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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.
_________________________
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 Pfizenmaier (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 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
_________________________
MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 26th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Maryam Zar (partial attendance), Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Robert Trinkeller, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Valeria Serna, Kevin Niles, Rick McGeagh, David Card, Donna Vaccarino (partial attendance), Daphne Gronich, Alley Michaelson, Courtney Macker
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Cindi Young, Michael Edlen, James Alexakis, Jim Kirtley, Ella Nozar
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:02 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 12, 2026, were approved, with one correction in item 8.5.1: Carole White – change identification to Area Two Representative.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. March 5, 2026 (special meeting with NORC representatives to discuss NORC Survey, 6pm via Zoom); March 12, 2026 (LADWP presentation on undergrounding of utilities and other infrastructure matters).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer’s report was as follows:
US Bank balance: $41,183.04
Note that funds are being collected for the March Celebration event (update at later time), so the US Bank account total is in flux.
Schwab account: $421,291.9
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. Reza Akef (Palisades builder) announced that the Pali LTRG will hold a special event on March 8, 2026, from 2-4pm at the American Legion, entitled “Safeguarding Your Rebuild.” He will speak.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Letter & Resolution regarding LADWP Master Infrastructure Plan for the Palisades: letter:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/PPCC-Letter-Master-Infrastructure-Plan.pdf; resolution:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/PPCC-Resolution-re-LADWP-MIP.pdf
The President explained that our letter and Resolution were sent and encouraged members to review.
8.1.2. Letter regarding Sober Living Density regulations:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/PPCC-Letter-Re-Sober-Living-Density.pdf. The President announced that our letter was sent.
8.1.3. Update: AECOM Reports: CD11 Town Hall to discuss the Reports on March 2, 5:30-6:30pm via Zoom; Register to obtain login link at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfth0ty8LsZCSZZ6jR6d3T8RWmt5-6–J5t3zRX0jDFjQlkow/viewform.
The President provided information about this CD 11 Town Hall.
8.1.4. WRAC CD 11 Candidates Forum, with CW Traci Park, Faizah Malik and Jeremy Wineberg, Sunday, March 1, 2026, 1-3pm, First Lutheran Church of Venice, 815 Venice Blvd. The President encouraged Palisadians to attend this important forum.
8.1.5. Voter registration reminder. FAQ re voters displaced by the fire on PPCC website:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Voter-Reg-Displaced-Wildfires-FAQ-PRC.pdf. The President encouraged Palisadians to make sure they are registered to vote in CD 11, if eligible.
8.1.6. New PPCC Website. Board approval requested: Website Committee (Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Chris Spitz) to decide on website development and design, cost not to exceed $15,000. The President explained that our current website host and advisor, Ken Kohn of Miracle Data, is working on a template of a possible new website design, which is desperately needed as our website is out of date and overloaded with data (there are more than 400 pages of data). She asked whether there were any objections to allowing the Committee to proceed with website development and design, with the cost not to exceed $15,000. There were no objections and the request was deemed approved.
8.1.7. Update: Possible new PPCC Committees or Advisory Task Forces to be formed in connection with the recovery. The President had no update on this item.
8.1.8. Update: Community Renewal Celebration, March 22, 2026: https://www.palirenewal.com/. The President announced the new 3pm start time and noted that the Celebration website has a great deal of information about the event. She encouraged everyone to attend.
8.1.9. Special PPCC Meeting March 5, 2026: NORC representatives to discuss the survey results and methodology. This meeting will take place at 6pm on March 5, 2026, with Quentin Fleming moderating.
8.1.10. [New] PPCC Bylaws Committee Member addition. The President announced appointment of Daphne Gronich to the Bylaws Committee.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) provided information about upcoming PRC events, including sessions with the County Assessor.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large) encouraged everyone to attend the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC) CD 11 Candidates Forum with all candidates Councilwoman Traci Park, attorney Faizah Malik and Palisadian Jeremy Wineberg, on Sunday, March 1st, from 1-3 pm at First Lutheran Church of Venice, 815 Venice Blvd. Doors will open at 1pm. The forum will be streamed at the Church YouTube account.
8.3.2. JoAnna Rodriguez (Area One) spoke about ongoing negative impacts of filming in the Castellammare neighborhood and also remarked on the Tramonto slide status.
8.3.3. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven) provided information about repairs due to broken concrete from flooding in the Santa Monica Canyon channel; about a fallen tree in the area; and about clearance of sand that had covered the entire bike path at the mouth of the Canyon.
8.3.4. Karen Ridgley (Area Four) mentioned attending a recent C-PAB meeting at which the LAPD drone program and FLOCK cameras were discussed.
8.3.5. Andrew Wolfberg (Area Eight) gave an update on the recent PGA tour golf “Genesis Open” tournament at the Riviera Country Club. He also noted residents’ concerns about traffic impacts from future “one-off” events such as the 2028 Olympics golf competition to be held at the Riviera.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Rick McGeagh (PPBA) explained that the PP Park Advisory Board has approved Steadfast LA proceeding with rebuilding of the Recreation Center.
8.4.2. Jim Kirtley (alternate, YMCA) announced several YMCA upcoming events, including the “Brunchin” event with dads and kids at Simon Meadow on February 28th, YMCA Teen Advisory Council meetings and a handball class.
8.4.3. Donna Vaccarino (PP Historical Society) remarked on the success of their commemorative event at Founders’ Oak Island in January 2026, and the fact that the PPHS newsletter was recently sent.
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, reported on the status of FLOCK license plate reader cameras, noting that there are over 50 cameras installed in various locations in the Palisades. He also reported briefly on four burglaries, explaining that there had been a small but steady increase between January and February 2026. There were no major issues with the recent Genesis Invitational Tournament.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), gave an extensive report about numerous matters:
- Progress on the floating replacement cover for the Santa Inez reservoir
- Palisades Inspection and Permitting Support Center opening near Marquez Elementary
- LADWP Via de la Paz water regulator rehabilitation project and related street closure continuing until the end of May 2026
- Motion by CW Park for LAFD to rescind brush clearance non-compliance notices in the Palisades burn zone and to refund any collected fees
- Southern California Gas applying for a permit to make repairs of a gas leak on La Cruz Dr.
- New production guidelines being developed by FilmLA to address residents’ concerns about street closures and other filming impacts
- Repairs ongoing in Castellammare (Posetano Rd. and the Tramonto bulkhead)
- Repair of the broken concrete in the Santa Monica Channel (thanks to Sharon Kilbride for notifying CD 11)
- Successful Recovery Expo Event from the Palibu Chamber on February 22
- Virtual Town Hall to be sponsored by CD 11 on March 2, from 5:30-6:30pm, re the AECOM Reports
- Problems caused by work on Lachman Lane involving the use of a crane for transformer repairs
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass – not present.
8.5.4. Paige Hajiloo (for Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath), provided information about several of the Board of Supervisors’ recent actions, measures and programs.
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 – None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC/Cindi Young, Chair). Report on EPC function and work.
Chair Young introduced member Josie Tong, who gave an extensive report on her own background in emergency preparedness as a member of the Red Cross Regional Board; on the work that the EPC will be undertaking; as well as efforts by individual members to provide the community with information about emergency preparedness. Topics that the EPC expects to address: after-action reports, training to prepare the Palisades, Rylan, emergency communications, evacuation planning, fire safety, CERT, security and safety and Neighborhood Watch.
9.2. Land Use Committee (LUC/Chris Spitz, Chair). Committee update. Chair Spitz reported that the LUC has held a working meeting and has decided to draft a position statement applicable to the Sunset Blvd. mixed-use project and possible future density-bonus projects in our commercial areas, expressing our concerns about inadequate parking and impacts on public safety due to additional density. This will tentatively be presented for Board approval at an upcoming meeting.
9.3. Grants Committee (Quentin Fleming, Chair). Committee update / grant recommendations possible for Board approval (any recommendations to be provided to the Board prior to the 2/26 meeting). 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
Chair Fleming explained that the Committee is recommending four grants as follows (information/documents provided in advance of the meeting):
Paul Revere Charter Middle School: $10,000
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Grant-Recommend.Revere2.pdf
Corpus Christi School: $5,000
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Grant-Recommend-Corpus-Christi.pdf
Friends of the Palisades Library: $5,200
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Grant-Recommend-Friends-of-Library.pdf
Pacific Palisades Historical Society: $5,300
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Grant-Recommend-PPHS.2.pdf
Chair Fleming asked if any voting board member had a conflict of interest with respect to any of these grants. The following members stated that they had a conflict and recused themselves from voting:
JoAnna Rodgriguez and Beth Holden Garland (Paul Revere Charter Middle School); Donna Vaccarino (PP Historical Society).
After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was called as to each recommended grant: Result: unanimous approval of all grants.
9.4. Infrastructure Committee (Reza Akef, Chair). Committee update. Chair Akef explained that the Committee has been meeting with LADWP officials, who will attend an upcoming Board meeting to discuss undergrounding and infrastructure matters.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Motion re ACE Building Materials Yard Operating Hours: support change from start time of 7am to 6am (sponsored by the PPCC Executive Committee) – based on contractor requests. The President explained the request for a change in the start time, and asked the Board if there were any objections to the motion. There were no objections and the motion therefore passed unanimously.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 7:57 p.m.
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Special Meeting March 5, 2026 (no minutes/recording only)
March 12, 2026 (meeting canceled)
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MINUTES FROM March 26th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Chris Spitz, Cindi Young, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Ben Einbinder, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, John Padden, Valeria Serna, Rick McGeagh, David Card, Harris Smith, Daphne Gronich
Non-voting Members and Advisors: JoAnna Spak, Kambiz Kamdar, Lee Ann Sanderson, Allison Holdorff, Michael Edlen, Robert Trinkeller, Bonnie Burgess, Kim Millimaki-Gorry, James Alexakis, Cameron Pfizenmaier
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m. Valeria Serna 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 26, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. April 9, 2026 (appointment of Nominating Committee to nominate PPCC officers for the term beginning 7/1/26; other topics to be announced).
6. New Business.
6.1(a) [New] Councilwoman Traci Park. The President introduced Councilwoman Park, who thanked the PPCC Infrastructure Committee for collaborating with LADWP and facilitating this meeting. She also and briefly spoke about her work on recovery, including joining with Mayor Bass on a recent letter requesting that the telecom companies agree to undergrounding in Pacific Palisades.
6.1(b) LADWP Presentation re Undergrounding Utilities in Pacific Palisades, with representatives of LADWP. Moderator: Reza Akef, Chair, PPCC Infrastructure Committee. Q&A as time allows.
Chair Akef first introduced Randall Winston, Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure, who also thanked the Infrastructure Committee and spoke about the Mayor’s work on recovery. LADWP representatives Zoraya Oliver-Griffin and David Hanson then spoke, with Mr. Hanson presenting a slide show of LADWP’s plans for undergrounding in the Palisades. An extensive Q&A period followed his presentation, with various LADWP representatives answering numerous questions from the Board and audience. At the conclusion, the President thanked LADWP for presenting to us and the Infrastructure Committee for its hard work in facilitating the presentation (Committee members: Reza Akef, Chair; Kimberly Bloom, Kambiz Kamdar, Allison Holdorff, May Sung, Hank Wright). See a recording of the presentation at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0zZcPjatno.
7. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:04 p.m.
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MINUTES FROM APRIL 9th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden-Garland, Chris Spitz, Joanna Spak, Carole White, Bonnie Burgess, Karen Ridgley, Allison Holdorff, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, Valeria Serna, Kevin Niles, Rick McGeagh, David Card, Harris Smith, Daphne Gronich, Kaye Steinsapir
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Lee Anne Sanderson, Kambiz Kamdar, Cindy Simon, Ben Einbinder, Michael Edlen, Marc Gordonson, Kim Millimaki-Gorry, James Alexakis, 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. Allison Holdorff 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 March 26, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. April 23, 2026 (1st Distribution of proposed Bylaws amendments; LADWP presentation on Palisades water infrastructure); May 14, 2026 (Nominating Committee presents nominees for officer positions; Board nominations open; 2nd Distribution and vote on proposed Bylaws amendments).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer’s report was as follows:
US Bank balance: $57,146.70
Schwab account: $397,952.92
Total in accounts: $455,099.62
7. General Public Comment. The President announced that decorum and civility are required during public comment and at all times when speaking during the meeting.
7.1. Sue Pascoe (resident, CTN) advised that a tree stump at 800 Radcliffe is a potential hazard, with teens observed walking in the street around or near the stump. It was suggested that 3-1-1 should be called.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Appointment of Nominating Committee to nominate candidates for PPCC officer positions for the 2026-27 term, beginning 7/1/26. Process: Committee presents its nominations and nominations open from the Board on 5/14/26; Board nominations close on 5/28/26; candidates forum (if needed) and election of PPCC officers take place on 6/13/26 (PPCC Bylaws, Art. VII). The President announced the Committee members: Lorie Cudzil, Chair; Jim Kirtley, Rick McGeagh, Chris Spitz, Kaye Steinsapir.
8.1.2. Recap: Community Renewal Celebration 3/22/26. The President remarked that the event was wonderful and asked Allison Holdorff to give a recap. Ms. Holdorff agreed that the event was a tremendous success, with nearly 2,000 attendees, arts and crafts, friends, food and music – including the guitarist for the Doors, Robby Krieger, who went to Pali High as a teen and returned with a backup band to provide a much-enjoyed performance of the Doors’ famous hit songs. Daphne Gronich also spoke, and she and Ms. Holdorff thanked the many community volunteers who helped produce the Celebration.
8.1.3. Update: Status of Advisory Task Forces (ATFs). The ATFs are ongoing and volunteers continue to be invited to participate. More information can be found at www.pali411.com.
8.1.4. Update: Status of new proposed PPCC website. The website committee (the President, Vice-President and Chris Spitz) have been working with Ken Kohn of Miracle Data on the website content and design; they hope to have a more extensive update soon.
8.1.5. Update: ACE Building Materials Yard operations: permit amended to provide for a 6 a.m. starting hour. The President confirmed the change in the start time to 6 a.m. daily.
8.1.6. Update: Status of Palisades Bowl mobile home park. The President asked resident Jon Brown to speak. Mr. Brown heads the new Palisades Bowl Community Group. He spoke about the property being put up for sale, the residents’ desire to return home, and about a town hall that was held last week with government officials who support the residents but were unable to offer solutions. The residents would like to retain legal counsel; contact Jon Brown through the President if you can recommend an attorney.
8.1.7. [New] Water restoration project on Sunset at Las Casas. LADWP is undertaking a mainline replacement project on Sunset Blvd. between Bienveneda and Las Casas from May through August. There will be several street closures.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Quentin Fleming (Vice-President). Status of PPCC-NORC Survey follow-up. The Vice-President reported that NORC has been requested to do the follow-up to the Survey. Preliminary work is needed and the follow-up Survey is expected to be ready to launch in 4-6 weeks.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven Representative) spoke about three matters: 1) Responding to a report by an individual who uses the 4th St. Stairs in Santa Monica Canyon about a fire hazard with overgrown brush, Arus Grigoryan of CD 11 was able to get the Conservation Corps to come out, cut back the brush and clear the debris; 2) a huge public safety hazard involving debris from a large encampment underneath Gladstones Restaurant was discovered; Ms. Kilbride has spoken with the manager and the trash has been cleared; 3) she also became aware of a “youth rehabilitation” facility in a home at 914 Las Pulgas, where neighbors are concerned about potential impacts; CD 11 is aware and is monitoring. Chris Spitz (At-large) noted PPCC’s past concerns with such group homes and explained that under state law, group homes of 6 or fewer residents are permitted.
8.3.2. Michael Edlen (At-large 1st Alternate) expressed concern about blocked roadways in the Alphabet Streets due to construction vehicles. Reza Akef (Palisades builder; Chair, PPCC Infrastructure Committee) noted the need to achieve a balance between open ingress and egress and expeditious construction.
8.3.3. Bonnie Burgess (Area Three 2nd Alternate) reported that there is a massive water leak from a pipe in Marquez Knolls, near Bollinger and Edgar. The water is pouring down and causing a “lake” on Sunset. She was advised to contact Arus Grigoryan for assistance.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Rick McGeagh (PPBA) reported that the Pacific Palisades Park Board will meet at 7pm on Thursday, April 16 at the small gym.
8.4.2. Dave Card (PFC) noted that there will be a Fire Safe workshop on Sunday, April 12 from 2-5pm at Calvary Church.
8.4.3. Valeria Serna (Resilient Palisades) announced an Earth Day event and Veg Fest to take place on Sunday, April 19, at the Village Green.
8.4.4. Daphne Gronich (PAPA) reported that PAPA is working on the return of the 4th of July Parade and events to Pacific Palisades.
8.4.5. Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA) stated that the Y is sponsoring family fun night events for the next three Friday nights at Simon Meadow; a Teen Council is also forming.
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, advised that the Palisades had one reported crime since his last report. There have been more debris dumps at vacant lots; he encouraged owners to install gates across driveways to prevent dumping and noted that dumping should be reported to 3-1-1. SLO Espin also spoke about vandalism involving graffiti placed on portions of fencing near the entrance of a vacant property on Friends St. in the Via bluffs; Councilwoman Park was about to have City workers come out and the graffiti was removed. There was no indication of gang involvement and the perpetrators are unknown.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), gave an extensive report about numerous matters:
- the July 4th Run (organizers have applied with CD 11 for permits).
- the City Ad Hoc Committee on Recovery (report on recent meeting).
- the removal of graffiti on the Friends St. property.
- the need to renew Trespass Authorization Forms per LAMC 41.24.
- dedication of the new Dog Park to take place on May 9th from 9-10am.
- the Pali Hub event to take place on April 11 at the new LTRG headquarters on La Cruz.
- an Earth Day cleanup to take place on April 25 in the Via Bluffs and other others.
- Vector Control should be called regarding standing water in swimming pools (310-915-7370).
- ongoing street light repairs, with locations along main corridors and near standing homes prioritized.
- CD 11 is working with the City Attorney on drafting the required fee waiver ordinance.
- CD 11 is working on a response from LADBS to expedite solutions to nuisance properties and still-needed lot clearances.
- LADWP will be working on water main repairs on Sunset Blvd. and Las Casas and on Marquez Avenue, beginning in May.
- LADWP work on the water regulator project at Sunset and Via de la Paz is ongoing and the street closure at the intersection will continue until the end of May.
- status of two Castellammare projects: Posetano Rd. and repair of the Tramanto bulkhead.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass, expressed kudos to the volunteers who organized the successful Renewal Celebration. She also reported on the following: the Mayor sponsored a wellness fair on March 28 at Palisades Lutheran Church; there is a new recovery website, https://recovery.lacity.gov/. AECOM will be conducting focus groups on the Long Term Recovery Plan; advocacy trips that the Mayor has taken to Sacramento and Washington, D.C., to obtain funding and other solutions for recovery; Street Services is working with other agencies for agreements on street repairs in the Palisades; a representative from Southern California Gas is now present (irregular days) at the PIPSI on Marquez.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath), provided information about several of the Board of Supervisors’ recent actions, measures and programs.
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 on numerous bills the Senator has sponsored or co-sponsored involving Palisades recovery, fire insurance, loans, mitigation, price-gouging and mobile home park protections.
8.5.7. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) also reported about a number of bills that the Assemblymember has sponsored or co-sponsored involving Palisades matters.
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons.
8.6.1. Ella Nozar (Youth Advisor) provided information about the Pali High Ambassadors and noted that the Ambassadors are always available to help with community events. Board members thanked them for their recent help with the Renewal Celebration.
8.6.2. Allison Holdorff (Education Advisor; Sr. Advisor to LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin) spoke on several school matters: she encourages the use of the swimming pool at Pali High; there have been good results from environmental testing of the campus; a swap meet will take place this coming Saturday at Pali High; a meeting took place last night on the status of rebuilding Palisades Elementary; the LA Dodgers will be visiting Marquez Elementary and there will be a booster club auction next Saturday.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees.
9.1. Grants Committee (Quentin Fleming, Chair). Committee update / grant recommendations forBoard 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
Chair Fleming explained that the Committee is recommending two grants as follows:
$5,000 to Methodist Pre-School of Pacific Palisades
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Grant-Recommend-Methodist-Preschool.pdf
$5,000 to Palisades Charter High School – Softball (PCHS)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Grant-Recommend-Pali-Softball.pdf
Chair Fleming asked if any voting board member had a conflict of interest with respect to either of these grants. No members stated that they had a conflict. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was called as to each recommended grant: Result: unanimous approval of both grants.
9.2. Land Use Committee (LUC/Chris Spitz, Chair). LUC recommendation and motions for Board approval regarding (A) proposed mixed-use project at 15113 Sunset Blvd., and (B) density mandates and emergency evacuation. See attached background information and text of motions.
LUC Chair Spitz introduced the two motions for consideration by the board: the first motion, Motion A, involving the proposed mixed-use project at 15113 Sunset Blvd., and the second motion, Motion B, more generally dealing with density mandates and emergency evacuation. She explained that because both motions are made by a committee of more than one voting member, seconds were not needed.
Starting with Motion A, she noted that the applicants’ consultant, Nick Leathers, was present to provide information and to answer questions as needed. She then read the operative motion language as set forth in the agenda, and summarized the facts and points made in the motion’s prefatory language. Following her summary, she asked if anyone had any questions or comments. There were no questions or comments. A vote was then taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the motion.
Chair Spitz then turned to Motion B, summarizing the motion’s prefatory facts and points and noting the motion requests as set forth in the agenda. She asked if there were any questions or comments about Motion B. There were none. A vote was then taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the motion.
9.3. Bylaws Committee (Chris Spitz & Maryam Zar, Co-Chairs). Committee update. Co-Chair Spitz reported that the Committee has been working on important amendments to the PPCC Bylaws, including updating provisions that define “principal residence” in the aftermath of the fire, adding new active organizations formed since the fire, and updating the list of organizational members to broaden participation on PPCC. The documents are being finalized and will be distributed ahead of two upcoming meetings in late April and early May. There will be an opportunity for full discussion and the Board vote will take place on May 14.
9.4. Infrastructure Committee (Reza Akef, Chair). Committee update. Chair Akef discussed a possible LADWP presentation on water infrastructure; the Committee’s efforts to encourage telecoms to participate in undergrounding; and a tour that he had organized and led, taking all the LADWP Commissioners in a van throughout Palisades neighborhoods, to give them an understanding of topography and challenges in terms of placement of transformer boxes during undergrounding.
9.5. Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC/Cindi Young, Chair). Committee update. In the absence of the EPC Chair, member Josie Tong provided information about Rylan and upcoming emergency preparedness training sessions organized by community volunteers apart from the EPC (“Prepare Palisades”).
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business (see item 9.2 above)
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:13 p.m.
ATTACHMENT – Item 9.2:
(A) LUC motion regarding proposed mixed-use project at 15113 Sunset Blvd.
Background: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Background-15113-Sunset-Blvd.pdf
Proposed motion text:
“This motion is made with reference to the following facts and considerations:
1) A mixed-use project has been proposed for a now-vacant lot at 15113 Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades (rebuild of the former building destroyed in the Palisades Fire on January 7, 2025).
2) The project applicant seeks certain incentives and waivers to provide relief from several development standards in the City of L.A. Municipal Code (LAMC) and the Pacific Palisades Commercial Village and Neighborhoods Specific Plan (Specific Plan):
- Height increase to 40’ in lieu of the 30’ height limit in Specific Plan section 7A.
- Increase the height limit as measured from grade to the ceiling of the upper story to 34’-9” in lieu of 27’ height limit in Specific Plan section 7B.
- Provide no parking spaces for the commercial uses in the building in lieu of the commercial parking requirements in Specific Plan section 10B. (Note: the LUC has not calculated the total number of parking stalls required by the Specific Plan).
- Reduce required Open Space from 650 square feet to 50 square feet.
- Decrease north and south side-yard requirements for residential portions to 0’ in lieu of 6’ as required by LAMC 12.13.C.2(c).
- To not provide a Loading Zone as required by LAMC 12.21.C.6.
- To reduce bicycle parking to 8 stalls in lieu of 17 stalls as required by Specific Plan section 10D.
- To reduce residential parking to 6 stalls in lieu of 9 stalls as required by Specific Plan section 10B.
- To remove the landscape buffer requirement in Specific Plan section 12D.
3) At a well-attended online PPCC Land Use Committee (LUC) meeting on February 11, 2026, at which the project applicant and its representative presented information about the project, members of the public expressed particular concern about (1) the elimination of 100% of required commercial parking, (2) the fact that the use of mechanical lifts means, in effect, that parking will be provided for only 4 of the 6 residential units, and (3) the increase in overall scale and mass of the project resulting from the height increase and the elimination side-yard setbacks for the upper two stories of residential use. The LUC and PPCC Board share these concerns.
4) The LUC and PPCC Board are also concerned about the cumulative impacts as other commercial property owners within the Specific Plan area seek to rebuild their sites.
5) PPCC welcomes the effort of the applicant to rebuild the building lost to the devastating Palisades Fire, and to help reinvigorate the commercial corridor along Sunset Blvd. PPCC wishes to encourage other commercial property owners to do the same. The project applicant has explained that the economics of the rebuilding project require the waivers and incentives they have requested. PPCC also acknowledges that State density bonus laws and other State mandates may make such waivers and incentives beyond the City’s authority to deny.
6) Nonetheless, PPCC has consistently opposed increased density in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHZ), including the project site (Pacific Palisades is entirely located in the VHFHSZ). PPCC is also acutely aware of parking problems and constraints on emergency vehicle access in the adjacent “Alphabet Streets” neighborhood bordering the project site.
Based on the above facts and considerations, PPCC therefore:
- opposes the proposed mixed-use project at 15113 Sunset Blvd.; and
- strongly recommends that the project applicant seek to lease nearby parking stalls for the use of project residents and employees of the future commercial tenants, and attempt to work with the neighboring commercial property owners to find cooperative solutions to the cumulative negative neighborhood impacts certain to result from the redevelopment of those nearby properties.”
PDF of motion text: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Motion-15113-Sunset-Blvd.pdf
(B) LUC motion regarding density mandates and emergency evacuation.
Background: See facts and considerations in motion text below.
Proposed motion text:
“This motion is made with reference to the following facts and considerations:
1) Large portions of commercial and multi-family zoned areas of Pacific Palisades were destroyed in the catastrophic Palisades Fire on January 7, 2025, leaving many vacant lots along the Sunset Boulevard corridor stretching west from the Commercial Village to Pacific Coast Highway, and on sites located within the areas of the Pacific Palisades Commercial Village and Neighborhoods Specific Plan (Specific Plan).
2) Pacific Palisades is entirely located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), with extremely limited routes of ingress and egress. PPCC has consistently opposed increased housing density in the Palisades due to the dangerous impacts on public safety in emergency evacuations. During the Palisades Fire on January 7, 2025, at existing levels of housing density, the danger to lives and property presented by crowded conditions on our roads was made shockingly evident, when residents under mandatory evacuation were forced to abandon cars and flee for their lives on foot while emergency vehicles were impeded from entering burning areas.
4) At least one commercial property owner in Pacific Palisades is seeking a permit, in part under State density bonus law, to rebuild a former building on a now-vacant lot on Sunset Blvd. in the Commercial Village. The PPCC Land Use Committee (LUC) and PPCC Board are concerned about the cumulative impacts as other commercial property owners within the Specific Plan area, and owners of multi-family zoned sites along the Sunset Blvd. corridor, seek to rebuild their sites and may utilize State density bonus laws or other State housing mandates to increase the density of rebuild projects.
5) On October 3, 2025, the City Council passed a motion by Councilwoman Park in CF 25-0848 (https://cityclerk.lacity.org/lacityclerkconnect/index.cfm?fa=ccfi.viewrecord&cfnumber=25-0848), directing, among other things, expedited completion of reports on the City’s compliance with AB 747, a list of evacuation routes within CD 11, and plans to improve evacuation route infrastructure. To date, the directed reports have not been returned. PPCC strongly supported this motion (https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PPCC-Letter-CF-25-0848-Evacuations-Reports.pdf).
Based on the above facts and considerations, PPCC therefore requests that:
1) the relevant City agencies directed to report back in CF 25-0848 do so without further delay;
2) relevant City agencies (e.g., LAFD, the Planning and/or Emergency Management Depts.) undertake catastrophe modeling studies in the Specific Plan and Sunset Blvd. corridor neighborhoods of the Palisades, to ascertain the actual impacts on emergency evacuation and the risk to public safety from varying levels of increased housing density, expected to be proposed for rebuild projects on now-vacant commercial and multi-family zoned lots in Pacific Palisades;
3) upon ascertaining the impacts and risk to public safety from increased levels of density, the City immediately develop and implement effective evacuation plans for Pacific Palisades (as required under AB 747 and contemplated in CF 25-0848), to address the likelihood of increased housing density during the rebuild;
4) the City pause its issuance of rebuild permits for density bonus projects in the Specific Plan and Sunset Blvd. corridor neighborhoods of the Palisades until such catastrophe modeling studies and development and implementation of evacuation plans for Pacific Palisades have been completed; and
5) to the extent necessary, in the overriding interest of public safety, Governor Gavin Newsom issue an emergency order, and Mayor Karen Bass and Councilwoman Traci Park request the Governor to issue such an order, authorizing suspension of permit issuance for density bonus projects in the Palisades until the City’s compliance with AB 747 has occurred, and development and implementation of evacuation plans for Pacific Palisades have been completed.”
PDF of motion text: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Motion-Evecuation-Density.pdf
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MINUTES FROM APRIL 23rd 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil (late arrival), Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, Valeria Serna, Kevin Niles, Jim Kirtley, David Card, Fay Vahdani, Donna Vaccarino, Daphne Gronich, Courtney Macker, Kaye Steinsapir
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Joanna Spak, Bonnie Burgess, Cindy Simon, Ben Einbinder, Michael Edlen, Kim Millimaki-Gorry, James Alexakis, Alley Michaelson, Cameron Pfizenmaier, Harris Smith, Allison Holdorff (partial attendance), Jessica Rogers, Lou Kamer
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m. Sharon Kilbride 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 April 9, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. May 14, 2026 (Nominating Committee presents nominees for officer positions; Board nominations open; 2nd Distribution and vote on proposed Bylaws amendments). May 28, 2026 (Board nominations of officer candidates close; tentative LADWP presentation on water infrastructure).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The President read a brief Treasurer’s report in the absence of the Treasurer:
US Bank balance: $ 55,667.57
Schwab account: $387,925.92
7. General Public Comment – None. A resident, Gordon Gerson, sought to comment on the bylaws amendments, but was reminded by the President that the 1st Distribution of bylaws amendments was an agenda item and therefore not an item for public comment; full discussion about the amendments will take place at the required 2nd Distribution on May 14.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Letters re motions passed by the Board on 4/9/26:
15113 Sunset: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Letter-15113-Sunset-Blvd.pdf
Density/Evacuation: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Letter-Density-Mandates-Evacuation.pdf
8.1.2. PPCC-CD 11 Special Meeting/Town Hall on a potential Disaster Recovery District for the Palisades – date to be announced. The President explained that we are working with CD 11 to hold this special meeting and will let everyone know the date as soon as it is arranged.
8.1.3. City of LA Survey/AECOM Long Term Recovery Plan – participation in the survey encouraged: bit.ly/PacificPalisadesLTRP. The President stressed the importance of participating in the survey.
8.1.4. PPCC Advisory Task Forces (ATFs) – sign up to volunteer at https://www.pali411.com/volunteer. The President reminded everyone that volunteer sign-ups for the ATFs are ongoing.
8.1.5. Community Recovery Coordination Council (CCRC) update. About the CCRC: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Pacific-Palisades-CRCC-.pdf. The President recommended that community members read the detailed information about the CCRC linked in the agenda and posted on the PPCC website homepage.
8.1.6. [New] Community Brush Clearance. The President announced that this important community clean-up of brush in several Palisades neighborhoods will take place on Saturday April 25 from 8am – noon. Contact Team Palisades Block Captains for information on how to volunteer.
8.1.7. [New] Palisades Car Show. The President announced that a special car show will take place in the commercial Village on June 13 from 9am – 3pm, with several Palisades groups supporting. She stated that PPCC will also support this fun event unless there are any Board objections. There were no objections.
8.1.8. [New] Additional Upcoming events. The President announced the following: a Fire Resource Fair at St. Martin of Tours School on Saturday, April 25 from 10am – 2:30pm; an “Infrastructure Straight Talk” meeting with representatives of BOE and other agencies and open Q&A, moderated by Reza Akef, at the Pali LTRG on Sunday, April 26 from 2 – 4pm at the American Legion; a Dog Park Dedication event, sponsored by CD 11, to take place on Temescal Canyon Rd. on May 9 at 9am.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) reported on upcoming PRC events, including a session with Warren Sutton of LAFD on the brush clearance notices, to take place on Monday, April 27 from 10am – noon.
8.2.2. Beth Holden Garland (Secretary) announced the sad news that a construction worker, Gabriel Romero, died after an unfortunate accident in the Via bluffs. He was a young father who left behind wife and child. A GoFundMe page for donations has been set up. Contact the Secretary for more information. [See https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-gabriels-life-and-legacy]
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large) noted that Area 6 Representative Lorie Cudzil wanted to share information about voter registration but was not yet in attendance. The President explained that the LA City Clerk wishes to present voter registration information to the Palisades community at an upcoming PPCC meeting; we are working on setting a date for this special meeting. The Chair Emeritus stated that the PRC will hold sessions with the LA County Registrar on May 1 and May 15, from 10am – 2pm.
8.3.2. JoAnna Rodriguez (Area One) reported that the Getty Center will be closed for renovations for one year, beginning in March 2027; some programs and artworks will be temporarily moved to the Getty Villa, and we should expect increased traffic in the area during that time; residents appreciate the work being done by the city on bulkhead repairs.
8.3.3. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven) reported on the following: 1) brush along Entrada that was encroaching on the street and was a fire hazard has been removed by the Conservation Corps with the assistance of Arus Grigoryan; 2) residents have noticed apparent homeless individuals sleeping on the tennis courts at the Recreation Center; she advises residents to take pictures (if it is safe to do so) and forward them to PPTFH, which can arrange for Beach Patrol officers to visit the area and address the situation; 3) the homeless encampment debris underneath Gladstones has been cleaned up by Beaches & Harbors; the restaurant manager is working on securing the area so that the problem will not re-occur.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Fay Vahdani (Palibu Chamber of Commerce) announced a Palibu Recovery Expo to take place on Sunday, May 16 from noon – 4pm, at 13575 Civic Center Way in Malibu.
8.4.2. James Alexakis (TCA) announced a special Earth Day family-friendly event at Will Rogers State Historic Park on Saturday, April 25 from 11am – 3pm, at which TCA will be tabling and taking sign-ups for upcoming hikes.
8.4.3. Dave Card (PFC) announced that PFC will be planting trees in connection with the Earth Day event at Will Rogers State Historic Park on April 25. He reiterated the importance of preserving street trees.
8.4.4. Valeria Serna (Resilient Palisades) noted that the organization held a successful Earth Day event at the Village Green last Sunday which was well-attended.
8.4.5. Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA) will hold a “Brunchin’ with Moms” event on Saturday, May 9 from 10:30am – 1:30 pm in Simon Meadow.
8.4.6. Daphne Gronich (PAPA) noted that volunteers are working on planning the events for the 4th of July, including the Run, the Parade and the evening celebration. More volunteers are encouraged.
8.4.7. Jessica Rogers (PPRA alternate) sought to make a statement about the bylaws amendments but was reminded by the President that item 9.1 on the agenda was the 1st Distribution of the bylaws amendments and discussion about the amendments would not be held at this meeting; full discussion and a vote will take place at the required 2nd Distribution on May 14.
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 – not present.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), reported on the following matters: 1) the fee waivers ordinance (still awaiting final drafting by the C.A.); 2) brush clearance in park areas (Recreation and Parks has a bid out to brush contractors; clearance expected to take place in May along Palisades Dr., Temescal Canyon, Potrero Canyon and bluffs areas); 3) the status of BOE and LADWP projects in Area One previously reported on; 4) a new project involving bulkhead repair on Bienveneda in Area Three; 5) the community clean-up on Saturday (with a thanks to Marian Ensley for arranging to deliver dumpsters to the Palisades ahead of the clean-up); 6) traffic issues with the Metro project in the Sepulveda Pass; and 7) a Dog Park Dedication hosted by CD11 on May 9, at 9am on Temescal Canyon Rd. (all are invited to this initial celebratory event, with actual ribbon-cutting to occur when construction of the dog park is completed).
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass, provided information about several matters, including the Mayor’s and County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s recent visit to Washington, D.C. They had a successful meeting with the President, in which they advocated for insurance reforms, mortgage forbearance and wildfire recovery funding. She thanked Jim Cragg for providing the Palisades Flag as a gift from the Mayor to the President. Ms. Ensley noted that momentum is building with the federal government. She also reported the good news about the Baywatch” reboot production being in Los Angeles and filming on our local beaches. In addition, she gave an update on street lighting repairs by the Bureau of Street Lighting; spoke about LADWP’s work on Sunset Blvd. to upgrade main lines; noted that the City is providing dumpsters to help with the brush clean-up effort this Saturday; and explained that the City will be picking up any brush debris and “wattles” that are lying in the streets after the rainy season.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath), provided information about some of the Board of Supervisors’ recent actions, measures and programs. The President noted that she recently observed alarming conditions on the beach bike path that she had never seen before: large numbers of “mini-motorcycles” (not motorized bicycles) now using the bike path and presenting a potential public safety hazard. These vehicles may be rented in Venice. Mr. Gaidzik thanked her for providing this information; both his office and CD11 were aware of mini-motorcycles being ridden along the Venice area bike path, and had been looking into possible enforcement measures, but this was the first time he had heard that these vehicles were traveling farther north along the bike bath to Will Rogers State Beach. He expressed concern and indicated he will research and report back.
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. Chris Spitz, Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC; Vice-Chair and PPCC rep to WRAC). Volunteer needed to represent PPCC on the WRAC Mobility & Transportation Committee (MTC). Ms. Spitz invited those interested in volunteering for this position to contact her.
8.6.2. Allison Holdorff (Senior Advisor to LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin). The President advised that Ms. Holdorff had to leave the meeting early, but had reported briefly in the Chat [Pali High graduation to take place on June 4 on the field; Revere culmination will be on June 11 at Uni High].
9. Reports from PPCC Committees. Committee information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/committees/.
9.1. Bylaws Committee (Chris Spitz & Maryam Zar, Co-Chairs). Required First Distribution of proposed Bylaws Amendments (Second Distribution and Board vote on Motions, May 14, 2026; Bylaws, Art. XII.2.B). See the following documents distributed concurrently with this meeting agenda via PPCC email and posted on the PPCC website:
1) Committee Motions: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Bylaws-Amendment-Motions-2026R.pdf
2) Committee Report: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Bylaws-Cmte-Report-April-May-2026.pdf
3) Organizational Composition: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Org.-Composition.pdf
4) Amendments “Redline”: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Bylaws-Amend.-May-2026-Redline.pdf
5) Amendments “Clean”: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Bylaws-Amend.-May-2026-CLEAN.pdf
The President announced that this was the 1st Distribution of the proposed bylaws amendments recommended by the Bylaws Committee, and explained that we will not be voting or having discussion tonight. The vote will take place at the 2nd Distribution, as required by our bylaws, on May 14. We will have a full discussion at that time, and she asked everyone to please hold comments until then. Anyone who has questions or needs clarity before our May 14th meeting should contact the Committee Co-Chairs.
The President also stated that the Bylaws Committee has been hard at work and did an excellent job with their proposals; she hoped everyone has read or will read the extensive materials that have been prepared for the Board and are included in the agenda and posted on the website. She explained that the members of the Committee would briefly go over the motions that will be made on May 14, beginning with Andrew Wolfberg explaining motion No. 1. The Committee members in turn briefly read and explained each motion, starting with Mr. Wolfberg (No. 1); then Quentin Fleming (Nos. 2 & 3); Chris Spitz (No. 4); Maryam Zar (No. 5); James Alexakis (No. 6); Daphne Gronich (No. 7); Quentin Fleming (No. 8); and Chris Spitz (No. 9).
In addition, in connection with motion No. 4, Co-Chair Spitz called on three individuals representing the new organizations that have applied to become PPCC members to speak briefly to the Board: Jim Cragg, Pali Long Term Recovery Group; Joe Iacopino, Palisades Recovery Coalition; and Tony Hocking, Team Palisades. Each representative provided information about their respective organization, explained the reasons why they wish to become an organizational member of PPCC, and stated that they were honored to be considered for membership.
9.2. Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC/Cindi Young, Chair). Report on focus group meeting with AECOM. In the absence of both the Committee Chair and member Josie Tong, member Elissa Ashwood gave a brief report, noting that the EPC had a successful meeting with AECOM and explained that more work is needed on preparation for emergencies, communications and evacuation during catastrophes.
9.3. Infrastructure Committee (Reza Akef, Chair). Chair Akef reported on the Committee’s work, including discussions with LADWP officials about the importance of presenting specific information to PPCC on water infrastructure in the Palisades; about a tour of Palisades neighborhoods arranged by Chair Akef with the Board of Water & Power Commissioners, during which the Commissioners were able to see first-hand the conditions in our public rights of way for purposes of undergrounding; and about discussions with the telecoms, who have indicated willingness to participate in undergrounding. He also mentioned the “Infrastructure Straight Talk” discussion that he will moderate, taking place on Sunday and hosted by the LTRG at the American Legion, in which Infrastructure Committee members will participate.
9.4. Land Use Committee (LUC/Chris Spitz, Chair). Committee update. Chair Spitz noted that the LUC will be meeting with AECOM and relevant city agencies for a focus group meeting on April 29th and will report back to the Board. She also noted that Deputy Mayor Randall Winston has advised that Mayor Bass and other city officials will be meeting to discuss PPCC’s recent letter requesting evacuation planning and a pause on issuance of density bonus permits. In addition, the Governor’s regional director has acknowledged receipt of our letter which he has forwarded to the Governor’s team in Sacramento. Finally, the LUC will be holding a working meeting to discuss possible drafting of guidelines for development in our commercial areas.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Every Fire Survivor’s Network – Fire Insurance Survey. Presentation by Joy Chen, Executive Director: https://www.efsurvivors.net/. The President introduced Ms. Chen, who provided and interesting presentation about Every Fire survivor’s Network and the important fire insurance survey. [See the recording at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=VeIV9iWkGtA&feature=youtu.be].
11.2. Motion to Approve Letter re Street Vending Operations – sponsored by Chris Spitz (At-large) and Lorie Cudzil (Area 6). Proposed letter text attached below (also linked here: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Street-Vending-Letter-draft.pdf).
Chris Spitz introduced the motion, stating that the text was as set forth in the agenda. She explained that no second was necessary because the motion was being made by two voting members. She noted that PPCC had discussed regulation of street (sidewalk) vending at several meetings in 2024 and that previous reports about the activities had been shared with Board members. Now, community members have reached out to PPCC expressing concerns about apparent unsafe conditions at operations that have arisen post-Fire and during the rebuild. Lorie Cudzel explained that we do not seek to eliminate street vending in the Palisades (a service that many people enjoy), but we want to ensure that the operations are legal, abide by all regulations and do not pose a public safety hazard, particularly in regard to risks of fire (open flames, no fire extinguishers) and general public health (grease being poured down storm drains, rats being attracted by debris).
During discussion, some Board members indicated that there may be other locations where street vendors are operating in violation of regulations. Ms. Spitz suggested that members let us know about any other specific locations, which we could include in a supplemental communication.
A vote was then taken. Result: unanimous in support of the proposed letter re street vending operations.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 7:59 p.m.
ATTACHMENT – Item 11.2:
Draft proposed letter re street vending operations.
April __, 2026 D R A F T (for PPCC Board approval)
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
Environmental Health, Mobile Food Program via email to ehvip@ph.lacounty.gov
Dear Los Angeles County Department of Public Health:
Founded in 1973, Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) is the most broad-based organization in Pacific Palisades – the community that was devastated by the Palisades Fire in 2025 and is now engaging in recovery and rebuilding. Our community’s concern with protection of public health and safety – and in particular, mitigation of ongoing fire hazards – cannot be overstated.
PPCC respectfully requests your involvement in investigating all “pop-up street vendors” who are now operating within our community’s boundaries and have been observed not in compliance with the County of Los Angeles health and safety standards. Licensed brick and mortar food services are required to have hot potable water to wash and clean utensils, windscreens to prevent flies from entering food, restrooms for staff to use and wash their hands, etc. The stakeholders in this community are equally concerned that all street vendors be in similar compliance and properly permitted and inspected by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
We bring to your attention at least three street vendor locations within our Pacific Palisades neighborhoods that we ask you to investigate and take appropriate enforcement action as needed for any and all violations of health and safety standards:
- 15120 Sunset Blvd.(in the commercial Village)
- Upper Marquez Ave. & Sunset Blvd.
- Marquez Pl. & Sunset Blvd.
These street vendors appear to operate daily from morning until late afternoon. Some of the specific problems observed by stakeholders are the following:
– the operation at the Marquez Pl. location is positioned adjacent to an open field containing brush and weeds, increasing fire risk. Additionally, neither of the Marquez locations appear to have fire extinguishers present.
– Open-flame cooking utilizing both charcoal and propane equipment on public sidewalks, directly adjacent to parked vehicles and pedestrian traffic
– Lack of a compliant handwashing station (no dedicated sink with running potable water, soap, and paper towels)
– Food storage and preparation occurring within personal vehicles rather than approved facilities
– Raw meat being stored and handled in plastic bags at ambient outdoor temperatures without proper refrigeration or temperature control
– Food items, including sauces or marinades, being stored in repurposed non-foodservice containers (e.g., one-gallon vinegar jugs), raising sanitation and contamination concerns
– Use of non-commercial containers and equipment not designed for safe food service operations
– Cooking grease washed down the storm drain at the Sunset Blvd. location.
These conditions present a clear risk of cross-contamination, foodborne illness, fire hazard and general public safety concerns.
PPCC acknowledges that street vendors provide a service that is enjoyed by workers and other visitors to the community during the ongoing rebuild of Pacific Palisades. Public health and safety, however, must come first.
Aside from proper food handling, food temperature controls, hygiene and fire hazard, we are also concerned that our sidewalks remain free of obstruction from carts and tents, as per L.A. Municipal Code Sec. 56.12. Additionally, local, licensed eateries are concerned that these unpermitted street vendors are affecting their revenue, as well as a loss of sales tax collection that should be remitted to the California State Board of Equalization to help pay for vital city services.
Accordingly, out of serious concern for the health and safety of our community, we respectfully request immediate attention by the County Health Dept.’s Environmental Health division to inspection and enforcement of pop-up street vendors in the Pacific Palisades community.
Via copy of this letter to County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Mayor Karen Bass, Councilwoman Traci Park, Los Angeles City Fire Dept. (LAFD) Chief Jaime Moore and County Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer, we also bring these health and safety risks to their attention and request coordinated action by the City and County to effectively address the substantial fire hazards posed by pop-up street vending operations in Pacific Palisades.
This request was [unanimously] approved by the PPCC Board at its regularly scheduled public meeting on April 23, 2026.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated prompt response.
Sincerely,
Sue Kohl, President
Christina Spitz, At-large Representative
Lorie Cudzil, Area 6 Representative
Pacific Palisades Community Council
cc:
Hon. Lindsey Horvath, LA County Supervisor, District 3 via email: thirddistrict@bos. lacounty.go
Hon. Karen Bass, Mayor, City of Los Angeles via email: karen.bass@lacity.org
Hon. Traci Park, LA City Councilwoman, District 11 via email: traci.park@lacity.org
Jaime Moore, Chief, LAFD via email: jaime.moore@lacity.org
Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director, LA County Dept. of Public Health via email: media@ph.lacounty.gov
_________________________
MINUTES FROM MAY 14th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Jenny Li, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, Valeria Serna, Kevin Niles, Rick McGeagh, David Card, John Padden, Donna Vaccarino, Daphne Gronich, Courtney Macker, Kaye SteinsapirNon-voting Members and Advisors: Joanna Spak, Bonnie Burgess, Cindy Simon, Michael Edlen, Warren Jacob, Kim Millimaki-Gorry, James Alexakis, Allison Holdorff, Jessica Rogers
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m. James Alexakis 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 April 23, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. May 19, 2026 (Special Meeting with CD 11 on a potential Palisades Disaster Recovery District); May 28, 2026 (Board nominations of officer candidates close; other topics to be announced); June 11, 2026 (Officer Candidates Forum, if needed, and Board election of officers / term beginning July 1, 2026); June 25, 2026 (LADWP presentation on Palisades Water Infrastructure (tentative); last meeting in current officers’ term). The President provided information about each of the upcoming meetings.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported as follows:
US Bank balance: $ 52,346.09
Schwab account: $379,019.89
She is continuing to work with Daphne Gronich on reconciling the expenses for the Celebration event.
7. General Public Comment – None.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Letter re motion passed by the Board on 4/23/26 (re street vending); update on County response: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Letter-Sreet-Vending-2026.pdf. The President noted that the letter was received and the County is working on addressing the issues.
8.1.2. E.C. letter supporting state bills re mobile home parks: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-EC-Letter-Mobile-Home-Park-bills.pdf (SB 1092, 1093)
8.1.3. E.C. letters supporting or opposing state bills re recovery/insurance:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-EC-Letter-SB-1301-Allen.pdf (support SB 1301)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-EC-Letter-SB-876-Padilla.pdf (support SB 876)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-EC-Letter-AB-1642-Harabedian.pdf (support AB 1642)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-EC-Letter-AB-1795-Gipson.pdf (oppose AB 1795)
As to both 8.1.2 and 8.1.3, the President explained that the letters have been sent and we are monitoring the bills.
8.1.4. PPCC / CD 11 Special Meeting and Q&A on a potential Palisades Disaster Recovery District – May 19, 2026, 7pm via Zoom. Speakers to include Craig Bullock, CD 11 Planning Director; Blair Miller and Jeffrey Lewis, managers with the City’s Economic & Workforce Development Dept. The President provided information about this important upcoming meeting and encouraged attendance.
8.1.5. AECOM / Mayor Bass Webinar on the draft Long Term Recovery Plan – May 19, 5pm – 6:30pm. The President provided information about this event and expressed appreciation to the organizers for scheduling the webinar on the same evening to end before the PPCC meeting begins.
8.1.6. Community Recovery Coordination Council (CCRC): updated informational document: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Pacific-Palisades-CRCC-RR3.pdf. The President noted that this updated information has been posted on the website.
8.1.7. City Clerk Voter Registration Information:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/VOTER_REGISTRATION_GUIDANCE.jpg. The President encouraged everyone who is living temporarily outside of the Palisades to review the guidance.
8.1.8. Dog Park Dedication Recap. The President described this successful event which took place on Saturday, May 10th at the location of the future dog park on Temescal Canyon Rd. She thanked CW Park and all the Palisades advocates for making this long-awaited site a reality. She named in particular Leslie Campbell, Lynn Hylen and Carol Ross (CW Park and Carol Ross spoke at the event; Leslie Campbell and Lynn Hylen were unable to attend the Dedication, but Leslie attended and briefly thanked the community during the PPCC meeting). Work on the Dog Park is expected to begin before the end of the year.
[Note: Items 8.2-8.6, reports from officers, elected and organizational representatives, governmental representatives and advisors were deferred; any written reports to be distributed.]
9. Reports from PPCC Committees. Committee information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/committees/.
9.1. Bylaws Committee (Chris Spitz & Maryam Zar, Co-Chairs). Required Second Distribution of proposed Bylaws Amendments and Board vote on Motions (Bylaws, Art. XII.2.B). See the following documents distributed concurrently with this meeting agenda via PPCC email and posted on the PPCC website:
1) Committee Motions: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Bylaws-Amendment-Motions-2026R.pdf
2) Committee Report: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Bylaws-Cmte-Report-April-May-2026.pdf
3) Organizational Composition: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Org.-Composition.pdf
4) Amendments “Redline”: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Bylaws-Amend.-May-2026-Redline.pdf
5) Amendments “Clean”: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PPCC-Bylaws-Amend.-May-2026-CLEAN.pdf
The President announced that this item was the 2nd Distribution of the proposed bylaws amendments recommended by the Bylaws Committee, and explained that the Board would be voting tonight on the motions. She read the names of the Committee members (Chris Spitz and Maryam Zar, Co-Chairs; James Alexakis, Quentin Fleming, Daphne Gronich, Andrew Wolfberg) and thanked them for their hard work. She stated that Bylaws Committee members would introduce each motion in the order they were presented at the April 23rd meeting, beginning with Andrew Wolfberg presenting motion No. 1, Quentin Fleming Nos. 2 and 3, and so forth; she further explained that seconds on the motions were not necessary because they were being made by a committee of more than one voting member. She stated that after reading the motion (as set forth in the Committee Motions document linked above), each member would explain the voting standard applicable to the motion. The President reminded everyone that abstentions effectively count as No votes as to all these motions. She also noted that PPCC has no general conflict of interest rules and that even though three members of the Committee recused themselves during Committee discussions and decisions regarding organizations they are affiliated with, Board members can and should vote on the motions regardless of whether they are affiliated with any of the impacted organizations.
The President further detailed the process: After each motion was introduced as noted above, she would call on Board members and then audience members for any comments they wished to make on each motion. She also advised that audience members wishing to speak would be asked if they are affiliated with any impacted organizations and if so, the nature of that affiliation. Votes on each motion would be called after discussion had concluded. The process then ensued as set forth above and below (as is customary for PPCC Presidents, the President did not vote); in addition, the relevant page from the “Redline” amendments was shown onscreen as each motion was considered:
- 1) Motion No. 1 (presenter Andrew Wolfberg) – The motion was read and the voting standard and motion were explained. Presenter Wolfberg noted that the revisions are intended to allow residents who evacuated temporarily, but intend in good faith to return permanently to the Palisades, to vote or become a candidate in PPCC elections. An opportunity for discussion was provided. A vote was then called. Result: 22-0-0 (motion passed; Board approved proposed revisions to the definition of “Principal Residence” and related amendments, as specified in Motion No. 1).
- 2) Motion No. 2 (presenter Quentin Fleming) – The motion was read, the voting standard and motion were explained, and an opportunity for discussion was provided. A vote was then called. Result: 22-0-0 (motion passed; Board approved proposed amendments to SR 11 and addition of new SR 16).
- 3) Motion No. 3 (presenter Quentin Fleming) – The motion was read, the voting standard and motion were explained, and an opportunity for discussion was provided. A vote was then called. Result: 22-0-0 (motion passed; Board approved proposed amendments to Appendix A, as specified in Motion No. 3).
- 4) Motion No. 4 (presenter Chris Spitz) – The motion was read, the voting standard and motion were explained, and an opportunity for discussion was provided. Co-Chairs Spitz and Zar emphasized that this was a vote as to whether the Board wished to admit the three organizations “in principle,” with decisions as to where they would be placed on the Appendix A list of members to be taken up later. Board members indicated their understanding and support for admitting the three organizations “in principle.” A vote was then called. Result: 22-0-0 (motion passed; Board approved admission “in principle” of the Palisades Recovery Coalition, the Palisades Long Term Recovery Group and Team Palisades, as PPCC organizational members).
- 5) Motion No. 5 (presenter Maryam Zar) – The motion was read, the voting standard and motion were explained, and an opportunity for discussion was provided. Co-Chair Zar provided clarification in response to confusion expressed by Beth Holden-Garland (Secretary) about the proposed changes to Appendix A. A vote was then called. Result: 21-0-1 (motion passed; Board approved proposed amendments to the Appendix A categories as specified in Motion No. 5; the Secretary was asked if she understood that an abstention was effectively a “No” vote; she stated that she understood.
- 6) Motion No. 6 (presenter James Alexakis) – The motion was read and the voting standard and motion were explained. Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) moved to postpone discussion and vote on Motion No. 6 for one month; second by Courtney Macker (PPRA). Discussion on the motion to postpone then ensued. Board members commented in support of and/or in opposition to the motion to postpone, and also provided comments related to the main motion (No. 6). Comments on the postponement motion primarily centered on whether more time was needed for discussion as to possible consideration of a 10th organizational category (to contain the three new “recovery” organizations), and/or a 10th elected representative category (to be determined), and whether “recovery” organizations should sunset. There were also comments on the importance of maintaining the nine categories, balanced between the organizations (with appointed representatives for the organizations who may themselves not be residents) and the elected representatives (who represent residents). Arguments were advanced on both sides of these proposals, with Co-Chair Zar noting the hard work of all three new organizations and the fact that because the recovery is expected to take at least a decade they will likely continue their work for a long time, and that adding a sunset date for their participation is therefore unwarranted.
- A vote on the motion to postpone was called. Result: 5-17-0 (motion to postpone failed). Following further opportunity for discussion on the main motion, a vote on the main motion (Motion No. 6) was then called. Result: 19-3-0 (motion passed; Board approved proposed amendments to the “Civic Organizations” category in Appendix A).
- Motion No. 7 (presenter Daphne Gronich) – The motion was read and the voting standard and motion were explained. Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) moved to postpone discussion and vote on Motion No. 7 for one month; second by Courtney Macker (PPRA). Discussion on the motion to postpone then ensued. Board members commented in support of and/or in opposition to the motion to postpone, and also provided comments on the main motion (No. 7). Comments on the postponement motion were again centered on whether more time was needed for discussion about a possible 10th organizational category, and also about the facts surrounding PPCC’s founding in 1973, with Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) and Barbara Kohn (former PPCC, PPHS and PPRA President) maintaining that the facts stated in the Bylaws Committee FAQ and timeline were incorrect as to PPHS’s status as a founding member. Other members indicated that regardless of what occurred decades ago, the relevant considerations were the current status in light of unprecedented recent events and the Committee’s goal of providing more opportunities for organizational participation. Additional discussion involved PPHS’s argument that it is an important organization in terms of preserving the community’s history, that it has always had a vote, and that it should therefore retain its standing (sole organization) position, which it has held for many years. This was countered by further comments by Co-Chair Zar and others that 1) PPHS is a respected organization and was therefore placed in a proposed two-organization category, in which it would always be on the Board and could participate at all times, while rotating each year between the primary and alternate positions, 2) per agreement with the Friends of the Palisades Library, PPHS would also retain the primary seat for an additional year, until September 30, 2027; 3) new Standing Rule 16 allows PPHS as a primary member to appoint a temporary representative when neither the primary nor the alternate rep can attend a meeting; 4) PPHS can continue to do its good work to preserve and educate the community about Palisades history regardless of its status on Appendix A; 5) all PPCC organizations are important and respected; 6) changes in organizational status have occurred throughout PPCC’s history; and 7) the proposed changes are fair and needed at this unprecedented time in order to allow greater participation by member organizations.
- A vote on the motion to postpone was called. Result: 5-17-0 (motion to postpone failed). Following further opportunity for discussion on the main motion, a vote on the main motion (Motion No. 7) was then called. Result: 18-3-1 (motion passed; Board approved proposed amendments to the (formerly-named) “Historian” category in Appendix A).
- Motion No. 8 (presenter Quentin Fleming) – The motion was read, the voting standard and motion were explained, and an opportunity for discussion was provided. Board members commented in support of and/or in opposition to the motion. Jessica Rogers (PPRA alternate) maintained that PPRA was a founding member of PPCC and in PPRA’s view has always had a “permanent” seat with a right to vote at all times, which should not be taken away; that PPRA is an important organization in terms of protecting the community’s safety and security and preserving the environment; that it has 5,000 followers; that it does not share the goal of communicating with residents, as does Team Palisades; and that a 10th category should be created for the three new organizations. Co-Chairs Zar and Spitz both indicated their respect for the work of PPRA. Further comments included the fact that the proposed amendments are fair; that all organizations are important; that PPRA will always be on the Board and can participate as a member of a two-organization category; that it will be able to vote during rotating years; that it can appoint a temporary representative at a meeting when neither the primary nor alternate reps can attend; that being in an alternate position does not diminish the ability to participate; and that an organization’s status on Appendix A is not an obstacle to whatever it wishes to accomplish and does not prevent it from doing its good work on behalf of the community.
- A vote on Motion No. 8 was then called. Result: 16-5-1 (motion passed; Board approved proposed amendments to the (formerly-named) “Residents Association” category in Appendix A).
- Motion No. 9 (presenter James Alexakis) — The motion was read, the voting standard and motion were explained, and an opportunity for discussion was provided. A vote on Motion No. 9 was then called. Result: 19-0-3 (motion passed; Board approved proposed bylaws amendments, as specified in the Motion).
9.2. Nominating Committee (Lorie Cudzil, Chair; members Jim Kirtley, Rick McGeagh, Chris Spitz, Kaye Steinsapir). Announcement of Committee nominations for PPCC officer candidates (President/Chair, Vice-President/Vice-Chair, Treasurer, Secretary). Board nominations to open following the Committee’s announcement; nominations to close 15 minutes before the scheduled close of the May 28th meeting. Chair Cudzil stated that the Committee was honored to announce the following nominees:
President/Chair: Allison Holdorff Polhill
Vice-President/Vice-Chair: Reza Akef
Treasurer: Daphne Gronich
Secretary: Caroline Nick
Chair Cudzil briefly introduced the candidates and provided information about each of them. She explained that all have served in numerous volunteer capacities in the community, with three of the candidates (Allison, Reza and Daphne) having served as PPCC Board and Committee members. The President thanked the Committee for the excellent nominations and the nominees for their willingness to become candidates for officer positions. She also announced that additional nominations from voting Board members were then open. No nominations from Board members were made. Board nominations of officers will remain open until 15 minutes before the scheduled close of the May 28th Board meeting. The officers’ election will take place on June 11th, with a candidate forum preceding the election if there are contested seats. The new officers’ term will begin on July 1, 2026.
9.3. Grants Committee (Chair Quentin Fleming). Committee update / grant recommendation 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
Recommended grant: $5,000 to the Palisades Charter High School Boys’ Baseball Program:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Grant-Recommend-Pali-High-Boys-Baseball.pdf
Chair Fleming explained that the Committee is recommending a $5,000 grant to the Palisades Charter High School Boys Baseball Program. He asked if any voting board member had a conflict of interest with respect to the proposed grant. No members stated that they had a conflict. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was called as to Board approval of the grant: Result: unanimous approval.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business – None.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 7:54 p.m.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM MAY 28th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Jenny Li, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Robert Trinkkeller,* Karen Ridgley, Allison Holdorff,* Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Marc Gordonson,* Valeria Serna, Jim Kirtley,* David Card, Fay Vahdani,* Donna Vaccarino, Daphne Gronich, Courtney Macker, Kaye Steinsapir (*voting alternate)
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Cindi Young, Joanna Spak, Lee Ann Sanderson, Cindy Simon, Michael Edlen, Kim Millimaki-Gorry, Caroline Nick, Darragh Danton, Aileen Haugh, Ella Nozar
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:02 p.m. Kaye Steinsapir 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 May 14, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. June 11, 2026 (officers candidate forum, if needed, and Board election of officers / term beginning July 1, 2026; (tentative) Board consideration of proposed comments on the draft Long Term Recovery Plan (LTRP)); June 25, 2026 (LADWP presentation on Palisades water infrastructure; announcement of Election Committee and names of incumbents running for re-election in the 2026 Area and At-large Representatives Election (see Item 8.1.10 below; last meeting in current officers’ term).
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported as follows:
US Bank balance: $ 31,657.41
Schwab account: $369,019.89
The Treasurer and Daphne Gronich explained their ongoing work in reconciling the expenses for the Celebration event, which include expenses/pay-outs to date of $17,368.36 and $3,259.32. On June 23, the Treasurer will provide an income and expense statement as of June 1 for the prior period.
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. Diane Bleak (resident) thanked Arus Grigoryan of CD 11 for help in clearing Palisades Dr., although dirt piles and sandbags are still present; she is concerned about the condition of a palm tree
near the curb at the street entrance to Calvary Christian Church; she would like the Palisades Forestry Committee (PFC) to plant more trees along Palisades Dr.; she also remarked on large rats in vacant lots in the “Woodies” section of the Highlands. Ms. Grigoryan thanked Ms. Bleak for providing pictures of conditions along Palisades Dr., noting that Ms. Bleak can always contact Ms. Grigoryan with any issues.
7.2. Bart Young (resident) commented about meeting with LADWP to discuss the expense of adding “transite” conduit required for undergrounding utilities. Chris Spitz (At-large) suggested that Mr. Young should speak with Reza Akef, Chair of the PPCC Infrastructure Committee, about this issue.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Introduction of new alternate organizational reps – Aileen Haugh, PP Garden Club (alternate to PAPA); Caroline Nick, Friends of the Palisades Library (alternate to PPHS); Richard Lombari, Pali LTRG (alternate to the American Legion); Darragh Danton, Team Palisades (alternate to PPRA) (see PPCC Bylaws, amended as of May 14, 2026: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/council-bylaws/); see also revised PPCC Glossary of Phrases & Acronyms, discussed in an orientation session with the new alternates on 5/20/26:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Glossary-Phrases-Acronyms-2026R.pdf. The President announced and welcomed the new alternate organizational representatives.
8.1.2. Board member nominations of officer candidates accepted until 15 minutes before the scheduled close of the meeting, i.e., by 7:15pm (Bylaws, Art. VII). The President announced that additional officer candidate nominations would be accepted until 7:15pm; she asked if any Board members wished to nominate anyone at this time; there were no nominations.
8.1.3. Dept. of Angels recommendation: community grant to PPCC for survivor outreach – No report.
8.1.4. Update: new PPCC website status. There is no new update, but the President expects to report at the next meeting.
8.1.5. Update: PPCC / CD 11 Special Meeting and Q&A on a potential Palisades Disaster Recovery District – May 19, 2026. The President related that this special meeting was successful and important information was provided. A link to the recording is available on the PPCC website and YouTube channel and was distributed via Mailchimp bulletin.
8.1.6. Update: AECOM / Mayor Bass Webinar on the draft Long Term Recovery Plan (LTRP) – May 19.
Comment deadline: June 29, 2026. The President noted that the webinar had taken place and that comments on the LTRP are due by June 29. PPCC may submit comments based on recommendations from Committees and Advisory Task Forces, tentatively to be considered on June 11.
8.1.7. Appointment of new PPCC rep to the WRAC Mobility & Transportation Committee: Monica Loya-Clarke (member of the Logistics & Traffic Management ATF). The President announced this appointment.
8.1.8. Letter to Post re Undergrounding:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-Post-Lttr-Undergrounding.pdf. The President stated that this letter was sent.
8.1.9. Letter from EC supporting AB 1847 (extension of mortgage forbearance):
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PPCC-EC-Letter-AB-1847-Harabedian.pdf. The President stated that this letter was submitted. Chris Spitz explained that the bill has passed in the Assembly and will now go to the Senate; Councilwoman Park has introduced a resolution in City Council for the City to support AB 1847.
8.1.10. Area and At-large Election (Summer 2026): Election Committee to be announced on June 25; deadline for incumbents’ written notification to President of intent to run for re-election: one hour before the scheduled start of the June 25th meeting (i.e., by 5pm on 6/23); incumbents who do not timely submit written notification are deemed conclusively not to be running (see Bylaws Attachment A, Sec. 3.D.1-2 (Filing Deadlines; additional requirement for incumbent). The President explained the requirement and stressed the importance of incumbent Area and At-large representatives sending an email to the President before 5pm on June 23rd, confirming that they will run for re-election; it is not too early to notify her now; if incumbents do not timely notify her that they are running for re-election as required, they will conclusively be presumed not to be running. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) remarked that during her initial term as President, a representative failed to meet the notification deadline and later requested to be allowed to run, despite missing the deadline; the PPCC legal advisor advised that incumbent was conclusively prevented from running for re-election due to the failure to meet the required deadline.
8.1.11. [NEW] Sunset Streetscape Plan. The President explained that a hearing will take place tomorrow, May 29th, at City Hall, to determine whether a permit should be given for the proposed redesign by Caruso of the streetscape on Sunset Blvd., south side of the street between the Village Green/Swarthmore and La Cruz/Monument. She stressed that PPCC supports the plan and that it is critical that many people attend the hearing and voice their support. The hearing starts at 11am but supporters are asked to arrive at City Hall by 10:15 am. Instructions were provided in a link in the chat. Contact William Ayala of CD 11 (william.ayala@lacity.org) for parking information. Dave Card (PFC) and Maryam Zar (PPCC Chair Emeritus, PRC & Malibu-Palisades Chamber of Commerce) also spoke about their own organizations’ support for the project.
8.1.12. [NEW] Community Health & Wellness event. The President announced that this event, sponsored by the Mayor, will take place on Saturday, May 30th, from 12n – 4pm at the Palisades Lutheran Church. There will be many rewarding and fun activities, including free 5-gallon trees given to attendees (7 per attendee); free Smashburgers for the first 7 attendees; and free eye-screenings for kids; United Policyholders will also be on hand. All are invited.
8.1.13. [NEW] Community Meeting re the Palisades Recreation Center. The President provided information about this upcoming virtual meeting, to be hosted by be Mayor Bass and Steadfast LA, on Wednesday, June 3, from 6-7pm via Zoom. PPCC will send out details via Mailchimp.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) noted that 1) the PRC is hosting an in-person Flex Voting station on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, 5/30, 5/31, 6/1, in advance of the primary election, and 2) a cohort of Palisadians will attend the VerdeXchange conference next week.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large Representative) spoke about the advocacy campaign organized by the CRCC Advocacy ATF (under the PPCC umbrella) regarding SB 1301 (Allen) – an important bill dealing with insurance non-renewals. Sophia Liebman, Sen. Allen’s field representative, thanked the Advocacy ATF for their work on support for the bill.
8.3.2. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven Representative) made several announcements: 1) there will be a community event at Canyon Square on May 30th, featuring several local musicians; 2) the Palisades Beach Detail has unfortunately been cut from 4 to 2 officers due to budget cuts affecting LAPD staffing; 3) a Hillside Task Force enforcement event will take place in the Palisades on June 10 from 7-10am; 4) funding for PPTFH’s critical work to help unhoused individuals and keep the Palisades safe is drying up; current funding is only in place until January 2027; $300,000 is needed annually to pay for the much-needed services of the Outreach Team; PPTFH must close unless sufficient funds are donated; the community is invited to donate to PPTFH through its fiscal sponsor, The People Concern, by visiting the PPTFH website [https://thepeopleconcern.org/pptfh-donate/].
8.3.3. Lee Ann Sanderson (Area Four First Alternate) noted that the U.S. Women’s Open Golf Tournament will be held at the Riviera CC from June 4 – 7, 2026.
8.3.4. Carole White (Area Two Representative ) reported on a meeting with Josie Tong regarding emergency preparedness in the Highlands. She also remarked on the need for another fire station in the Highlands.
8.5. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Daphne Gronich (PAPA) announced that all the July 4th events will take place in the Palisades this year: the 5K/10K Run in the morning; the Parade at 4pm; and the evening event and drone show at Pali High, starting at 6pm. The Parade route will be shorter and there won’t be grandstands; applications to participate are on the PAPA website [https://palisades4th.com/parade/participate]. To protect the Pali High field, evening event attendees are requested not to bring chairs with stick legs. More information will be made available to the community.
8.4.2. Dave Card (PFC) reported that the PFC has worked with the Seven Arrows “Treams” organization to plant 84 trees and shrubs on the back slope of the Woman’s Club. The Rotary Club and other organizations are organizing a clean-up of weeds and invasive plants at the pump station at the corner of PCH and Temescal Canyon Rd., to take place on June 7 from 10am to noon. The event will include a “Make Your Own Myco-Wattle” workshop.
8.4.3. Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA) advised that the Y will sponsor a summer day camp at Simon Meadow, free for fire survivor members. There will also be a free sleep-away camp, as well as a community BBQ on July 19 at Simon Meadow. Contact Jim for more details.
8.4.4. Caroline Nick (Friends of the Palisades Library) announced that the library will host a book sale on Saturday, June 30 from 9am – 3pm. There will be lots of books and merchandise for sale.
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), Pacific Palisades, reported on increased theft in the Alphabet Streets. There are reports but no photos or videos due to the dark conditions on the streets at night. He does not have follow up information on the suspects. Last week, there were 6 thefts and 3 stolen vehicles in the Palisades. Range Rover and Land Rover thefts have increased. He explained that his weekly maps only show the crime that has occurred and been reported for the previous week. The reduction in our Beach Detail will only occur for 4 weeks; more officers will be added during the summer. Specialized LAPD units will take part in an undercover operation, possibly in the Highlands, some time soon. Details will not be announced publicly.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), updated the Board on several matters:
- Security undercover operations will take place in the Palisades at some point; information about the operations is not to be released.
- CD11 wishes to restart Coffee with the Cops program.
- Illegal dumping should be reported to Myla311.
- RAP (Recreation & Parks) brush clearance continues in many areas.
- Road repair and bulkhead projects are continuing, with new repairs coming up on Tramonto and Porto Marina; she emphasized that these are road repairs, not landslide remediation.
- BSL (Street Lighting) is continuing to work on streetlights in the Palisades such as Palisades Dr.
- BSS (Street Services) will be working on Palisades Dr.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, Deputy Director, Recovery & Community Engagement, Mayor Karen Bass – Not present.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, West/Metro LA Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, reported about several LA County matters, including a fire mitigation feasibility study for the Santa Monica Mountains; the study is expected next month. There is consideration as to whether a “joint powers authority” should be formed to oversee fire mitigation in that area.
8.5.5. Sean Regan, District Representative, Congressman Brad Sherman – Not present.
8.5.6. Sophia Liebman, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen), thanked PPCC and the Advocacy ATF for its support for the bills that the Senator in turn supports. She noted that several of his bills have passed in the Senate, and she explained the state legislative process.
8.5.7. Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) – Not present (attended early in the meeting but left before item called).
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons – None.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees. Committee information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/committees/.
9.1. Infrastructure Committee (Chair Reza Akef). Update: Committee’s work and preview of possible comments on the draft LTRP. Chair Akef related that the committee is following up with LADWP to make sure that its presentation to PPCC on water infrastructure will be informative. He also noted that the Committee would be submitting comments on the LTRP. They have held a meeting with the PFC about green infrastructure. The committee is advocating for appointment of a construction “czar” or liaison. He also spoke about a “Bring Your Own Builder” event sponsored by the LTRG, and noted that the committee will be presenting recommended comments on the LTRP to the PPCC Board at the next meeting.
9.2. Land Use Committee (LUC; Chair Chris Spitz). Update: Committee’s work and preview of possible comments on the draft LTRP. Chair Spitz noted that the LUC would be meeting in early June to discuss possible relaxed guidelines for development in our commercial zones, consistent with public safety. She also briefly summarized the LUC’s recommended comments on the LTRP, to be provided in connection with a motion before the Board on June 11, 2026.
9.3. Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC; Chair Cindi Young) – No report.
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business – None.
[Fifteen minutes prior to scheduled close of meeting, i.e., at 7:15pm: last call for Board nominations of officer candidates.]. The President called for any additional nominations from Board members at 7:15pm. There were none.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:08pm.
_________________________
MINUTES FROM June 11th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Jenny Li, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Cindy Simon,* Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, Valeria Serna, Kevin Niles, David Card, Fay Vahdani,* Donna Vaccarino, Daphne Gronich, Kaye Steinsapir (partial attendance)/Alley Michaelson,* Darragh Danton* (*voting alternate)
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Joanna Spak, Lee Ann Sanderson, Ben Einbinder, Michael Edlen, Marc Gordonson, Bonnie Burgess, Allison Holdorff, Jim Kirtley, Caroline Nick, Aileen Haugh
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 May 28, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. June 25, 2026 (LADWP presentation on Palisades water infrastructure; announcement of Election Committee and names of incumbents running for re-election in the Election of PPCC 2026 Area and At-large representatives; last meeting in current officers’ term; thank you to the current officers); July 23, 2026 (first meeting of new officers’ term; announcement of candidates running in the election for PPCC Area and At-large representative). Note: There is one PPCC Board meeting only in each of the months of July and August – on July 23, 2026, and August 13, 2026.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer reported as follows:
US Bank balance: $28,662.20
— Accountant expense: $3000 to Jay Foster; the bill was large this year because our assets were over the threshold for simple filing and we were required to file a full Form 9990.
Schwab balance: $370.095.03
— $5,000 grant to Pali High Baseball paid and cleared May 29.
Total both accounts: $398,757.23
At the June 25th meeting, the Treasurer will provide an income and expense statement as of June 1 for the prior period (June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026).
7. General Public Comment.
7.1. Diane Bleak (resident) reiterated her concerns about conditions on Palisades Dr. and rats in the Woodies area of the Highlands. Arus Grigoryan (CD 11 Palisades Deputy) reported that CD 11 was addressing conditions in Area Two.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
8.1.1. Area and At-large Election (Summer 2026) relevant dates and process: Names of incumbents running for re-election announced – June 25, 2026; Members of the Election Committee to oversee the Election announced – June 25, 2026; Notice of Election (information about becoming a candidate) distributed to the public – on or before July 1, 2026; names of candidates running in the election announced – July 23, 2026; campaigning starts – upon close of the July 23rd meeting; candidates forum to take place – August 13, 2026; online voting/ballot submission begins – August 21, 2026 (8 days after the August 13th meeting); deadline for ballot submission – September 4, 2026; names of elected candidates announced – on or before September 10, 2026 (first meeting in September).
8.1.2. Update: Sunset Blvd. Streetscape improvements by Caruso; Board of Public Works (BPW) approval of tree removals and replacements. The President explained that these improvements have been proposed for many years and are supported by PPCC. Many residents attended a recent BPW hearing in support of the improvements; the BPW approved removal of the 9 current street trees which were inappropriate for the location, and replacement with 13 new, appropriate street trees.
8.1.3. Update: New PPCC website status. The President reported that the new website is actively being developed and will feature an interactive calendar on which only trusted organizations may post information about upcoming events.
8.1.4. Reminder: Submit questions for LADWP related to Palisades water infrastructure to the PPCC Infrastructure Committee (link to submit questions on www.pacpalicc.org). Deadline for submission: 11pm on June 22, 2026. The President encouraged residents to submit questions for LADWP.
8.1.5. Reminder: Deadline for incumbents’ written notification to President of intent to run for re-election: one hour before the scheduled start of the June 25th meeting (i.e., by 5pm on 6/25); incumbents who do not timely submit written notification are deemed conclusively not to be running (see Bylaws Attachment A, Sec. 3.D.1-2 (Filing Deadlines; additional requirement for incumbent). The President noted that she has now received written notification from all incumbents, with two Area reps indicating that they will not run again. She will announce the names at the June 25th meeting.
8.1.6. [NEW]: PPCC Participation in 4th of July Parade. The President explained that PPCC will participate in the Parade with cars carrying the Citizen of the Year and Pride of the Palisades honorees, as well as Board members marching with a PPCC banner. She invited members to email her if they can participate. Cindy Simon (Area Six 1st Alternate) announced that during the 5K/10K Run that morning, from 8-10am, her family will host complimentary coffee and donuts on Toyopa Dr. Everyone is invited.
8.1.7. [NEW]: LTRG representative to PPCC. The President announced that Jessica Rogers is the new LTRG representative.
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Maryam Zar (Chair Emeritus) reported that sign-ups for the 4th of July 5K/10K Run are ongoing, with the PRC assisting in spreading the word.
8.2.2. Jenny Li (Treasurer) announced that there will be a lane closure on westbound Entrada in connection with work being undertaken to shore up the hillside at the top of Entrada. The work and lane closure will take place Monday-Friday weekly from June 22 – August 31.
8.2.3. Beth Holden Garland (Secretary) noted that our Instagram account is only 3 years old but has been very successful, with over 2,500 followers to date.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large Representative) provided a brief legislative update and encouraged participation in advocacy campaigns organized by the CRCC Advocacy ATF, supporting SB 1301 and AB 1847; information can be found at www.pali411.com.
8.3.2. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven Representative) reported on the following:
- The westbound traffic lane on Entrada will be closed due to work on shoring up the hillside.
- There are potholes on the road leading to Will Rogers State Park; CD11 has been notified.
- Residents have complaints about new landscaping around the Canyon Charter School construction; a community meeting will be held on June 16 at 6pm in the school auditorium.
- A Hillside Task Force event took place at 7am that morning and was successful, with many participants, including LAPD, CW Park, representatives of CD 11 and the County Supervisor, PPTFH members and outreach workers, and community volunteers. They found 6 abandoned encampments and evidence of fire below the Corona del Mar Bluffs. The encampments and fire evidence were removed. She also noted that the LAPD Beach Detail is doing a great job.
8.3.3. Carole White (Area Two Representative) has met with Josie Tong on emergency preparedness. She has asked for an LAFD station to be installed in the Highlands and is waiting to hear from LAFD.
8.3.4. Andrew Wolfberg (Area Eight Representative) noted the installation of pole top distributing stations on Sunset Blvd. at San Remo & Allenford, with work to take place from June 2026 until April 2027.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. David Card (PFC) advised that PFC members worked with the “Treeams” group at Seven Arrows to plant the back slope of the Woman’s Club with shrubs and trees. The PFC, Rotary Club and other organizations worked last weekend at the pump station at Temescal Canyon Rd. and PCH to clear weeds; they also conducted a workshop on how to make “mycowattles.”
8.4.2. Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA) reported on the Y’s Summer Day Camps, free for children of fire survivor members; on the start of “free swims” at the Pali High pool (also free for fire survivor members); on the Y’s Teen Advisory Council, which was honored at City Council recently; and on the upcoming Community BBQ at Simon Meadow on July 19.
8.4.3. Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) announced that PPHS has a new series called “Fun Facts,” written by PPHS Board member Patrick Healy, to be published in the Palisadian-Post.
8.4.4. James Alexakis (TCA) explained that TCA will participate with Palisades Beautiful this Saturday on a tree planting in the Palisades. TCA will soon be sending out a newsletter and Temescal Gateway Park will also be opening soon.
8.4.5. Daphne Gronich (PAPA) provided information about the 4th of July Parade and evening celebration taking place in the Palisades this year (Parade in the historic Village starting at 4pm, celebration and Drone show at Pali High starting at 6pm). Visit www.palisades4th.com to learn more.
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), Pacific Palisades, reported that crime has been steady, with theft and burglary numbers slightly dropped since his last report. Specialized LAPD units in the area have stopped suspicious people. SLO Espin will be on vacation, located on Will Rogers State Beach for a week teaching Jr. Lifeguards. Matt Kirk, SLO for Brentwood, will be available to the Palisades in Espin’s absence. He also reported that the Hillside Task Force event was successful, and he thanked Sharon Kilbride and her team. An extensive conversation ensued about multiple thefts at residential construction sites over the past ten days and the long delays in police response.
8.5.2. Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), updated the Board on several matters: street repairs will begin soon, according to Bureau of Street Services assessments and recommendations; the Posetano and Stretto projects are completed (she showed photos of the extensive work that was done); another street repair project on Bienveneda is ongoing and expected to be completed in 2-3 weeks; work on the Tramonto bulkhead construction will also begin soon; the Hillside Task Force event was successful and she thanked PPTFH and LAPD for organizing the event.
8.5.3. Marian Ensley, Deputy Director, Recovery & Community Engagement, Mayor Karen Bass, reported on the Community Care Day event which took place on May 30. She thanked all the participants. There were requests for over 300 free, 5-gallon trees. The City now has a new Recovery Dashboard on the City website, as well as Permit and 311 Dashboards. AECOM and the Mayor will host an open house on May 22 from 6-8pm to provide information about the LTRP. More details will be provided soon.
8.5.4. Zac Gaidzik, West/Metro LA Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, reported on County legislative matters and initiatives, including a new centralized Homelessness Resources page on the BOS website.
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 Polhill (Education Advisor and Sr. Counsel to LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin) reported on the wonderful recent graduation and culmination ceremonies: the Palisade High School graduation which took place on the new Pali High field, and the Palisades Elementary culmination which took place in person along Via de la Paz in front of the school building.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees. Committee information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/committees/.
9.1. Grants Committee (Chair Quentin Fleming). Committee update / grant recommendations 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
Recommended grants:
$20,000 to the Pacific Palisades Business Improvement District (BID)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend-Palisades-BID.pdf
$10,000 to the Pacific Palisades Task Force on Homelessness (PPTFH)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend.-PPTFH-.pdf
$10,000 to Canyon Elementary School
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend-Canyon-Charter.pdf
$10,000 to griefHaven
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend-griefHaven.pdf
$5,000 to Tahitian Terrace Radio
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend.Tahitian-TerraceR.pdf
$5,000 to Firesafe Palisades
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend-Fire-Safe-Palisades.pdf
There were no additional grant recommendations. Chair Fleming took up each grant recommendation in order. As to the proposed BID grant, he explained that Committee Member Kevin Niles had recused himself from the Committee’s consideration and vote on the proposed grant; Chair Fleming then asked if any voting board members now had a conflict of interest and were recusing themselves. Kevin Niles repeated that he was recusing himself with respect to the BID grant; no other members recused themselves. Chair Fleming then explained the proposed grant. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was then taken. Result: Unanimous approval for the BID grant.
The following proposed grants were then taken up in turn: PPTFH, Canyon Elementary, griefHaven and Tahitian Terrace Radio. Sharon Kilbride stated that she was recusing herself from the PPTFH grant. No other members stated that they had a conflict with any of the proposed grants. Chair Fleming explained each of the grants in turn. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was called as to Board approval of each of the grants: Result: unanimous approval for the grants to PPTFH, Canyon Elementary, griefHaven and Tahitian Terrace Radio.
The proposed grant to Firesafe Palisades was then taken up, with no members recusing themselves and Chair Fleming explaining the grant. Reza Akef and several Board members expressed questions about the grant, indicated that they were not familiar with Firesafe Palisades, and stated that more information about this new organization was needed before a vote on this grant should take place. Cindy Simon (Area Six Alternate) then moved to postpone consideration of the grant to Firesafe Palisades until the August PPCC meeting; second by Kimberly Bloom (Area Five Representative). A vote on the motion to postpone was then taken. Result: motion to postpone passed with one abstention (consideration of proposed grant to Firesafe Palisades postponed until the August PPCC meeting).
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Election of PPCC Officers for the 2026-27 term (beginning July 1, 2026; Bylaws, Art. VII.4): Chair/President: Allison Holdorff Polhill; Vice-Chair/Vice-President: Reza Akef; Treasurer: Daphne Gronich; Secretary: Caroline Nick. The officers may be elected by acclamation (there were no other nominations). The President announced the names of all the officer candidates and called for the Board to elect the new officers by acclamation, since they were uncontested. The Board enthusiastically elected all the officers by acclamation.
11.2. Motions A, B & C re PPCC comments on the draft Palisades Long Term Recovery Plan (LTRP); sponsored by Daphne Gronich and Chris Spitz. Deadline for LTRP comments: June 29, 2026. See the LTRP: https://recovery.lacity.gov/pacific-palisades-long-term-recovery-plan. Motion sponsor Spitz noted that no second was needed as the motions were being brought by two voting board members. She explained that Motion A (subparts i-viii) was recommended by the CRCC, and that Motions A, B and C would be taken up and voted on separately. A vote of at least 2/3 of voting members voting (not counting abstentions) was required for passage of each motion.
A. Adoption of PPCC comments on the LTRP, as recommended by the Community Recovery Coordinating Council (CRCC) and more specifically by the following:
i. PPCC Infrastructure Committee
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Infrastructure-Response-LTRP-R.pdf
Spitz introduced Infrastructure Committee Chair Reza Akef, who briefly summarized the Committee’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
ii. PPCC LUC
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-LUC-Comments-LTRP-R.pdf
Motion sponsor and LUC Chair Spitz briefly summarized the Committee’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
iii. Economic & Business Recovery ATF
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Econ.Business-ATF-Feedback-LTRP.pdf
Spitz introduced Economic & Business Recovery ATF Co-lead Ann Banning, who briefly summarized the ATF’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
iv. Evacuation Capabilities ATF
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Evac-ATF-Comments-re-LTRP-6-02-26-1.pdf
Spitz introduced Evacuation Capabilities ATF Co-lead Joe Iacopino, who briefly summarized the ATF’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
v. Logistics & Traffic ATF
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Logistics-Traffic-ATF-Comments-LTRP.pdf
Spitz introduced Logistics & Traffic ATF Co-lead Joe Iacopino, who briefly summarized the ATF’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
vi. Standing Homes ATF
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Standing-Homes-ATF-Comments-LTRP.pdf
Spitz introduced Standing Homes ATF Co-lead Elissa Ashwood, who briefly summarized the ATF’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
vii. Wildfire Resilience ATF
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Wildfire-Resilience-ATF-Comments-LTRP.pdf
Spitz introduced Wildfire Resilience ATF Co-lead Nancy Sussman, who briefly summarized the ATF’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
viii. CRCC Community Comment (multifamily integration)
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Community-Comment-on-LTRP-Multifamily-.pdf
Spitz introduced the CRCC Community Comment author Roseanne Landay, who briefly summarized the ATF’s comments. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the comments (motion passed).
B. Approval of proposed PPCC letter submitting PPCC comments on the LTRP to Mayor Bass, CW Park and AECOM. Proposed letter – See Attachment below. Spitz introduced and briefly summarized the motion. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the motion (motion passed).
C. Authorization for PPCC Committee Chairs, AFT Co-Leads & Community Comment author to communicate directly with AECOM and City officials, as needed, regarding the LTRP and, with the approval of the PPCC President and/or President-elect, to submit supplemental comments on behalf of PPCC before the LTRP is finalized. Spitz introduced and briefly summarized the motion. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was taken. Result: Unanimous in support of the motion (motion passed).
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:08pm.
ATTACHMENT: Item 11.2.B
Proposed PPCC letter – comments on the LTRP:
[PPCC Logo]
D R A F T (for PPCC Board approval)
June __, 2026
Hon. Karen Bass, Mayor, City of Los Angeles
Hon. Traci Park, Councilwoman, CD 11
Susan Ambrosini, AICP, Principal, Planning & Urbanism, AECOM
Via email to all addressees
Re: Draft Pacific Palisades Long Term Recovery Plan (LTRP) – Comments submitted by
Pacific Palisades Community Council
Dear Mayor Bass, Councilwoman Park and Ms. Ambrosini:
As you know, Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC), founded in 1973, is the most broad-based organization in Pacific Palisades – the community that was devastated by the Palisades Fire in 2025 and is now engaging in recovery and rebuilding. PPCC has long been known as the voice of Pacific Palisades.
On the recommendation of the Palisades Community Recovery Coordination Council (CRCC) and the participating PPCC Committees and Advisory Task Forces (ATFs), PPCC approves the following comments on the draft LTRP:
PPCC Infrastructure Committee:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Infrastructure-Response-LTRP-R.pdf
PPCC Land Use Committee:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-LUC-Comments-LTRP-R.pdf
Economics & Business Recovery ATF:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Econ.-Business-ATF-Feedback-on-LTRP.pdf
Evacuation Capabilities ATF:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Evac-ATF-Comments-re-LTRP-6-02-26-1.pdf
Logistics & Traffic Management ATF:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Logistics-Traffic-ATF-Comments-LTRP.pdf
Standing Homes ATF:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Standing-Homes-ATF-Comments-LTRP.pdf
Wildfire Resilience ATF:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Wildfire-Resilience-ATF-Comments-LTRP.pdf
CRCC Community Comment (multifamily integration):
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Community-Comment-on-LTRP-Multifamily-.pdf
The above-recommended comments are now adopted by PPCC and submitted as its comments on the draft LTRP.
PPCC further requests that AECOM 1) respond within two weeks to this letter and advise as to whether it will incorporate any of the above comments in the LTRP, and if not, why not; and 2) provide a further revised draft to the community for input prior to finalizing the LTRP.
This letter is submitted pursuant to motions [unanimously] passed after full discussion at the regularly scheduled, public PPCC Board meeting on June 11, 2026. You are encouraged to contact the Chairs and/or Co-Leads of each of the above Committees and ATFs, as well as the CRCC Community Comment author should you have questions or require more information about the comments.
PPCC appreciates that the draft LTRP represents a significant effort to address the devastation of the Palisades Fire. We thank AECOM and City officials in advance for seriously considering these comments, and look forward to the anticipated incorporation of our significant concerns and requests in the final LTRP.
Sincerely,
Sue Kohl, President
Pacific Palisades Community Council
cc (via email): Randall Winston, Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure; Marian Ensley, Deputy Director, Recovery & Community Engagement (office of Mayor Bass); Kevin Brunke, Sr. Legislative Deputy, CD11; Sarah Flaherty, Legislative Deputy, CD11; Arus Grigoryan, Pacific Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11; PPCC Committee Chairs, ATF Co-Leads and CRCC Community Comment author (information below)
Attached for convenience: copies of the Committee, ATF and Community Comment documents linked above
Contact information – PPCC Committees, ATFs and CRCC Community Comment:
Committee Chairs:
Reza Akef/Infrastructure ppccinfrastructure@gmail.com
Chris Spitz/Land Use (LUC) info@pacpalicc.org
ATF Co-Leads:
Ann Banning/Economic & Business Recovery economic-leads@pali411.com
Joe Iacopino & Kathrin Werner/Evacuation Capabilities evacuation-leads@pali411.com
Joe Iacopino & Peter Partain/Logistics & Traffic Management ogisticstraffic-leads@pali411.com
Elissa Ashwood & Robert Gold/Standing Homes standinghomes-leads@pali411.com
Beth Preminger & Nancy Sussman/Wildfire Resilience resilience-leads@pali411.com
Roseanne Landay/CRCC Community Comment mlanday@yahoo.com
More information about the CRCC and ATFs: https://www.pali411.com/
End Attachment
_________________________
MINUTES FROM June 25th 2026
Voting Members in Attendance: Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Beth Holden-Garland, Jenny Li, Chris Spitz, Cindi Young,* Carole White, Julia Nilsen, Karen Ridgley, Kimberly Bloom, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg, Valeria Serna, Jessica Rogers,* David Card, John Padden, Donna Vaccarino, Rick McGeagh, Daphne Gronich, Alley Michaelson,* Courtney Macker (*voting alternate).
Non-voting Members and Advisors: Joanna Spak, Allison Holdorff, Cindy Simon, Michael Edlen, Warren Jacob, Marc Gordonson, Kim Millimaki-Gory, Darragh Danton, Jim Kirtley, Aileen Haugh
1. Call to Order and Reading of Community Council’s Mission. The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m. Beth Holden-Garland 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 June 11, 2026, were approved.
5. Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings. July 23, 2026 (first meeting of new officers’ term; announcement of candidates running in the election for PPCC Area and At-large representative); August 13, 2026 (PPCC Area and At-large candidates forum, if necessary; other topics to be announced); Sept. 10, 2026 (announcement of election results). Note: There is one PPCC Board meeting only in each of the months of July and August – on July 23, 2026, and August 13, 2026.
6. Treasurer’s Report. The Treasurer presented an income and expense statement for the prior period [https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Treasurers-Report-5-31-25-6-1-26.pdf].
Explaining that the statement was required by the bylaws, she showed the document onscreen and went over the numbers in detail. The President noted that the statement would be posted on our website and distributed. The Treasurer thanked the Grants Committee for its careful work. Board members in turn thanked the Treasurer for her outstanding service.
7. General Public Comment – deferred.
8. Reports, Announcements and Concerns.
Councilwoman Traci Park entered the meeting before the President’s announcements and gave brief remarks, thanking the President for her outstanding leadership and for their partnership during this incredibly difficult time in the Palisades’ history. The Councilwoman also thanked Allison Holdorff Polhill for her willingness to serve as incoming President and noted that she fully expected to work and partner together with President Holdorff Polhill as she had with President Kohl. The President in turn thanked Councilwoman Park for being an amazing partner in the recovery and for her strong support for Pacific Palisades.
8.1. From the Chair/Presiding Officer.
8.1.1. Area and At-large Election (Summer 2026): announcements and relevant process:
(a) Names of incumbents running for re-election announced. The President announced that all seven incumbents in Areas Three through Eight and the At-large position have notified her that will run for re-election. Two incumbents have advised that they will not be running for re-election: JoAnna Rodriguez, Area One, and Carole White, Area Two. She explained that all seats are open, including those in which the incumbent is running for re-election. The President also reminded incumbents that they must submit candidate statements; instructions about the requirements to become candidates will soon be distributed.
(b) Members of the Election Committee to oversee the Election announced. The President appointed the following members of the Election Committee: Chair Caroline Nick (incoming Secretary); Members Daphne Gronich (incoming Treasurer), Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA), Valeria Serna (Resilient Palisades) and Kaye Steinsapir (Marquez School).
(c) Further process: The President explained the Election process as follows: Notice of Election (information about becoming a candidate) distributed to the public – on or before July 1, 2026; candidate statements (including from incumbents) – due by 5pm on July 23, 2026; names of candidates running in the election announced – July 23, 2026; campaigning starts – upon close of the July 23rd meeting; candidates forum to take place, if needed – August 13, 2026; online voting/ballot submission begins – August 21, 2026 (8 days after the August 13th meeting); deadline for ballot submission – September 4, 2026; names of elected candidates announced – on or before September 10, 2026 (first meeting in September).
8.1.2. Palisades LTRP.
(a) PPCC Comment Letter submitted 6/12/26:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Letter-LTRP-Comments.pdf. The President noted that PPCC’s letter commenting on the draft LTRP was submitted.
(b) Update: AECOM – Mayor Bass LTRP Open House 6/22/26. The President gave a brief recap of this well-attended Open House at the Palisades Lutheran Church, in which community members were able to obtain information about the projects proposed in the draft LTRP, to learn about the status of project funding, and to speak directly with government and AECOM staff, ask questions and offer comments about the proposals.
8.1.3. Palisades Needs Funding.
(a) PPCC Letter submitted 6/15/26:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-EC-Letter-Funding-Needs1.pdf. The President noted that the letter explaining the Palisades’ funding needs was submitted.
(b) CW Park letter 6/18/26: https://cd11.lacity.gov/news/letter-governor. The President noted that CW Park also submitted this letter regarding the Palisades’ funding needs.
(c) Response from Mayor/Governor’s office (pending).
8.1.4. Additional Position Letters (since the last meeting):
Permit fee waiver: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-EC-Letter-Permit-Waiver-Ord.pdf
Support AB 1847 – Senate: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Letter-AB-1847R-Senate.pdf
Extend SBA Funding Deadline:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Letter-Extension-SBA-Funding-Deadline.pdf
As to the permit fee waiver matter, the President noted that the City Council Ad Hoc Committee on Recovery, chaired by CW Park, will take up the permit fee waiver tomorrow, June 26 at 1pm in City Hall. A link to the agenda was provided to Board members; contact info@pacpalicc.org for more information.
As to AB 1847, Chris Spitz (At-large) noted that this important bill involving mortgage forbearance had passed in the full Assembly and in the Senate Banking Committee; it will next go to the Senate Judiciary Committee on June 30.
The President also explained that since the agenda was sent out, PPCC submitted a position letter to federal officials requesting an extension and expansion of FEMA funding for LA fire survivors. [See:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PPCC-Letter-FEMA-Extension.pdf.] FEMA has now extended individual financial housing assistance for LA fire survivors through July 9, 2027, and has also extended rental assistance for three months, through October 9, 2026. We will include a link to the Governor’s press release about the FEMA extensions in a PPCC Mailchimp. [See: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/06/24/governor-newsom-welcomes-fema-extension-to-help-los-angeles-fire-survivors-continue-recovery/]
8.1.5. LA County Response to PPCC Street Vending Letter:
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/County-Response-re-Street-Vending.pdf. The President explained that PPCC received this response from the County Health Department.
8.1.6. Update: New PPCC website status. The President remarked that work on the new website is proceeding and she expects that it will be ready for a preview in mid-summer.
8.1.7. Street repairs update (message from the Mayor’s office). The President explained that repairs are being made to streets in Palisades neighborhoods, prioritized based on severity of damage and needs. She thanked May Sung and other CRCC members who worked with CD 11 and the Mayor’s office to refine and develop the list of streets needing repairs.
8.1.8. [NEW] 4th of July Parade. The President thanked Board members who have volunteered to carry or walk with the PPCC Banner in the Parade: Julia Nilsen, Diana Daniele, Carole White and Quentin Fleming and his son. They will walk in front of cars carrying the 2024 Citizen of the Year and Pride of the Palisades honorees. Additional volunteers to walk in the Parade for PPCC are welcome.
8.1.9. [NEW] Grant to PPCC. The President announced that she has signed an agreement for PPCC to receive a $100,000 grant from the Dept. of Angels for the purpose of funding increased communications and outreach to displaced Palisadians, in order to ensure that they receive critical information to guide their decisions on return and recovery.
8.1.10. President’s end-of-term remarks and thanks. The President gave extensive, heartfelt remarks on her service during this overwhelmingly difficult time in the Palisades’ history. She began by thanking Maryam Zar (outgoing Chair Emeritus), who encouraged her to run for the position, noting that the devastation to our community shortly after she took office was unimaginable at the time. She went on to thank all who helped and supported her along the way: her fellow officers and Executive Committee members; Chris Spitz (At-large Rep who assists with admin); all the other Board members and advisors; our Councilwoman Traci Park; Marian Ensley and all our government representatives; and the entire Palisades community. The President concluded that serving as PPCC President was one of the greatest honors of her life. Board members and meeting attendees in turn expressed heartfelt thanks to the President in the Chat and onscreen during the meeting.
[Note: Item 11.1 was then called out of order following the President’s remarks above; see Item 11.1 below.]
8.2. From Officers/Chair Emeritus.
8.2.1. Quentin Fleming (Vice-President) reported that the PPCC NORC Community Survey follow-up will take place this coming August. NORC staff are now refining the questions; the Survey is expected to launch on August 12 and continue through September, with a written report on the Survey to be completed by the end of November. The Vice-President will continue serving as PPCC’s liaison on the Survey after the current officers’ terms end.
8.3. From At-Large and Area Representatives.
8.3.1. Chris Spitz (At-large Rep) advised that she has reported to CD 11, LAPD and LAFD concerns about illegal fireworks being set off in bluffs and canyon areas on or near the 4th of July, as has often occurred in the past; CD 11 Palisades Deputy Arus Grigoryan has responded that her office is working with LAPD and LAFD on a plan to provide security to prevent this dangerous activity from happening.
8.3.2. Lorie Cudzil (Area Six Rep) announced that the City will hold a community webinar to present information about the proposed Palisades Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge project (bridge to cross over PCH from the beach to Potrero Canyon) on July 16 at 5:30pm. A flyer has been sent out and PPCC will provide more information via Mailchimp bulletins. She encouraged community members to mark their calendars and attend the meeting to express their opinions on the project.
8.3.3. Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven Rep) provided several updates: 1) there has been a recent increase in criminal activity in Santa Monica Canyon, with five arrests, two burglaries, and one instance of a felony stalker who had been arrested and released but then returned and was arrested again; many of these instances involved mentally ill homeless individuals; 2) conditions at the plant nursery at the bottom of Chautauqua at PCH present a fire hazard risk; the hazardous conditions were noticed during the recent Hillside Task Force sweep of the area, and an LADBS inspector has been notified and will consider a determination that this is a nuisance property; 3) a recent meeting took place at Canyon School with parents and neighbors expressing opinions and concerns about the ongoing construction and extent of landscaping on school grounds; expected project completion: the 4th quarter of 2027.
8.3.4. Kimberly Bloom (Area Five Rep) encouraged Area Five residents to take the Team Palisades survey about security in that area. Similar surveys may also be distributed to residents of other areas.
8.4. From Organizational Representatives.
8.4.1. Dave Card (PFC) noted that the PFC advocates planting more trees at Canyon School.
8.4.2. Daphne Gronich (PAPA) advised participants in the Will Rogers 5K/10K Run to check their registration for the correct Run start time.
8.4.3. Jim Kirtley (Lowe Family YMCA) reminded everyone about the Y’s summer camp for kids, free for fire survivor members, and about the free community BBQ to take place on July 19th at Simon Meadow.
8.4.4. Darragh Danton (Team Palisades) announced that the regular Alphabet Streets Zoom meeting this Monday evening will feature special guests: Laura Blaul from IBHS (Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety) and Alexis Pelosi from The Resiliency Company. All are invited.
[Note: Items 8.5 – 8.6 were deferred (reports from Government Reps and Advisors); any written reports to be distributed.]
8.5. From Government Offices / Representatives (as available). Contact information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/government-contacts/ – deferred. The President announced that written reports had been provided before the meeting and distributed to the Board: from Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park) and Sophia Liebman, Deputy District Coordinator (Sen. Ben Allen); the reports will also be posted and/or distributed via Mailchimp bulletin. [See: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grigoryan-Update-to-PPCC-6-25-26.pdf, and https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Liebman-PPCC-Update-62526.pdf.]
8.6. From PPCC Advisors and Liaisons – deferred.
9. Reports from PPCC Committees. Committee information: https://pacpalicc.org/index.php/committees/.
9.1. Grants Committee (Chair Quentin Fleming). Committee update / grant recommendations 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
Recommended grants:
$5,000 to the Lowe Family YMCA (Community BBQ):
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend-Lowe-Family-Y2.pdf
$5,000 to the Palisades Americanism Parade Association (PAPA; 4th of July events):
https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Grant-Recommend-PAPA.pdf
Chair Fleming began by explaining that the Board has to date approved 27 grants recommended by the Grants Committee, totaling $445,000 in funding disbursed by PPCC for fire recovery projects and endeavors. He then took up each new grant recommendation in turn (to the Lowe Family YMCA and PAPA), first asking if any voting board members would be recusing themselves due to a conflict of interest. Daphne Gronich (PAPA) recused herself with respect to the PAPA grant; no other members recused themselves on either of the two grants. Chair Fleming explained each of the proposed grants. After an opportunity for discussion, a vote was then taken on each grant. Result: Unanimous approval for the grants to the Lowe Family YMCA and PAPA [Gronich recused as to PAPA].
10. Old Business – None.
11. New Business.
11.1. Thank You to Outgoing Officers (from Incoming Officers and Board members). [Note: Item 11.1 was called out of order earlier in the evening, after the President’s remarks in item 8.1.10.]
Incoming PPCC officers and current Board members expressed great appreciation for and sincere thanks to all the outgoing officers for their dedicated service to PPCC and the community: Allison Holdorff Polhill (incoming President) and Chris Spitz (At-large Rep) thanked outgoing President Sue Kohl; Chris Spitz thanked outgoing Vice-President Quentin Fleming; Daphne Gronich (PAPA rep and incoming Treasurer) thanked outgoing Treasurer Jenny Li; Lorie Cudzil (Area Six Rep) thanked outgoing Secretary Beth Holden-Garland. The outgoing officers (who also gave thank-you remarks) were presented virtually with commemorative engraved tokens of appreciation (shown onscreen: for the President, a large crystal vase; for the VP, Treasurer and Secretary, standing circular glass plaques).
11.2. LADWP Presentation re Palisades Water Infrastructure. Presentation moderated by Infrastructure Committee Chair (and incoming VP) Reza Akef. LADWP and City staff presenters / meeting attendees: Anselmo Collins, LADWP COO and Senior Assistant General Manager of the Water System (principal presenter); Luis Gutierrez, Sr. Director of Energy and Water, office of Mayor Bass; Milad Taghavi, LADWP Director, Water System Liaison; Christy Holland, LADWP Sr. Public Relations Specialist; and Zoroya Oliver-Griffin, LADWP Chief Resiliency and Emergency Officer. Committee Chair Akef began by advising that the presentation would focus on future LADWP improvements for Pacific Palisades. COO/Asst. GM Collins then showed slides and provided extensive information about Palisades water infrastructure, including the status of water service (via the Westgate Trunk Line, running from Stone Canyon to Pacific Palisades); water pressure concepts; the Santa Inez Reservoir (status of floating cover replacement); fire hydrant status; water quality; water mainline improvement projects; as well as plans for future contingencies, recovery, restoration and rebuilding. [See slides shown onscreen: https://pacpalicc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LADWP-Water-Presentation-6-25-26.pdf.]. COO/Asst. GM Collins and other LADWP speakers also answered questions from community members. [See the meeting recording at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJfueQjjgl0.] Committee Chair Akef and the President thanked the LADWP representatives for their important presentation to the community.
12. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm.
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MINUTES FROM July 23rd 2025 (pending)
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