{"id":8605,"date":"2020-10-02T17:43:37","date_gmt":"2020-10-02T17:43:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/?page_id=8605"},"modified":"2022-04-06T14:50:55","modified_gmt":"2022-04-06T14:50:55","slug":"ppcc-minutes-2020-10-08","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/ppcc-minutes-2020-10-08\/","title":{"rendered":"PPCC Minutes — 2020 \/ 10 \/ 08"},"content":{"rendered":"

Return to Index of 2020 Minutes<\/a><\/p>\n

MINUTES FROM OCTOBER 8th 2020<\/h5>\n

Meeting held via Zoom videoconference<\/p>\n

Voting Members in Attendance: \u00a0<\/strong>David Card, David Kaplan, Richard Cohen, Chris Spitz, Matthew Quiat, Jenny Li, Karen Ridgley, Joanna Spak, Sue Kohl, Brenda Theveny, Craig Natvig, Trish Bowe, Beth Holden-Garland, Alan Goldsmith, Steve Cron* (*arrived late)<\/em><\/p>\n

Voting Alternates:<\/strong> \u00a0John Padden, Kerri Kraft, Eric Dugdale<\/p>\n

Non-voting Advisors and Alternates:<\/strong> \u00a0Jack Coleman<\/p>\n

1.\u00a0 \u00a0Call to order and reading of Mission Statement. \u00a0<\/strong>The Chair David Card called the meeting to order at 5:32pm and read the Mission Statement.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 \u00a0Introduction of Zoom engineer. <\/strong>\u00a0The Chair welcomed everyone and introduced the technical engineer Alex Ponting.\u00a0 Introductions of the Board and audience were deferred.<\/p>\n

3. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Roll call of voting members and certification of quorum. <\/strong>The Chair called the roll of voting members and certified that there was a quorum.<\/p>\n

4.\u00a0 \u00a0Approval of Minutes.<\/strong>\u00a0 The minutes of September 24, 2020 were approved as corrected. Upcoming meetings: October 22, 2020:\u00a0 (1) (Tentative) Three Chairs Committee announcement of nominees and Board election of Area & At-large Alternate Representatives; (2) Presentation by LADOT Senior Transportation Engineer Tim Fremaux and CD11 Transportation Director Eric Bruins regarding improvements to Chautauqua\/PCH and Chautauqua\/Sunset intersections;\u00a0 (3) (Tentative) motions recommended to member-councils by the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils (WRAC).\u00a0 November 12, 2020:\u00a0 topics to be announced.<\/p>\n

5.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>Consideration of Agenda.<\/strong>\u00a0 <\/strong>Agenda items may be taken out of order at the discretion of the Chair.<\/p>\n

6.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Treasurer\u2019s Report.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Treasurer Richard G. Cohen reported that PPCC’s cash balance is $38,632.83. There were no significa transactions since the last report.<\/p>\n

7.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>General Public Comment <\/strong>\u2013 None.<\/p>\n

8. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Reports, Announcements and Concerns.<\/strong><\/p>\n

8.1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0From the Chair\/Presiding Officer<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.1.1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Welcome to incoming PPCC Board members (term beginning October 1, 2020<\/em>).\u00a0 Area and At-large Representatives (new & returning) \u2013 two-year term ending September 30, 2022; Organizational representatives (new & returning) \u2013 one-year term ending September 30, 2021.\u00a0 See: \u00a0https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/2020-2021-PPCC-Organizations.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

The Chair welcomed all new and returning Board members (both elected Representatives and Organizational Representatives).\u00a0 The Chair read the names of all incoming Area & At-large Representatives as well as the names of all incoming Organizational members and their representatives for this term [see attachment below].<\/em><\/p>\n

8.1.2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Update on Ryu-Koretz motion for an ICO\/temporary construction halt<\/em> (committee hearing not yet scheduled as of agenda distribution; PPCC letter to be drafted per Board straw poll vote on 9\/24).<\/p>\n

The Chair reported that the City Council has been in recess this week and that as of this meeting the motion has not yet been scheduled for hearing in Committee; a letter will be drafted to be submitted as soon as possible to the Council File.<\/p>\n

8.1.3.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Executive Committee letter regarding Ryu-Bonin motion to update BMO-BHO<\/em> (opposition to proposed citywide cap on home size); update on Oct. 1 PLUM committee hearing.<\/em><\/p>\n

Letter:\u00a0 https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/PPCC-EC-Letter-cap-on-home-size.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

Motion:\u00a0 https:\/\/clkrep.lacity.org\/onlinedocs\/2020\/20-1098_mot_09-01-2020.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

The Chair explained that this position letter was approved by the Executive Committee on an emergency basis because the motion was scheduled to be heard in the Council PLUM Committee before it could be considered by the full PPCC Board.\u00a0 As explained in the letter, we oppose amendment of the zoning code to impost a standard cap on home size citywide. He also reported that this motion passed on the PLUM Committee consent calendar, without debate by the Committee members, on October 1.\u00a0 It has not yet been scheduled for hearing by the full Council.\u00a0 If the motion passes in Council, then the Planning Dept. will conduct studies and prepare a report on the requested revisions to the Zoning Code, which will then go back to the Committee for further review\/action.\u00a0 We will continue to monitor and may consider whether additional aspects of motion should be taken up by the PPCC Land Use Committee.<\/p>\n

8.1.4.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Executive Committee letter regarding Ryu-Koretz motion to expand the Hillside Construction Regulation District Ordinance\/Pilot Program citywide; update on Oct. 1 PLUM committee hearing.<\/em><\/p>\n

Letter:\u00a0 https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/PPCC-Letter-HCRD-Expansion.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

Motion: \u00a0https:\/\/clkrep.lacity.org\/onlinedocs\/2020\/20-1101_mot_09-01-2020.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

Ordinance:\u00a0 https:\/\/clkrep.lacity.org\/onlinedocs\/2016\/16-1472-s1_ORD_184827_3-22-17.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

The Chair again explained that this position letter was approved by the Executive Committee on an emergency basis because the motion was scheduled to be heard in the Council PLUM Committee before it could be considered by the full PPCC Board.\u00a0 As explained in the letter, we do not oppose further study and mapping to determine which areas citywide should be included in the \u201cHillside Construction Regulation Supplemental Use District\u201d (HCRD); we also support certain specific provisions of the HCRD ordinance dealing with restrictions on certain construction activities during windy and Red Flag days.\u00a0 The Chair further reported that this motion passed on the PLUM Committee consent calendar, without debate by the Committee members, on October 1.\u00a0 It has not yet been scheduled for hearing by the full Council.\u00a0 If the motion passes in Council, then the Planning Dept. will then prepare proposed amendments to the regulations and map all areas citywide which should be included within the HCRD; this will in turn go back to the Committee for further review\/action.\u00a0 We will continue to monitor and may consider whether aspects of the motion (in particular the proposed regulations regarding hillside construction activities) should be considered by thePPCC Land Use Committee.<\/p>\n

8.2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0From Officers<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.2.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Chris Spitz (Secretary) advised that the beginning of the new term is a good time to remind everyone of SR 9 of the PPCC bylaws (Code of Conduct), which states that \u201call Board Members should prepare in advance of meetings and be familiar with issues on the agenda.\u201d\u00a0 Please remember that the Chair and Secretary work hard to prepare informative agendas with background information whenever possible, especially on items where action may be taken.\u00a0 These agendas have for the last two years been distributed on the Friday before each Thursday meeting via our Mailchimp email blast. This is to give everyone time to open the email, click on the agenda, review the items to be considered, and get input whenever possible from the respective Representatives\u2019 boards or constituents.\u00a0 Please look for these in your inbox and open the messages; please be sure that PPCC emails are not going into your junk or spam files.\u00a0 Please also note \u2013 opening the Mailchimp email is NOT the same as clicking on and actually reading the agenda.\u00a0 The Mailchimp message is a brief preview of the agenda, not the agenda itself, which voting Board members are expected to read before coming to the meetings.\u00a0 Thank you for complying with these basic obligations of Board members.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

8.3.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0From At-Large and Area Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.3.1.\u00a0\u00a0 Steve Cron (Area 2 Representative) thanked CD 11 Palisades Field Deputy Durrah Wagner for assisting with the very clogged drains along Palisades Dr.\u00a0 The poor conditions were extensive and Ms. Wagner did an incredible job which greatly improved the situation.<\/p>\n

8.4.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0From Organizational Representatives<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.4.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Beth Holden-Garland (PPRA) announced that PPRA, along with the Edlen real estate team, has arranged for free flu shots to be given this coming Saturday, Oct. 10 and the following Saturday, Oct. 17, at CVS (parking lot upper deck).\u00a0 Hours: 10am-2pm.\u00a0 Seniorcitizen doses will be offered. \u00a0Register at PPRA Facebook page.<\/p>\n

8.4.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Craig Natvig (Palisades Beautiful) reported that during the month of September, Palisades Beautiful (PB) teamed up with Heal the Bay during Coastal Clean Up month. PB was involved with Heal the Bay on a beach area cleanup that had hundreds of participants overall and 20 PB participants.\u00a0 It was a successful effort and a lot of trash was picked up.<\/p>\n

8.5.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0From Government Offices \/ Representatives<\/u>.\u00a0\u00a0 Contact information available at: <\/em>https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/government-contacts\/<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

8.5.1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Zachary Gaidzik, Metro\/West LA Representative, LA County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl.\u00a0 Mr. Gaidzik was not available to stay for the entire meeting but provided a written report in advance.\u00a0 [See: <\/em>https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/SD3-Update-10-08-20.pdf<\/em><\/a>.<\/em>]<\/em><\/p>\n

8.5.2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Jeff Klein, civic engagement manager, LA County Registrar-Recorder\/County Clerk\u2019s office (see Item 11.1 below).<\/em><\/p>\n

8.6.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0From PPCC Advisors<\/u>.<\/p>\n

8.6.1.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Jack Coleman (Youth Advisor) reported that students are getting back to school online. The recent power outages in the Palisades were difficult for students.\u00a0 He would like information from LADWP as to whether the outages were due to lines being down.<\/p>\n

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

9.1. \u00a0 \u00a0Three Chairs Committee<\/u> (Maryam Zar, Committee Chair).\u00a0 Applications now being accepted for Alternate Area & At-large Representative positions; see Alternates Application notice:\u00a0 <\/em>https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Alternates-Application-Notice-2020.pdf<\/em><\/a>.\u00a0 <\/em>Deadline to apply:\u00a0 5pm, October 18.<\/em><\/p>\n

In the absence of the Committee Chair, Chris Spitz (as a Member of the Three Chairs Committee) announced that we are continuing to accept applications for Alternate Area & At-large Representative positions.\u00a0 The deadline to apply is roughly one week away:\u00a0 October 18 at 5pm.\u00a0 The Three Chairs Committee encourages all interested and eligible Palisadians to apply.\u00a0 She noted that the terms of the most recent Alternates have expired as of 9\/30\/20 and they must reapply if they wish to be considered again.\u00a0 The process:\u00a0 the Committee will review the applications and may interview candidates as needed.\u00a0 They will select nominees who may be presented at the Board meeting on October 22.\u00a0 Following presentation of nominees, the Board will elect the new Alternate Area & At-large Representatives, who will then serve the same terms as their respective primary Representatives, with their terms ending\u00a0on September 30, 2022.<\/p>\n

9.2. \u00a0 \u00a0Palisades Forestry Committee<\/u> (PFC; Cindy Kirven, Committee Chair).\u00a0 (Tentative) report on matter involving replacement of dead parkway trees at <\/em>15539 W. Via de las Olas; property owner invited to attend. \u00a0Possible Committee recommendation for Board action.<\/p>\n

The PPCC Chair (David Card) \u201chanded the gavel\u201d to PPCC Vice-Chair David Kaplan to preside over this agenda item, since he (David Card) would be participating in the PFC\u2019s presentation and recommendation to the Board. The Presiding Officer (David Kaplan) noted that the PFC Chair Cindy Kirven and the property owner, Ira Jay Boren, were both present.\u00a0He invited the PFC Chair first to give a presentation, to be followed by a presentation by Mr. Boren.\u00a0 Discussion and Q&A with both presenters will then follow.<\/p>\n

The PFC Chair proceeded to give the PFC\u2019s report about the matter, which included a slide show of relevant documents and photographs which were distributed in advance to the Board as well as to Mr. Boren [materials also posted on PPCC\u2019s website: https:\/\/www.beautiful.ai\/player\/-MHr8ImgXO4Ro_e_R3Rb\/PFC-Via-de-las-Olas-replacement-trees-2020<\/a>].<\/p>\n

The PFC Chair spoke in detail about the history of this matter and the current status.\u00a0 She described the documents and photographs being shown and reiterated the points made in the written PFC report.\u00a0 She summarized the requests recommended by the PFC, as set forth in the draft letter contained within the report. She emphasized that the PFC supports preservation of all of the urban canopy which is enjoyed by the community as a whole, and that the PFC seeks restoration, not punishment.<\/p>\n

Mr. Boren then spoke, first presenting background information about himself.\u00a0 He has lived with his family in the same house in Pacific Palisades for 35 years and raised children here.\u00a0 He has been active in the Palisades, believes he is part of the community and is disappointed and sorry that this matter has caused a problem for the community.\u00a0 He has worked with LAPD for 25 years and helped fund a special place for officers with COVID to gather. As to the parkway trees matter, he maintained that he was given only a day to prepare for this meeting, was surprised that the matter had come to this and was disappointed that he had not been reached out to in advance as a neighbor.\u00a0 He then explained the history of the matter from his point of view and presented a slide show with several documents and photographs. He stated that the process to remove the trees took eight months, starting in 2014.\u00a0 The sidewalks in front of his property were clearly lifted and the parkway trees were not in good condition.\u00a0 He showed an Arborist\u2019s report describing the poor health of the trees and said that a determination was made by the City\u2019s Urban Forestry Dept. that the trees would be removed and he (Mr. Boren) would be responsible for removing the trees and replacing them.\u00a0 The \u201cdouble-trunk\u201d tree died on its own.\u00a0 Urban Forestry came and removed the tree and left the trunk; Mr. Boren stated that he did not take out that tree.\u00a0 He further maintained that the trees were never properly planted and blocked sidewalks, that the City had abandoned the street and that no one was taking care of the parkway trees.<\/p>\n

According to Mr. Boren, the City told him that in order to fix the sidewalk he had to take out the trees.\u00a0 The Presiding Officer then asked Mr. Boren to please explain what permit he had to do this.\u00a0 Mr. Boren explained that the process took eight months and resulted in a hearing in February 2015.\u00a0 He showed a copy of a Board of Public Works hearing agenda for that date, reflecting an open public hearing at which a recommendation was made to approve removal of \u201cthree Manna Gum Trees for the restoration of off-grade sidewalk located at 15529 W. Via de Las Osas,\u201d with tree replacements required.\u00a0 It was his understanding that this was all that he needed and that a further \u201ctree permit\u201d was unnecessary. The document he saw giving approval to remove the trees had no expiration date.\u00a0 When it was time to take the trees down, he mistakenly didn\u2019t realize he needed another permit.\u00a0 He stated that he dug exactly where \u201cDigAlert\u201d told him to dig.\u00a0 As to a broken water pipe, this was three feet from the location where he was told the water pipe would be.\u00a0 He followed all protocol and instructions. It was not his intention to cause any problems for neighbors or to cause water supply to be shut off.<\/p>\n

There was a local uproar after the trees were removed and the water pipe was broken.\u00a0 The Council office became involved and LADBS put a hold on construction.\u00a0 He was eventually told, as part of an agreement with the City to allow construction to resume, to plant six Brisbane Box replacement trees in the parkway.\u00a0 Urban Forestry choose the type, size and placement of the trees.\u00a0 They came out to the property, did all markings and measurements and put stakes down. \u00a0Mr. Boren explained that he then planted the trees in exactly the locations where Urban Forestry wanted them to be planted; he had no say in the matter; and did everything he was told to do.\u00a0 He tried maintaining the trees and put in water tubes because he thought this would help with watering, but he was not given instructions on tree maintenance. He has replaced the dead trees and advises that the trees are being watered. He has also posted the required bond. He stated that he would have been happy to show all documents to the PFC if he had been asked.<\/p>\n

Mr. Boren then showed photographs of parkways on Via de Las Olas and Mt. Holyoke, reflecting a total of nine street trees in a two-block radius.\u00a0 He has added six street trees in the parkway at his property.\u00a0 He would be willing to make a donation to plant trees in other nearby parkways that are without street trees.\u00a0 The PFC\u2019s requests — that he be required to plant more than six trees and to extend the bond — seem punitive to him. \u00a0In addition, he argued that too many trees that produce a large canopy are a fire hazard.\u00a0 People have been shooting off fireworks and there have been recent brush fires on or below the Via de Las Olas bluff. He summarized his position:\u00a0 These trees were sick and dying.\u00a0 He removed the trees thinking he had full permission and just didn\u2019t pull the final permit.\u00a0 The trees were all tagged.\u00a0 He is putting in a new sidewalk, planted the replacement trees and posted a bond as per the City\u2019s requirements. \u00a0He has replaced the ones that died.\u00a0 He is trying the best he can.<\/p>\n

Discussion then ensued, with questions directed either to the PFC Chair or Mr. Boren.<\/p>\n

Jenny Li (Area 7 Representative)<\/u>; Q for Boren:<\/em>\u00a0 What was the plan when he received permission in terms of landscaping on the parkway?\u00a0 A:\u00a0 He didn\u2019t remove trees without permission and there was an agreement with Urban Forestry.\u00a0 They told him exactly what trees to replace and how many to replace.<\/p>\n

PPCC Treasurer<\/u>; Q for Boren:<\/em>\u00a0 Have you studied the letter that our PFC is recommending?\u00a0 What do you think about maintenance requirements, extending the survival date for release of the bond and confirmation that the bond is proper?\u00a0 Do you object?\u00a0 A:\u00a0 Yes, the bond agreement was already made and he put up a $20,000 bond.\u00a0 There was nothing about starting the bond again.\u00a0 He is trying to use best practices with watering.\u00a0 Urban Forestry should give instructions to property owners on how to maintain street trees; they don\u2019t do that.\u00a0 He isn\u2019t an expert. He put tubes in thinking the trees weren\u2019t getting enough water. They were staked according to Urban Forestry guidelines.\u00a0 He then showed emails that came from Urban Forestry which he stated indicated they approved the planting and placement in accordance with their agreement.\u00a0 He stated that he is in total compliance with the agreement they already reached.\u00a0 PPCC Treasurer<\/u>:\u00a0 How does Mr. Boren see his responsibilities regarding these trees going forward?\u00a0 A:\u00a0 He wants the trees to live.\u00a0 He has paid twice for these trees, he has put up the required bond, and he is trying to take care of the trees as best as he knows how to; he welcomes suggestions on how to care for the trees.<\/p>\n

Karen Ridgley (Area 4 Representative<\/u>); Q for PFC Chair:\u00a0<\/em> Once street trees are planted, are there still requirements for owners who want to mitigate the tree canopy?\u00a0 Are they allowed to trim and keep their view?\u00a0 Are there regulations regarding upkeep?\u00a0 A: Any resident with a tree in the parkway must obtain a permit for any trimming, planting or removal.\u00a0 Karen Ridgley<\/u>:\u00a0 Where does a normal homeowner get information about what they have to do?\u00a0 A:\u00a0 It is incumbent on the homeowner to find the information; you can Google \u201cstreet trees in Los Angeles.\u201d<\/p>\n

Alan Goldsmith (At-large Representative)<\/u>; Q for Boren:<\/em>\u00a0 What\u2019s his major objection?\u00a0 A:\u00a0 He has already made his agreement with Urban Forestry and he\u2019s in total compliance.\u00a0 This is not the place to make a new agreement.<\/p>\n

Matthew Quiat (Area 6 Representative)<\/u>; Q for PFC Chair:\u00a0<\/em> What is the protocol for the young trees currently there?\u00a0 Whose responsibility is it to replace them?\u00a0 A:\u00a0 The property owner posted a bond to ensure the trees will be maintained appropriately 3 years from planting.<\/p>\n

Eric Dugdale (PP Historical Society Alternate)<\/u>:\u00a0 We have landmarked Eucalyptus trees before in the Palisades.\u00a0 We really miss these particular trees when we walk by.\u00a0 They were worth a lot to the community.\u00a0 The reason the community reacted so strongly is because the trees were gorgeous and they are now gone.<\/p>\n

Craig Natvig (Palisades Beautiful)<\/u>: \u00a0He grew up at the other end of Via de Las Olas, where there are many large Eucalyptus trees; it seems as if Urban Forestry didn\u2019t space the trees accordingly on Mr. Boren\u2019s end of Via de Las Olas.\u00a0 Mr. Boren: You would have to ask Urban Forestry; he just planted where they told him to plant.<\/p>\n

David Card (ex officio member of the PFC)<\/u>:\u00a0 A few weeks ago, he (David Card) spoke with Urban Forestry and Stephen Duprey of Urban Forestry.\u00a0 Mr. Duprey told him that people from Urban Forestry spotted where the trees should go and they weren\u2019t planted there.\u00a0 There\u2019s a dispute with what Mr. Boren is saying.\u00a0 DigAlert doesn\u2019t tell you where all the pipes are.\u00a0 Hand-digging is safer than the backhoe used by Mr. Boren.\u00a0 Urban Forestry originally wanted eight trees to be planted; there\u2019s plenty of room in the parkway to put in more trees.\u00a0 There is no reason not to plant trees now just because of threats of fire.\u00a0 We need trees for oxygen; without them we would die.\u00a0 We know how to plant safely.\u00a0 Homes are inspected annually for fire safety.\u00a0 We need more trees for survival on the planet.<\/p>\n

Chris Arvin and Monique Lafia (residents)<\/u>: \u00a0They have lived here twenty years and are near the Borens. They specifically moved here because of the gorgeous trees on the bluffs.\u00a0 Questioned why Mr. Boren didn\u2019t consider just trimming the trees.\u00a0 Mr. Boren:\u00a0 He is sure his neighbors are unhappy that he\u2019s been in construction for the last year and a half.\u00a0 That\u2019s not the point of this topic tonight.\u00a0 An agreement was made, a bond was put up, he is in full compliance and there\u2019s a legal document.\u00a0 Stephen Duprey didn\u2019t come up to the property himself.\u00a0 Mr. Boren is willing to testify under oath that he planted the trees according to what Urban Forestry told him.<\/p>\n

Reza Akef (resident; former Area 8 Representative)<\/u>: \u00a0Emphasized three points: 1) there is nothing on the Urban Forestry website about best practices on how to water and maintain street trees for three years; 2) the PPCC Executive Committee should be disappointed that there hasn\u2019t been transparency; the PFC never called or met with the owner or held a public meeting about this as the Land Use Committee normally does; 3) this isn\u2019t the way that the Community Council typically acts.<\/p>\n

Linda Andrews (resident)<\/u>: \u00a0Questioned why no one knew anything about this from 2014-2019.\u00a0 Mr. Boren has had other properties where trees have died. The neighborhood is being degraded.<\/p>\n

David Card<\/u>:\u00a0 \u00a0Moved that the PPCC Board adopt and send the draft letter recommended in the PFC report which was distributed prior to the meeting; he read the draft letter out loud (see draft letter attached).\u00a0 Second: Steve Cron.<\/p>\n

Discussion on the motion ensued.\u00a0 PPCC Treasurer<\/u>: \u00a0Opposes the motion.\u00a0 He loves trees and is sad about the way the appearance of the street has changed.\u00a0 However, he cannot think of a previous occasion when the PPCC has weighed in against a homeowner on a matter in which the homeowner is dealing privately with the City.\u00a0 We have generally acted with greater humility.\u00a0 He would want to know that the homeowner is in violation, but the homeowner here has indicated that he hasn\u2019t been ruled in violation.\u00a0 The Treasurer is not ready to have PPCC write a letter that the homeowner water his trees in a particular manner.\u00a0 Certainly, we should not be asking for punitive measures.\u00a0 It\u2019s for the City to determine whether the homeowner has violated any rules or the agreement and what the consequences should be.<\/p>\n

David Card<\/u>: On March 27 this year, we took a position regarding removal of trees on the Marinette property; we asked in our letter that the permit conditions be amended to say where trees would be planted and how many.\u00a0 PPCC Treasurer<\/u>: the Marinette matter was a different situation involving a property owner\u2019s request for permission from the City for a lot split.<\/p>\n

PPCC Secretary<\/u>:\u00a0 She has lived for many years on Friends St. near Via de las Olas.\u00a0 She was very upset that the Eucalyptus trees in this parkway were removed, but having now heard both sides she is uncertain about all the facts and concerned that there\u2019s information we don\u2019t know.\u00a0 She shares concerns about the process expressed by Mr. Akef and wishes this had been handled similar to the way in which the Land Use Committee holds public meetings.\u00a0 She agrees with the Treasurer\u2019s comments.<\/p>\n

Beth Holden-Garland (PPRA)<\/u>:\u00a0 There should be some responsibility from the City as to care of the trees.\u00a0 She feels in-between on this matter.\u00a0 The right trees for the location should have been planted.<\/p>\n

Reza Akef<\/u>:\u00a0 You can\u2019t fit more than a tree with 24\u201d box in that area due to the parkway size.\u00a0 The owner planted the trees required by the City but did not receive instructions as to care.<\/p>\n

The PFC Chair<\/u>:\u00a0 It is not difficult to look up Brisbane Box maintenance on the Internet.\u00a0 We\u2019re requesting that new trees be planted in accordance with Urban Forestry\u2019s guidelines.\u00a0 The Brisbane Box tree was selected based on the location and situation.\u00a0 Urban Forestry\u2019s specification of tree for this parkway was correct.<\/p>\n

The Presiding Officer (David Kaplan) stated that he wished to make a comment on this matter and therefore \u201cpassed the gavel\u201d to the Treasurer (Richard Cohen) to serve next as the Presiding Officer on this item.<\/p>\n

David Kaplan<\/u>: \u00a0The City has made a deal with the property owner, rightly or wrongly.\u00a0 They didn\u2019t notify the neighbors. The City and Mr. Boren are on the same page and he\u2019s doing what the City is asking him to do.\u00a0 The Vice-Chair is mainly concerned with the first paragraph of the letter which is asking the City to overturn its agreement with Mr. Boren. \u00a0The Vice-Chair has heard nothing that conclusively tells him that Mr. Boren hasn\u2019t done what he was supposed to do under the agreement.<\/p>\n

The Presiding Officer (Richard Cohen) then called the question and noted that a 2\/3 vote was required.\u00a0 A roll call vote of members in attendance was held. Result: Motion passed<\/u> (9-4-0).<\/p>\n

The PPCC Chair (David Card) resumed presiding over the meeting at the conclusion of this item.<\/p>\n

10.\u00a0\u00a0 Old Business.<\/strong><\/p>\n

10.1. \u00a0(Tentative) LADWP update on power pole replacement project\/environmental mitigation plan.\u00a0 Possible Board action<\/u><\/em>.\u00a0 No update; matter deferred.<\/p>\n

11.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0New Business.\u00a0 <\/strong>
\n<\/strong>
\n<\/strong>11.1.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>\u00a0Presentation on the November 2020 Election Voting Process<\/u>.\u00a0 <\/strong>Guest speaker:\u00a0 Jeff Klein, civic engagement manager, LA County Registrar-Recorder\/County Clerk\u2019s office.\u00a0 Discussion only<\/u>.<\/em><\/p>\n

Jeff Klein introduced himself as manager of civic engagement and outreach for the LA County Registrar-Recorder\/County Clerk (RRCC).\u00a0 He oversees all civic engagement and community relations for the RRCC. His presentation included a PowerPoint, \u201cVoting in a Time of Pandemic\u201d [<\/em>https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/General-Election-2020-Standard-Presentation-100520.pdf<\/em><\/a>.]. <\/em>He explained that the County had moved to a vote center model in the primary and is continuing with this model.\u00a0 The County is very large and includes 5.6 million registered voters. \u00a0Vote-by-Mail ballots have been sent out to all registered voters.\u00a0 Vote centers will also be available to anyone who wishes to vote in-person.\u00a0 The centers will follow all public health protocols.\u00a0 Voters can go to any vote center in the County that is convenient for them. There are also many drop box locations throughout the County.\u00a0 Ballots need to be signed and can be placed inside the slot in the drop box; his office picks up the ballots from the boxes.\u00a0 Drop boxes are noted in the Vote-by-Mail packet that all voters will receive.\u00a0 The voter\u2019s signature on the ballot is important.\u00a0 The ballots will be secure because the RRCC will check the signature on every ballot that\u2019s returned.\u00a0 Ballots may also be sent via U.S. Mail.\u00a0 Ballots will be accepted and counted if postmarked by Election Day (November 3) and received by the RRCC up to 17 days after Election Day.\u00a0 Voters can track the status of their ballots at the app, \u201cWhere\u2019s My Ballot.\u201d\u00a0 The deadline to register to vote is October 19. Early voting in-person will start on October 24 at some vote center locations and on October 30 at the remaining locations.\u00a0 The vote centers are strategically placed throughout the County.\u00a0 For early voting, the vote centers will be open from 10am-7pm; on Election Day they will be open from 7am-8pm.\u00a0 Sample ballots will be in the mail in the next day or so.\u00a0 There will be expedited check-in at the vote centers if voters bring in their sample ballots with the bar code.\u00a0 Postcards will also be sent out, and voters will receive a booklet with all 750 vote center locations listed.\u00a0 This will arrive in the mail in the next week or so.\u00a0 When voting in-person, the process will be similar to the process used in the primary; the ballot will be paper, not electronic; voters will insert the paper ballot in the marking device.\u00a0 Voting will be private and independent.\u00a0 Voters will need to wear masks at the vote centers and social distancing will be enforced.\u00a0 Hand sanitizer will be available at the entrances and exits.\u00a0 Voting machines will be six feet apart and wiped down after each use. Visit the County\u2019s \u201clavote\u201d website for more information about the process (<\/em>www.lavote.org<\/em><\/a>).<\/em><\/p>\n

Questions and comments from board members then took place.\u00a0 The PPCC Chair<\/u> noted that he had placed his completed ballot in the mail slot inside the U.S. Post Office.\u00a0 He used a felt tip pen to mark his ballot; this is ok as long as the mark doesn\u2019t bleed into the circles on the reverse page. \u00a0The PPCC Treasurer<\/u> asked questions about signature comparison:\u00a0 With which signature (i.e.,<\/em> driver\u2019s license, or something signed many years ago) is the signature on the ballot compared?\u00a0 His 97-year old mother wants to vote, but her signature is now very shaky; how will RRCC deal with this?\u00a0 Mr. Klein:\u00a0Signature comparison will be based on the most recent voter registration signature.\u00a0 If the signature on the ballot doesn\u2019t match, a letter will be sent out to the voter to verify the ballot, which must also be signed and returned (i.e,<\/em> there will be a second chance to sign and return the ballot).\u00a0 A letter will also go out to voters who forgot to sign their ballot. Mr. Klein noted that the RRCC has a record of all the different signatures of voters over time and they will try to match the signatures using this record.\u00a0 He suggested that voters who have concerns may also re-register to vote by October 19 so that a current signature will be on file. If voters can no longer sign their names, there\u2019s an option to make a simple mark in lieu of a signature.\u00a0 Karen Ridgley<\/u> asked whether voters need to sign using the same name as when they first registered.\u00a0 Mr. Klein:\u00a0 Sign as closely as possible using the signature you believed you used when you registered; if the RRCC is unable to verify the name\/signature, they will send out a letter to the voter.\u00a0 Mr. Klein advised that he will be happy to respond directly to questions sent to him via email [<\/em>jklein@rrcc.lacounty.gov<\/em><\/a>].\u00a0 <\/em>The Chair thanked Mr. Klein for his presentation.<\/p>\n

11.2. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0As time allows:\u00a0 Motion by Councilmember Bonin<\/u> regarding land use & planning related to the VHFHSZ and evacuation routes (CF 20-1213).\u00a0 Possible Board action<\/u><\/em>.\u00a0 See motion:<\/em>\u00a0 <\/em><\/strong>https:\/\/clkrep.lacity.org\/onlinedocs\/2020\/20-1213_mot_09-22-2020.pdf<\/em><\/a> .\u00a0 <\/strong>Matter deferred due to lack of time.\u00a0 The Secretary reported that CD11 Deputy Durrah Wagner advised us by email shortly before the meeting began that the motion will be heard in the Council Public Safety Committee this coming Tuesday.\u00a0 The Executive Committee may consider whether to take a position on the motion before the Tuesday meeting.<\/p>\n

12.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Adjournment.<\/strong> \u00a0\u00a0The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 pm.
\n
\nATTACHMENTS:\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n

Item 8.1.1 \u2013 Names of Incoming Representatives<\/strong><\/p>\n

Area & At-large Representatives (2020-2022 Term)<\/p>\n

Area 1 \u2013 Joanna Spak
\nArea 2 \u2013 Steve Cron
\nArea 3 \u2013 Haldis Toppel
\nArea 4 \u2013 Karen Ridgley
\nArea 5 \u2013 Sue Kohl
\nArea 6 \u2013 Matthew Quiat
\nArea 7 \u2013 Jenny Li
\nAt-large \u2013 Alan Goldsmith<\/p>\n

Organizational Representatives (2020-2021 Term)
\n<\/strong>
\n<\/strong>1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Standing Organizations<\/u><\/u><\/p>\n

Business:
\nChamber of Commerce
\nFay Vahdani
\nAlt.:\u00a0 Sarah Knauer<\/p>\n

Historian:
\nPP Historical Society
\nRichard Wulliger
\nAlt.:\u00a0 Eric Dugdale<\/p>\n

Environment:
\nTemescal Canyon Association
\nBrenda Theveny
\nAlt.:\u00a0 Susan Orenstein<\/p>\n

Residents Association:
\nPPRA
\nBeth Holden-Garland
\nAlt:\u00a0 Bobbi Thompson<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Rotating Organizations
\n<\/u>Cultural and Aesthetics:
\nPalisades Beautiful
\nCraig Natvig
\nAlt.:\u00a0 Theatre Palisades
\nAndy Frew<\/p>\n

Education:
\nCorpus Christi School
\nPeter Powell
\nAlt.:\u00a0 Paul Revere Charter Middle School
\nKeri Kraft<\/p>\n

Civic Organizations:
\nPP Civic League
\nRichard Blumenberg
\nAlt.:\u00a0 PRIDE
\nJohn Padden<\/p>\n

Recreation:
\nYMCA
\nJim Kirtley
\nAlt.:\u00a0 AYSO
\nJanet Anderson<\/p>\n

Service Clubs:
\nPrimary:\u00a0 PP Rotary Club
\nTrish Bowe
\nAlt.:\u00a0 American Legion
\nKevin Niles<\/p>\n

Item 9.2 \u2013 PFC Report\/Draft letter to Urban Forestry<\/strong><\/p>\n

October ___, 2020<\/p>\n

Mr. Tim Tyson, Chief Forester
\nUrban Forestry Division
\nStreetsLA, City of Los Angeles\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 By email: timothy.tyson@lacity.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Re:\u00a0 Replacement Street Trees at 15539 W. Via De Las Olas, Pacific Palisades
\n<\/strong>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 (at the corner of Mt. Holyoke Ave.)<\/p>\n

Dear Chief Forester Tyson,<\/p>\n

The Pacific Palisades Community Council (PPCC) has represented the Palisades as its broadest based community organization since its founding in 1973.\u00a0 We coordinate with the Urban Forestry Division (UFD) through its representative on our PPCC Palisades Forestry Committee.<\/p>\n

On June 3, 2019, PPCC was dismayed to hear from community members that several large and healthy parkway trees were removed by the owner of the adjacent property at 15539 W. Via De Las Olas, Pacific Palisades (\u201cthe Parkway\u201d), which resulted in the City of Los Angeles June 28, 2019 \u201cStop Construction Notice and Notice of Intent to Revoke Building Permits\u201d letter to the owner.<\/p>\n

Under a resulting agreement between the owner and the City, 6 new Lophostemon confertus <\/em>\/ Brisbane Box trees were planted in the Parkway in remediation of the unauthorized removals.\u00a0 A Protected Tree Bond (\u201cBond\u201d) was required for the six new trees (24\u201d box size) to be replanted and watered for a survival period of 3 years from planting on February 14, 2020.<\/p>\n

Four of those six new replacement trees died.<\/p>\n

Recently, the owner has planted another 4 replacement trees in the same places as the dead ones.<\/p>\n

The PPCC Board has voted _____________ to urge the City to:<\/p>\n

1.\u00a0 Require the owner to increase the number (same species and container size) of remediation trees that shall be planted in the Parkway from 6 to as many as 10, in order to maximize the number of parkway trees along Mt. Holyoke and Via De Las Olas, using UFD measurement criteria, rather than leaving the current big open spaces where the original street trees were removed.\u00a0 Locations to be selected by UFD.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 Require the best practices of maintenance of the parkway trees, including: (a) removing the nursery stakes tied to each tree; (b) removing the deep water tubes, with instructions to water the basins from the top to imitate rainfall; and (c) comply with the proper staking and watering of Newly Installed Trees pursuant to the protocols of the International Society of Arboriculture.<\/p>\n

3.\u00a0 Amend the survival date for release of the Bond (or its replacement bond) to reflect the planting date of October 2020 (8 months longer than the original date), to restart the 3 year period for the newly replanted replacement trees.\u00a0 Additional parkway trees required to be planted by UFD should also be covered by a similar or amended bond.<\/p>\n

4. Confirm that the Bond (or its replacement) is issued by an insurer and to a beneficiary that is acceptable to UFD and the Bureau of Engineering, City of Los Angeles, prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.<\/p>\n

Thank you for your help in re-foresting Pacific Palisades.<\/p>\n

Very truly yours,<\/p>\n

David Card, Chair
\ndavidcard22@gmail.com<\/a><\/p>\n

cc: Mike Bonin, CD 11 Councilmember, mike.bonin@lacity.org
\n<\/a>Rachel Malarich, City Forest Officer, rachel.malarich@lacity.org
\n<\/a>Durrah Wagner, CD11 Pacific Palisades Area Rep., durrah.wagner@lacity.org
\n<\/a>Stephen Du Prey, Supervisor, UFD, stephen.duprey@lacity.org
\n<\/a>Andrew Nave, Inspector, Building & Safety, Andrew.Nave@lacity.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Return to Index of 2020 Minutes<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Return to Index of 2020 Minutes MINUTES FROM OCTOBER 8th 2020 Meeting held via Zoom videoconference Voting Members in Attendance: \u00a0David Card, David Kaplan, Richard Cohen, Chris Spitz, Matthew Quiat, Jenny Li, Karen Ridgley, Joanna Spak, Sue Kohl, Brenda Theveny, Craig Natvig, Trish Bowe, Beth Holden-Garland, Alan Goldsmith, Steve Cron* (*arrived late) Voting Alternates: \u00a0John […]<\/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-8605","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8605","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=8605"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8605\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pacpalicc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8605"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}