two 2nd Alternate Kambiz Kamdar; Area Six 2nd Alternate Ben Einbinder: Area Eight 1st Alternate Marc Gordonson; Area Eight 2nd Alternate Kim Millimaki-Gorry. She noted that the previous 1st Alternate, Jan Shortz, had recently resigned, leaving a vacancy in that seat, which allowed the Committee to make nominations for both the 1st and 2nd positions in Area Eight. Both Kambiz Kamdar and Ben Einbinder were present and spoke about their qualifications and interests. Marc Gordonson and Kim Millimaki-Gorry could not attend due to conflicts with other events. Committee member Spitz noted that we are fortunate to have so many applicants this year from the Riviera neighborhood of Area Eight. Chair Zar also explained that we received many applications from impressive candidates but in the end the Committee decided on the four candidates, whom she requested the Board to consider and elect as a group. The President asked if there were any objections to any of the nominees; there were none; all four nominees were therefore elected to the positions.
9.2. Land Use Committee (LUC/Chris Spitz, Chair). Committee update: February 11, 2026, meeting re proposed three-story mixed-use project, 15113 Sunset Blvd. LUC preliminary report: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/LUC-Report-re-15113-Sunset.pdf. Chair Spitz described the well-attended LUC meeting, at which the owners of the property and their representatives (land use consultant from Crest Real Estate Co. and an architect) attended voluntarily and explained the project and the process that applies to the project. Meeting attendees asked numerous questions and had several concerns. Chair Spitz noted that impacts from inadequate parking and of the mechanical parking lifts were prominent among the concerns. [See a recording of the meeting at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qHQc415_0s.]
9.3. Grants Committee (Quentin Fleming, Chair). Committee update/grant recommendations and motion for Board approval. Documents relevant to the Grant process: Conflict of Interest Rules: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Conflict-of-Interest-Rules-Grants.pdf
Application Guidelines: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Guidelines-for-Grants1.pdf
Committee Statement: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PPCC-Grants-Cmtee-Statement.pdf 3
Recommended grants: a) Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club: $10,000 (renewal of 11/13/25 recommendation; Chair to provide update on status of stairs/grant request):
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Grant-Recommend.PPWC_.pdf
(b) Paul Revere Charter Middle School: $5,000:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Grant-Recommend.Revere.pdf
Chair Fleming described each grant request and explained why the committee recommended the grant to the Woman’s Club, which had been deferred from the November Board meeting (although the stairs have now been rebuilt, the Club had relied on the $10,000 grant in payment for the expense). He asked if any Board member had a conflict of interest and whether they would be recusing themselves from the vote: JoAnna Rodriguez recused herself from the Revere vote due to a conflict and Carole White recused herself from the Woman’s Club vote due to a conflict. Chair Fleming noted that the motion for Board approval of each grant was being made by a committee of more than one voting member and therefore a second was not needed. After an opportunity for discussion, he called for a vote on each grant in turn; result: unanimous in favor of both recommended grants.
9.4. Infrastructure Committee (Reza Akef, Chair). Committee update; presentation of proposed Resolution / motion for Board approval of Resolution re LADWP Master Infrastructure Plan and pause on planting of street trees (see Item 11.2 below).
9.5. Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC/Cindi Young, Chair). Committee update. Committee member Elissa Ashwood reported that the committee has been formed and will be working on its function and possible activities. More information will be provided at the next meeting.
10. Old Business.
10.1. Motion to Support CF 25-1484 (Park) – Regulation of sober living density. Sponsored by Chris Spitz and Quentin Fleming (modified version of motion passed 1/26/26 by the Board of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils / WRAC). See attachment below for motion text and background information. Spitz introduced the motion and noted that no second was necessary because two voting members were making the motion. She described the motion and read the text as appeared in the attachment. She also briefly explained the background, including the Board’s prior support 10 years ago for regulation of sober living facilities. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: unanimous in support of the motion.
11. New Business.
11.1. UCLA Wildfire Evacuation Survey – presentation by Dr. Tara Parhizkar.
Survey link: https://form.jotform.com/253075820563053. The Chair introduced Dr. Parhizkar, who is a Professor with the UCLA Dept. of Engineering, Institute for Risk Sciences. She described the important work that is being done on the survey of residents’ evacuation experiences, which will culminate in workshops this summer and a panel of key decision makers for possible future development of evacuation plans. [See the presentation recording at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oJfzTYZi3A.]
11.2. Motion for Board Approval: Resolution re LADWP Master Infrastructure Plan and One-Year Pause on Planting of Street Trees (sponsored by the PPCC Infrastructure Committee and PPCC At-large Representative Chris Spitz). See attachment below for Resolution text and background information.
Chair Reza Akef introduced the motion, noting that it was sponsored by the Committee which has a voting member (Kimberly Bloom/Area Five) and by Chris Spitz (At-large). He read from and explained the proposed resolution and requested the Board’s support. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: unanimous in favor of the motion and in support of the resolution.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:28 p.m.
ATTACHMENT – Item 10.1
Motion to Support CF 24-1484 (Park)
Proposed motion text:
“Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC), a member of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC), supports CF 25-1484 which seeks to regulate sober living density in Los Angeles.
“Currently homeowners and residents in the Del Rey neighborhood of CD 11 are experiencing the effects of a documented pattern of owners/developers over-developing properties intended as “senior living” and then filing a change of use and converting them to un-regulated sober living homes with between 22 and 48 residents. Repeated requests by the community to abide by “good neighbor norms” have gone unaddressed.
“The Palisades community, along with other communities on the Westside and throughout the city, has also experienced past issues with sober living facilities in residential neighborhoods and strongly supported previous city efforts to regulate such facilities, including requesting amendments to include restrictions on overconcentration of sober living facilities in a former proposed ordinance (the “Community Care Facilities Ordinance”) that was never enacted.
“More recently, a Costa Mesa ordinance which established minimum spacing requirements between facilities and created thresholds based on facility size was upheld by the courts. As we embark on the rebuilding of our devastated community and seek to restore and preserve the character of our residential neighborhoods, PPCC continues to strongly support regulation of sober living facilities, including density limits as were upheld in the Costa Mesa case and are now called for in CF 25-1484.”
Background Information:
https://westsidecouncils.com/motion/support-cf-25-1484-park-regulation-of-sober-living-density-in-los-angeles/
https://westsidecouncils.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Background-Sober-Liv.-Density-Motion.pdf.
Note: The above background document contains extensive information about PPCC’s past positions related to and supporting regulation of sober living facilities; it was recently prepared for use by the WRAC Board, which took up and passed a similar motion for recommendation to WRAC member councils on 1/26/26.
ATTACHMENT – Item 11.2
Motion for Board Approval: Resolution re LADWP Master Infrastructure Plan and One-Year Pause on Planting of Street Trees
Committee Proposal (with introduction & text):
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/PPCC-Infrastructure-2026-Resolution-Suspend-Tree-PlantingR.pdf
Resolution Text:
Resolved:
Whereas Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) supports and eagerly awaits the restoration of our beautiful urban forest devastated by the 2025 Palisades Fire, and
Whereas PPCC simultaneously recognizes that placing utilities underground is critical for public safety, future fire resilience and insurability in Pacific Palisades,
Therefore, PPCC requests that:
- an official pause of at least one year be placed on the planting of any new street trees in residential neighborhoods within Pacific Palisades, to allow LADWP to coordinate and plan with elected officials and other vital City of Los Angeles departments to develop a Master Infrastructure Plan for the placement of (1) transformer boxes (above and below-ground) and other infrastructure related to undergrounding of utilities and electrical or telecommunications poles in the community, and (2) streetlights, cellular towers and wireless telecommunications facilities that cannot feasibly be placed below-ground;
- the main priority for undergrounding by LADWP must be to (1) use below-ground transformers wherever possible to preserve the aesthetics of the community, and (2) install above-ground transformers, if needed, on parkways or other areas of the public-right-of-way (PROW), rather than on the private property of Palisades fire victims;
- to enhance public safety and/or reduce visual impact, the Master Infrastructure Plan should provide for (1) metal rather than wooden utility poles to be used wherever possible to support streetlights; (2) wireless telecommunications facilities or equipment that cannot feasibly be placed below-ground, such as antenna arrays, to be placed on and incorporated within the design of metal streetlights rather than on wooden poles or towers; (3) freestanding cellular towers to be eliminated or reduced, to the extent feasible and consistent with federal law and public safety needs; and (4) community input to be sought regarding the design of any new streetlights incorporating wireless telecommunications facilities or equipment and/or towers to support such equipment; and
- the City enact amendments to the Above Ground Facilities (AGF) Ordinance (LAMC 62.08), or enact new regulations if and as necessary to effectuate the requests in this Resolution.
Background Information:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Background-UndergroundingR.pdf
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MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 26th 2026 (pending)
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