{"id":13057,"date":"2025-04-13T01:06:23","date_gmt":"2025-04-13T01:06:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/?page_id=13057"},"modified":"2025-06-14T12:22:29","modified_gmt":"2025-06-14T12:22:29","slug":"ppcc-minutes-2025-05-22","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/ppcc-minutes-2025-05-22\/","title":{"rendered":"PPCC Minutes — 2025 \/ 05 \/ 22"},"content":{"rendered":"

Return to 2025 Minutes<\/a><\/p>\n

MINUTES FROM May 22nd 2025<\/h5>\n

Voting Members in Attendance:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0 Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden Garland, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Steve Cron, Julia Nilsen, Kimberly Bloom, \u00a0Karen Ridgley, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg,\u00a0 John Padden,<\/em> Courtney Macker, Haldis Toppel, James Alexakis, Richard Blumenberg, Hagop Tchakerian, Janet Anderson, Eric Dugdale\/Donna Vaccarino* (*respectively, before and after announcement of appointment of new PPHS primary rep; see item 8.4.1 below)<\/em><\/p>\n

Non-voting Members and Advisors: <\/strong>\u00a0Allison Holdorff, Carole White, Joanna Spak, Michael Edlen, Lee Anne Sanderson, Daphne Gronich, Cindy Simon, Alex Hoerner, Rick McGeagh, Kevin Niles, Valeria Serna, Jessica Rogers, David Card, Andy Frew, Ella Nozar<\/p>\n

1.\u00a0\u00a0 Call to Order and Reading of Community Council\u2019s Mission.\u00a0 <\/strong>The meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m.\u00a0 Quentin Fleming read the Mission Statement.<\/p>\n

[Note:\u00a0 Item 11.1 was called after Item 1 on the agenda.]<\/em><\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/em>Introductions \/ Roll Call.\u00a0 <\/strong>The President introduced the members and called the roll.<\/p>\n

3.\u00a0 \u00a0Certification of Quorum.\u00a0 <\/strong>The President certified quorum.<\/p>\n

4.\u00a0\u00a0 Approval of Minutes. \u00a0<\/strong>The minutes of May 5, 2025, and May 8, 2025, were approved as distributed.<\/p>\n

5.\u00a0 \u00a0Consideration of Agenda & Upcoming Meetings.<\/strong>\u00a0 The agenda was as distributed.\u00a0 June 12, 2025<\/u><\/em> (candidates forum, if needed, and election of officers for the 2025-26 term; tentative: LADWP presentation).\u00a0 June 26, 2025<\/u><\/em> (topics to be announced).<\/p>\n

6.\u00a0\u00a0 Treasurer\u2019s Report.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Treasurer reported that the Council\u2019s bank balance is $770,172.57, with minor expenses incurred of $54 from Mailchimp and $87 from Miracle Data. The second generous donation from the Riviera Country Club of $150,832.80 was received by PPCC, to help in efforts to oversee and improve the Palisades recovery since the fire.<\/p>\n

7.\u00a0\u00a0 General Public Comment<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

7.1.\u00a0 Sheila Morovati (resident) shared information about an upcoming \u201cBanners of Hope\u201d project.\u00a0 Banners containing artwork and words of hope from Palisades schoolchildren affected by the Fire will be displayed on 75 light poles along Sunset Blvd. from Brentwood to the Palisades, to help inspire and brighten spirits since the catastrophic fire.\u00a0 She hopes to \u201cbring life and joy to Sunset Blvd.\u201d via the Crayon Connection.\u00a0 She would appreciate help and support from PPCC and the community.<\/p>\n

8.\u00a0\u00a0 Reports, Announcements and Concerns. <\/strong><\/p>\n

8.1.\u00a0\u00a0 From the Chair\/Presiding Officer<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.1.1.\u00a0 The President announced that Board member nominations of officer candidates will be accepted until 15 minutes before the scheduled close of the meeting, i.e., by 7:15pm (Bylaws, Art. VII).<\/p>\n

8.1.2.\u00a0 Update on grants\/donations to PPCC.\u00a0 As reported by the Treasurer, the President noted that we have received the second check from the Riviera Country Club. In the coming weeks, the PPCC Board may be asked to decide on how and where to spend the donated funds.<\/p>\n

8.1.3. \u00a0Update on Zone 0 regulations matter \u2013 Board of Forestry Zone 0 Advisory Committee meeting on 5\/12\/25; PPCC letter sent since the last Board meeting:
\nhttps:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PPCC-Letter-re-Zone-0.pdf<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The President referenced the letter sent to the Board of Forestry explaining PPCC\u2019s position on the proposed Zone 0 regulations.\u00a0 We have been advised that the Committee is proceeding to recommend the draconian Zone 0 rules for the first 5 feet surrounding homes in the VHFHSZ: specifically, that nothing can be planted in the ground and only potted plants no higher than 18\u201d may be placed around the home\u2019s perimeter, but not under or near windows.\u00a0 It is unclear whether the Committee will recommend planting only low plants up to 10 feet from homes.\u00a0 There will be later meetings before the rules are finalized and we will attempt to monitor.<\/p>\n

8.1.4.\u00a0\u00a0 LiveAid Concert donations.\u00a0 The President explained that the LiveAid Concert organizers have responded to an inquiry from PPCC as to how LiveAid donations assisted Palisades victims of the Fire. The response can be accessed in a link contained in the Mailchimp email which distributed the agenda for this meeting [https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/FireAid-Concert-Donations-Email-1.pdf<\/a>].<\/p>\n

8.1.5.\u00a0 LA fire survivors and first responders family photo shoots.\u00a0 The President announced that Vanity Portrait Studio is hosting\u00a0free family portraits\u00a0<\/strong>for those affected by the LA wildfires and for first responders, to take place on Saturday, 5\/31 and Sunday, 6\/1 at the LA Convention Center. A link with all the information will be contained an upcoming PPCC Mailchimp email.<\/p>\n

8.1.6.\u00a0 Palisades 4th of July 5K Run.\u00a0 The President announced that a 5K Run and Kids Fun Run will take place this year, in Venice Beach.\u00a0 A flyer with more information will be distributed in an upcoming PPCC Mailchimp email.\u00a0\u00a0 There will be a 10% discount on registration, good until May 28.<\/p>\n

8.1.7.\u00a0 Change of address.\u00a0 The President reminded everyone that they should check their address for voter registration purposes, so that they can still vote in the 2026 primary election on issues that affect the Palisades.<\/p>\n

8.2.\u00a0\u00a0 From Officers\/Chair Emeritus<\/u> \u2013 None.<\/p>\n

8.3.\u00a0\u00a0 From At-Large and Area Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.3.1.\u00a0 Lorie Cudzil (Area Six Representative) reminded the Board and meeting attendees to please continue to support our brick and mortar restaurants in the Palisades, such as Prima Cantina, Moku Sushi and others which could use our support.<\/p>\n

8.3.2.\u00a0 Sharon Kilbride (Area Seven Representative) mentioned an event on May 31st from 4-7pm at Canyon Square.\u00a0 There will be a DJ and food, and everyone is invited to \u201ccome by and stop in.\u201d<\/p>\n

8.4.\u00a0\u00a0 From Organizational Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.4.1.\u00a0\u00a0 Donna Vaccarino (PPHS) explained that as the new PPHS President she has also been appointed the Historical Society\u2019s primary representative to PPCC, replacing Eric Dugdale (who was present).<\/p>\n

8.5.\u00a0\u00a0 From Government Offices \/ Representatives<\/u> (as available). Contact information:\u00a0 https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/government-contacts\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n

8.5.1.\u00a0\u00a0 Brian Espin, LAPD Senior Lead Officer (SLO), Pacific Palisades, reported that there was a theft at one construction site; the incident involved an individual trying to steal copper wire.\u00a0 Traffic has been slowed down to one lane on PCH, so it will be slow going back and forth.\u00a0 More private security is being added to the area with different firms added regularly.\u00a0 The California Highway Patrol is also helping with some enforcement, so expect delays and congestion from this activity on the streets.\u00a0 John Padden (PRIDE) asked about check points on the map and said that Tahitian Terrace is reporting issues with people coming into the area on bike and foot. Courtney Macker (PPRA) added that there was one theft with an armed suspect on Chautauqua, for which CHP did the report.\u00a0 Karen Ridgley (Area Four Representative) said that she is worried about standing houses being targeted for burglary as there are not many lights or police patrolling the area now.<\/p>\n

8.5.2.\u00a0\u00a0 Arus Grigoryan, Palisades Field Deputy, CD 11 (Councilwoman Traci Park), reminded everyone that the deadline to opt in or out with the Army Corps of Engineers is coming up so please do so before the deadline passes.<\/p>\n

8.5.3.\u00a0\u00a0 Marian Ensley, West Area Representative, Mayor Karen Bass \u2013 not present.<\/p>\n

8.5.4.\u00a0\u00a0 Zac Gaidzik, Coastal & Westside Field Deputy, County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath \u2013 not present.<\/p>\n

8.5.5.\u00a0\u00a0 Sean Regan, District Representative, Congressman Brad Sherman \u2013 not present.<\/p>\n

8.5.6.\u00a0\u00a0 Samantha Gallegos, Field Representative, SD 24 (Sen. Ben Allen) \u2013 not present.<\/p>\n

8.5.7.\u00a0\u00a0 Anthony Avila, Field Representative, AD 42 (Asm. Jacqui Irwin) \u2013 not present.<\/p>\n

8.6.\u00a0\u00a0 From PPCC Advisors<\/u> and Liaisons<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.6.1.\u00a0 Lou Kamer (Transportation Advisor) reminded the community to yield to blinking stop signs that are now in the Palisades.\u00a0 Residents cannot drive like they used to on Chautauqua, Sunset Blvd. and PCH.\u00a0 Drivers need to slow down and take their time to get through the area safely.\u00a0 He also noted that it\u2019s a good idea to prepare a grab bag and have one ready to go in case of any future emergency.\u00a0 He will be helping with the 4th of July Parade to be held in Santa Monica on Main Street (the Palisades\u2019 \u201cExile on Main Street\u201d) and promised a good time for those who want to participate.<\/p>\n

8.6.2.\u00a0 Allison Holdorff Polhill (Education Advisor and PPCC Area Five 1st<\/sup> Alternate) reported on LAUSD\u2019s work involving Palisades schools, which has included relocating all schoolchildren to different schools and classrooms.\u00a0 She also announced that the LAUSD Bond Oversight Committee today authorized a $603M bond for the rebuild of all Palisades LAUSD schools.<\/p>\n

9.\u00a0\u00a0 Reports from PPCC Committees. <\/strong><\/p>\n

9.1.\u00a0 Rebuild Committee<\/u> (David Schwarz, Chair).\u00a0 Update on status of NORC survey.\u00a0 Quentin Fleming (Vice-President) reported that the contract with NORC has been signed and a meeting is scheduled next week to begin planning for the focus groups.<\/p>\n

10.\u00a0 \u00a0Old Business<\/strong> \u2013 None.<\/p>\n

11.\u00a0\u00a0 New Business. <\/strong><\/p>\n

11.1.\u00a0 Rick Caruso & Nick Geller \u2013 Steadfast LA<\/u>.\u00a0 Presentation\/discussion & Q&A.<\/p>\n

[Item heard immediately after the Mission Statement was read.]<\/em><\/p>\n

The President announced that Councilwoman Traci Park was in attendance to introduce our guest speakers.\u00a0 CW Park spoke briefly about her No vote on the City budget, about the opening of PCH and the retention of security checkpoints into the Palisades.\u00a0 She also introduced Rick Caruso and Nick Geller.\u00a0 Mr. Caruso stated that he was more optimistic today than he\u2019s ever been about the recovery process, and that the plans to rebuild the Recreation Center are moving forward every day.\u00a0 Steadfast LA is working with J.J. Reddick on the Recreation Center.\u00a0 He also explained that he has interesting plans for Palisades Village, with construction ongoing.\u00a0 Steadfast LA is also working with LAUSD and the Superintendent of Schools in helping to reopen Palisades elementary schools.\u00a0 They are also spending time on the challenge of undergrounding utilities, and they are putting together a financing plan to share with the City.\u00a0 Other matters that they are working on include:\u00a0 attempting to exempt people from the Mansion Tax; pushing all commercial landowners to get their debris cleared; working with residents to beautify open lots with sunflowers; and working on sidewalk, landscaping and lighting improvements for parts of Sunset Blvd.\u00a0 Steadfast LA is also working on providing prefab homes for those who qualify, such as the elderly or lower income households.\u00a0 After Mr. Caruso left the meeting, extensive Q&A took place with Nick Geller.\u00a0 The President thanked Mr. Caruso and Mr. Geller for their work on behalf of the Palisades community.<\/p>\n

11.2.\u00a0 Proposed motion to support \u201cProject Chimney<\/u>\u201d (by the Executive Committee):
\nThe President announced that the Executive Committee was sponsoring the motion as set forth below.\u00a0 No second was necessary as the motion was made by more than one voting member.\u00a0 Following discussion, which included a clarification that \u201csupport\u201d does not mean \u201cmonetary support,\u201d a vote was taken.\u00a0 Result<\/u>:\u00a0 the motion passed unanimously.<\/p>\n

Motion<\/u>:<\/p>\n

\u201cBased on the presentation by Evan Hall of the House Museum at the PPCC Board meeting on May 8, 2025, and on information provided in the House Museum press release<\/p>\n

(https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Project-Chimney-.pdf<\/a>), PPCC supports \u2018Project Chimney\u2019 as a memorial to the 2025 Palisades Fire.\u201d<\/p>\n

Motion Background<\/u>:<\/p>\n

May 8th presentation recording:\u00a0 https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=670Y0vBwz-8<\/a><\/p>\n

Press release: \u00a0https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Project-Chimney-.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

At 7:15pm (15 minutes before the scheduled close of the meeting), the President called for Board nominations of officer candidates.\u00a0 There were none.<\/p>\n

12.\u00a0\u00a0 Adjournment.\u00a0 <\/strong>The meeting was adjourned at 7:56 p.m.
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

Return to 2025 Minutes<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Return to 2025 Minutes MINUTES FROM May 22nd 2025 Voting Members in Attendance:\u00a0\u00a0 Sue Kohl, Quentin Fleming, Jenny Li, Beth Holden Garland, Maryam Zar, Chris Spitz, JoAnna Rodriguez, Steve Cron, Julia Nilsen, Kimberly Bloom, \u00a0Karen Ridgley, Lorie Cudzil, Sharon Kilbride, Andrew Wolfberg,\u00a0 John Padden, Courtney Macker, Haldis Toppel, James Alexakis, Richard Blumenberg, Hagop Tchakerian, Janet […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"full-width-page-template.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-13057","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/13057","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13057"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/13057\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13057"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}