CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
RENT STABILIZATION COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
February 1, 2023
6:00 PM
Recordings of the Rent Stabilization Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: February 1, 2023 / 6:01 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Baseman, Bronte, Lindsey-Cerqueira, Miller, Tryfman, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Gurman
Staff Present: Timothea Tway, Helen Morales, Cameron Kesinger, Karen Myron, Robin D. Harris
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 and absent objection from the Commission, the agenda was approved as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Rent Stabilization Commission regular meeting of January 4, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Baseman, SECONDED by Commissioner Bronte to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0-1).
G-1
Rent Stabilization Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 1, 2023
AYES: Commissioners Baseman, Bronte, Lindsey-Cerqueira, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Tryfman
CARRIED
2. RESOLUTION OF THE RENT STABILIZATION 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 Rent Stabilization 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 Commissioner Tryfman, SECONDED by Commissioner Lindsey-Cerqueira to adopt the resolution as presented (6-0).
AYES: Commissioners Baseman, Bronte, Lindsey-Cerqueira, Tryfman, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. POSSIBLE AMENDMENTS TO THE RENT STABILIZATION ORDINANCE (RSO)
REGARDING SURCHARGES AND THE AMOUNT OF ANNUAL MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE
RENT INCREASES
Staff seeks recommendations regarding possible amendments to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance for both Chapter 5 and Chapter 6 of Title 4 of the Beverly Hills Municipal Code regarding surcharges that allow housing providers to pass through costs to tenants relating to water service penalties and/or surcharges, refuse fees, and for Chapter 5 tenants only, capital expenditures, improvement expenses mandated by law, including seismic retrofit, utility expense, and for additional tenants. Staff also seeks recommendations regarding possible amendments to Chapters 5 and 6 regarding the amount of the maximum allowable annual rent increases. Continued from the January 4, 2023 Rent Stabilization Commission regular meeting.
Staff Presenter: Helen Morales, DPA, Deputy Director of Rent Stabilization Public Input: None
The Commission received the staff report and continued its conversation regarding potential recommended changes regarding surcharges.
Rent Stabilization Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 1, 2023
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Tryfman, SECONDED by Commissioner Lindsey-Cerqueira to recommend to the City Council to modify the Rent Stabilization Ordinance by repealing the Water Service Penalty surcharge pass-through from Chapters 5 and 6 (4-2).
AYES: Commissioners Bronte, Lindsey-Cerqueira, Tryfman, Chair Milkowski
NOES: Commissioner Baseman, Vice Chair Maden
CARRIED
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Tryfman, SECONDED by Commissioner Bronte to recommend to the City Council to maintain the current language around the refuse fee pass through charge in Chapters 5 and 6 (5-1).
AYES: Commissioners Baseman, Bronte, Tryfman, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
NOES: Commissioner Lindsey-Cerqueira
CARRIED
The Commission will continue discussion of Utility pass-through charges at the next regular meeting on March 1, 2023.
NEW BUSINESS
None
PROJECT UPDATES
4. Rent Stabilization Division Monthly Staff Report for December 2022 Staff seeks to inform the Rent Stabilization Commission on the Rent Stabilization Division’s monthly activity.
• Report received and filed.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Commissioner Miller wished to follow up on whether staff had made progress on her request to research the possibility of a liaison from the Rent Stabilization Commission to the City Council regarding the allowable rent increase discussion for the upcoming June-June period. • Commissioner Bronte wished other Commissioners and the public happy holidays for the month of February.
Rent Stabilization Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 1, 2023
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Deputy Director Helen Morales reminded housing providers of the rent increase regulation for the period from June 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, which limits rent increases to 3.1% and allows an increase only if a housing provider had a tenant who was eligible for a rent increase from the period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 and did not impose an increase or imposed an increase of less than 3.1% at that time.
• Additionally, staff reminded housing providers and tenants that the Los Angeles County eviction protections have been extended through March 31, 2023.
5. 2023 Meeting Schedule
• Received and filed.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: February 1, 2023 / 7:33 PM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
February 2, 2023
9:00 AM
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: February 2, 2023 / 9:01 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz, Chair Shalowitz
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Jessie Holzer Carpenter, Sergeant Dale Drummond, Cole Duffy, Martha Eros, Daren Grilley, Ilene Knebel, Sergeant David Tomlin
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: 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 Traffic and Parking Commission regular meeting of January 5, 2023.
2. A Resolution of the Traffic and Parking 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 Traffic and Parking Commission to Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis February 2, 2023
continue virtual meetings during the COVID-19 declared emergency subject to certain conditions, and the proposed resolution implements the necessary requirements.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ignarro, SECONDED by Vice Chair Schwartz to approve the consent calendar items as presented (5/0).
AYES: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz, Chair Shalowitz
NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
3. Police Department Report
Sergeant Dale Drummond reviewed monthly traffic reports for the year of 2022. Lieutenant Robert Maycott reviewed the new preferential permit parking program rollout and provided updates on workshops with the public to increase registration numbers. The Commission asked about the overall traffic report numbers from 2022 and commented on the permit parking program’s website.
4. Monthly Educational Speaker Series – Seattle DOT Safe System Approach/Vision Zero Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter introduced Allison Schwartz, the Vision Zero Program Coordinator for the Seattle Department of Transportation. Ms. Schwartz reviewed Seattle’s Safe System Approach to end traffic deaths/injuries by 2030 and the various actions undertaken to meet that goal. The Commission asked how Seattle addresses congestion from reducing the number of lanes.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
5. Beverly/Cañon/Lomitas Intersection Improvements
Assistant Director/City Engineer Daren Grilley and Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter provided an overview on proposed conceptual design options for infrastructure improvements at the Beverly/Cañon/Lomitas intersection to increase driver and pedestrian safety. The Commission discussed the options and decided to recommend the third option, which would turn the intersection into a roundabout.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ignarro, SECONDED by Vice Chair Schwartz to recommend construction of a roundabout in the intersection to City Council (5/0).
AYES: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz, Chair Shalowitz
NOES: None
CARRIED
The commission took a break at 10:17 AM.
The commission returned from break at 10:24 AM.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis February 2, 2023
NEW BUSINESS
6. Proposed Locations for New Pedestrian Crossings
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter reviewed proposed pedestrian crossing locations for the Commission to consider. She introduced CivicSpark Fellow Elizabeth Morris who reviewed the criteria for evaluating and ranking the priority of proposed locations. The Commission discussed the weighting factors used for certain criteria and discussed additional locations they suggested considering for possible new pedestrian crossings.
PROJECT UPDATES AND FOLLOW-UP ITEMS
7. Project Updates and Follow-Up Items
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter reviewed updates on the Minimum Grid Bikeway sign installation process, the Clifton Way-Le Doux Road Corridor Mobility Study, and the 2023 Safety Transportation Campaign. Transportation Planner Martha Eros provided an update on public feedback from the Pilot Route Survey. The Commission asked how to raise public awareness of the pilot route program.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Afra-Maghen asked if there are plans for adding an app to inform visitors about open parking spots in the City’s parking structures. Assistant Director Grilley said that the technology is available with parking space information displayed at each garage and implementing an app is on the list of planned projects. Commissioner Geller asked if the crossing time for La Cienega and Gregory Way for the north side and south side was different and, if so, what is the purpose. Assistant Director Grilley advised he would follow up.
COMMUNICATION FROM STAFF
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: February 2, 2023 / 11:07 AM
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
February 9, 2023
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: February 9, 2023 / 1:32 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Timothea Tway, Masa Alkire, Cindy Gordon, Kaitlin McCafferty, Chloe Chen, Karen Myron, David Snow
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 January 26, 2023.
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
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 9, 2023
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 Commissioner Kaplan, SECONDED by Vice Chair Ross to adopt all items on the Consent Calendar as presented (5- 0).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter
NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
3. 421 NORTH RODEO DRIVE
Conditional Use Permit (PL2200497)
Request for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to allow for the establishment of a cosmetic spa on the ground floor of a commercial 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.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Kaitlin McCafferty, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: Integrative Wellness by Dr. Rahi
Project Representative: Daryoush Mahboubi-Fardi, Rodeo Collection LTG Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Wolfe, SECONDED by Commissioner Kaplan to adopt the resolution as presented (4-1).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross NOES: Chair Demeter
CARRIED
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 9, 2023
4. A DRAFT ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS ESTABLISHING
PROHIBITIONS ON FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP OF RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL
PROPERTY AND AMENDING NOTICING REQUIREMENTS
An ordinance of the City of Beverly Hills to amend Beverly Hills Municipal Code sections to prohibit fractional ownership of residential and commercial properties in the city. The draft ordinance would replace the Interim Ordinance (Interim Ordinance No. 21-O-2841) that is currently in effect and will expire in July 2023, and amend noticing and neighborhood meeting provisions. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Planning Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Chloe Chen, Senior Planner
Project Applicant: City Initiated
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Ross, SECONDED by Commissioner Ostroff to continue the item to the March 9, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter
NOES: None
CARRIED
The public hearing on this item remained open
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Vice Chair Ross expressed concern regarding applicants entering new leases prior to receiving approval from the City for the intended uses. Assistant City Attorney David Snow advised that the leasing of private property is an agreement between private parties and it is the responsibility of those parties to obtain all required approval and such instances are not the direct responsibility of the City.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• City Planner Updates
o City Planner Masa Alkire advised the Commission of the following:
▪ The Spring Place project is expected to return to the Planning Commission at its April 27 meeting.
▪ Progress on the crafting of permanent regulations for the Open BH program continues; an Ad Hoc meeting is scheduled for March 14 at 3:00 PM. The Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 9, 2023
meeting is open to the public, and participating restaurants are encouraged to attend.
▪ Applications for occupancy of the three one-bedroom affordable apartment units at 321-327 South Elm Drive will be accepted through February 17. ▪ The next Live with Lili will take place on Monday, February 13 at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Gallery.
5. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
6. Building Permit Report – January
o Received and filed
7. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: February 9, 2023 / 3:55 PM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
February 9, 2023
8:00 AM
.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: February 9, 2023 / 8:00 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioner Millan, Vice Chair Alpert, Chair Nystrom Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Greer
Staff Present: Colonel Burnley, Vince Damasse, Josette Descalzo, Cole Duffy, Samer Elayyan, Shana Epstein, 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 Jerry Felsenthal.
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 Public Works Commission regular meeting of January 12, 2023.
2. A 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 Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 9, 2023
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.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Millan, SECONDED by Vice Chair Alpert to approve the Consent Calendar items as presented (3/0).
AYES: Commissioner Millan, Vice Chair Alpert, Chair Nystrom NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Operations Reports from City Departments, Consultants and Outside Agencies Utilities General Manager Rob Welch provided an update on the Metropolitan Water District, reservoir levels from the last few months of rain, and proposals on water allocations for the Colorado River. The commission asked about the potential of reduced incoming water from the Colorado River.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. Introducing the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager Josette Descalzo presented the latest draft of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), revised with comments received from various commissions and the Community Advisory Committee (CAC). The commission asked if there were measures to reduce pollution from traffic traveling through the city and questioned the solutions and achievability of the plan, especially regarding reliance on other levels of government and outside organizations such as Southern California Edison.
4. Proposed Ordinance Prohibiting the Use, Sale, and Distribution of Polystyrene (Styrofoam) Foodware and Coolers
Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager Josette Descalzo presented the latest draft of the proposed ordinance to ban Styrofoam goods. The commission asked about incentives for early adopters, ways to communicate this ordinance to the public, and potential exceptions to the ordinance.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from Todd Johnson.
The commission took a break at 9:12 AM.
The commission returned from break at 9:22 AM.
5. Performance Measures Update
Deputy Director of Public Works/Operations Michael Hensley provided a summary of the Public Works Department’s FY 2022/2023 mid-year results in performance measures to keep track of department services, objectives, and goals across all divisions. He also reviewed vacant positions that need to be filled. The commission asked about repeated trends in automobile and vehicle incidents and how they could be addressed.
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 9, 2023
6. Quarterly Water Treatment Plant Report
Water Resources/Operations Manager Vince Damasse provided an update on water quality in Beverly Hills wells since the water treatment plant opened in April 2022. He also reviewed testing and pending permits on the new Hollywood Well No. 6 and the new La Cienega Well No. 1 (LCW-1). The commission asked about testing for PFAS chemicals in the water supply.
7. Organics Collection Program Report Update
Solid Waste Manager Colonel Burnley provided an update on the roll-out of the organic waste collection program in accordance with Senate Bill 1383. He also provided an update on the Food Recovery Program to increase the amount of edible food from supermarkets and hotels being recovered for food banks. The commission asked about outreach efforts and how best to explain the different bins in the new collection system to the public.
NEW BUSINESS
8. Monthly Educational Speaker Series – ENSO
Utilities Director Robert Welch introduced Gunnlaugur Erlendsson, Founder and CEO of ENSO, a British company that produces more environmentally friendly tires for electric vehicles. He reviewed the company’s achievements in the United Kingdom and Los Angeles at reducing tire pollution and the benefits of their tires in comparison to their competitors. The commission asked about the lifetime/quality of the tires and how ENSO could expand further in the United States, including Beverly Hills.
PROJECT UPDATES & STATUS ITEMS
9. La Brea Subarea Update
Project Manager Tristan Malabanan and Water Resources/Operation Manager Vince Damasse answered questions from the commission regarding the equipping phrase of the LCW-1 well. They also provided an update on a potential well site that is being re-evaluated by staff and the City’s consultant hydrogeologist for well construction. The commission asked about the favorable aspects and the downsides of the location.
10. Water Efficiency Update
Utilities General Manager Robert Welch answered questions from the commission regarding the effects of the rainy season on reservoirs in California versus the Colorado River. The commission asked about the monthly water use report and the potential of water reclamation projects. Public Works Director Shana Epstein said that MWD is actively looking into such projects and stressed the importance of potable reuse.
11. Capital Projects Update
Engineering Services Manager Samer Elayyan provided an update on the Coldwater Canyon Water Main Replacement project, including upcoming construction dates and community outreach efforts. The commission asked about the impact of the project on the fire station on Coldwater. Elayyan said there would be minimal impact on their ability to enter and exit the station. The commission also asked if Public Works could improve communication with the public about the Robertson Boulevard sidewalk project concerning the replacement of trees and their roots that are actively harming the stormwater sewer lines underneath the sidewalk.
12. Specific Information and Department Updates
No comment.
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 9, 2023
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Vice Chair Alpert requested bringing the declaration of the land across from Public Works headquarters as surplus land to the next agenda meeting regarding the ramifications of the declaration.
13. Chair’s Report
Chair Nystrom said she would present updates from the Mayor’s Cabinet meetings from January and February, next month. She also discussed the ad hoc subcommittee meetings regarding water and wastewater rates. Water was discussed, and a meeting for wastewater will be scheduled at a later date.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
None.
14. Director’s Report
Public Works Director Shana Epstein provided updates on upcoming events. The next “Live with Lili” will be held on February 13, and Team Beverly Hills at Public Works will be on February 15. The city will return to a full-sized celebration of Earth Day on Sunday, April 23.
ADJOURNMENT
Date/Time: February 9, 2023 / 11:00 AM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING SYNOPSIS
February 16, 2023
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: February 16, 2023 / 9:00 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioners Kaiserman & Chair Freeman read the Human Relations Commission’s Civility Statement and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Patricia Acuna; Christopher Paulson, Stephanie Harris, Enisha Clark, Ben Johnson, Lisa Crespo and 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.
None.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
With the concurrence of the Commission, the Chair may choose to amend the order of the items on the agenda. Tab #10: speakers will not be present but an update will be provided.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 19, 2023.
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.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 16, 2023
MOTION by Kaiserman, SECONDED by Nisim to approve the Consent Calendar as presented. (5/0)
AYES: Commissioners Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Nisim, and Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Police Department
Captain Giovanni Trejo updated the Commission on the following:
- The month of January 2023 to now has been a concerning trend in thefts of catalytic converters.
- Sunday, March 12, 2023 is the Vanity Fair post-Academy Award event. Street closures begin February 28 and end March 16, 2023.
- Sunday, March 19, 2023 is the Los Angeles Marathon.
Beverly Hills Unified School District
Beverly Hills Board of Education member, Dr. Amanda Stern, provided an update on the following:
- A lock-down event happened at the school which appeared to be a hoax. The event was resolved quickly along with the information being relayed swiftly to all concerned. - Mayor Bosse, along with NormanAid at the high school, had a KBEV podcast titled: Make Today Well Lived. Mayor Bosse spoke of values of inclusion and diversity.
PRESENTATIONS
3. Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DIB) Committee
Gabriella Yap, Senior Policy & Management Administrator, and Anthony Rizzuto, Library Clerk II, are both members of the City’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Employee Committee and will provide an overview of the Committee’s Mission, Vision, and Values.
Gabriella Yap, Senior Policy & Management Administrator, and Anthony Rizzuto, Library Clerk II, updated the Commission on the DIB’s Mission, Vision and Values. - Mission: To advance a culture that inspires, supports and celebrates each individual. - Vision: A culture where we can thrive and be our best selves - Values: Integrity / Trust / Support / Equity / Civility
4. Embrace & Celebrate Culture Initiative – Festival BH Benjamin Johnson, Recreation Services Manager, will provide an overview of Festival BH, taking place on Sunday, March 12, 2023.
Benjamin Johnson, Recreation Services Manager, updated the Commission on Festival Beverly Hills:
- Sunday, March 12, 2023 from 8:00am to 12:30pm at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market. - The Inaugural Festival will feature: Culturally Diverse Activities, Expanded Kid Zone, Global Arts Workshops and Craft Making along with a Youth Food Competition that will be Oscar themed.
- Diverse Music and Dance Showcases
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 16, 2023
CONTINUED BUSINESS
5. 2023 Commission Work Plan Schedule
At the January 19, 2023 Human Relations Commission meeting, the Commission reviewed the 2022 work plan, made some modifications, then adopted the 2023 Commission Work Plan.
- Staff, along with the Commission, reviewed a table that organized the various projects and programs under each initiative, then placed them into a calendar for the year so staff and Commissioners can properly prepare for and schedule each item.
6. Embrace Civility: 2023 Kindness Week – February 12 – 17 Kindness Week is currently underway with a successful kick-off event held Sunday, February 12, 2023 at the Farmers’ Market. Staff presented a slideshow displaying photos of events that had occurred so far:
- Monday, February 13: Be Kind to Seniors
- Tuesday, February 14: Be Kind & Connect
- Wednesday, February 15, Teach Kindness to Kids
- The final 2-day event, In the Business of Kindness – Kindness Crawl, will commence today, Thursday, February 17 at noon at Beverly Canon Gardens.
7. Anti-Hate Initiative:
a. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awareness – Critical Conversations Event Report - Staff presented a short slideshow on the Commission’s successful Critical Conversations event where the State of Women’s Rights in Modern Times was discussed.
- Staff, along with the Commissioners, thanked Chair Freeman for moderating the event.
b. Anti-Hate Ad Hoc update
Ad Hoc members Chair Freeman and Commissioner Nisim, updated the Commission in their decision to roll-out this initiative in phases:
- Phase 1: Research & Analysis: Meetings with leaders in area of Anti-Hate - Phase 2: Collecting Data from the local community
- Phase 3: Create an educational roadmap on the collected data and research - Phase 4: Implementation of roadmap
- Phase 5: Follow-up Review
- Chair Freeman commended Commissioner Nisim on her leadership with this ongoing project.
8. Community Assistance Grant Funding (CAGF): FY 2023-24 Update The FY 2023-24 Community Assistance Grant Funding (CAGF) Request for Proposal (RFP) was released on Thursday, December 1, 2022 and made available online at www.beverlyhills.org/cagf.
- On Monday, January 23, 2023 the application period closed. - Staff is currently compiling all applications for the Human Relations Commission Ad Hoc review.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 16, 2023
9. Mental Health Awareness
Lisa Crespo & Corrina Lesser, Recreation Supervisors, will provide a report on the January 29, 2023 Youth Mayor’s Mental Wellness Event.
- Lisa Crespo, Recreation Supervisor, provided a report from the Mayor’s Youth Mental Wellness Event that was held in partnership with the Teen Advisory Committee on Sunday, January 29, 2023.
10. Beverly Hills Homeless Initiative
Fernando Morales, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Vanessa Saldana, Field Deputy, for Los Angeles City Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky – Council District 5, will provide an update on the ongoing work and priorities of Councilwoman Yaroslavsky as it pertains to housing and homelessness.
- Representatives from Council District 5 rescheduled to next month. - Advocacy Update: Community members are encouraged to contact the centralized unhoused hotline number if they encounter someone in need at (310) 285-BHOT (2468). - Community Education Update: Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) 2023 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count took place January 24- January 26, 2023.
The SPA 5 Homeless Count was conducted Wednesday January 25, 2023. - The data numbers will be released later this year.
- The new Case Management software, Apricot 360, currently in Beta mode, will launch soon. This system will record data on the unhoused and will be used by the Rangers, Ambassadors and the City’s BHOT Team.
STATUS REPORTS
11. Beverly Hills Ambassador Program
Johnthon Hunter, Beverly Hills Ambassadors Operations Manager, updated the Commission on the following:
- The Ambassador Team had 205 interactions last month and provided information on a successful interaction.
- The Ambassadors additionally provide 24-hour safety escorts to anyone within the City’s triangle area. This service has been helpful for people leaving their workplace at night to parking structures or bus stops.
- City staff, along with Block by Block’s Ambassador’s staff, provided training to the Beverly Hills team which included initiating public engagement. The Ambassadors can be reached at: 424-302-1487.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
12. Kindness Matters
The Kindness agenda item allows commissioners the opportunity to highlight acts of kindness that have occurred within the City of Beverly Hills.
- Vice Chair Margo recognized Kathy Bronte, for providing over 300 Valentine’s Day cards, made by the district students, to distribute to the City’s senior community. Kathy is someone who can “get it done” and a real concept of kindness. - Vice Chair Margo additionally acknowledged City staff member, Traffic Control Officer Elena Chavez, in the Police Department for her understanding demeanor and assistance in resolving a frustrating situation.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
February 16, 2023
- Rosa, from Menorah Housing, was additionally acknowledged. Rosa assisted staff, along with Vice Chair Margo, as they distributed roses for Valentine's Day. - Commissioner Kaiserman recognized Chair Freeman for her hard work this past year.
13. Chair Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- Reviewed
b) 2023 Commission Work Plan
- Reviewed
c) Ad Hoc Committees
- Reviewed
d) Review Commission Meeting dates
- Reviewed
e) Good and Welfare. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
14. Administrator’s Report
Christopher Paulson, Interim Administrator, provided updates on the following:
• Mayor’s Initiatives
- Business with Bosse:
Monday, February 27, 2023, 5pm – 6:30pm, Hideaway Beverly Hills, 421 N. Rodeo - Live with Lili:
- Tuesday, March 14, 2023, 7pm – 8pm, City Hall Municipal Gallery If you cannot attend in-person, Live with Lili can be watched at beverlyhills.org/live • Community Services Events
- Art Walks – Sunday, March 5, 2023, 11am, Beverly Gardens Park Lily Pond - Art Walks – Sunday, March 26, 2023, 11am, Beverly Gardens Park Lily Pond
ADJOURNMENT
February 16, 2023 at 11:06 a.m.