Return to Index of 2019 Minutes<\/a><\/p>\n Voting Members in Attendance:\u00a0 <\/strong>George Wolfberg, Peter Culhane, Richard Cohen, Chris Spitz, Sue Kohl, David Kaplan, Rick Mills, Haldis Toppel, Joanna Spak, Steve Cron, Steve Boyers, Richard Blumenberg, Dick Wulliger, Bill Bruns, Duke Ostendorf, Jean Sharp, Ellie Jenkins, Brenda Theveny<\/p>\n Voting Alternates: \u00a0<\/strong>David Card, Barbara Kohn<\/p>\n Non-voting Advisors and Alternates:<\/strong>\u00a0 Cathi Ruddy, Mary Mueller, Barbara Marinacci, John Padden, David Peterson, Melanie Bouer, Susan Orenstein, Bruce Schwartz, Cathy Russell, Jason Sklar, Miriam Schulman<\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Certification of Quorum. \u00a0<\/strong>Chair George Wolfberg called the meeting to order at 7:00pm and certified that a quorum was present.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Reading of Community Council\u2019s Mission. <\/strong>\u00a0David Kaplan read the Council\u2019s Mission.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0 \u00a0 Introduction of the Board and Audience<\/strong>.\u00a0 The board and audience were introduced.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0 \u00a0 Approval of Minutes & Upcoming Meetings. \u00a0<\/strong>1) Approval of Minutes \u2013 <\/em>the minutes of 11\/08\/18 were approved and 12\/13\/18 were approved as corrected. \u00a02) Upcoming Meetings \u2013 <\/em>January 24, 2019: 1) LAFD Deputy Chief Armando Hogan (fire safety and lessons learned from the Woolsey fire); 2) LAPD Capt. III Vic Davalos (introduction to the community).\u00a0\u00a0 February 14, 2019: 1) PRIDE President and rep to PPCC John Padden (Village beautification\/harmonization plans); other topics to be announced.<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0 \u00a0 Consideration of Agenda.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair announced that item 11.1 will be considered no later than 7:30pm in consideration of the long distances some of the postal representatives have come.<\/p>\n 6.\u00a0 \u00a0 Treasurer\u2019s Report. \u00a0<\/strong>Treasurer Richard Cohen reported that the Council\u2019s bank balance is $41,290.61.\u00a0 The most significant transaction since the last report was renewal of our Directors and Officers Liability Insurance, which renews in March; the cost was $575.<\/p>\n With respect to the Gala finances, Richard reported that the Gala was a financial success. \u00a0The event was sold out and the program\/tribute book was very successful. \u00a0Numbers are preliminary but it appears that as in previous years the dinner itself was approximately a financial break-even. \u00a0However, the tribute book ads and auction sales brought our preliminary result to an approximate $7,300 excess of revenue over expenses. \u00a0We still have approximately $2,100 of additional ad revenue receivable. \u00a0Expenses of the event were closely controlled and managed. \u00a0We successfully used Ticket Tailor for reservations and ticket sales. \u00a0Thanks are due to Heather Cohen for her assistance. Amazingly the Ticket Tailor program only cost $25.50 for each of two months plus there were unavoidable PayPal fees. \u00a0Kudos to PPCC Chair George Wolfberg, Event Committee Chair Peter Culhane, Secretary Chris Spitz and Awards Selection Committee Chair Sue Kohl, who were involved in myriad aspects of making this a financial success. \u00a0Richard will report at a subsequent meeting on the final numbers once we receive payment for outstanding tribute ads.<\/p>\n 7. \u00a0 \u00a0General Public Comment\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 8. \u00a0 \u00a0Reports, Announcements and Concerns<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 8.1. \u00a0 \u00a0From the Chair<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.1.1. \u00a0 \u00a0PPCC Awards.<\/em>\u00a0 The Chair restated his thanks to all the volunteers who made the PPCC Awards Gala such a great success.\u00a0 Amazing teamwork and effort by all involved.\u00a0 The awardees all have expressed their thanks and the Chair read from a thank you note to the Council received from Dede Vlietstra.\u00a0 The live auction was highly successful, resulting in two dinners for bidders at Fire Station 69, one dinner having already taken place.<\/p>\n 8.1.2. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Wildfire Safety Advisor.<\/em>\u00a0 The Chair announced the appointment of a Wildfire Safety Advisor, Miriam Schulman, who has hit the ground running and is doing a great deal of research into fire issues that should be of concern to Palisades residents.\u00a0 And, we expect a robust discussion.\u00a0 The Chair has also requested a meeting with Mike Bonin, the Chair and our Wildfire Safety Advisor to discuss the Councilmember\u2019s recent motion to form a wildfire emergency response Task Force.<\/p>\n 8.1.3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Rollover Accident.<\/em>\u00a0 There was a rollover accident from PCH onto the Temescal Beach Parking Lot on Tuesday evening, seriously injuring a bicycle rider.\u00a0 The Chair asked Caltrans to look into installing robust barriers in places where they do not exist between the Bel Air Bay Club and the Entrada Parking Lot entrance. The Chief of Caltrans Corridor Management immediately replied that they will take a look.<\/p>\n 8.1.4. \u00a0 \u00a0Homeless Count.<\/em>\u00a0 The Chair reminded all of the annual Homeless Count which this year will be held on Wednesday, January 23 from 8pm to midnight with headquarters at the Corpus Christi Church.\u00a0 Signup at www.theycountwillyou.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n 8.1.5. \u00a0 \u00a0Station 69 Landscape.<\/em>\u00a0 The Chair noted that the Station 69 landscape is looking great and the two pine trees and three sequoias have been nicely trimmed \u2014 well done by Tracy Price, and thanks to Kelly Comras and Lisa Cahill for their support on this.<\/p>\n 8.1.6. \u00a0 \u00a0Zoning Code Workshop<\/em>.\u00a0 The City\u2019s re-write of its Zoning Code is moving apace and Secretary Chris Spitz has partnered with our sister Council in Brentwood to sponsor a briefing and workshop for the board and interested community members on Saturday, March 30, in the Gilbert Hall auditorium at Palisades High School, subject to board concurrence.\u00a0 More details to be provided by Chris Spitz. \u00a0We are pleased that the Re:codeLA Zoning Advisory Committee Co-Chair Sharon Commins along with Principal City Planner Tom Rothmann will be speakers.<\/p>\n 8.2. \u00a0 \u00a0From Officers<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.2.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Chris Spitz (Secretary).\u00a0 Chris summarized her report (previously distributed to the board) on the recent Westside Regional Alliance of Councils Land Use & Planning Committee (WRAC-LUPC) meeting, with updates on ordinances & planning measures we have been following. See:details here.<\/a>\u00a0 She also announced that PPCC proposes to partner with Brentwood Community Council (BCC) to co-host an educational workshop on navigating the revised Los Angeles Zoning Code, to take place on March 30, 2019 at 10:30am in Gilbert Hall at Palisades Charter High School. Sharon Commins (Co-Chair, WRAC-LUPC and Co-Chair, Re:codeLA Zoning Advisory Committee) will explain how to use the new Code, and Tom Rothmann (Principal Planner, Dept. of City Planning) will be present to answer questions. The board concurred with the plan to hold this workshop.<\/p>\n 8.3. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From At-Large and Area Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.3.1. \u00a0 \u00a0David Card (At Large First Alternate).\u00a0 David explained that he is in charge of the upcoming American Legion student Oratorical Contest.\u00a0 The deadline for students to submit applications is Monday.\u00a0 The local contest is on January 27 at Post 283 in the Palisades.\u00a0 The winner locally will go on to compete in the District contest, and then potentially in the Area, the State and the National Finals.\u00a0 The National Finals winner receives an $18,000 scholarship.\u00a0 Each participant will receive $150.\u00a0 The contest is open to students in grades 9-12.<\/p>\n 8.3.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Steve Cron (Area Two Representative).\u00a0 Steve reported that he communicated in November with Heather Johnson of the Coastal Commission regarding the Highlands trailhead restroom problem.\u00a0 The PPCC Executive Committee wrote a letter to Ms. Johnson supporting her efforts to address the problem; the Chair announced that the letter will be in the next agenda.\u00a0 Steve also stated that he, Lisa Cahill and Joe Halper have met with fire chiefs to discuss wildfire safety and they will be going out to the Highlands later this month to speak about the fire situation.<\/p>\n 8.4. \u00a0 \u00a0From Organizational Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.4.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Bill Bruns (Friends of the Library).\u00a0 Bill announced that the Friends made $8,200 from the sale of books at the last parking lot sale.\u00a0 This will be used for new books which go throughout the library system.\u00a0 They will be building a book store, approximately the size of the former Village Books store, in an empty space in the library.\u00a0It has taken two years to get the required permits.<\/p>\n 8.4.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Duke Ostendorf (YMCA).\u00a0 Duke stated that the YMCA appreciates everyone for shopping for holiday trees at the Y\u2019s tree lot.\u00a0 The tree sale was very successful, with only five trees left at the end.\u00a0 He also announced that they will send 130 high school youth to the annual statewide Youth in Government program in Sacramento.\u00a0 The YMCA finished the year in the black, and thanks everyone in the community for their support.<\/p>\n 8.5. \u00a0 \u00a0From Government Offices \/ Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.5.1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Council District 11 (Mike Bonin) District Director Krista Phipps \u2013 <\/em>Not in attendance; presentation postponed to January 24 (see item 11.2 below).<\/em><\/p>\n 8.5.2. \u00a0 Janet Turner (District Representative, U.S. Congressman Ted Lieu).\u00a0 Janet announced that Congressman Lieu\u2019s West LA VA Community Roundtable will take place on Wednesday, January 16 from 7-8:30pm at the Brentwood library.\u00a0 The event is open to the public.\u00a0 The annual open house for students interested in attending one of the service academies \u2013 Service Academy Day — will take place on February 16 from 1-4pm;\u00a0 more information to come.\u00a0 Janet also reported that the Congressman has introduced an aggressive greenhouse gases bill, and explained that he is a member of the Judiciary and Foreign Affairs Committees.<\/p>\n 8.5.3.\u00a0 \u00a0Ami Fields-Meyer (West LA Representative, Mayor Garcetti).\u00a0 Ami introduced himself as the Mayor\u2019s new West LA Representative and explained that his job entails all of CD11 and CD5.\u00a0 It is important for him to be in touch with the community as often as possible.\u00a0He has spoken with the Chair, the Secretary and PPTFH President Doug McCormick and appreciates learning about community issues.\u00a0 He praised the Palisades for its work on homelessness.\u00a0 A new Deputy Mayor, Christina Miller, will work on homeless issues.\u00a0Ami also announced that Mayor Garcetti encourages everyone to use the new Shake Alert cellphone app.<\/p>\n 8.6. \u00a0 \u00a0From PPCC Advisors<\/u>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 9. \u00a0 \u00a0Reports from Committees.<\/strong><\/p>\n 9.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Awards Event Committee\u00a0<\/u>(Peter Culhane, Chair). \u00a0Peter reported that the Awards Gala was a big success. He thanked all of the Event Committee members individually by name and spoke about their contributions.\u00a0 He also thanked Sam Lagana for expertly serving as our MC and conducting the successful auction, Heather Cohen for her invaluable assistance, Jimmy Dunne for his original video presentation, the Awards Selection Committee, all the honorees and the 135 attendees who were integral in the success of the event.<\/p>\n 10. \u00a0 \u00a0Old Business <\/strong>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 11. \u00a0 \u00a0New Business<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 11.1. \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0US Mail Delivery and Security<\/u>.\u00a0 Briefing by Special Agents Adrian Valdez and Shani Lee, USPS Office of the Inspector General (OIG); Uco Johnson, Pacific Palisades Postmaster; and Stacia Crane, USPS Inspection Service.<\/p>\n Ms. Crane explained that the USPS representatives were there to talk about protection of our mail.\u00a0 She distributed a:\u00a0 handout<\/a>from Postal Inspectors on ways to protect mail.\u00a0She discussed the tips in the handout, which include: give all outgoing mail to a carrier or place it in the slot inside the post office rather than in a mail deposit box; do not put cash in the mail.\u00a0Ms. Crane advised that residents should report all mail theft immediately to the police and then to the Postal Inspectors at (877) 876-2455.\u00a0 She then introduced Pacific Palisades Postmaster Uco Johnson.\u00a0 Mr. Johnson has been with the Postal Service for 20 years.\u00a0He is eager to make sure mail service is done correctly and mail is delivered as early as possible.\u00a0 He is working on improving staffing and service.\u00a0 If anyone has any problems with mail service, ask to speak with him in the Palisades Post Office.\u00a0 If he isn\u2019t there his supervisors will take complaints.\u00a0 Mr. Johnson stressed that USPS takes all issues and mail theft reports seriously. Complaints about missing deliveries and postal employee misconduct are turned over to Postal Inspectors or to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG).\u00a0 Mr. Johnson also explained that he is at the Post Office late, until the last carrier gets back.\u00a0 He has fifty-five employees.<\/p>\n Q&A ensued. There was discussion about criminals putting sticky substances such as fly traps in mail deposit boxes as part of \u201cfishing\u201d schemes to steal mail out of boxes.\u00a0 The speakers explained that this is why it is best to hand mail to a carrier or put in the slot inside the Post Office.\u00a0 USPS tries to deal with this problem and is working on developing devices to prevent workarounds, but it\u2019s not 100% foolproof.\u00a0 Criminals go out and get drug users to steal mail out of mailboxes and swap for drugs; they will steal checks and wash the ink off.\u00a0 Ms. Crane recommended using gel point ink which can\u2019t be washed off on checks being sent in the mail. Some audience members described problems with their mail delivery and expressed concern about suspected postal personnel misconduct. The speakers reassured meeting attendees that postal employees go through background checks and are vetted and trained, but USPS does want to bring employees to justice if it\u2019s ascertained they are acting improperly.\u00a0Investigations take time.\u00a0 Putting a lock on your home mailbox is important, but make sure you don\u2019t prevent the mail carrier from putting mail inside your mailbox. An issue was raised about problems with carriers incorrectly inserting mail in home mailboxes. Mr. Johnson advised that residents contact him about specific instances and he will fix the problem. He can be reached at uco.johnson@usps.gov<\/a>, (310) 464-3475.\u00a0As to why mail sometimes is delivered at different times, Mr. Johnson explained that if a carrier has called in sick, his or her route has to be split up and the other carriers deliver the split after first serving his\/her usual customers.\u00a0 The post office makes Sunday deliveries of Amazon packages only.\u00a0 The last mail pick-up in the Palisades is 5pm. \u00a0Haldis Toppel and Peter Culhane expressed thanks for the good work of USPS carriers and Post Office personnel.<\/p>\n Janet Turner (District Representative, Congressman Lieu) stated that her office was forwarded a Nextdoor chain with 100 people in the Palisades talking about receiving envelopes or cards that are slit open, with checks, gift cards and\/or cash being taken out.\u00a0 The initiator of the Nextdoor chain stated that he was present and described the problem he experienced with cash being stolen from mail that had been sent to him and the reasons why he suspected this was the work of postal personnel.<\/p>\n Adrian Valdez, Special Agent with the OIG, next spoke.\u00a0He explained that he was there with Agent Shani Lee to address residents\u2019 concerns about possible misconduct by USPS employees. Mr. Valdez advised that the OIG is the oversight agency for the U.S. Postal Service. \u00a0He emphasized that the OIG\u2019s number one priority is protecting the \u201csanctity and integrity of the seal.\u201d\u00a0 Two criminal codes (18 U.S. Code \u00a7\u00a71701 and 1709) are used to charge postal employees who mishandle mail in any way.\u00a0 The Postal Inspectors identify matters related to misconduct such as \u201cfishing\u201d schemes involving mail deposit boxes, but the OIG focuses on postal employee misconduct alone.\u00a0 They use investigative techniques to identify postal employees who compromise the mail.\u00a0The OIG is a federal agency that investigates and presents cases to the U.S. attorney for prosecution; it also works with local police departments.\u00a0 If you believe your mail is being compromised, call 888-USPS OIG. \u00a0Residents in the audience then gave examples of mail being received that was ripped open.\u00a0 Many people have complained about these problems.\u00a0 Mr. Valdez stated that the OIG is aware, has already made one arrest and is still working on the issue.\u00a0 There were also complaints about customer service issues, which Mr. Valdez explained are referred to postal management.\u00a0 As to what items can be placed in a mailbox, Mr. Valdez stated that this is governed by federal statute:\u00a0 only U.S. mail can go in mailboxes (not Fed Ex or other deliveries).\u00a0 Agent Lee then provided complaint forms, which she advised should be sent to Special Agent Alyse Shelton: ashelton@uspsoig.gov<\/a>, (562) 343-9892.\u00a0 Mr. Valdez also advised that residents who suspect misconduct should preserve evidence such as video footage (e.g., RING, etc.) and receipts for gift cards missing or stolen from mail, and make this material available to the agents to assist in their investigation.<\/p>\n 11.2.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Council District 11 (Mike Bonin) District Director Krista Phipps<\/u>. Briefing on new proposed City Task Force to improve ways to keep people safe before and during wildfires and other emergencies; Q&A on matters of community concern.<\/p>\n The Chair explained that Ms. Phipps was unable to attend tonight due to a personal matter; her presentation about the proposed emergency response Task Force will be postponed to the January 24th meeting, when we will have a general discussion about wildfire safety.An abbreviated discussion ensued with residents who had attended the meeting in order to inform Ms. Phipps of their concerns about improper lane turns and traffic problems at the Chautauqua and Temescal Canyon intersections with PCH. \u00a0The Chair apologized for not announcing Ms. Phipps\u2019 absence earlier in the meeting.\u00a0 The Chair and Treasurer Richard Cohen briefly provided information about these intersections, explained that PPCC and the Council District 11 office have long been aware of these traffic issues, and assured residents that PPCC has been working and will continue to work with government officials to address the problems and obtain enforcement.<\/p>\n 11.3.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Map Your Neighborhood (MYN) Emergency Response Program<\/u>. Presentation by past Pacific Palisades Woman\u2019s Club President and current rep to PPCC Cathi Ruddy.<\/p>\n Ms. Ruddy stated that she was presenting along with Julie Thomas, Executive Director of the Santa Monica Chapter of the American Red Cross. They would like to spearhead a partnership between the Red Cross and PPCC to promote awareness and participation in the Map Your Neighborhood (MYN) disaster readiness program in the Palisades.\u00a0 She explained that this is a nine-point program for residents of individual neighborhoods to get together and share information for use in an eventual emergency or disaster situation.\u00a0 Cathi passed out written materials on MYN, noting that this is a community-building activity.\u00a0 She is asking for everyone to commit to hosting an event at their home for their block, with 15-20 neighbors.\u00a0 She and Julie Thomas can walk everyone through the program if they wish to participate.\u00a0 Discussion ensued about the best way to get the information to the community. \u00a0Suggestions included Area Representatives and board members reaching out to organized Neighborhood Watches, homeowner associations and other groups.\u00a0 Secretary Chris Spitz suggested that PPCC can help with spreading the word on the PPCC website, on social media and in email messages.\u00a0 In response to questions, Cathi explained that the MYN program is complimentary to Neighborhood Watches and CERT training.\u00a0 She urged all board and community members to participate in setting up MYN neighborhood groups. \u00a0Anyone with questions about MYN can contact Cathi at cbsruddy@aol.com<\/a>and\/or Julie Thomas at julie.thomas@redcross.org<\/a>, 424-203-1102.<\/p>\n 12. \u00a0 \u00a0Adjournment.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair adjourned the meeting at 8:57pm.<\/p>\n _________________________<\/p>\n Return to top of page<\/a><\/p>\n Voting Members in Attendance:\u00a0 <\/strong>George Wolfberg, Richard Cohen (acting Secretary), Sue Kohl, David Kaplan, Rick Mills, Joanna Spak, Steve Cron, Steve Boyers, Alan Goldsmith, Dick Wulliger, Duke Ostendorf, Ellie Jenkins, Brenda Theveny<\/p>\n Voting Alternates: \u00a0<\/strong>Barbara Marinacci, John Padden, Barbara Kohn, Cathi ruddy<\/p>\n Non-voting Advisors and Alternates:<\/strong>\u00a0 Miriam Schulman, Allison Holdorf Polhill, Sharon Kilbride, Melanie Bouer, David Card, David Peterson, Jan Ostendorf<\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Certification of Quorum. \u00a0<\/strong>The Chair George Wolfberg called the meeting to order at 7:00pm and certified that a quorum was present.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Reading of Community Council\u2019s Mission. <\/strong>\u00a0\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00adDick Wulliger read the Council\u2019s Mission.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0 \u00a0 Introduction of the Board and Audience<\/strong>.\u00a0 The board and audience were introduced.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0 \u00a0 Approval of Minutes & Upcoming Meetings.\u00a0<\/strong>1) Approval of Minutes \u2013 <\/em>the minutes of 1\/10\/19 were approved. \u00a02) Upcoming Meetings \u2013<\/em>February 14, 2019: 1) PRIDE President and rep to PPCC John Padden (Village beautification\/ harmonization plans); 2) WRAC-recommended motion re Senate Bill 50.\u00a0 February 28, 2019:\u00a0 1) Adel H. Hagekhalil, Executive Director & General Manager, Bureau of Street Services (Street Services information and Q&A); 2) CD 11 Transportation Deputy Eric Bruins (Bonin motion re electric scooters & LADOT \u201cVision Zero\u201d report); 3) Pastor Kenneth Davis, Palisades Lutheran Church (Feed My Starving Children).\u00a0 Other topics to be announced.<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0 \u00a0 Consideration of Agenda.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair announced that the agenda is as distributed.<\/p>\n 6.\u00a0 \u00a0 Treasurer\u2019s Report<\/strong>. \u00a0Treasurer Richard Cohen reported that the Council\u2019s bank balance is $41,112.\u00a0 With respect to the Gala\u2019s finances:\u00a0 We have received but not yet deposited $900 of additional program advertising revenue and still have about $1,200 additional outstanding.\u00a0 He will report more on the Gala finances at a later date.<\/p>\n 7.\u00a0 \u00a0 General Public Comment<\/strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n 7.1.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>Patrick Hart (resident)<\/u>.\u00a0 <\/strong>Regarding Potrero Canyon, the pumping station site has been a residence for homeless and will be destroyed.\u00a0 There are some historical aspects that should be preserved and recorded, in his opinion.\u00a0The Chair will reach out to the City Engineer.<\/p>\n 8.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Reports, Announcements and Concerns<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 8.1. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From the Chair<\/u>.<\/p>\n The Chair thanked Richard Cohen for stepping in to take this evening\u2019s minutes as Secretary Chris Spitz was called away this evening.<\/p>\n The Chair also congratulated Richard Blumenberg (Civic League representative) upon his election as Chair of the Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce.<\/p>\n The Chair noted his pledge to get agenda materials out to the board allowing ample time over the weekend before each meeting for board and community members to familiarize themselves with the agenda items. The Chair and Secretary have been able to keep that pledge and this evening the Chair honored the first board member to open this week\u2019s agenda with a special hand-crafted gift from the Wolfberg kitchen:\u00a0 Sue Kohl.<\/p>\n 8.1.1.\u00a0\u00a0 Highlands Trailhead Letter.<\/em>\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>In late November the PPCC Executive Committee approved a letter supporting the Coastal Commission’s efforts to effect repair of the deplorable conditions at the restrooms and parking lot located at16701 Via Costa and ensure the safety of the Temescal Ridge Trail access point.\u00a0 Thanks to Steve Cron for keeping up the pressure on all the involved officials.\u00a0\u00a0 The letter has been posted and there will be a link in the meeting minutes.\u00a0 See 11\/29\/18 <\/em>Letter to Coastal Commission<\/a>\u00a0<\/em>approved by the Executive Committee.<\/em><\/p>\n 8.1.2. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0WRAC Leadership Meeting 1\/16.\u00a0 <\/em>WRAC leadership voted to recommend that member-councils consider a motion that had been proposed by the WRAC Land Use & Planning Committee, opposing Senate Bill 50 (Wiener).\u00a0 This bill \u2013 the so-called \u201ctransit-rich and job-rich\u201d bonus housing bill — is a do-over of a prior bill from Sen. Wiener, SB 827, which PPCC opposed and was killed in committee last year.\u00a0 The proposed motion is supported unanimously by the PPCC Executive Committee and will be on the PPCC meeting agenda for 2\/14\/19.\u00a0 Information about the motion and SB 50 has been provided to PPCC board members in order to prepare for a thoughtful discussion at the next meeting: Proposed SB 50 Motion<\/a>; WRAC-LUPC Talking Points<\/a>\u00a0and SB 50 Text<\/a>.<\/p>\n 8.1.3. \u00a0 \u00a0Potrero Canyon Groundbreaking 1\/22.\u00a0 <\/em>Groundbreaking for the long-awaited final phases of construction for Potrero Canyon Park took place on January 22.\u00a0 Public officials, Potrero Canyon Community Advisory Committee members, and PPCC & PAB board members joined in the ceremonies to celebrate the start of the 600,000 cubic yard grading phase.\u00a0 The attendees received a commitment from Councilman Bonin, the City Engineer and Rec and Parks that the final phase of park development — landscaping of the canyon — will soon be placed out to bid so that growing of the specified plants may begin.\u00a0 Also, Councilman Bonin pledged his support for funding of a key piece of the park, a bridge for safe passage over the Coast Highway. \u00a0When completed, Potrero Canyon will\u00a0be a beautiful passive park with trails and lookouts to be enjoyed by all.<\/p>\n 8.1.4. \u00a0 \u00a0Zoning Code Workshop<\/em>.\u00a0 Reminder:\u00a0 PPCC and BCC will co-host a community workshop on how to access the new Zoning Code on March 30, 2019 at 10:30am at Gilbert Hall, Palisades Charter High School.\u00a0More details to come.<\/p>\n 8.2. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From Officers\u00a0<\/u>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 8.3.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From At-Large and Area Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.3.1. \u00a0 \u00a0David Card (At-large First Alternate).\u00a0 Go Rams!<\/p>\n 8.3.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Rick Mills (Area Four Representative).\u00a0 Thanks to Sue Pascoe and Circling the News for calling to the community\u2019s attention the proposed new location of dumpsters below the continuation school in the swampy area.<\/p>\n 8.4. \u00a0 \u00a0From Organizational Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.4.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Dick Wulliger (Historical Society).\u00a0 The Democratic Club will meet this Sunday at 2pm.<\/p>\n 8.5. \u00a0 \u00a0From Government Offices \/ Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.5.1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>LAPD Captain III Vic Davalos, new West LA Area Commanding Officer(see item 11.1 below) \u2013 <\/em>Not in attendance. \u00a0Michael Moore (LAPD Senior Lead Officer) was in attendance and reported that crime is down.\u00a0 He advised everyone to remember to set your alarms.\u00a0 He also described a break-in that resulted in a purse and car theft while the family was upstairs.\u00a0 If you hear a \u201cthump,\u201d that may be the miscreants entering your house; listening for a second thump will be too late.<\/p>\n 8.5.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Deputy Fire Chief Armando Hogan, LAFD West Bureau Operations(see item 11.2 below).<\/em><\/p>\n 8.5.3. \u00a0 \u00a0Council District 11 (Mike Bonin) District Director Krista Phipps (see item 11.3 \u00a0below).<\/em><\/p>\n 8.5.4. \u00a0 \u00a0Reporting in the absence of Janet Turner (District Representative, Congressman Ted Lieu), the Chair announced that Rep. Lieu is hosting Service Academy Day on February 16.\u00a0 A handout was made available to anyone interested.<\/p>\n 8.6. \u00a0 \u00a0From PPCC Advisors<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.6.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Allison Holdorf Polhill (Education).\u00a0 The six-day strike ended on Tuesday, with the Mayor mediating the settlement.\u00a0 The teachers had seven days of lost pay and will now receive a 3% retroactive pay raise from 2017, with 6% going forward; various school services will receive additional funding.\u00a0 As to whether there would be limits on charter schools, Allison explained this is not settled, but the issue is pending and will be considered in the near future.\u00a0 There would be a resolution asking the state for a moratorium on charters.\u00a0 Responding to a question about lottery revenue, she stated that she believes the lottery did not actually add revenue but replaced other funds.<\/p>\n 8.6.2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sharon Kilbride (Homelessness).\u00a0 PPTFH volunteers found 28 new camps that have been cleaned up.\u00a0 There are now two active camps across from the Lake Shrine that volunteers could not access because it is private property.\u00a0 The Palisades is now looking very good.\u00a0 Most homeless people are now living in their cars \u2013 perhaps 37 or 38.\u00a0 As to the January 23 Homeless Count:\u00a0 the total number counted this year was about 70, which Sharon believes is somewhat less than last year.<\/p>\n 9.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Reports from Committees <\/strong>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 10.\u00a0 \u00a0 Old Business <\/strong>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 11.\u00a0 \u00a0 New Business<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 11.1. \u00a0 \u00a0LAPD Captain III Vic Davalos, new West LA Area Commanding Officer<\/u>\u2013 Not in attendance.<\/p>\n 11.2.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Deputy Fire Chief Armando Hogan, LAFD West Bureau Operations<\/u>. \u00a0Presentation on fire safety and lessons learned from the Woolsey Fire.<\/p>\n Deputy Chief Hogan of LAFD West Bureau Operations attended along with other LAFD personnel. \u00a0He introduced Capt. Tom Kitahata of Station 69 who introduced other LAFD captains in the West area. \u00a0Capt. Kitahata explained the LAFD\u2019s wildfire action plan, Ready, Set, Go!\u00a0 He and his family live near Thousand Oaks, he was at the Woolsey fire and he had neighbors who lost houses.\u00a0 He described his family evacuating and noted the speed of the advancing Woolsey fire as unlike anything he had witnessed in over 31 years of firefighting.\u00a0He was amazed at how quickly the fire came across the mountains and threatened his community.<\/p>\n Deputy Chief Hogan presented a PowerPoint explaining the department\u2019s wildfire containment procedures and brush clearance requirements.\u00a0 He explained that Battalion Chief Percy Jones would likely be the Incident Commander in a wildfire.\u00a0 He would take control and would be the first to arrive and understand the situation.\u00a0 He would direct resources to address the objectives.\u00a0 Where is the fire going and what is the rate of spread?\u00a0 They try to outflank the fire and keep it narrow.\u00a0 The commander would coordinate with other agencies.<\/p>\n The public should create a defensible space \u2013 a 200 foot buffer of no brush.\u00a0 LAFD uses helicopters for command as well as water dropping.\u00a0 They endeavor to contain the fire in a \u201cbox\u201d that defines the fire containment limits.\u00a0Drones are used to spot any hot-spots.<\/p>\n West Bureau Assistant Chief Orin Saunders explained the \u201cWifire\u201d fire mapping tool that helps to predict fire behavior based upon wind speed, direction and humidity.\u00a0It is used to aid in planning.\u00a0 LAFD urges people to evacuate about two hours ahead of danger.\u00a0 If down to 30 minutes of warning one would shelter in place and resources would be applied to help protect lives and property.\u00a0 LAPD does the evacuations.<\/p>\n \u201cNotifyLA\u201d is a service for phones that will alert you to pending evacuations and other essential news.\u00a0 The public should subscribe to receive push notifications to mobile or landlines.\u00a0 An Evacuation Order is mandatory, and an Evacuation Warning is advance warning.\u00a0 It is best to evacuate early because leaving late diverts resources that could be better utilized to stop the fire.\u00a0 You can leave your pets and advise the firefighters at the command center and they will pick up your pets.\u00a0 Please have your pets chipped so unification is facilitated.<\/p>\n Questions & answers then ensued:\u00a0 Reverse lanes may be needed quickly on Sunset or PCH.\u00a0 There was a long delay with the Woolsey fire.\u00a0 Will we have such delays?\u00a0 Answer:\u00a0 PCH was a barrier to prevent fire spread.\u00a0 It took time for the various agencies to coordinate.\u00a0 Fire trucks may be coming in while evacuees may be leaving.<\/p>\n Is it possible to get real time fire and evacuation maps?\u00a0 No, because the fire and the plan changes based upon circumstances.\u00a0 Generally, it takes a day or so until detailed maps are made public.\u00a0 Refer to NotifyLA for road closures and evacuation areas.<\/p>\n Are there controlled burns in our area?\u00a0 No, not in LA City.\u00a0 Prevention is based upon brush clearance.\u00a0 LAFD cites violators and works with other agencies such as LADWP, MRCA, to urge compliance.<\/p>\n See LAFD.org, click on fire education and you can find the Ready, Set, Go! plan and other relevant fire safety information.<\/p>\n Steve Cron (Area 2 Rep) expressed concern about the Highlands.\u00a0 Response: The LAFD will meet and discuss preparedness and evacuation plans after consultation on the ground.<\/p>\n David Card (At-large First Alternate) expressed concern about Marquez Knolls.\u00a0 He noted that the last burn was 1977\/1978.\u00a0 Response: The LAFD is aware.\u00a0 Wind driven events can be very dangerous.<\/p>\n State Parks, MRCA and LADWP each maintain their own properties and their fire roads.\u00a0 LAFD does not maintain fire roads.<\/p>\n The Chair thanked the LAFD for and audience members for participating.<\/p>\n 11.3. \u00a0 \u00a0Council District 11 (Mike Bonin) District Director Krista Phipps<\/u>.<\/p>\n Ms. Phipps noted the questions asked of LAFD and will attempt to address these issues with the community in the future.\u00a0 She indicated she may return to a future PPCC meeting with a new area expert as the old expert has recently taken a new job.\u00a0 Please share questions with Lisa Cahill to move toward forming a task force.<\/p>\n 12. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Adjournment.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair adjourned the meeting at 8:36 pm.<\/p>\n _________________________<\/p>\n Return to top of page<\/a><\/p>\n Voting Members in Attendance:\u00a0 <\/strong>George Wolfberg, Peter F. Culhane, Richard G. Cohen, Chris Spitz, Sue Kohl, Rick Mills, Joanna Spak, Steve Cron, Alan Goldsmith, Richard Blumenberg, Bill Bruns, Brenda Theveny, Jean Sharp<\/p>\n Voting Alternates: \u00a0<\/strong>Rick McGeagh, Eric Dugdale, Andrew Wolfberg<\/p>\n Non-voting Advisors and Alternates:<\/strong>\u00a0 John Padden, David Card, Susan Orenstein, Bruce Schwartz, Melanie Bouer<\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Certification of Quorum. \u00a0<\/strong>The Chair George Wolfberg called the meeting to order at 7:01pm and certified that a quorum was present.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Reading of Community Council\u2019s Mission. <\/strong>\u00a0\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00adRick McGeagh read the Council\u2019s Mission.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0 \u00a0 Introduction of the Board and Audience<\/strong>.\u00a0 The board and audience were introduced.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0 \u00a0 Approval of Minutes & Upcoming Meetings. \u00a0<\/strong>1) Approval of Minutes \u2013 <\/em>the minutes of 1\/24\/19 were approved. \u00a02) Upcoming Meetings \u2013<\/em>February 28, 2019: 1) Adel H. Hagekhalil, Executive Director & General Manager, Bureau of Street Services (Street Services information and Q&A); 2) CD 11 Transportation Deputy Eric Bruins (Bonin motion re electric scooters & LADOT \u201cVision Zero\u201d report); 3) Pastor Kenneth Davis, Palisades Lutheran Church (Feed My Starving Children); 4) 2nd\u00a0<\/span>Distribution & Vote on Motion to Adopt Proposed Bylaws Amendments.\u00a0 March 14, 2019:\u00a0 1) Capt. III Vic Davalos, Commanding Officer, LAPD West Area.\u00a0 Other topics to be announced.<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0 \u00a0 Consideration of Agenda.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair announced that the agenda is as distributed.<\/p>\n 6.\u00a0 \u00a0 Treasurer\u2019s Report<\/strong>. \u00a0Treasurer Richard Cohen reported that the Council\u2019s bank balance is $41,684.71.\u00a0 We received an additional $900 of Gala tribute revenue since the last report bringing our net positive cashflow from the event to approximately $8,000 with the expectation that we will receive another approximately $1,000 which is still outstanding.<\/p>\n 7. \u00a0 \u00a0General Public Comment<\/strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n 7.1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Krishna Thangavelu (resident) expressed concerns about Highlands fire safety. Steve Cron (Area 2 Rep) explained that he will report on what Highlands leaders have been doing about the issue later in the meeting.<\/p>\n 7.2.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Elizabeth Lerer (not a resident) stated that she was raised in the Palisades and is concerned about possible demolition by the owner of a home dating from 1929 at 14924 Camarosa Dr.\u00a0 The property is under consideration for Historic Preservation status. There will be a City hearing concerning the property on March 7 at 10am at City Hall, Rm. 1010; contact Melissa Jones of the Planning Dept. (Historic Resources) for more information. \u00a0Lerer also noted remarks on Nextdoor expressing concern about the Farmers Market location plans.\u00a0 Sue Kohl (Area 5 Rep) explained that the situation is complicated.<\/p>\n 7.3. \u00a0 \u00a0Lou Kamer (resident) asked for an update on repaving Chautauqua.\u00a0 The Chair stated that he does not have a definite answer, but noted that the General Manager of the Bureau of Street Services, Adel Hagekhalil, will be attending our next meeting and the Chair has advised him that repaving of Chautauqua is of the highest priority to the Palisades.<\/p>\n 8.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Reports, Announcements and Concerns.<\/strong><\/p>\n 8.1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From the Chair<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.1.1. \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Zoning Code Workshop 3\/30\/19<\/em>.\u00a0 Reminder:\u00a0As a public service, PPCC and Brentwood CC will co-host a community workshop on how to access the new Zoning Code on March 30, 2019 at 10:30am at Gilbert Hall, Palisades Charter High School.\u00a0 The new Code is the culmination of the 5+ year-long \u201cre-codeLA\u201d project to comprehensively revise the City\u2019s massive & confusing old Zoning Code, which dated from 1946 and had never before been comprehensively revised. We have arranged for expert speakers who will teach us the ins and outs of the new interactive Code:\u00a0 Sharon Commins, co-chair of the re-codeLA Zoning Advisory Committee, co-chair of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils Land Use & Planning Committee, and past Chair of Mar Vista Community Council; and Tom Rothmann, Principal City Planner for Code Studies with the Dept. of City Planning and manager of the re-codeLA project. \u00a0Board members and all interested community members are invited and encouraged to attend.<\/p>\n 8.1.2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Board Member Opening of Agenda.<\/em>\u00a0 The Chair again honored the first board member to open this week\u2019s agenda:\u00a0David Kaplan.\u00a0 David was unable to attend tonight\u2019s meeting but will be receiving a special hand-crafted gift from the Wolfberg kitchen. Board members are reminded that the agenda may be accessed by clicking on the link and\/or button that is always provided within the message distributing the agenda. The Chair again noted that he and the Secretary make every effort to send out the agenda on the Friday before each board meeting to give members more time to familiarize themselves with the items to be discussed. If anyone is not receiving the email message distributing the agenda, please let the Chair or the Secretary know.<\/p>\n 8.1.3. \u00a0 \u00a0Youth Advisor(s) Update.\u00a0 <\/em>The Chair and Secretary met this week with the President of the Palisades Charter High School Ambassadors, Eli Safaie-Kia, to encourage students to apply to become PPCC Youth Advisor(s).\u00a0 Eli has applied and will spread the word with other students.\u00a0Eli was unable to attend tonight\u2019s meeting as he and other students are visiting the State Capitol this week. The Chair will ask for the Board\u2019s approval of the appointment of Eli and other possible Youth Advisors, as required by the Bylaws, at our next meeting on February 28.<\/p>\n 8.2. \u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>From Officers<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.2.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Peter F. Culhane (Vice-Chair) reported that he and the Chair will be attending the MoveLA 10th\u00a0<\/span>annual Transportation Conversation on Friday March 1 at the LA Cathedral downtown.\u00a0 He has room in his car if anyone else wishes to attend.\u00a0 He also distributed a flyer about the event.<\/p>\n 8.3. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From At-Large and Area Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.3.1. \u00a0 \u00a0David Card (At-large Alternate) announced that the American Legion recently held a second round of the Oratorical Contest.\u00a0 Daniela Wilson of Brentwood won and will go to the third round of the contest in Hollywood.\u00a0 She will compete with others from all over Southern California on February 24 at 10:30am at the Hollywood Post 43 Hall.\u00a0 In addition:\u00a0 The American Legion-sponsored Boys State \u2013 a week-long mock government session for 11th\u00a0<\/span>grade young men \u2013 will take place this June at Cal State University, Sacramento; nomination applications for anyone interested are available from David Card [davidcard22@gmail.com].<\/p>\n 8.3.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Steve Cron (Area 2 Rep) explained that Palisades Dr. is the backbone of the Highlands community.\u00a0 About 10 days ago, he, LAFD Chiefs Hogan and Saunders, Lisa Cahill (CD11) and Joe Halper drove the area to discuss concerns about fire safety and emergency preparedness.\u00a0Chief Hogan is trying to remove dead trees along Palisades Dr. which are a fire hazard.\u00a0 LAFD will hold at least two presentations for residents in the Highlands (dates are TBD).\u00a0 A representative from Rec & Parks will also be going along Palisades Dr. to see what can be done, including cleaning up dumps of dirt that Peter Culhane has been involved with attempting to clean up.\u00a0 An update regarding the Highlands Trailhead bathroom & parking lot situation: Heather Johnson of the Coastal Commission advises that this is high priority for the Commission; they can\u2019t discuss current strategy but she is confident something will be announced in two months.<\/p>\n 8.3.3. \u00a0 Andrew Wolfberg (Area 8 Alternate) reported that the Genesis Open golf tournament is taking place this week at the Riviera.\u00a0 There are a few changes this year.\u00a0 Patrons with General Admin tickets must enter via the Longworth gate, off of Allenford.\u00a0 Tickets are $55 per person; use code \u201cneighbor19\u201d for a 20% residents\u2019 discount.\u00a0 Contact Andrew for more information [andrew@catrusts.com].<\/p>\n 8.4. \u00a0 \u00a0From Organizational Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.4.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Eric Dugdale (Historical Society) announced that PPHS will have a program on February 26, 7pm at Theatre Palisades.\u00a0 The topic will be the use of Dakota Indians at Inceville for silent movies.\u00a0 This occurred 10 years before the Palisades was founded.\u00a0 Marc Wanamaker, a film historian, will speak along with Eric Dugdale.\u00a0 He also distributed postcards depicting film-maker Ince shaking hands with a Dakota chief.<\/p>\n 8.4.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Brenda Theveny (TCA) reminded the board that TCA is sponsoring a hike this Sunday, 2\/17. \u00a0The meeting time has been changed to 9am in Temescal Canyon. The hike will be from Zuma beach to Pt. Dume followed by brunch at Paradise Cove.<\/p>\n 8.4.3. \u00a0 \u00a0Rick McGeagh (PPBA) announced that second best day of the year in the Palisades is coming soon:\u00a0 the PPBA Pancake Breakfast & season opening ceremonies, Saturday, March 16 at the Field of Dreams. Visit the PPBA website for more information [http:\/\/ppba.net<\/a>]; information will also be posted on the PPCC calendar.<\/p>\n 8.4.4. \u00a0 \u00a0John Padden (PRIDE) explained the situation with the former donor tiles, which are being transferred to bricks along Sunset adjacent to Palisades Village. If anyone has questions about the status, this will be taken care of in the next 30 days.\u00a0They are trying to catalogue all the bricks and create a way for people to locate their bricks.\u00a0 All the bricks will need to go in before this can happen.\u00a0Can bricks still be purchased?\u00a0PRIDE has taken the donation page down but if someone contacts John within 48 hours they can buy a brick [johnpadden@kw.com].\u00a0 Cost for the donation is $500 per brick.<\/p>\n 8.5. \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0From Government Offices \/ Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.5.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Lisa Cahill (Palisades Deputy, CD11) reported:<\/p>\n The repaving of Chautauqua is scheduled for March, but Caltrans needs to sign off on a permit for an easement onto PCH.\u00a0 Krista Phipps of CD11 is in charge.\u00a0 The current repaving schedule is PCH to Vance St., providing that the State signs off on the permit. \u00a0Andrew Wolfberg:\u00a0 Neighbors near Paul Revere are happy with CD11\u2019s work on the Longworth Gate matter, but would like something in writing from the Riviera about their plans. Response:\u00a0Lisa will check with Len Nguyen and try to obtain that.\u00a0 Sue Kohl: Residents in the Alphabets are concerned about dog poop being left on parkways.\u00a0 What can be done?\u00a0 Response:\u00a0There is no program in the City through Sanitation or Street Services or others that she can find, during time she had available to research this, that would provide a remedy.\u00a0 Chris Spitz: What are the changes in CD11 staff? \u00a0Response:\u00a0 Tricia Keane has a new position as a Deputy Director of Planning.\u00a0 Krista Kline is now Deputy Chief of Staff.\u00a0 Len Nguyen is now Senior Planning Director.\u00a0 Mike is looking for a replacement as Legislative Deputy for John Gregory, who left for a position with LADWP.\u00a0 Krishna Thangavelu:\u00a0 With whom should she speak regarding fire safety issues?\u00a0 Response:\u00a0 Contact Lisa Cahill about fire safety.\u00a0 CD11 is planning an evacuation drill with Mandeville Canyon in May.\u00a0 They will also be holding meetings in the Highlands regarding fire safety. The Councilmember is serious about putting neighborhoods first and is holding pop-up office hours at Farmers Markets and living room chats with residents.\u00a0 Write to Lisa Cahill [lisa.cahill@lacity.org] if you\u2019d like to host Mike for a living room chat.<\/p>\n 8.5.2. \u00a0 \u00a0In the absence of Janet Turner (District Representative, U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu), the Chair distributed flyers regarding the Congressional Art Competition for high school students.\u00a0 The deadline to submit original art is Friday March 15 at 5pm. \u00a0Information will be posted on the PPCC website calendar.<\/p>\n 8.6. \u00a0 \u00a0From PPCC Advisors<\/u>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 9.\u00a0 \u00a0 Reports from Committees<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 9.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Bylaws Committee<\/u>\u00a0(Richard G. Cohen, Chair). \u00a0First Distribution of proposed amendments to the PPCC Bylaws, recommended by the Committee. See 1) Committee Report and 2) \u201cRedline\u201d plus \u201cClean” draft of proposed amendments, distributed concurrently with this meeting agenda via PPCC email and posted on the PPCC website.<\/p>\n Committee Chair Richard Cohen stated that the Bylaws Committee has met and is making a motion to adopt the proposed amendments; discussion & vote on the motion will take place on 2\/28\/19, after the required Second Distribution of the proposed amendments. He noted that the Committee members are himself (Chair), Peter F. Culhane, Andrew Wolfberg, David Kaplan, David Card and Chris Spitz; the PPCC Chair also attends the meetings. The Committee has been keeping lists of suggestions for bylaws amendments and will get to all in time. The Committee\u2019s prime directive must be no unintended consequences.\u00a0 The members must think through all ramifications of changes.\u00a0 It is important to do clusters of changes that are related to one another.\u00a0 Prioritizing of the issues depends not just on how important the issues are but also on any time pressures.\u00a0 The Committee Report that was distributed along with the redline explains that the proposed changes deal with officer elections which are just around the corner.\u00a0The proposed changes aren\u2019t controversial; they clarify that while the PPCC Chair is a non-voting member of all appointed committees he or she is not a member of the Nominating Committee.\u00a0 The changes also clarify the candidates forum and election procedures.\u00a0 Next after the officer elections amendments, the Committee will tackle issues surrounding area and at-large representative elections as per recommendations by the past Election Committee headed by David Card. \u00a0After that, the next group of amendments will involve organizational issues such as certification, standards for being on the board, the organizational postponement issue and the question of who owns the vote. This must be approached in a deliberative way. The PPCC Chair repeated that there will be a Second Distribution, discussion and vote on the motion to adopt the proposed bylaws amendments at the next meeting on February 28.<\/p>\n 10.\u00a0 \u00a0 Old Business <\/strong>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n 11.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0New Business<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 11.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Village Beautification\/Harmonization Update<\/u>: \u00a0John Padden, PRIDE President and rep to PPCC.<\/p>\n John Padden explained that the genesis of this plan started years ago.\u00a0 PRIDE has long had on its agenda the need to revitalize Sunset Blvd. The sidewalks are buckled and dirty and there is no uniform streetscape.\u00a0This was a priority for PRIDE before Caruso came to town.\u00a0 In 2015 the PRIDE board felt that it would be good to spruce up the south side of Sunset since Caruso would be developing the north side.\u00a0 PRIDE met with Caruso in 2016 to discuss this concept as well as the preservation of PRIDE\u2019s assets, including the benches, the donor tiles, the baskets, etc.\u00a0Caruso stated that the company could work with PRIDE and would provide design services.\u00a0 At end of 2016 Caruso hired a person who came from the NBC Universal development group and had worked with local HOAs to revitalize Cahuenga and local neighborhoods.\u00a0 The idea was to have Caruso now work with the Palisades community through PRIDE to engage a professional urban designer to do long-term planning for the commercial Village district.\u00a0 It was decided that John would lead the effort and that the project should be very inclusive.\u00a0 A committee was then formed including representatives from PRIDE, PPCC, the Village Green, the Chamber of Commerce, the BID and local residents. There are about 10-12 people on the committee who have met multiple times over the last year and a half with the urban designer, discussing ideas to revitalize the Palisades\u2019 core business district streetscape \u2013 Sunset, Via de la Paz, Swarthmore, Antioch and La Cruz.\u00a0 The committee is proposing ten phases of development, with different costs and uses for each phase and for the phases to be developed over time.\u00a0 The idea is to finalize a book which depicts the proposed plans and to roll this out to the entire community for input.\u00a0 It was decided that it makes the most sense to look at Sunset revitalization first. Before the roll out and fundraising, the committee wants to finalize a marketing plan. This has been a work in progress and the committee has a preliminary cost proposal. The project is very expensive and it can\u2019t be accomplished all at once.\u00a0 He has met with the Bonin and Kuehl offices; there is very little opportunity for funding from those offices.\u00a0 The committee will have to go to individuals and businesses in town for fundraising.\u00a0 They have not yet hired a contractor since it\u2019s still in in a very preliminary stage.\u00a0 Questions were asked as to who will be in charge and what are the cost estimates.\u00a0Response:\u00a0 This is a community decision. The preliminary total cost estimate for all ten phases is $20 million; the first phase involving Sunset is under $2 million.\u00a0 Lou Kamer questioned whether this was a community project and expressed concern about the level of community input and transparency to date. \u00a0Response:\u00a0This is a community committee that is working on a plan which will be rolled out to the press and community for input in due course, including at a future PPCC meeting.\u00a0 It is not a secretive effort.\u00a0 Chris Spitz reiterated that this is not a secret project and the committee has a diverse membership representing many community voices who are working in harmony.<\/p>\n 11.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Motion to Oppose Senate Bill 50<\/u>: \u00a0recommended by the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC) for consideration by member councils; sponsored in PPCC by the PPCC Executive Committee.<\/p>\n The Secretary Chris Spitz presented the motion on behalf of the Executive Committee:<\/p>\n \u201cWhereas California neighborhoods\u00a0depend<\/u><\/strong>\u00a0upon high quality, citizen driven, local community planning for justice and equity and balanced development, and<\/p>\n Whereas State Senate Bill 50 [Scott Wiener] weaponizes state government code to eviscerate local planning statewide and thereby increases financialization of land use; intensifies inequality; encourages predatory speculative activity; and masks massive wealth transfer by shifting property ownership opportunities away from small owners to corporate investors, and<\/p>\n Whereas the City Charter-mandated Neighborhood Council system of Los Angeles, and the Community Councils of the City of Los Angeles, represent grass roots democracy, and<\/p>\n Whereas California State Senate Bill 50 [Scott Wiener] establishes \u201cone size fits all\u201d development criteria\u2013based on changeable municipal structures such as bus stops and employment locations\u2013to be determined, without democratic due process or public scrutiny, by the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Office of Planning and Research, and<\/p>\n Whereas the lack of analysis of infrastructure and other costs associated with this pen stroke planning creates grave uncertainty that any local agency would be able to\u201clevy enough service charges, fees or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this act within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code\u201d,<\/em>\u00a0<\/em>and given the aforementioned lack of fiscal analysis, Section 6 of Article XIII\u2009B of the California Constitution \u201cNo reimbursement\u201d clause is wrongfully applied to this legislation,<\/p>\n Whereas reform is needed for the present state legislative system which allows sweeping, ideological blunt instrument legislation such as SB 50 to be introduced\u00a0without extensive vetting in local public hearings prior to consideration in the State Legislature,\u00a0<\/em>and<\/u><\/p>\n Whereas this wholesale removal of all land use authority to the State clearly abolishes all meaningful local input into land use planning and therefore constitutes an attack upon local democracy, upon neighborhoods, and upon the Neighborhood Councils and Community Councils in the City of Los Angeles,<\/p>\n Therefore, Pacific Palisades Community Council opposes SB 50 and urges our City Councilmembers to introduce a resolution in Council forthwith, opposing SB 50.\u201d<\/p>\n A second was not required as the motion was sponsored by a committee of more than one voting member. Chris Spitz then gave introductory remarks, explaining the motion and Senate Bill 50.\u00a0 A discussion took place and a vote was taken on the motion.<\/p>\n Vote:\u00a0 Unanimous in favor of the motion.<\/p>\n 12. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Adjournment.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair adjourned the meeting at 8:24 pm.<\/p>\n _________________________<\/p>\n Return to top of page<\/a><\/p>\n Voting Members in Attendance:\u00a0 <\/strong>George Wolfberg, Peter F. Culhane, Richard G. Cohen, Chris Spitz, David Kaplan, Rick Mills, Joanna Spak, Steve Cron, Alan Goldsmith, Reza Akef, Haldis Toppel, Richard Blumenberg, Bill Bruns, Brenda Theveny, Jean Sharp, Sarah Knauer, Sarah Conner, Richard Wulliger, Duke Ostendorf<\/p>\n Voting Alternates: \u00a0<\/strong>Marilyn Wexler, Steve Lantz<\/p>\n Non-voting Advisors and Alternates: \u00a0<\/strong>Mary Mueller, David Card, Patti Post, Barbara Marinacci, Cathi Ruddy, Eli Safaie-Kia [see Item 8.1.1 below]<\/em><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 \u00a0 Certification of Quorum. \u00a0<\/strong>The Chair George Wolfberg called the meeting to order at 7:00pm and certified that a quorum was present.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Reading of Community Council\u2019s Mission. \u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00adPatti Post read the Council\u2019s Mission.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0 \u00a0 Introduction of the Board and Audience<\/strong>.\u00a0 The board and audience were introduced.<\/p>\n 4. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Approval of Minutes & Upcoming Meetings. \u00a0<\/strong>1) Approval of Minutes \u2013\u00a0<\/em>the minutes of 2\/14\/19 were deemed approved as corrected. \u00a02) Upcoming Meetings \u2013\u00a0<\/em>March 14, 2019:\u00a0 1) Capt. III Vic Davalos, Commanding Officer, LAPD West Area; 2) other topics to be announced.\u00a0 March 28, 2019:\u00a0 Topics to be announced.<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0 \u00a0 Consideration of Agenda.\u00a0 <\/strong>The Chair announced that the agenda is as distributed with the exception of Pastor Davis\u2019 report (see Sec. 11.3, below)<\/em> which will be moved up to allow the pastor to attend another meeting.<\/p>\n 6.\u00a0 \u00a0 Treasurer\u2019s Report<\/strong>. \u00a0Treasurer Richard Cohen reported that the Council\u2019s bank balance is $42,430.58.\u00a0 He also reported that since the last meeting PPCC has received about $600 of tribute revenue and the refund of a small erroneous charge by Gladstone’s, bringing PPCC\u2019s net positive cash flow from the Gala to about $8,780 with about $250 left to collect. \u00a0This excellent result is the Council\u2019s best ever Gala performance. \u00a0The Treasurer again thanked all who worked so hard to make it a success.There were no other significant transactions this period.<\/p>\n 7.\u00a0 \u00a0 General Public Comment<\/strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n 7.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Michael Terry (President, Palisades Beautiful) provided information about street tree policy and selection.\u00a0 He advised that the Palisades has no viable street tree policy in place.\u00a0 There is an old document that lists approved street trees, but he has learned after consulting with Urban Forestry that 59% of tree species on the old list are no longer permitted.\u00a0 If anyone wishes to see it, he has a marked-up copy of the list. He has tried but has not been able to find a connection between the list and the Brentwood-Pacific Palisades Community Plan.\u00a0 Palisades Beautiful has no official policy on street tree species selection.<\/p>\n 8.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Reports, Announcements and Concerns<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 8.1. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>From the Chair<\/u>.<\/p>\n 8.1.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Approval of Youth Advisors. <\/em>The Chair nominated and introduced Eli Safaie-Kia as PPCC Youth Advisor.\u00a0 Eli is President of the Palisades Charter High School Ambassadors.\u00a0The board approved his appointment as PPCC Youth Advisor [Bylaws Art. XIV].<\/p>\n 8.1.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Zoning Code Workshop 3\/30\/19<\/em>.\u00a0 Save the date for this important event sponsored by PPCC and BCC, which will take place on March 30 at 10:30am at Gilbert Hall, Palisades Charter High School.\u00a0Expert speakers will provide information on how to access the new revised Zoning Code.\u00a0 Click on links and\/or buttons on our website and in PPCC email messages for more information.<\/p>\n 8.1.3. \u00a0 \u00a0WRAC Leadership Update.\u00a0 <\/em>The Chair and Secretary Chris Spitzattended last week\u2019s Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC) leadership meeting.\u00a0 There have been thirteen member-councils of WRAC for many years. At the meeting, WRAC leaders welcomed a fourteenth council, North Westwood Neighborhood Council, which was recently certified by the City as a neighborhood council representing the North Westwood\/UCLA area.<\/p>\n 8.1.4. \u00a0 \u00a0Board Member Opening of Agenda.<\/em>\u00a0 The Chair again honored the first board member to open the agenda of the last meeting with a special hand-crafted gift from the Wolfberg kitchen:\u00a0 David Kaplan. Board members are reminded that the agenda may be accessed by clicking on the link and\/or button that is always provided within the message distributing the agenda.<\/p>\n 8.1.5. \u00a0 \u00a0The Chair welcomed new Chamber of Commerce representatives to the PPCC board:\u00a0 Sarah Knauer (Chamber Chair-elect), primary (in attendance), and Marissa Hermer (owner of The Draycott), alternate (not in attendance).\u00a0 He also thanked past Chamber primary representative Rick Lemmo for his service to PPCC.<\/p>\nMINUTES FOR JANUARY 10th 2019<\/h5>\n
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24th 2019<\/h5>\n
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 14th 2019<\/h5>\n
\n<\/a>MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 28th 2019<\/h5>\n