CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
455 North Rexford Drive
Room 280A
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING SYNOPSIS
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
2:00 p.m.
Recordings of the Recreation and Parks Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: April 25, 2023 / 2:03 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
JR Dzubak, Jr. led the Pledge of Allegiance
Chair Lurie read the Civility Statement.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Termeie, Sherry, Chair Lurie
Commissioners Absent: Javor, Vice Chair Mishler
Staff Present: Matthew Brown, Adrine Ovasapyan, Paul Paolone, Stephanie Harris, Patty Acuna, and Linda Kyriazi
Vice Chair Mishler arrived at 2:10pm
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.
Magdalena Davis, Community Services Manager, read eight submitted emails into Public Comment in addition to two in-person expressing concern over after-hours school care.
Steve Walfish spoke on Tab #8.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
With the concurrence of the Commission, the Chair may choose to amend the order of the items on the agenda.
Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, requested Tab #3 to be moved to later in the Agenda to provide time for the AYSO Teams to arrive. Chair Lurie approved.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of Minutes from the Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting from 03/28/2023.
MOTION by Vice Chair Mishler, SECONDED by Termeie to approve the Meeting Minutes as presented. (4/0)
AYES: Termeie, Sherry, Vice Chair Mishler, Chair Lurie
NOES: None
ABSENT: Javor
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED
H-1
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 25, 2023
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Beverly Hills Unified School District
Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) board member updated the Commission on programs and activities being held at the schools:
- BHBL, Youth Basketball League, and the AYSO, American Youth Soccer Organization, post season programming.
- The middle school’s artwork is currently on display in City Hall.
PRESENTATIONS
3. Recreation and Parks Award
American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Recognition
The Commission presented their Recreation and Parks award to the two American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) championship teams, along with their coaches, in Recognition of Winning the Western States Championship.
4. Arts & Culture Programming
Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, will provide an update on Music in the Mansion Festival
- Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, updated the Commission on this weekend’s successful Music in the Mansion Festival that was held at Greystone Mansion. This year marks the 29th year of Music in the Mansion. - National Auditions were just held at Roxbury Community Center on Saturday, April ??.
Those selected will be performing at next year’s 30th Anniversary.
5. Human Services – Two upcoming Wellness Proposals
Christopher Paulson, Interim Administrator of Human Services, updated the Commission on the two upcoming events surrounding Wellness & Mental Health and requesting a joint participation in a Beverly Hills Day of Wellness being held in September 2023:
- The event is tentatively scheduled to take place at Roxbury Community Center and Park
Sunday, September 10, 2023 The event will focus on a variety of wellnessfocused educational and interactive sessions. - The Health & Safety Commission additionally agreed to participate. - Mindfulness Mondays in May are additionally being scheduled starting on May 1, 2023. These pre-recorded sessions will air each Monday in May on Beverly Hills Cable-TV as well as online. A number of these showings will be the same practitioners at the September event.
- Chair Lurie, along with the rest of the Commissioners, voiced their support.
6. Community Services Staff Updates
Patty Acuna, Assistant Director of Community Services, introduced Adrine Ovasapyan, who is currently Interim Recreation Services Manager who will be overseeing the La Cienega team in addition to assisting Matthew Brown as staff liaison to the Recreation and Parks Commission.
- The Community Services Department does have multiple vacancies that staff is actively working on along with the Human Resources Department to fill positions.
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 25, 2023
NEW BUSINESS
None.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
7. National Fitness Court Update
Results of Fitness Survey
In May, 2022, staff presented the National Fitness Campaign Outdoor Fitness Court to the Recreation and Parks Commission. Patty Acuna, Assistant Director of Community Services, provided an update from the Community survey:
- The equipment wasn’t all encompassing
- The current equipment was fine; just needed to be updated or replaced - The footprint, along with the cost, increased
- At this time, the recommendation would be to find replacements or updating the current equipment and bringing this proposal back when the La Cienega Master Plan discussions begin. The Commission concurred.
8. Pickleball Pilot Program Update
Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, reviewed with the Commission the results of the Pickleball Pilot Program:
• Phase 1: January 2020 – May 2022
• Launch of the Pickleball Pilot Program.
• Halted for 1-year during COVID-19 pandemic.
• Partially relaunched in March 2021 and expanded to original pilot model in December 2021.
• Growth of pickleball popularity.
• Phase 2: June 2022 – Current (Court relocation study) • Relocated La Cienega courts to #1 and #8 in response to noise concerns. • Negative feedback from tennis community to loss of court #1 for tennis. • Ongoing requests for additional courts and more availability during peak hours. • Phase 3: September 2023/TBD (6-month court relocation study) • Next phase to begin after completion of Beverly Hills Tennis Summer Camp season and summer tennis leagues.
• Relocate pickleball from court #1 to court #12.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of courts #8 and #12 as the next location for pickleball at La Cienega.
• Phase 4: As Needed/TBD (Court relocation study)
• Consider relocation of additional courts to Roxbury Park, based upon Phase #3 feedback. .
• Consider alternate combination of court locations at La Cienega, based upon Phase #3 feedback.
- Steve Walfish, owner of Beverly Hills Tennis, introduced himself to the Commission and informed the Commission of the history of the Tennis Center.
- Staff will run Phase 3 of the pilot program and will inform the Commission on the outcome of all 3 phases in addition to staff’s recommendations.
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 25, 2023
- The Commissioner’s recommendations will be taken to their City Council liaisons.
9. Community Services Department Showcase Update
- Adrine Ovasapyan, Interim Recreation Services Manager, provided a recap of this year’s event including an overview of Community feedback. The Community Services Department Showcase was held on Sunday March 5, 2023, at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market. This was the first Department Showcase since 2020 held in the full pre-pandemic configuration. - This year’s Department Showcase presented several challenges including inclement weather, long lines, and frustration for the need to register in person. - The Commission and staff discussed future planning for optimizing both the Summer Camp registration process, and the purpose of the Department Showcase.
10. Needs Assessment Discussion
At the February 28, 2023 meeting, Commissioner Julian Javor requested that staff add to the agenda a needs assessment item and that the Commission discuss what types of needs should be researched and included in a needs assessment study.
- The Commission discussed and provided feedback to staff on what the desired outcome to the community at large would be by conducting a needs assessment.
- Commissioner Sherry commented that a needs assessment is looking at the land the City owns and what might be available in terms of recreation and parks along with City use; maybe developing new pickleball courts and programming.
As we learned from the pandemic, our parks and services in our Community Centers, became one of the most critical spaces that residents relied on for their health and enjoyment. Our job as Recreation and Parks Commissioners is to protect our parks and give to the residents safe and beautiful outdoor spaces to congregate passively and recreationally. As a Commission we should be knowledgeable about land owned by the City so we can speak to projects and suggest alternatives as it relates to interrupting our green space.
As a Commission and staff, we spoke about reviewing a land needs assessment at our July 2022 working retreat but with changes in staffing, it got dropped. I reviewed the strategic plan from 2019 – 2022 and under the multiyear department goals was: develop a parks and recreation open space master plan to set the vision for meeting a long-term recreational needs of the Community. This plan has since expired, and a lot has changed. This might be something to revisit and create a new one.
- Chair Lurie noted that with the City looking at reopening the City’s La Cienega Master Planning at the same time knowing industrial facilities for water are being built in the parks which means we’ll be losing park land. Additionally, City Council has declared surplus 4 parcels, including 1 parcel that is a dog park. We need to engage a Needs Assessment, with the input of the Community, to look at what we want, where we want to be and how to best meet the needs of our Community. We also need to look at where we can find Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 25, 2023
additional park space. The City’s programming also needs to be reviewed with a focus on after school programs. There are ratios to determine if our park space is sufficient.
- Stephanie Harris, Director of Community Services, informed the Commission of the process to bring this request to fruition: A meeting with the Commission’s liaison for approval to proceed
STATUS REPORTS
11. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
PROJECT UPDATES
• Manager updates
- The Commission will be invited to the pre-school graduations - Arbor Day is April 28, 2023 at 10:30am at Roxbury Park - This week is National Library Week
• Recreation & Parks Commission Priorities
• Community Services Events
1. April 27, 2023: Beverly Hills Celebrates 100 Years of Independence: Greystone Theatre at Greystone Mansion, 5:30pm & 6:30pm
2. May 4 – 7, 2023, MADE in Beverly Hills, various locations
3. May 14, 2023: Jewish American Heritage Celebration, Farmers’ Market, 9am – 1pm
4. May 20 & 21, 2023: 50th Anniversary of Beverly Hills Art Show, Beverly Gardens Park
5. May 22, 2023: Beverly Hills Active Adult Club (BHAAC) Prom, Roxbury Park Community Center, 1pm – 3pm.
• Community Services Events Calendar
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
12. Chair Report
a. Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- Meeting Minutes
Reviewed
b. Ad Hoc Committees
c. Recreation and Parks Commission Upcoming Meetings
- Review calendar and attendance
- Commissioner Termeie informed the Commission that she will not be able to attend the June 2023 meeting.
d. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
- The Commissioners wished Commissioner Javor the best and congratulated Commissioner Sherry on her son’s win and award that was presented today.
PREPARATION OF NEXT MONTH’S AGENDA
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 25, 2023
NEXT MEETING: May 23, 2023
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: April 25, 2023 / 4:54 p.m.
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
May 4, 2023
9:00 AM
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 4, 2023 / 9:01 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen (arrived at 9:38 AM), Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz, Chair Shalowitz
Commissioners Absent: None.
Staff Present: Daren Grilley, Jessie Holzer Carpenter, Martha Eros, Ilene Knebel
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 Tim Shiner and Sandra Tripicchio
Public Comment: Public comment was read into the record from Michael Karric
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 April 6, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ignarro, SECONDED by Vice Chair Schwartz to approve the consent calendar item as presented (3/0).
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis May 4, 2023
AYES: Commissioner Geller, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz ABSTAINED: Chair Shalowitz
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Police Department Report
Sergeant Dale Drummond gave an update from the police department on activities during Bicycle Safety Month. Office of Traffic Safety DUI enforcement will be in effect on May 5th for Cinco de Mayo. The Commission asked about how the police would handle pedestrians walking in bike lanes, hit-and-run numbers, and permit parking enforcement issues being faced by the department.
3. Monthly Educational Speaker Series – Metro Bike Share.
Transportation Planner Martha Eros introduced Eric Houston, Senior Manager of LA Metro’s Bike Share Program. He gave an overview presentation on the bike share program, including ride costs, station locations, their business program offer, perks and rewards, ride guides, informational maps, and current promotions. The Commission asked about the possibility of the Bike Share Program coming to Beverly Hills. Staff clarified that the City partnering with Metro for bike share will be an option for future consideration. The Commission also asked about e-bikes in the program and lost/missing bikes.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
4. Bike Valet Program
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter and CivicSpark Fellow Elizabeth Morris provided an overview of the bike valet program, which will be introduced at the Beverly Hills Art Show on May 21 and functions similarly to a car valet. The program will include minor repair services. The Commission asked if the program could be included at the weekly farmers’ market.
PROJECT UPDATES AND FOLLOW-UP ITEMS
5. Project Updates and Follow-Up Items
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter provided an update on several projects.
The pedestrian crossing program has adjusted their priority list of locations for crossing based on Commission feedback and will return to the Commission once designs for the highest priority locations have been prepared. Residents in the area of Clifton Le-Doux, are being asked to participate in a survey based on the traffic control demonstration held earlier this year. She also covered bike related events at the upcoming Beverly Hills Art Show and the Farmers’ Market. The Commission asked about traffic signals to notify drivers of pedestrians at the new crossing locations, the design process for the crosswalks at the sixway intersection at Beverly/Canon/Lomitas, improvements at La Cienega and Roxbury Parks, and City Council decision about crosswalk construction. Finally, the Commission inquired about the protected bike lane project at Roxbury Park.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis May 4, 2023
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Geller asked if BHUSD could be added to Metro’s GoPass bus fare program for students.
COMMUNICATION FROM STAFF
Public Works Assistant Director City Engineer Daren Grilley provided an overview of the upcoming Public Works Day event on May 21.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 4, 2023 / 10:33 AM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
May 4, 2023
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Design Review Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 4, 2023 / 1:30 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Peck, Bernstein, Vice Chair Smooke, Chair Spann Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Pressman
Staff Present: Mark Odell, Minjee Hahm, Karen Myron
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.
Speakers: None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Order of the Chair and absent objection from the Commission, the agenda was approved as presented.
Commission Specialist Karen Myron noted that the project at 333 North Rexford Drive, which had originally been noticed for this meeting, was removed from the agenda at the Applicant’s request.
Public notice of the project will be re-issued when it is scheduled to appear on a future agenda.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Design Review Commission special meeting of April 3, 2023.
Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 4, 2023
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Smooke, SECONDED by Commissioner Bernstein to adopt the minutes as presented (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Peck, Bernstein, Vice Chair Smooke, Chair Spann NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Pressman
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
NEW BUSINESS
Citing residency less than 500 feet from the subject property, Vice Chair Smooke recused from item #2 and left the meeting room at 1:34 PM.
2. 723 NORTH BEDFORD DRIVE (PL2300150)
A request for an R-1 Design Review Permit to allow the construction of a new two-story singlefamily residence with basement and porte cochere located in the Central Area of the City, north of Santa Monica Boulevard. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Project Planner: Minjee Hahm, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: Hormoz Golian (Arden Investments Inc), Property Owner Project Representative: Hamid Gabbay (Gabbay Architects), Architect Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Bernstein, SECONDED by
Commissioner Peck to adopt the resolution as amended (3-0-1-1).
AYES: Commissioners Peck, Bernstein, Chair Spann
NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Pressman
RECUSED: Vice Chair Smooke
CARRIED
Vice Chair Smooke returned to the meeting at 1:48 PM.
3. 503 NORTH ELM DRIVE (PL2300132)
A request for an R-1 Design Review Permit to allow the construction of a new two-story singlefamily residence with basement and porte cochere located in the Central Area of the City, north of Santa Monica Boulevard. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 4, 2023
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Project Planner: Minjee Hahm, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: Mr. & Mrs. John Raanan (Elm St Investment Group LLC), Property Owner
Project Representative: Charles Hefner, Architect
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Bernstein, SECONDED by Vice Chair Smooke to continue the item to the June 1, 2023 Design Review Commission regular meeting (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Peck, Bernstein, Vice Chair Smooke, Chair Spann NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Pressman
CARRIED
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Vice Chair Smooke inquired about the status of the Commissioner interview schedule. Staff advised that a meeting of the City Council Liaison/Commission Standardization Ad Hoc Committee is in the process of being scheduled; the Committee is expected to discuss the interview process for Commissioners.
• Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
o Chair Spann noted that Mayor Gold has some positive things planned for the next year; meeting video is available online
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Urban Designer Updates
o Urban Designer Mark Odell advised the Commission of the following:
• The Architectural Commission currently has three projects scheduled for review at its meeting on Wednesday, May 17.
• Several projects are in the process of review in preparation for their presentation at an upcoming Design Review Commission meeting.
4. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 4, 2023 / 2:18 PM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
455 North Rexford Drive
Room 280A
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING SYNOPSIS
Tuesday, May 09, 2023
10:00am
Recordings of the Arts and Culture Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALL TO ORDER
Date/Time: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 / 10:00 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Deborah Frank led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CIVILITY STATEMENT
Chair Liliana Filipovic read the Civility Statement.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners present: Karla Gordy Bristol, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Maralee Beck, Chair Liliana Filipovic
Commissioners absent: Pamela Beck
Staff Present: Stephanie Harris, Paul Paolone, Corrina Lesser, Brandy Scott & 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.
Chair Liliana Filipovic approved the agenda as presented.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 09, 2023
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of minutes from the Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting of April 11, 2023.
MOTION by Frank, SECONDED by Chair Filipovic to approve the minutes as presented.
AYES: Commissioners Karla Gordy Bristol, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Maralee Beck, Chair Liliana Filipovic (4/0)
NOES: None
ABSENT: Pamela Beck
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED:
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
PRESENTATIONS
2. Interim Recreation Services Manager, Paul Paolone, will provide a presentation on MADE Beverly Hills.
Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, updated the Commission on the first MADE in Beverly Hills event that took place on May 5 through May 7, 2023 at various locations throughout Beverly Hills.
- MADE stands for Modern Architecture Design Experience and over twenty events were held Citywide.
- Twenty-two different states were represented in the attendees.
NEW BUSINESS
3. Recreation Supervisor, Corrina Lesser, will provide a presentation on Make Music Day.
Corrina Lesser, Recreation Supervisor, provided a preview to the Commission on the tentative plans for Make Music Day that is scheduled for June 21, 2023. - Chair Filipovic supported the idea that many performances come from our schools of Beverly Hills.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 09, 2023
CONTINUED BUSINESS
4. Financial Update
a) Fine Art Fund Update Report
- Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, provided an update on ongoing expenditures and pending in-lieu revenue.
- A boom in construction and development in the City is helping the Fine Art Fund.
- An in-lieu cleared in April 2023 from 435 Camden Drive. - Expenditures were routine maintenance.
b) Fine Art Obligation
- Two pieces are going for inspections: 400 N. Rodeo & 136. El Camino
5. COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
PROJECT UPDATES
1. Arts and Culture Commission Updates
o BH ArtWalks – Guided Tours Summer series
- Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, provided an update on the new summer tours starting in June for four months. • Manager’s Report
o Music in the Mansion and Beverly Hills National Auditions - The festival was held April 20 – April 23, 2023. Nine different classical and chamber musicians performed in the living room of Greystone Mansion.
Next year the 30th Anniversary will be celebrated.
- The National Auditions were held April 15, 2023. Thirty-eight applicants auditioned.
o 100 Years of Independence – The Stars Who Saved Our City screening. - The Beverly Hills Historical Society’s film was screened at a number of events in April. The film can still be viewed on Beverly Hills television or on Vimeo.
o Jewish American Heritage Month
- The Month of May is Jewish American Heritage Month and a number of events are scheduled throughout the City. The first being at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market on Sunday, May 14, 2023: a Rugelach Baking contest is taking place in addition to a free concert.
o 50th Anniversary Art Show
- Being held the weekend of May 20 – 21, 2023 throughout 4 blocks in Beverly Gardens Park from 10am – 6pm. 235 artists will be featured at this show.
o Concerts on Canon Summer series
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 09, 2023
- The series will begin on Thursday, June 1, 2023, which kicks off Pride Night.
The concert series will be held in Beverly Canon Gardens from 6pm – 8pm.
The Thursday diverse series is scheduled to go through August 2023. o Beverly Hills Pride
- The City is partnering with the Music Forward Foundation’s scholarship award winning artists.
• Information only items
o CS Staffing
- Stephanie Harris, Director of Community Services, introduced Brandy Scott as the department’s new Arts & Culture Program Associate. • Event Calendar
- Reviewed.
6. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Chair’s Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting Highlights
- Vice Chair Maralee Beck represented the Commission at the Mayor’s May Cabinet meeting and provide a brief update.
b) Ad Hoc Committees
- Fine Arts/Public Art (Frank, P. Beck)
- Capital Projects (M. Beck, P. Beck – Paolone)
- Major and Annual Events (M. Beck, Filipovic – Paolone) - Performing Arts, Heritage Initiatives, Community Engagement (Gordy Bristol, Filipovic – Paolone)
- Embrace and Celebrate Culture Initiative (Frank, Gordy Bristol – Paolone)
c) Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities.
- Commissioner Gordy Bristol suggested a project to the Commission:
working with the Recreation and Parks Commission on an Art Specific Park:
MOTION by Gordy Bristol, SECONDED by Chair Filipovic to add to an upcoming agenda a discussion about a possible Love Park at one of our Beverly Hills parks involving our art installation projects.
AYES: Commissioners Karla Gordy Bristol, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Maralee Beck, Chair Liliana Filipovic (4/0)
NOES: None
ABSENT: Pamela Beck
ABSTAIN: None
PASSED:
d) Arts and Culture Commission Upcoming Meetings: Tuesday, June 13, 2023.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 09, 2023
ADJOURNMENT
• Date / Time: May 9, 2023 / 11:24 a.m.
Decisions of the Arts and Culture Commission may be appealed to the City Council within 14 days of the Arts and Culture Commission’s Action by filing a written appeal with the City Clerk. Appeal forms are available in the City Clerk’s office. Note: Appeal Fee Required.
If there are any questions about this agenda, please contact Paul Paolone, Recreation Services Manager, 310-285-6826,[email protected]
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
May 11, 2023
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 11, 2023 / 1:30 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Chair Demeter Commissioners Absent: Vice Chair Ross
Staff Present: Masa Alkire, Cindy Gordon, Didier Murillo, Karen Myron, David Snow, Cynthia Owens
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 with the consensus of the Commission, the agenda was approved as amended, hearing Item #3, 507 Foothill Road, ahead of the Overview of State Legislative Process presentation.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting of April 27, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Kaplan, SECONDED by Commissioner Wolfe to adopt the minutes as presented (4-0-1).
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 11, 2023
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Chair Demeter NOES: None
ABSENT: Vice Chair Ross
CARRIED
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
Taken out of Order
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
3. 507 FOOTHILL ROAD
Tree Removal Permit (PL2300010)
Request for a Tree Removal Permit to remove two heritage trees located within the front setback. 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: Didier Murillo, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: Xiong Generation-Skipping Trust
Project Representative: Shams Khoram
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, Ostroff, Chair Demeter NOES: None
ABSENT: Vice Chair Ross
CARRIED
Return to Order
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. OVERVIEW OF STATE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS AND 2023 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE (Cynthia Owens, Municipal Affairs Program Manager)
Public Input: Steve Mayer
Municipal Affairs Program Manager Cynthia Owens provided an overview of the State legislative process, as well as the City’s 2023 Legislative Platform. The Commission asked Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 11, 2023
questions and provided comments, but as the City Council is the sole authority for positions on legislative matters, took no action on this item.
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Chair Demeter noted that the City Clerk’s office is accepting applications through Friday, June 2 to fill the upcoming vacancy for Commissioner Ostroff’s position on the Planning Commission.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• City Planner Updates
o City Planner Masa Alkire advised the Commission of the following:
▪ The May 25 Planning Commission meeting will be cancelled. The next meeting will take place on Thursday, June 8.
▪ At its Study Session on Tuesday, May 16, the City Council will receive an update from the OpenBH Code Changes and Fees Subcommittee and discuss potential permanent standards for Open Air Dining in conjunction with the OpenBH program.
▪ Fire Service Day will take place on Saturday, May 13 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the main Fire Department Station on North Rexford Drive. The public is welcome to attend.
▪ The City will celebrate 50 years of extraordinary art at the Spring Art Show on May 20 and 21 at Beverly Gardens Park.
4. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
5. Building Permit Report – April
o Received and filed
6. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed; the May 25 meeting will be cancelled.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 11, 2023 / 3:23 PM
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
May 18, 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: May 18, 2023 / 9:00 a.m.
Chair Freeman read the Civility Statement
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Kaiserman led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Christopher Paulson, Enisha Clark, Stephanie Harris, Patty Acuna, 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. Chair Freeman approved the Agenda as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of April 20, 2023.
MOTION by Kaiserman, SECONDED by Kraushaar to approve the Meeting Minutes of April 2023 as presented. (5/0)
AYES: Commissioners Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 18, 2023
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Police Department
Lieutenant Evans, along with 2 Police Officers from the Mental Health Evaluation Team, Adam Falossi and Lowell Rose, provided an update:
- The May 7, 2023 Police Services Day was well attended by local families. - June 14, 2023 is Coffee with the Cops at Ferrarini Café, 9622 Brighton Way, from 3pm – 5pm. - National Night Out is scheduled for August 1, 2023.
- A Security Assessment for home and businesses can be scheduled through the Police Department by emailing [email protected]
- The Beverly Hills Outreach Team (BHOT) will contact the PD Mental Health Team when they feel the presence of an Officer is helpful.
Beverly Hills School District
Beverly Hills Board of Education member, Dr. Amanda Stern, provided an update on the following:
- Schools are preparing for their graduation ceremonies. - The Wellness Center for the middle school continues to look for bids for this service. - The Dude Be Nice event continues where students thank others for their kindness. - May has been Jewish American Heritage Month which has students creating several meaningful projects.
- Parent University is established at the Middle School to assist parents in providing guidance in certain behaviors.
STATUS REPORTS
2. Beverly Hills Ambassador Program
Ambassador Manager Jonathon Hunter will provide a monthly update. - Ambassador Manager Jonathon Hunter updated the Commission on three success stories highlighting the Ambassadors hospitality and safety escort services.
PRESENTATIONS
3. The Miracle Project – Take Action for Mental Health Los Angeles Representatives from The Miracle Project, a CAGF recipient, will provide a presentation about mental wellness services provided, including their role in the countywide initiative. - Elaine Hall, Founder and Artistic Director, along with Margaret Mendenhall, Grants Manager, updated the Commission on the methods developed and how the trained staff, along with volunteers, work with children with disabilities. - The Miracle Project is a fully inclusive theater, film and expressive arts program focused on building communication, self-esteem, job, and social skills for neurodiverse and/or disabled individuals – speaking and non-speaking. Through shared experiences with peers and volunteers, individuals with diverse abilities and backgrounds find their voice, develop their talents and rehearse for life.
- The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is the artistic home for The Miracle Project, an innovative performing arts program for young people with autism and all abilities.
- May 28, 2023, The Wallis and The Miracle Project Presents: The Miracle Project Takes The Cake. An interactive and improvised mystery told in two parts, performers with and without disabilities will task audience members with cracking the case of a harrowing cake heist. Show #1 at 2pm, Show #2 at 4:30pm.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 18, 2023
CONTINUED BUSINESS
4. Mental Health Awareness
Chair Freeman provided an update on the following:
a) Mindfulness Mondays
- May 1, 2023 was Mindfulness Monday’s kick-off video services on Beverly Hills Television.
b) Day of Wellness
- Chair Freeman, along with Commissioner Kraushaar, met with both the Recreation and Parks and Health & Safety Commissioners in addition to presenting to their City Council Liaisons. The City Council Liaisons approved the Day of Wellness to move forward to full City Council approval.
- The event is scheduled for Sunday, September 10, 2023 from 10am – 3pm at Roxbury Park & Community Center.
c) Chair’s Mental Health Challenge
- Chair Freeman suggested a simple challenge of checking in with one another.
5. Community Assistance Grant Funding (CAGF)
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, updated the Commission on the May 17, 2023 Liaison Meeting.
- Vice Mayor Friedman, Councilmember Bosse, in addition to Chair Freeman, Commissioner Kraushaar, Charitable Solicitations Commissioner Steven Smith and staff, met to review the 2023-2024 Community Assistant Grant Fund (CAGF). - The City Council Ad Hocs reviewed the 30 applicants’ recommended funding and supported their findings with a caveat for one applicant. - The final step is the full City Council approval scheduled for June 6, 2023.
6. Beverly Hills Homeless Initiative
a) Advocacy & Community Education Update
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, updated the Commission on the coordinated homeless outreach efforts including:
- 310-285-2468 Hotline which is answered 24/7.
- If the issue is an immediate threat or danger, dial 911. - The BHOT Team will attempt to engage the person, which can be a long process. - Enisha Clark, Human Services Outreach Manager provided an update on latest developments of the San Vicente Inside Safe Operation. Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky’s office in collaboration with LA City Mayor moved 25 people into motels. b) Launch of Community Survey on Homelessness
- Unhoused Engagement & Outreach Consultants Abby Arnold and Jennifer Swan have prepared an online survey for the community to take to assess the community’s thoughts and ideas on the issue of homelessness. The survey can be found at www.beverlyhills.org/homelessservices and will be available through June 10th, 2023. Residents, business owners, and other stakeholders are encouraged to take the survey and provide their experiences and insight. The survey will be included in the draft of the Unhoused Engagement & Outreach plan that will be presented to the Unhoused Council Liaisons for initial feedback.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 18, 2023
7. Anti-Hate Initiative
a) Update on Anti-Hate Initiative
- Commissioner Nisim provided an update on the following:
o Purpose
o Key Findings &
o Next Steps include:
- Identify community-driven solutions
- Identify opportunities to work together with neighboring communities - Create community survey
- Identify available tools to help educate the community on how and when to report hate
- Continue meetings with community leaders
- An update will be provided at the next meeting about moving forward into Phase 2. b) CA vs Hate – New Hotline
- The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) is dedicated to combatting hate incidents and hate crimes. CRD has established a non-emergency reporting hotline and portal, CA vs. Hate Resource Line and Network (CA vs. Hate) to support individuals and communities targeted for hate.
- This non-emergency hate incident and hate crime reporting hotline and online portal is available to anyone who has experienced or witnessed an act of hate. - Reports can be made online (https://stophate.calcivilrights.ca.gov/s/) at any time or by calling (833) 866-4283 or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and talking to a trained civil rights agent.
c) Critical Conversations – Jewish American Heritage Month - The Commission’s next Critical Conversations is scheduled for May 31, 2023, at 6:30pm in City Hall.
d) Beverly Hills Reads!
- Vice Chair Margo provided an update on Beverly Hills Reads! - The August 27, 2023 11am PT event will be via Zoom, Live from London with author Bonnie Garmus discussing her book Lessons in Chemistry
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
8. Administrator’s Report
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, provided updates on the following Community Services Events:
- Public Works Day at the Farmers’ Market: May 21, 2023 - Jewish American Heritage Month: includes Critical Conversations, May 31, 2023, City Hall
- 50th Anniversary – Beverly Hills Art Show: May 20 – 21, 2023, Beverly Gardens Park - Beverly Hills Pride Concert: June 1, 2023, Beverly Canon Gardens - Make Music Day Beverly Hills: June 21, 2023, Various locations Community Services Event Calendar
- Reviewed.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
9. Chair Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 18, 2023
- Mayor Gold, during the May 16, 2023 City Council Meeting, acknowledged the work provided by the Tower Cancer Research Foundation, which is one of the Commission’s Community Assistant Grant Fund recipients. b) 2023 Commission Work Plan – Revised
c) Ad Hoc Committees
d) Review Commission Meeting dates
- Reviewed.
e) Good and Welfare. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
- Stephanie Harris, Director of Community Services, announced that Christopher Paulson was appointed as Human Services Administrator.
10. Kindness Matters
- Commissioner Kaiserman acknowledged that we lost a student police explorer which has been a difficult time for the group. A former lieutenant has been checking in daily with each member providing comfort during this time of grieving.
ADJOURNMENT
May 18, 2023 at 10:24 a.m.