CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION MEETING
SYNOPSIS
September 8, 2022
8:00 AM
.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: September 8, 2022 / 8:00 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioner Alpert, Greer, Vice Chair Nystrom, Chair Millan Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Vince Damasse, Samer Elayyan, Shana Epstein, Debby Dunn, Anthony Garza, Daren Grilley, Michael Hensley, Ilene Knebel, Tristan Malabanan, Rob Welch
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Members of the public may address the Commission regarding any items on the Agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. By State law, the Commission may not discuss or vote on items not on the agenda.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from David Gingold
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By order of the Chair, the Agenda was approved as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of Minutes of the Public Works Commission regular meeting of August 11, 2022
2. A Resolution of the Resolution of the Public Works Commission of the City of Beverly Hills Continuing to Authorize Public Meetings to Be Held via Teleconferencing Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953(E) and Making Findings and Determinations Regarding the Same
Comment: Recent legislation was adopted allowing the Public Works Commission to continue virtual meetings during the COVID-19 declared emergency subject to certain conditions, and the proposed resolution implements the necessary requirements.
H-1
Public Works Commission Meeting Synopsis
September 8, 2022
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Greer, SECONDED by Vice Chair Nystrom to approve the consent calendar items as presented (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Alpert, Greer, Vice Chair Nystrom, Chair Milan NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Operations Reports from City Departments, Consultants and Outside Agencies None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. Status update for the Water and Wastewater Cost of Service Study HF&H Consultant Rick Simonson briefly reviewed last week’s meeting regarding the calculation of the estimated sewer flow. He presented refined calculations, the mass balance results and their recommendations. HF&H Senior Vice President John Farnkopf presented the examples of flow factors and rate structure approaches from surrounding communities. Bill comparisons for one month and three months were discussed.
The Commission commented and gave feedback.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Greer, SECONDED by Vice Chair Nystrom that the Public Works Commission:
1. Support the proposed policy recommendations, which separate the residential wastewater customers (single-family and multi-family) and add a quantity (volumetric) charge for the single-family and multi-family classes using the sewer factor that assumes the three-year one month calculation that comes to 52% per single family as the sewer return;
2. Support the proposed change in the commercial wastewater customer classes to include a third class;
3. Support water CIP scenario 2 to recommend to City Council;
4. Support the fixed charge revenue ratio for water;
5. Support the pass-through charges, outside city differential, water reliability charge, and water shortage revenue stabilization factors; and
6. Recommend that City Council begin the required Proposition 218 public notice process for rates based on the cost of service studies (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Alpert and Greer, Vice Chair Nystrom, Chair Millan NOES: None
CARRIED
The Commission took a break at 9:06 AM
The Commission returned at 9:17 AM
4. Performance Measures Fiscal Year 2021/22 Year-End Update Deputy Director of Public Works/Operations Michael Hensley presented the Performance Measures within the Public Works Department from the past three years, highlighting various items. The Commission commented and had suggestions for other measures to be considered.
Public Works Commission Meeting Synopsis
September 8, 2022
5. Stormwater Compliance Master Plan Update
Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager Josette Descalzo provided an update and summary of the Stormwater Compliance Master Plan that was adopted in 2019.
The Commission inquired about some specifics of the Robertson Blvd Project.
NEW BUSINESS
6. Best Practices – Wind Farming
Customer Relations Coordinator Anthony Garza presented a PowerPoint to the Commission about the history and the concept of harnessing wind power throughout the world. He noted advantages and disadvantages of the system, places in the world where wind farming is prevalent, especially in the United States, and reasons for future growth.
The Commission took a break at 10:12 AM.
The Commission returned at 10:20 AM.
PROJECT UPDATES & STATUS ITEMS
7. La Brea Subarea Update
Project Manager Tristan Malabanan updated the Commission on the LCW-1 project; its timeline and budget were reviewed. Water Resources and Operations Manager Vince Damasse, with consultants Richard Slade and Anthony Hicke discussed the next steps in construction to get the well online, and the water quality in both the Sand Pit site, the LCW-1 and La Cienega Park wells.
8. Water Efficiency Update
Utilities General Manager Robert Welch and Water Conservation Administrator Debby Figoni responded to Commissioner inquiries regarding excessive water monitoring and enforcement and related topics.
9. Capital Projects Update
Engineering Services Manager Samer Elayyan provided an update to the Coldwater Canyon Main Line Replacement Project. A community meeting will be held at Coldwater Canyon Park on Thursday, September 29 from 6PM – 7PM to discuss this project, future projects and obtain feedback. An update was also given on the Robertson Sidewalk Improvement bids, which are slated to be rejected at the September 12 City Council Meeting due to the inconsistency of the bids and cost. Project Manager Tristan Malabanan provided comment about the Burton Way Project.
10. Specific Information and Department Updates
Director of Public Works Shana Epstein informed the Commission that Finance had closed the Fiscal Year 2021/2022 books and that the end of the year report for the Water Enterprise Fund will be presented at a future Commission meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Chair Milan reviewed the upcoming Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting and gave a reminder about the Liaison Meeting that will be held next week. A request was made for an update on the newly implemented street cleaning schedule rollout and to continue to look for real estate for the water enterprise plan.
Public Works Commission Meeting Synopsis
September 8, 2022
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
Director of Public Works Shana Epstein reminded the Commission so sign up for the Metropolitan Water District trip. Upcoming events reviewed were:
Transit Study Public Meeting at the Municipal Gallery on September 8; Household Hazardous Waste Roundup is being held on September 24 on 3rd street between Foothill and Civic Center;
City Council items of interest to the Commission;
Virtual meeting with neighbors of Cabrillo to be held on October 6.
Utilities General Manager Robert Welch informed the Commission that the Upper Feeder Program with MWD is on schedule and that the dewatering for the pipeline began on September
6. The process is moving along as planned with the request to cease outside watering until the project is complete.
ADJOURNMENT
Date/Time: September 8, 2022 / 11:25 AM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING SYNOPSIS
September 15, 2022
9:00 a.m.
Recordings of the Human Relations Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: September 15, 2022 / 9:03 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Vice Chair Margo led the Pledge of Allegiance
Chair Freeman read the Human Relations Commission’s Civility Statement.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Jenny Rogers, Patricia Acuna; Rachel L. Evans, Enisha Clark Linda Kyriazi
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Members of the public may address the Commission regarding any items not on the Agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. By State law, the Commission may not discuss or vote on items not on the Agenda.
One Public Comment was made by Mr. Austin.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
With the concurrence of the Commission, the Chair may choose to amend the order of the items on the agenda. Chair Freeman requested moving Tab #11 up in the Agenda to Tab #4.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 21, 2022.
2. Resolution of the Human Relations Commission of the City of Beverly Hills Continuing to Authorize Public Meetings to be Held Via Teleconferencing Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953(e) and Making Findings and Determinations Regarding the Same.
Recent legislation was adopted allowing the Human Relations Commission to continue virtual meetings during the COVID-19 declared emergency subject to certain conditions and the proposed resolution implements the necessary requirements.
Tabled.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 15, 2022
MOTION by Nisim, SECONDED by Kaiserman to approve the Consent Calendar as presented. (4/0)
AYES: Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Police Department
Lieutenant Giovanni Trejo along with Sergeant Jesse R. Perez updated the Commission on the following:
- The department’s Traffic Bureau held two DUI Enforcement Checkpoints. The goals of such operations are to educate more than enforce.
- Officers have participated in a number of Neighborhood Watch meetings with the Community. If a neighborhood is interested in having the police facilitate such a meeting, please contact Sgt. Jesse Perez at [email protected] - The next Coffee With A Cop is scheduled for September 29, 2022 at Pompadour, 9466 Charleville Boulevard from 9am – 11am.
- Thursday, September 22, 2022 is the Beverly Hills Police Officers Benevolent Fund’s Reimagined Gala being held at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills.
Beverly Hills Unified School District
Beverly Hills Board of Education member, Dr. Amanda Stern, provided an update on the following:
- The schools participated in Club Rush where students and view the various Clubs offered. - Hispanic Heritage Month is being celebrated.
- The months of September & October are promoting Bullying Prevention. - NormanAid, that assists with emotional well-being, who are situated at the high school, is continuing with their podcasts. These can be viewed on the NomanAid website.
PRESENTATIONS
None
NEW BUSINESS
3. Chair and Vice Chair Rotation
Historically, the Human Relations Commission conducts their Chair and Vice Chair rotation every January. However, due to the recent passing of Chair Rhoda Sharp, the position is now vacant.
- It is recommended that Vice Chair Noelle Freeman be seated as Chair of the Human Relations Commission at the September 15, 2022 meeting. Her term is expected to be from September 2022 to January 2024.
- This is a one-time, early rotation due to this unique and unfortunate circumstance and does not change the normal rotation process for the Human Relations Commission. - The recruitment for the vacant position is in process, with an expected appointment of January 2023.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 15, 2022
4. 2022 Conflict of Interest Code – Human Relations Commission Review of the 2022 Conflict of Interest Code
The Commission is asked to review the 2022 Conflict of Interest Code, make the necessary changes, if any, and have the Chair sign the Statement of Review page.
MOTION by Nisim, SECONDED by Margo to approve the 2022 Conflict of Interest Code of the City of Beverly Hills Human Relations Commission as presented. (4/0) AYES: Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PASSED:
CONTINUED BUSINESS
5. Civility Month
In 2017, the Commission declared October as Civility Month in Beverly Hills to further the civility initiative in the City. This year, the Commission will be hosting their inaugural Day of Giving as the central event of the month. Ad Hoc members, Commissioner Margo and Commissioner Kaiserman provided updates.
- Commissioner Kaiserman updated the Commission on the scheduled October 23, 2022 Day of Giving event where the Commission will have a booth at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market. Various organization, such as the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD), have been contacted for their participation. Attendees will bring the needed items to the Farmers’ Market booth for drop off.
- Vice Chair Margo encouraged community member to attend, participate and assist in promoting. One of the four organization that the Commission will be collecting for is Kathy Bronte from the BHUSD will be representing Los Angeles County Animal Shelter. - Rachel Evans, Human Services Administrator, reminded the Commission of the yearly event of announcing the Embrace Civility Award winner.
- Banner and posters will additionally be placed around the City.
6. Embrace Civility Award
Chair Freeman reviewed the Commission’s Embrace Civility Award process that was established in 2012, which recognizes individuals or groups in the community that exemplify any or all of the following:
Acts as a role model of positive behavior
Takes a stand in support of respect and responsible actions Promotes positive neighbor to neighbor relations
The Commissioners were provided with the content of the submitted forms minus the name of the nominee. After a discussion of each Commissioners top three ranking, a tally was taken, tabulated and a nominee was selected.
MOTION by Freeman, SECONDED by Kaiserman to nominate our nominee #1 as our Embrace Civility Award winner with a back-up of #5. (4/0) Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 15, 2022
AYES: Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PASSED:
The winner will be recognized at a City Council Meeting in October 2022.
7. Mental Health Awareness
Dorit Haroni, a National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) board member and Debbie Brazil, Resource Navigator, provided the Commission with an overview of services offered at the West Los Angeles location.
- The Commission discussed a number of options of working with NAMI, either at the schools or with the Community with the free resources they have in addition to ways of promoting the organization.
- Staff will present the suggested ideas at a future meeting. - Commissioner Kaiserman informed the Commission about a team organized by Beverly Hills NormanAid for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention called Walk With Us, for the American Suicide Prevention Walkout on October 22, 2022 at 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica.
8. Beverly Hills Unified School District Engagement Project The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) Engagement is currently tabled until the Commission participates in their annual work plan priority setting in January 2023.
9. Beverly Hills Homeless Initiative
Jill Kline, Field Deputy of Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Koretz of District 5, informed the Commission how our cities can continue to work collaboratively to address homelessness in the region and provided updates on areas of concern.
Kevin Connor and Edwin Chavous, from the Beverly Hills’ Homeless Outreach Team (BHOT), provided updates on the recent successful interventions. The Home Again Program is made possible through the City’s Community Assistance Grant funded (CAGF) partner All Saints’ Homeless Assistance Program.
- Commissioner Kaiserman asked the BHOT team if there were any items they were in need of which the Commission could collect during their Day of Giving event. BHOT suggested toiletries. Staff will check their inventory and will let the Commission know.
Chair Freeman reviewed the appropriate entities for residents to contact should they encounter individuals experiencing homelessness who require assistance suggesting a central number would be more convenient to call.
- Jenny Rogers, Director of Community Services, informed the Commission that the City is currently working on an enhanced approach on how the City would address homelessness. Staff looks forward to presenting this plan to the Commission soon.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 15, 2022
10. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awareness Initiative
Chair Freeman, along with Commissioner Nisim, provided an update on the Commission’s Critical Conversation Program. Donzaleigh Abernathy was the Commission’s inaugural Critical Conversations series speaker on August 24, 2022. Ms. Abernathy is the daughter of Reverend Ralph David Abernathy, the co-founder of the civil rights movement, and close friend and advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event was a huge success and warmly embraced by Mayor Lili Bosse and members of the wider community. The event served as a catalyst to encourage critical dialogue and increase community awareness of the civil rights issues our society faces today.
11. Kindness Recognition
Chair Freeman recognized the passing of former Chair Rhoda Sharp. The Commissioners, along with staff, spoke about her dedication to Kindness which included her ending her emails with “Kindness Matters.” Chair Freeman requested renaming the Kindness Recognition tab to “Kindness Matters.”
MOTION by Freeman, SECONDED by Nisim to change the Kindness Recognition Tab to Kindness Matters in honor of Rhoda Sharp. (4/0)
AYES: Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PASSED:
STATUS REPORTS
12. Beverly Hills Ambassador Program
Johnthon Hunter, Beverly Hills Ambassadors Operations Manager, updated the Commission on the following:
- The prior two months, the team has been documenting an increase of new transients.
This is logged via the camping statistics. This statistic has increased by 76% in July and has continued to increase in August by 95%. This number is 30% less than last year’s numbers. The current transients are displaying more aggressive behavior. - The Ambassador Team has had a number of successful stories referring transients to the Beverly Hills Outreach Team (BHOT).
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
13. Chair Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- Reviewed
b) Review Commission Meeting dates
- Reviewed
c) Good and Welfare. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
- Chair Freeman reminded all of Commissioner Kaiserman’s Suicide Prevention Walkout on October 22, 2022.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 15, 2022
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
14. Administrator’s Report
Rachel Evans, Human Services Administrator, updated the Commission on the following:
- National Night Out: The staff reviewed with the Commission their productive Human Services booth during National Night Out
- Business with Bosse dates: Wednesday, September 14, 2022, 5:30pm – 7:00pm, Tatel Restaurant, 453 N. Canon Drive
- Live with Lili dates: Tuesday, September 13, 2022, 7pm – 8pm, City Hall Municipal Gallery & Monday, October 10, 2022, 7pm-8pm City Hall Municipal Gallery - Mayor’s Mental Wellness Series: Dr. Deepak Chopra, Friday, September 23, 2022, 11:30am – 12:30pm, Crescent side of Beverly Hills City Hall - Free Household Hazardous and Electronic Waste Drive-Thru, Saturday, September 24, 2022, 9am – 3pm, West Third Street between Foothill Road and Civic Center Drive - Beverly Hills Art Show, Saturday, October 15 – Sunday, October 16, 2022, Beverly Gardens Park
15. Overview of Current and Pending Agenda Items
- Reviewed
ADJOURNMENT
September 15, 2022 at 11:35 a.m.
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
September 22, 2022
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: September 22, 2022 / 1:30 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Ostroff
Staff Present: Timothea Tway, Cindy Gordon, Judy Gutierrez, Karen Myron, Stephanie Cao
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Members of the public may address the Commission regarding any items not on the Agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. By State law, the Commission may not discuss or vote on items not on the Agenda.
Public Input: None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Order of the Chair, the agenda was approved as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting of September 8 2022.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Kaplan, SECONDED by Vice Chair Ross to adopt the minutes as presented (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter NOES: None
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 22, 2022
ABSENT: Commissioner Ostroff
CARRIED
2. RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
CONTINUING TO AUTHORIZE PUBLIC MEETINGS TO BE HELD VIA
TELECONFERENCING PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54953(e) AND
MAKING FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS REGARDING THE SAME
Recent legislation was adopted allowing the Planning Commission to continue virtual meetings during the COVID-19 declared emergency subject to certain conditions, and the proposed resolution implements the necessary requirements.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Ross, SECONDED by Commissioner Kaplan to adopt the resolution as presented (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Ostroff
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
3. 140 LASKY DRIVE
Time Extension for a Development Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, Open Air Dining Permit, and Extended Hours Permit (PL2200169)
Request for a one-year Time Extension for a previously approved Development Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, Open Air Dining Permit, and Extended Hours Permit to allow for the construction and operation of a new four-story hotel with restaurant and rooftop uses at the property located at 140 Lasky Drive.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Edgar Arroyo, Senior Planner
Project Applicant: Boutique 140 Hotel, LLC
Project Representative: Michael Kollin, Kollin Altomare Architects, Inc.
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Ross, SECONDED by Commissioner Kaplan to continue the item to a date uncertain (4-0-1).
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 22, 2022
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Ostroff
CARRIED
4. 9777 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD (GALPIN LOTUS)
Conditional Use Permit (PL2200209)
Request for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to allow a vehicle sales use to occupy the ground floor of an existing multi-tenant building. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Planning Commission will consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA. (Alexandria Smille, Associate Planner) Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Alexandria Smille, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: Galpin Lotus
Project Representative: Jeff Skobin, Galpin Motors, Inc.
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Wolfe, SECONDED by Commissioner Kaplan to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Ostroff
CARRIED
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
City Planner Updates
o City Planner Timothea Tway advised the Commission of the following:
The next event in the Mayor’s Mental Wellness Series will take place on Friday, September 23 at 11:30 AM outside on the Crescent Drive side of City Hall, where the Community will have the opportunity to hear from Dr. Deepak Chopra. The event is free, but seating is limited. Additional information is available at beverlyhills.org/mentalwellness.
At its meeting on Tuesday, September 20, the City Council considered the Cheval Blanc project, as well as the related appeal regarding the Tentative Tract Map. The Council voted 4-1 to return at the October 11 meeting to consider draft project approval documents, and to review the Development Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
September 22, 2022
Agreement. The City Council was appreciative of the Planning Commission’s hard work and thorough review of the project.
The City Council also conducted second readings of the walls/fences/hedges ordinance and the medical use ordinance at the September 20 meeting. Both ordinance will go into effect in October.
Newly-filed/notable project updates in the past two weeks:
Staff has received an application for a Development Plan Review and In Lieu Parking request to construct a third floor on an existing commercial building at 312 North Rodeo Drive. This will be a Planning Commission-level project.
Applications have been received for an entitlement renewal for 403 North Crescent Drive (Crescent Hotel), and an entitlement renewal for a Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan Review for a public dining facility at an existing hotel (Beverly Terrace Hotel). Both of these requests are staff-level reviews.
5. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
6. 2022 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: September 22, 2022 / 2:43 PM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
1 In-person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
SYNOPSIS
Monday, October 03, 2022
2:00 p.m.
OPEN MEETING
Date/Time: October 3, 2022 / 2:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Project Operations Specialist Gabriel Mier led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Rosenthal, Felsenthal, and Baker, Vice Chair Hilborne and Chair Chang
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Deputy City Manager Gabriella Yap, Fire Chief Gregory Barton, Deputy Fire Chief Alfred Poirier, Lieutenant Giovanni Trejo, Fire Battalion Chief Timothy Hayes, EMS Administrator Sean Stokes, Fire Administrator Michael Liongson, Emergency Manager Meena Janmohamed, Program Operations Specialist Gabriel Mier, and Commission Secretary Karen Gutierrez
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Members of the public may address the Commission regarding any items not on the Agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. By State law, the Commission may not discuss or vote on items not on the Agenda.
Myra Demeter provided a public comment on a non-agenda item.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
With the concurrence of the Commission, the Chair may choose to amend the order of the items on the agenda.
By order of the Chair, the agenda was approved as presented.
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
October 3, 2022
2 CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Resolution of the Health and Safety Commission of the City of Beverly Hills continuing to authorize public meetings to be held via teleconferencing pursuant to government code section 54953(e) and making findings and determinations regarding the same
Recent legislation was adopted allowing the Health and Safety Commission to continue virtual meetings during the COVID-19 declared emergency subject to certain conditions and the proposed resolution implements the necessary requirements.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Hilborne, SECONDED by Commissioner Rosenthal to approve the resolution as presented (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Rosenthal, Felsenthal, and Baker, Vice Chair Hilborne, Chair Chang
NOES: None
2. Consideration of minutes from the regular Health and Safety Commission meeting on August 22, 2022.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Baker, SECONDED by Commissioner Felsenthal to approve the minutes as presented (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Rosenthal, Felsenthal, and Baker, Vice Chair Hilborne, Chair Chang
NOES: None
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) – Beverly Hills Unified School District representative Rachelle Marcus noted that Michelle Stradford was one of sixteen teachers selected for Teacher of the Year in the Los Angeles County. BHUSD participated in a Not Today Cancer 5K run and held fire and lockdown drills to educate students about safety.
She distributed a FAQ handout regarding the use of fentanyl drug. Beverly Hills Police Department – Lieutenant Giovanni Trejo provided a summary report on significant activities including Driving Under the Influence (DUI) saturation patrol on August 26, 2022 and DUI check-point on September 9, 2022. He spoke on community outreach programs and shared safety mitigation measures for the upcoming Halloween holiday.
Beverly Hills Fire Department – Fire Chief Gregory Barton introduced newly-appointed Deputy Fire Chief Alfred Poirier. A-Shift Platoon Battalion Chief Timothy Hayes spoke on incidents and response metrics and presented on the topic of Mutual Aid. EMS Administrator Sean Stokes updated the Commission on the Nurse Practitioner Program.
He shared metrics, program outcomes, ET3 model, and steps ahead.
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
October 3, 2022
3 CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. WELL Health-Safety Rating Follow-up Review
The Health and Safety Commission will provide a recommendation on the services and proposal related to the International Well Building Institute’s WELL Health-Safety Rating Program.
This item was continued from the June 27, 2022 Health and Safety Commission meeting.
Staff provided an overview, and Delos’ Chief Executive Officer and founder of International Well Building Institute, Paul Scialla, presented and answered questions. At the conclusion of the presentation, the Commission requested additional time and/or information to further evaluate the proposed services being offered.
At this special meeting of October 3, 2022, Fire Administrator Michael Liongson provided a follow-up review. Staff conducted an all-encompassing external and internal research to provide cogent responses on discussion items that were posed at the June 27th meeting.
Externally, staff reached out to the following entities: Delos, U.S. Green Building Council Los Angeles (USGBC LA), and the City of Miami (Florida). Nationwide, the City of Miami is the only confirmed municipality, out of approximately 30,000 incorporated cities, who enlisted and officially achieved the WELL Health-Safety rating. Based on the extensive research conducted between the WELL Health-Safety Rating website and numerous related articles, their current memberships are mainly comprised of private industries.
Internally, the research process involved various key City departments. They have been engaged to study and derive objective inputs on all pertinent questions, based on their respective subject matter expertise. Emergency Management, under the Policy and Management Department, appraised and provided responses on Emergency Preparedness Programs. Facilities/Water, under the Public Works Department, appraised and provided responses on Air & Water Quality Management, including Cleaning & Sanitation Procedures, while Risk Management, under the Human Resources Department, appraised and provided their responses on Stakeholder Engagement & Communication and Health Service Resources.
In lieu of the study, staff formulated both qualitative and quantitative cost-benefit analyses and employed the process of data triangulation, in order to obtain expert and fact-based responses.
Staff recommended the Health & Safety Commission to select one of the following options:
Option-1: Recommending moving forward with the proposal to the City Council on the services being offered (this option could also include an amendment to the proposal);
Option-2: Not recommending moving forward with the proposed services being offered;
Option-3: Requesting additional time and/or information to further evaluate the proposed services being offered;
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
October 3, 2022
4 Option-4: Additional or other direction to staff.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Hilborne, SECONDED by Chair Chang to select Option 1: Recommending moving forward with the proposal to the City Council on the services being offered (this option could also include an amendment to the proposal) as presented (2-3).
AYES: Vice Chair Hilborne, and Chair Chang
NOES: Commissioners Rosenthal, Felsenthal, and Baker
Motion failed.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Felsenthal, SECONDED by Commissioner Baker to select Option 3: Requesting additional time and/or information to further evaluate the proposed services being offered as amended, with an 18-month timeframe (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Rosenthal, Felsenthal, and Baker, Vice Chair Hilborne, and Chair Chang
NOES: None
Motion passed.
4. Moment of Mindfulness
Commissioner Erica Felsenthal, PhD, will lead the Commission in a Moment of Mindfulness.
This is a monthly recurring agenda item. Commissioner Felsenthal spoke on well-being and led a guided meditation with silent reflection.
5. COVID-19 Update
Provides information and a discussion on a variety of topics related to the COVID-19 emergency and what the community should know.
Emergency Manager Meena Janmohamed updated the Commission on a variety of COVID-19 metrics including cases, vaccination, and statistics specific to the Beverly Hills community. Staff reviewed the current Los Angeles County COVID-19 community levels, hospitalizations, and protective measures. Staff spoke on the Monkeypox, the current health order and the City’s continued response to the pandemic.
NEW BUSINESS
6. Great Shakeout Drill
An informational presentation on how to DROP, COVER and HOLD and protect ourselves when an earthquake occurs.
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
October 3, 2022
5 Emergency Manager Meena Janmohamed presented on the Great Shakeout Drill, scheduled for October 20, 2022, at 10:20 a.m. The City of Beverly Hills will join the statewide drill, where participants will DROP, COVER and HOLD.
7. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program
An informational presentation on the CERT Program.
Project Operations Specialist Gabriel Mier spoke on the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program focused on providing emergency preparedness and natural disaster response training. The Commission viewed a video about the program.
8. 2022 Conflict of Interest Code
State Law requires that each local agency review its Conflict of Interest Code every year.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Hilborne, SECONDED by Commissioner Baker to adopt the 2022 Conflict of Interest Code, with Exhibits A and B, for the Health and Safety Commission of the City of Beverly Hills as presented (5- 0).
AYES: Commissioners Rosenthal, Felsenthal, and Baker, Vice Chair Hilborne, Chair Chang
NOES: None
Motion passed.
PROJECT UPDATES
None.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Chair’s Report
- Chair Chang attended the July 11, 2022, August 8, 2022, and September 13, 2022 Mayor’s Cabinet meeting. Highlights of the July 11, 2022 and August 8, 2022 meetings were included in the October 3, 2022 Health and Safety Commission packet. Highlights form the September 13, 2022 meeting will be include in the October 24, 2022 Health and Safety Commission packet.
- Commissioner Baker spoke on the 2022 Legislative Platform on AB 1713 (The Idaho Stop) as well as the Driver Behavior Detection Pilot Program and requested the topics to be heard at a future Health and Safety Commission meeting.
Commissioner Items
- Commissioner Felsenthal brought forward the idea to support the continued prohibition of the sale of flavored tobacco as a continued business of the Health and Safety Commission.
- Commissioner Baker spoke on Proposition 31.
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
October 3, 2022
6 COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
Director’s Report
- Staff shared information on upcoming events.
Health and Safety Related Supplemental Information:
1. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Newsletter September 2022
2. After the Earthquake: Helping Young Children Heal (NCTSN)
3. Do’s and Don’ts Fire Escape in Home & Home Fire Escape Plan (BHFD)
4. Home Safety Tips for Kids (NFPA)
5. Cooking Safety in the Kitchen (NFPA) Cooking Safety in the Kitchen (NFPA)
- Health and safety related supplemental information was included in the packet for Commissioners to read.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: October 3, 2022 / 4:53 p.m.