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
May 3, 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: May 3, 2023 / 6:03 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Baseman, Bronte, Gurman, Lindsey-Cerqueira, Miller, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Tryfman
Staff Present: Timothea Tway, 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 February 1, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Lindsey-Cerqueira, SECONDED by Commissioner Bronte to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Baseman, Bronte, Lindsey-Cerqueira, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
H-1
Rent Stabilization Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 3, 2023
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Gurman
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. 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 February 1, 2023 Rent Stabilization Commission regular meeting.
Staff Presenter: Cameron Kesinger, Senior Management Analyst Public Input: Easter Keiko Noda
The Commission received the staff report and public comment, and continued its discussion of potential recommended changes regarding surcharges.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Maden, SECONDED by Commissioner Baseman to retain the utility fee surcharge pass through language as currently provided in the Beverly Hills Municipal Code for Chapter 5 tenants, and to add the same language for Chapter 6 tenants (4-2).
AYES: Commissioners Baseman, Gurman, Vice Chair Maden, Chair Milkowski
NOES: Commissioners Bronte, Lindsey-Cerqueira
CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
3. RENT STABILIZATION PROGRAM DRAFT 2022 ANNUAL REPORT
Annual activity report detailing the Rent Stabilization Division’s activities and summary for the 2022 calendar year.
The Commission reviewed the draft report and provided comments but took no formal action on this item.
Rent Stabilization Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 3, 2023
PROJECT UPDATES
4. Rent Stabilization Division Monthly Staff Reports for January, February, and March 2023 Staff seeks to inform the Rent Stabilization Commission on the Rent Stabilization Division’s monthly activity.
o Report received and filed.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Commissioner Bronte extended good wishes for holidays in the month of May • Vice Chair Maden requested improved communication to both landlords and tenants regarding the process for allowable rent increases. Commissioners Baseman and Miller expressed related concerns regarding recent limitations on landlords’ ability to impose rental increases.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Senior Management Analyst Cameron Kesinger provided information regarding the allowable increase for both Chapter 5 and Chapter 6 tenants. Also of note - the rental registration deadline of February 13 has passed. Any landlord who has not registered this year should do so as soon as possible.
• Director of Community Development Timothea Tway advised the Commission of the following:
o The first Office Hours with Dr. Gold will take place on Tuesday, May 9 at 7:00 PM. This is a virtual format that allows members of the community to share questions and comments.
o The City will celebrate 50 years of extraordinary art at the Spring Art Show on May 20 and 21 at Beverly Gardens Park.
5. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 3, 2022 / 7:29 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
May 11, 2023
8:00 AM
.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 11, 2023 / 8:00 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Nehoray (virtual), Millan, Greer, Vice Chair Alpert, Chair Nystrom
Commissioners Absent: None.
Staff Present: Vince Damasse, Josette Descalzo, Samer Elayyan, Shana Epstein, Ilene Knebel, Tristan Malabanan, Rob Welch
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Public Speaker: None.
Public Comment: 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 Public Works Commission regular meeting of April 13, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Greer, SECONDED by Vice Chair Alpert to approve the Consent Calendar item as amended (5/0).
AYES: Commissioners Nehoray, Millan, Greer, Vice Chair Alpert, Chair Nystrom
NOES: None.
CARRIED
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 11, 2023
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Operations Reports from City Departments, Consultants and Outside Agencies None.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. Amending the Wastewater Ordinance of the City of Beverly Hills Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager Josette Descalzo gave an update on amending the wastewater ordinance. The suggested amendments would include expanding the definition of house connection sewer to include common terms lateral, sewer lateral, etc. Expanding the definition will provide a better understanding between private and City responsibility. The update also includes permit requirements for installation of liners and top hat on private lateral system, proper termination (capping) of sewer laterals, relocating sewer easements to provide sufficient access for maintenance work, and allowing certain groundwater discharges to sewer systems. Staff is recommending the commission approve the amendments to move forward to City Council for adoption. The commission asked about the definition of top hats (the plastic liner that is installed from the city sewer line to the private lateral), the limitations of pipe lining, city outreach to plumbers, and costs to homeowners for lining fees. The commission voiced concerns about the amendments possibly discouraging homeowners from installing pipe liners due to the proposed permitting costs. Instead of permitting liners, the commission recommended the ordinance to require property owners to submit a self-inspected report to the City for proper installation of liners. The discussion continued with questions about the number of incidents where a liner has blocked the sewer main. The commission is also requesting staff to clarify language relating to the industrial waste section and prohibited discharges.
NEW BUSINESS
3. Monthly Educational Speaker Series – Central Santa Monica Bay Watershed Coordinators
Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager Josette Descalzo introduced Mikaela Randolph, watershed coordinator for the Safe Clean Water Program. She gave a presentation on the program, including how its funds are generated via taxes, how the funds are allocated, and how funded projects capture and hold stormwater to increase water resources and green landscaping. She provided examples of recently approved projects, including the Burton Way project. The commission thanked her for her presentation and asked about stormwater infiltration, being compliant with water quality standards, and public education options. The commission also asked if the program had a means to handle bacteria contamination in the bay.
The commission took a break at 9:30 AM
The commission returned from break at 9:37 AM
PROJECT UPDATES & STATUS ITEMS
4. La Brea Subarea Update
Utilities General Manager Rob Welch gave an update on the ribbon cutting for the start of operations for LCW-1 and said that the department is working with Community Services on proposed well locations. Water Resources Manager/Operations Vince Damasse met with Division of Drinking Water (DDW) regarding the sand pit site and presented the water quality samples. They agreed that additional sampling be performed and then be discussed with the Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 11, 2023
regional board due to the sampling we are doing, gasoline related products, is not part of Title 22 (the drinking water standard). Sampling will commence one feedback is received from the DDW. Project Manager Tristan Malabanan provided an update on the sand pit. LCW-1’s final parts have been installed and the Purchase Order will be closed out. Future well building sites have been discussed with Community Services staff. Construction site layout will be developed and reviewed. The commission asked about communications with Cal-Trans, having a backup or using alternative laboratories due to continuing issues with the lab located closest to the city, and concern over the potential well site at Fenton Field.
5. Quarterly Water Treatment Plant Update
Water Resources Manager/Operations Vince Damasse gave a presentation on the water treatment plant, explaining the treatment process, and presented raw water quality data for each well in the city and finished water quality (the water that goes from the treatment plant and to homes). So far, the water treatment plant has been successfully treating raw water.
LCW-1’s opening has led to the highest production rate in recent months for the water treatment plant. The plant is anticipating a planned shutdown for replacement and retrofitting of water feed equipment. The commission asked about resident demands for water in April, and how much water the well can produce. It was also noted that the city should move to using the La Brea basin and away from the Hollywood basin for water resources.
6. Water Efficiency Update
The commission asked about Lake Mead’s water levels. Utilities General Manager Rob Welch explained it could take several years of repetitive winter 2023 rainfall levels to bring back Lake Mead to the water level it was at 20 years ago. The Commission expressed water conservation needs to continue even with the recent rainfall and discussed the percentage of allocation we receive. Vice Chair Alpert suggested a future presentation on the Oroville/tunnel project to familiarize the new commissioners with the project and emphasized the city should support efforts to maximize rainwater capture and storage.
7. Capital Projects Update
Engineering Services Manager Samer Elayyan provided an update on several projects, including the Coldwater Cañon Water Main replacement project and the Burton Way Median project. The Commission inquired about the water collection at Burton Way and funding at the La Brea Subarea and Transmission Main and suggested further itemization of the numbers for clarity.
8. Specific Information and Department Updates
Chair Nystrom asked when the CAAP plan would be brought back to the commission. Director Epstein said they are working with the City Council liaisons on how to best present it to the varying commissions.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
9. Chair’s Report
Vice Chair Alpert provided an update from the most recent cabinet meeting with Mayor Gold.
Chair Nystrom inquired about why the prohibition of single use plastic and styrofoam ordinance is going back to public outreach. Director of Public Works Shana Epstein said it was recommended by the City Manager to increase public awareness to avoid complaints.
There was also concern voiced about getting Liaison Meetings scheduled.
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 11, 2023
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
10. Director’s Report
Director of Public Works Shana Epstein provided an update on both the Arbor Day event and the ribbon cutting for LCW-1 and thanked the commission for their support. Public Works Day will be held on May 21 with big trucks on display at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market. Lastly, budget meetings are scheduled with the City Council in June. In addition, the Commission’s input on the City Council Priorities was shared. The Council accepted and requested that all of the sustainability issues are merged into one priority and discussed together.
ADJOURNMENT
Date/Time: May 11, 2023 / 10:46 AM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
ARCHITECTURAL COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
May 17, 2023
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Architectural Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 17, 2023 / 1:30 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Pynoos, Meyer, Matson, Vice Chair Devlin, Chair Schreiber
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Mark Odell, Christine Delostrinos, 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.
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 Architectural Commission regular meeting of April 19, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Meyer, SECONDED by Vice Chair Devlin to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Meyer, Matson, Vice Chair Devlin, Chair Schreiber
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 17, 2023
NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
Commissioner Meyer advised that he has a financial interest in real property located less than 500 feet from the projects at 423 North Beverly Drive and 464 North Beverly Drive. As such, he recused from both items and left the meeting room at 1:34 PM.
NEW BUSINESS
2. 423 NORTH BEVERLY DRIVE
Veronica Beard (PL2300205)
Request for approval of an architectural review for façade modifications and a Sign Accommodation to allow multiple Business Identification Signs, including signage facing private property. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Project Planner: Christine Delostrinos, Associate Planner Project Applicant: Veronica Beard
Project Representative: Christine Fiorella, Kenneth Park Architects Jack Fovell – Southwest Sign Company
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Devlin, SECONDED by Commissioner Matson to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Matson, Vice Chair Devlin, Chair Schreiber
NOES: None
RECUSED: Commissioner Meyer
CARRIED
3. 464 NORTH BEVERLY DRIVE
Faraday Future (PL2300204)
Request for approval of an architectural review for façade modifications, a Sign Accommodation for multiple Business Identification Signs, including a projecting sign, and a construction barricade with lifestyle graphics. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 17, 2023
Project Planner: Christine Delostrinos, Associate Planner Project Applicant: Bryan Shawley, Faraday Future
Project Representative: John Warner, Permit Advisors
Anthony Perez, Matt Stratton
Jack Fovell – Southwest Sign Company
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Matson, SECONDED by Chair Schreiber to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Matson, Vice Chair Devlin, Chair Schreiber
NOES: None
RECUSED: Commissioner Meyer
CARRIED
Commissioner Meyer returned to the meeting at 2:50 PM.
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
o Chair Schreiber provided an update from the Mayor’s Cabinet meeting. Meeting video is available online.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Urban Designer Updates
o Urban Designer Mark Odell advised the Commission of the following:
▪ The Restaurant Subcommittee recently reviewed projects for Parakeet Café and Pop’s Bagels.
▪ The Design Review Commission is expected to review two projects at its upcoming meeting on June 1.
▪ Staff is working on scheduling meetings for the various standing subcommittees of the Cultural Heritage Commission.
o Commission Specialist Karen Myron advised that the deadline to submit applications for the upcoming vacancy on the Planning Commission is Friday, June 2 at 5:00 PM.
5. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 17, 2023 / 2:56 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 REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
Monday, May 22, 2023
4:00 p.m.
OPEN MEETING
Date/Time: May 22, 2023 / 4:03 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Chang led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Baker, Chang, and Rosenthal (arrived at 4:12pm), Vice Chair Felsenthal, Chair Hilborne
Commissioners Absent:
Staff Present: Senior Policy and Management Administrator Gabriella Yap, Deputy Fire Chief Alfred Poirier, Fire Battalion Chief David Perusse, Fire Engineer Victor Gutierrez, Police Lieutenant Reginald Evans, Fire Administrator Michael Liongson, 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.
Austin Shaheri submitted a written public comment.
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 amended to defer item #2 Moment of Mindfulness to the June 26, 2023, Health and Safety Commission meeting.
Health and Safety Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 22, 2023
2 CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of minutes from the special Health and Safety Commission meeting on April 24, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Chang, SECONDED by Vice Chair Felsenthal to approve the minutes as presented (4-0).
AYES: Commissioners Baker and Chang, Vice Chair Felsenthal, Chair Hilborne ABSENT: Commissioner Rosenthal
NOES: None
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
• Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) – Beverly Hills Unified School District representative Rachelle Marcus spoke about various end of year activities and events.
She introduced Drew Steward, the new Beverly Hills High School Principal. He spoke on securing the health and safety of the students and enhancing a learning environment. • Beverly Hills Fire Department – C-Shift Battalion Chief David Perusse spoke on incidents and response metrics. He presented the department’s month-to-month comparable metrics between April 2022 and April 2023 on several categories. No red flag warnings or strike team activations.
• Beverly Hills Police Department– Lieutenant Reginald Evans provided an update on Police Department metrics, statistics, and activities. He presented the department’s month-tomonth comparable metrics on various categories between March 2023 and April 2023. He spoke on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design to prevent crime.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. Moment of Mindfulness
Vice Chair Erica Felsenthal, PhD, will lead the Commission in a Moment of Mindfulness.
This item was postponed to the June 26, 2023 meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
3. Stroke Awareness and Education
An informative presentation about symptoms and causes of stroke and other relevant important information the public should know, in honor of Stroke Awareness Month.
Dr. May Kim-Tenser, MD, MHA, FAHA, presented to the Commission in honor of Stroke Awareness month. She shared key information and statistics on the topic. Emergency tips included the acronym F.A.S.T.
- Face – ask the person to smile and check if one side of the face drops. - Arms – ask the person to raise both arms to check if one arm drifts downward.
Health and Safety Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 22, 2023
3 - Speech – ask the person to repeat a simple phrase to check for slurred or strange speech.
- Time – if you observe any of these signs, call 9-11 immediately.
Les Bronte submitted a public comment.
4. Beverly Hills CPR Emergency Programs and Lifesaving Narcan Information about automated external defibrillators at Beverly Hills community centers and administering Narcan in an emergency.
Les Bronte, Administrative Coordinator of the Beverly Hills (BH) CPR Program, spoke on various emergency preparedness programs. He also highlighted that BH-CPR is averaging about 500 students per month and highlighted other important programs such as, Stop the Bleed and using tourniquets as blood stoppers, including Meals on Wheels to supply food for those who are homebound due to illness, age, or other health reasons.
Members can purchase fire extinguishers from Beverly Hills CPR for $30.00 by calling (310) 281-2753, which supports one of Chair Hilborne’s initiatives as Chairperson for the 2023 calendar year.
5. Bolstering Mental Wellness and Resiliency
An informative presentation on ways to bolster mental wellness and become more resilient by Health and Safety Commissioner and Clinical Neuropsychologist Erica Felsenthal, PhD.
Vice Chair Felsenthal spoke on the effects of stress on the body and led a mind body exercise. Chronic stress leads to increased cortisol production in the brain, which can kill brain cells; even minor daily stresses can lead to inflammation, poor health, and disease.
Ways to manage stress include physical exercise, healthy diet, creating a gratitude practice, as well as replacing unhealthy, irrational, and distorted thought and attitudes with more healthy ways of thinking.
PROJECT UPDATES
None.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Chair’s Report
- Chair Hilborne attended the April 10, 2023 Mayor’s Cabinet meeting.
Highlights to the meeting were included in the packet for Commissioners to read.
• Commissioner Items
- Commissioner Baker shared safety tips and ways to minimize mosquitoes.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Director’s Report
- Staff shared information on upcoming events.
Health and Safety Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 22, 2023
4 • Health and Safety Related Supplemental Information:
1. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Newsletter May 2023
2. Safely Using Hand Sanitizer
3. Beverly Hills Fire Department Presents: Hoarding Awareness & Fire Risks
4. Bipolar Disorder
5. Blood Safety and Availability
6. Pedestrian Safety
7. West Nile Virus Advisory
8. Mosquitoes and other Insects & Vectors
9. Public Health Advisory Los Angeles County West Vector Control District - Health and safety related supplemental information was included in the packet for Commissioners to read.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 22, 2023 / 6:13 p.m.
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Room 280A
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
Thursday, June 1, 2023
9:00 AM
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: June 1, 2023 / 9:00 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz,
Commissioners Absent: Chair Shalowitz
Staff Present: Jessie Holzer Carpenter, Sergeant Dale Drummond, Martha Eros, Cindy Gordon, Daren Grilley, 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.
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 May 4, 2023
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ignarro, SECONDED by Commissioner Afra-Maghen to approve the consent calendar items as presented (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz NOES: None
CARRIED
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis June 1, 2023
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Police Department Report
Sergeant Dale Drummond presented information regarding National Bicycle Safety Month and the OTS (Office of Traffic Safety) enforcement related to bicycle and pedestrian safety.
He reviewed the citations and noted the most common violations were cell phone use, speed, distracted driving, stop sign and unsafe turning movements.
Lead TCO (Traffic Control Officer) Jeff Grijalva answered questions regarding the permit parking procedures and website. He relayed the Traffic Office’s phone number, 310.285.2500 for questions regarding exemptions and setting up accounts.
Questions/concerns can also be directed to [email protected].
In June, there will be multiple events including:
• OTS Primary Crash Factor Enforcement Day
• Street Racing and Modified Vehicle Enforcement Training Course • Monthly Maximum Traffic and Parking Deployment Day – this is a coordinated effort to combat ongoing traffic issues in specific areas of the city.
The Commission inquired about DUI Training for officers.
3. Monthly Educational Speaker Series – City of San Luis Obispo Mobility Projects Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer-Carpenter introduced City of San Luis Obispo’s Transportation Planner/Engineer Jennifer Rice, who gave a presentation on that city’s recent bike and pedestrian improvements. These projects included lane reductions in the downtown area to provide bike lanes and bike corrals. Projects were done in collaboration of the city’s annual pavement maintenance project.
The Commission asked about any changes in retail due to less parking and increased pedestrians, the educational needs of the community when adding traffic circles and other calming devices and the durability of the green paint delineating the bike lanes.
4. Planning Quarterly Update
Principal Planner Cindy Gordon was present to answer questions on the current development projects list. The Commission asked about developers requesting increased height for their projects. Ms. Gordon explained deviations from code can be requested to provide more units under the density bonus, a state statute where if a multi-family residential development provides some amount of affordable housing, they are able to request incentives from existing development standards. Height is a very standard request and most recent projects have elected to ask for this.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
5. Clifton Le-Doux Corridor Mobility Study
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer-Carpenter provided a brief background on the project including information about the Metro Grant that was received to complete the feasibility study. The project study area is the Clifton-Le Doux area corridor and the Canon block, to La Cienega. Community feedback has been gathered in a variety of ways. Senior Design Associate Ashley Harrick of Alta Planning and Design, the project consultant was introduced.
She presented the draft conceptual design, noting treatments in each block. The proposed traffic circles and curb extensions have traffic calming benefits cited in the presentation.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis June 1, 2023
Public Comment: Public comment was read into the record from Arnie Sklar and Jeff Peck.
The Commission inquired about speeding along Clifton and commented on the design plans, including wayfinding signs, and future demonstrations.
NEW BUSINESS
6. Proposed Agenda Items July – December 2023
Transportation Planner Martha Eros informed the Commission of the proposed items for the upcoming six months. The Commission inquired about the Transit Study, keeping safety in mind, i.e., distracted driving, and a possible monthly speaker with the topic of “Congestion Pricing.”
PROJECT UPDATES AND FOLLOW-UP ITEMS
7. Project Update and Follow-up Items
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer-Carpenter presented updates to the Commission including a reminder that the annual update to the Complete Streets Action Plan is posted on the City Website, the June Transportation Safety Campaign theme regarding speeding, and Metro Updates.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Geller asked about follow-up about the school bus pass program.
COMMUNICATION FROM STAFF
Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer Daren Grilley mentioned events that will be held in June that will cause traffic delays:
• June 12-18th: US Open
• June 17-18th: Father’s Day/Concours de Elegance Car Show Special mention for Senior Transportation Planner Kevin Riley, who has taken on a new position with the City of Newport Beach, California.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: June 1, 2023 / 10:48AM
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
June 8, 2023
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: June 8, 2023 / 1:32 PM
Chair Demeter participated remotely in accordance with the provisions of AB2449.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Timothea Tway, Cindy Gordon, Didier Murillo, 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 May 11, 2023.
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
June 8, 2023
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Kaplan, SECONDED by Commissioner Ostroff to adopt the minutes as presented (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Chair Demeter NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Vice Chair Ross
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. 332 SOUTH DOHENY DRIVE
Development Plan Review and Density Bonus Permit (PL2200230) A request for a Development Plan Review to construct a new five story, nine-unit multi-family residential apartment building with one affordable housing unit, 13 parking spaces, and a Density Bonus Permit to allow a 50% density bonus in addition to certain incentives/concessions and waivers from development standards. 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. Continued from the April 13, 2023 Planning Commission regular meeting
Ex Parte Communications: Commissioner Ostroff disclosed speaking with one of the neighbors regarding the project and some of the issues that the neighbor saw. Commissioner Ostroff advised he remains open-minded on the project.
Project Planner: Didier Murillo, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: 332 Doheny Group LLC
Project Representative: Daniel Ahadian
Public Input: Kevin Hatanian, Lisa Bonnell, Pouya Ghasri, Joe Plonsky, Alexandra Fleder, Ron Bieber, Pedram Youabian and Yafa
Saeedian, Irv Smetana – Doheny Arms, Mousa Hatanian, Soheila Akhlaghy, Anonymous neighbor, Mark Elliot, Ramin Zar, Janelle (no last name provided)
The Commission took a recess at 4:05 PM
The Commission reconvened at 4:26 PM.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Ross, SECONDED by Commissioner Kaplan to adopt the resolution as amended (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter
NOES: None
CARRIED
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
June 8, 2023
3. 9800 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD AND 121 SPALDING DRIVE (SPRING PLACE) Development Plan Review (PL2200044)
Remand and further review of a conditionally approved Development Plan Review that regulates the rooftop uses for Spring Place, a co-working office and private membership club that operates within the offices and on the rooftop of the commercial buildings located at 9800 Wilshire Boulevard and 121 Spalding Drive. 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. (Judy Gutierrez, Senior Planner) Continued from the April 27, 2023 Planning Commission regular meeting.
Due to time constraints, this item was not discussed and was continued to the June 22 Planning Commission meeting.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ostroff, SECONDED by Commissioner Wolfe to continue the item to the June 22, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Kaplan, Ostroff, Vice Chair Ross, Chair Demeter
NOES: None
CARRIED
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
None
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• The Commission thanked Director of Community Development Timothea Tway for her years of service to the City.
• Commissioner Wolfe commented on a recent personal experience at the Development Services public counter and noted that staff was professional and efficient. • Chair Demeter appointed an Ad Hoc Committee comprised of Commissioner Ostroff and herself to work with staff and the City’s consultant to continue seeking the State’s certification of the City’s Housing Element.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• City Planner Updates
o Director of Community Development Timothea Tway advised the Commission that applications for Team Beverly Hills are being accepted through Friday, July 14.
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
June 8, 2023
o Director Tway also reflected on her 10+ years of working with the Planning Commission.
4. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
5. Building Permit Report – May
o Received and filed
6. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed; Vice Chair Ross will likely not be present for both meetings in July
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: June 8, 2023 / 5:25 PM