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, September 26, 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: September 26, 2023 / 2:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Richard Rubins led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chair Lurie read the Civility Statement.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Dzubak, Termeie, Vice Chair Sherry, Chair Lurie Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Stephanie Harris, Matthew Brown, Adrine Ovasapyan, Joana Torres, Christopher Paulson and Ilene Knebel
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 Lurie approved the Agenda as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of Minutes from the Recreation and Parks Commission Special Meeting from 06/27/2023.
2. Consideration of Minutes from the Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting from 08/22/2023.
MOTION by Vice Chair Sherry, SECONDED by JR Dzubak to approve the Consent Calendar of both the June and August, 2023 Meeting Minutes as presented. (4/0) AYES: Dzubak, Termeie, Vice Chair Sherry, Chair Lurie
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis September 26, 2023
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
3. Beverly Hills Unified School District
Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) members Mary Wells and Judy Manouchehri updated the Commission on programs and activities being held at the schools:
- Schools have successfully opened with their Welcome Back events along with Parent events.
- AYSO opened with a soccer festival at the parks to kick off the season. - All student sports are proceeding: cheer leading, wresting, water polo, girls tennis, volleyball and flag football.
- We continue with our JPA Meetings which are moving across smoothly. - The school community participated in the City’s Next Night event that was held Saturday, September 23, 2023.
PRESENTATIONS
4. Day of Wellness Update
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, will provide an update on the Day of Wellness.
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, updated the Commission on the successful first Day of Wellness event held on Sunday, September 10, 2023 at Roxbury Park and Community Center.
- This event was coordinated by three Commission: The Human Relations Commission, Health & Safety Commission and the Recreation and Parks Commission.
- The event had a variety of 40 outdoor Informational Booths on Wellness such as selfhelp authors, Beverly Hills CPR, Beverly Hills Active Adult Club, Bulldog Aid and NormanAid.
- There were additionally Indoor Sessions which included physical activities such as Music Mends Minds, sound baths, yoga and Pilates, in addition to lectures.
5. Senior Health Fair Update
Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, will provide an update on the Senior Health Fair.
Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, provided an update on the yearly Senior Health Fair that returned after 2019, that was held on Monday, September 18, 2023 at Roxbury Community Center.
- This event differs from the Day of Wellness as it is specifically designed for seniors focusing on medical health and senior wellness.
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center partners with the City and provides mobile flu shot clinics, Covid vaccines in addition to screenings such as blood pressure and nutrition assessment.
6. Holidays at Greystone
Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, will provide information on this year’s Holiday at Greystone event.
Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, updated the Commission on the events planned for the Holiday at Greystone event:
- The event is scheduled for Saturday & Sunday, December 2nd & 3rd, 2023.
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis September 26, 2023
- Some of the prior events will continue such as the Craft Village, Bob Baker Marionettes, Storytime, Visit with Santa & Mrs. Clause, Carolers & Photo Ops.
7. Summer Camp Recap
Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, will provide a recap of Summer Camp Programming 2023.
Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, updated the Commission on the Summer Camp Programming:
- Over 20 different camps were offered this summer with locations at the various City Parks.
- The City-Operated Traditional Camps include: Camp Beverly Hills, Catskills West, BHPD Jr. Police Academy and BHFD Fire Academy.
- Specialty Camp Offerings include: Science, Engineering, Cheer, Magic Camp and Animal Encounters.
- Vendors include: Destination Science, Professor Egghead, Brit West Soccer & Bizzy Kids.
- Summer camps served 3,158 campers this summer.
- Chair Lurie suggested researching music camps.
NEW BUSINESS
8. Dog Park Update
Recreation and Parks Commission will discuss the Beverly Hills Community Dog Park.
Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, provided an update on the Beverly Hills Community Dog Park.
- Commissioner Termeie provided information on the ground covering, turf, that is used in West Hollywood’s Dog Park.
- Stephanie Harris, Director of Community Services, updated the Commission on the Dog Park project and the research on the types of turf that was available during 2015.
The DG, decomposed granite, surface was the best option at the time. - Staff will return with the dog park usage numbers.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None.
STATUS REPORTS
9. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
PROJECT UPDATES
• Manager updates
• Recreation & Parks Commission Priorities
• Community Services Events
1. JPA Update: October 3, 2023 to City Council
2. Youth Enrichment classes have begun
3. TAC After School has started and members have attended two events already
4. AYSO kickoff was August 28, 2023
5. Senior Halloween Dance, October 30, 2023
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis September 26, 2023
• Community Services Events Calendar
- Reviewed
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
10. Chair Report
a. Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- Meeting Minutes
b. Ad Hoc Committees
c. Recreation and Parks Commission Upcoming Meetings
- Review calendar and attendance
- Staff and Chair Lurie suggested the Commission review the November and December meeting days as they fall close to the holidays and vacations. d. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
- Chair Lurie thanked and congratulated staff on the events that were planned for this month.
- Chair Lurie additionally mentioned that the Roxbury attendees would enjoy a day of dance.
NEXT MEETING: October 24, 2023
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: September 26, 2023 / 3:57 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, October 5, 2023
9:00 AM
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: October 5, 2023 / 9:02 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz, Chair Shalowitz
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Martha Eros, Daren Grilley, Jessie Holzer Carpenter, Ilene Knebel, Christian Vasquez
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.
There was no public comment on non-agenda items.
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 August 3, 2023
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ignarro, SECONDED by Commissioner Geller to approve the consent calendar item as presented (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Chair Shalowitz Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis October 5, 2023
ABSTAIN: Vice Chair Schwartz.
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Police Department Report
Sergeant Dale Drummond gave an update on the Traffic Division’s activities in September, including a DUI checkpoint and the Next Night community event. He also gave tips on safe driving during Halloween. The Commission asked Sergeant Drummond about the shaving cream/silly string/hair removal product 24-hour ban for people under the age 21 on Halloween, the definition of “unsafe turning movement” (dangerous left or right turns), and about the increase in red light photo citations. The Commission also expressed concern about pedestrians not looking both ways before entering crosswalks.
3. Monthly Educational Speaker Series - Los Angeles Universal Basic Mobility Pilot Program
Transportation Planner Christian Vasquez introduced Shirin Sadrpour, Environment Affairs Officer at the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT). She gave a presentation on the department’s universal basic mobility (UBM) pilot program, which is designed to provide everyone who uses it guaranteed quality transportation and ease of access, no matter who they are or what economic class they are. The program includes transportation subsidies in the forms of prepaid debit cards, an e-bike library, a BlueLA Car Share expansion, and electric on-demand shuttles, among others. The Commission thanked her for her presentation and asked about how the program works with LADOT, the qualifications for residents to participate in the program.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
4. Roxbury Protected Bike Lane Transition Options
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter gave an overview on options to transition the protected bike lane on Roxbury from a pilot program to a permanent feature. A majority of residents who took the distributed survey support adding the lanes as a permanent feature.
Staff is asking the Commission for their recommendation on which option. The Commission asked about any possible accidents caused by bicycles, whether delivery trucks were allowed to park in the middle of the road, the back-in parking configuration option, and the option of adding speed bumps to slow down traffic in the street. The Commission recommended only keeping the bike lanes if they can be moved towards the park and away from the street alongside other alterations to improve safety.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from Jake Aftergood, Barbara Bernstein, Mark Elliot, Armen Eskijian, Chris Eskijian, David Gingold, Janet Goldblatt, Beverly Goldner, Lori Goldman, Ken Goldman, James Goldrich, Sybil Goldrich, David Gordon, Sandy and Jerry Jolton, Karen Pasccrella, Emily Rothstein, Philip Gomperts and John.
Public Comment: Public comment was read into the record from Alan Block and Thomas White.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis October 5, 2023
The commission took a break at 11:15 AM.
The commission returned from the break at 11:24 AM.
5. Clifton-Le Doux Corridor Mobility Study
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter gave an update on the Clifton-Le Doux mobility study, including a draft conceptual design for the traffic calming devices as part of a six-month installation demonstration program.
Motion: MOVED by Chair Shalowitz, SECONDED by Commissioner Geller to present the demonstration program to City Council for their approval (5/0).
AYES: Commissioners Geller, Afra-Maghen, Ignarro, Vice Chair Schwartz, Chair Shalowitz
NOES: None.
CARRIED
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from Mark Elliot.
Public Comment: Public comment was read into the record from Matthew Wunderlich and Bernie Kamine.
6. Project Updates and Follow-Up Items
Transportation Planning Analyst Christian Vasquez presented updates on various projects by the transportation team, including safety awareness.
7. Legislative Updates
City Engineer Daren Grilley gave an update on legislative bills in the California State House. The Commission asked about the status update for AB 73.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
Vice Chair Schwartz commented on October being “Transportation Month.” She reported on the drop off and pick up experience at Beverly Hills High School and gave her suggestions for increased safety.
COMMUNICATION FROM STAFF
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: October 5, 2023 / 11:39 AM
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, October 10, 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, October 10, 2023 / 10:03 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Avi Stieglitz led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Commission and Staff took a minute of silence for the victims of Israel.
CIVILITY STATEMENT
Chair Maralee Beck read the Civility Statement.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners present: Pamela Beck, participating from Zoom, Liliana Filipovic, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol, Chair Maralee Beck
Commissioners absent: None
Staff Present: Patty Acuña, Paul Paolone, Corrina Lesser, Brandy Scott, 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 Maralee Beck approved the agenda as presented.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 10, 2023
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of minutes from the Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting of August 8, 2023.
Vice Chair Gordy Bristol requested additional notes be added to the August 8, 2023 Meeting Minutes. Recording Secretary will make those additions and the updated Minutes will return in the November 2023 packet for approval.
MOTION by Chair Maralee Beck, SECONDED by Commissioner Frank to accept the meeting minutes pending correction.
AYES: Commissioners Pamela Beck, Liliana Filipovic, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol, Chair Maralee Beck (5/0)
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED:
NEW BUSINESS
2. Interim Recreation Services Manager, Paul Paolone, will present on a sculpture relocation at 9229 Wilshire Boulevard.
Interim Recreation Services Manager, Paul Paolone, along with, Avi Stieglitz, representative of the property owner, updated the Commission on the river rocks piece titled Cantamar by Woods Davy which is located at 9229 Wilshire Boulevard.
Owners of the property are seeking to re-develop the land into a mixed-use property with commercial at grade level and residential above. Upon completion of the project, the proposed new location for the piece would be at the northwest corner of the property, within a newly landscaped area adjacent to Maple Drive. - Vice Chair Gordy Bristol asked about the landscaping around the art piece.
A professional landscaping company will be designing and maintaining the area. - Chair Maralee Beck inquired about the signage. Paul Paolone confirmed there is a plaque at the location and will be relocated along with the art piece. - Once this project is approved by Planning, is when the valuation of this project will be accessed.
- Staff confirmed this sculpture is included in the Commission’s Art Walk Map in addition to the virtual art tour.
MOTION by Commissioner Frank, SECONDED by Commissioner Filipovic to approve the relocation of the art piece.
AYES: Commissioners Pamela Beck, Liliana Filipovic, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol, Chair Maralee Beck (5/0)
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PASSED:
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 10, 2023
CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. Recreation Supervisor, Corrina Lesser, will present a preliminary discussion regarding the direction for Festival BH in 2024.
Recreation Supervisor, Corrina Lesser, lead a discussion with the Commission regarding the second annual Festival BH in 2024.
- The inaugural Festival BH was held on Sunday, March 12, 2023 and held at the Farmers’ Market and featured more than a dozen cultural performances and activities.
- The Commission, along with staff, discussed possible dates, locations in addition to partnering with other events.
- The Commission requested all variations of performing & literary arts, music, dance, costumes/fashion and culinary be included in the Festival. - Chair Maralee Beck emphasized that calendar is key; starting with a date that is clear of other events is most important.
- This event will be assigned to the ad hoc of Performing Arts and Annual Events (Gordy Bristol, Filipovic – Lesser) who will return with an outline.
4. Arts and Culture Program Associate, Brandy Scott, will report on a new potential location for the suggested installation of Trinity by Judy Chicago.
Arts and Culture Program Associate, Brandy Scott, provided an update:
- Staff was informed that Artist Judy Chicago no longer approves Beverly Gardens Park as an installation site and has since proposed a new location for installation.
The northwest corner of Little Santa Monica Boulevard and Crescent Drive has been proposed , the piece is being proposed to be showcased adjacent to the Wallis Annenberg, the former site of the temporary installation Coups de Pinceau by Roy Lichenstein in 2013.
- Staff is currently working with City Engineers to have renderings presented at the November 14,
, 2023 Arts and Culture Commission Meeting for approval. With the support of the Arts and Culture Commission, the proposed site will be brought to the City Council Liaisons for approval and then brought before City Council for final approval.
5. 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 as of September 30, 2023.
- An in-lieu payment was collected during the past two months for 409 N.
Beverly Drive.
- A payment was made to The Big New for the refabrication of Kusama in addition to regular maintenance on art pieces throughout the City especially prior to the Art Show.
- This maintenance does not include the art pieces on Burton Way at this time.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 10, 2023
b. Fine Art Obligation
- No Update.
6. COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
PROJECT UPDATES
1. Arts and Culture Commission Updates
• Artwalk Guided Tour recap
Arts and Culture Program Associate, Brandy Scott, updated the Commission on the upcoming ArtWalks, which will revert back to the original art walk route through Beverly Gardens Park. The free docent led tours are November 5 and December 10th at 11am. Registration is requested at beverlyhills.org/artwalk
• Manager’s Report
• RLA Restoration of artwork in Beverly Gardens Park
- RLA reviewed the art pieces in Beverly Gardens Park and noticed some cracks in the Hunter and Hound sculpture. This will be a quick repair. - Due to the elements, a deep clean, along with a gel coating, will be done on the stainless-steel art pieces: Friedman, Paine, Plensa and Ringo, to enhance their life.
• Kusama Installation update
- Patty Acuna, Assistant Director of Community Services, informed the Commission that the Kusama piece is at the painting stage, using Kusama’s specifications.
• Art Show 50th Anniversary - October 21 & 22, 2023 update - Live musicians will be returning to the Wine & Beer Garden in addition to an enhanced Children’s Area. Sunday morning is the Artist’s Reception. - 230+ artists are participating, from 9 different states. 70 first-time artists will be showcasing at this Art Show.
• Inside the Mansion recap
- The most recent Inside the Mansion was held on Sunday, October 1, 2023. 400+ made their way through the Mansion’s first floor. - The next opportunity is scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023.
Attendees register at beverlyhills.org/Greystone and there is a small fee. - Due to the Greystone Holiday event, there won’t be a December Inside the Mansion scheduled.
• Greystone Great Outdoors recap
- Saturday, September 23, 2023 was the Greystone Great Outdoors event. This event is an anniversary celebrating the purchase of the property in addition to its dedication as a registered landmark. - 500+ patrons visited and participated in the events held on the grounds. • Greystone in the Movies There Will Be Blood screening recap - Sara Scrimshaw, Venue Coordinator, is coordinating a series of movies, that have a historical tie to the Greystone Mansion, for viewing in the newly remodeled Greystone Theatre.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 10, 2023
- This screening included a tour of the bowling alley was that used in the film.
• 400th Anniversary of Shakespeare Folio in Greystone Theatre recap - Director Louis Fantasia worked with the City on this event. - October 7, 2023 the play Hamlet was read and on October 8, 2023 As You Like It was performed.
• 2023 Concerts on Canon season recap
- Staff is currently working on the 2024 Season. Any artists interested in participating can submit their information at beverlyhills.org/concertsoncanon - Vice Chair Gordy Bristol congratulated Paul and his team for the amazing Concerts on Canon series this year as it was taken to another level. • MADE in Beverly Hills update
- After meeting with the MADE Organization, at this time, it was decided they didn’t have the bandwidth to work with the City in 2024 as they will be focusing on their Palm Spring event.
• Community Services updates
- Patty Acuna, Assistant Director of Community Services, updated the Commission on staff hiring, promotions and open positions. • Information only items
• Farmers’ Market Fall Funtastic on October 29th / Dia de los Muertos update
- Corrina Lesser, Recreation Supervisor, provided more information on the annual Fall Funtastic held at the Farmers’ Market from 8am to 1pm.
- There will be a pumpkin carving contest from your pre-carved pumpkins, face painting, carnival games and a petting zoo. - The Arts & Culture division will be presenting their first Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead celebration.
- A visual artist will be setting up an alter in the Beverly Hills Public Library along with an interactive exhibition called Mailbox to Heaven which is an opportunity to write a letter to a departed loved one. This installation will be installed on October 19, 2023 and will be up through Day of the Dead, November 2, 2023.
- Following the Farmers’ Market at 1pm, the movie Coco will be screened at the Beverly Hills Public Library.
• Event Calendar
- Reviewed.
7. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Chair’s Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting Highlights
- Chair Maralee Beck informed the Commission that last night’s meeting was postponed due to a rally that was scheduled. - Vice Chair Gordy Bristol provided highlights from her attendance at the September 2023 Mayor’s Cabinet meeting.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 10, 2023
b) Ad Hoc Committees
- Fine Arts/Public Art (Frank, P. Beck - Scott)
- Heritage Initiative (M. Beck, D. Frank – Paolone)
- Performing Arts and Annual Events (Gordy Bristol, Filipovic – Lesser) - Embrace and Celebrate Culture Initiative (M. Beck, Gordy Bristol – Paolone)
- Chair Maralee Beck requested re-working and re-aligning the Commission’s ad hocs. Each ad hoc would take one of the major priorities from the Work Plan.
- Fine Art/Public Art will remain working on Judy Chicago and providing outreach to the art galleries and dealers for future acquisitions. Additionally shepherding the monthly ArtWalks with docents.
- Performing Arts and Annual Events will remain to work on Festival Beverly Hills and will incorporate other performing arts events such as Make Music Day and Music in the Mansion.
- Heritage Initiative was created for the Commission’s two newer concepts: Visitor’s Kiosk and Art Portal to position and interface with both the visiting public and the residents as Beverly Hills gets ready to welcome both the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. - Embrace & Celebrate Culture, which is a collaboration with other Commissions, it was suggested that should be the Chair and Vice Chair with those positions changing annually. This would include working with the Wallis on Little Amal.
- Paul Palone will schedule an ad hoc meeting for the Heritage Initiative to define the needed stakeholders and goals. c) Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities.
- Chair Maralee Beck reminded the Commission that Friday, November 3, 2023 will be when the Wallis will be hosting Little Amal. Paul Palone will check with the Wallis to work along with them.
- Chair Maralee Beck informed the Commission that on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, 7pm, at the Los Angeles Central Library, Rosa Lowinger presents Dwell Time: A Memoir of Art, Exile, and Repair with Carolina A. Miranda. Rosa Lowinger is the head of RLA associates who oversees our Fine Art Collection.
- Vice Chair Gordy Bristol requested adding the Arts & Culture website to the Agenda.
d) Arts and Culture Commission Upcoming Meetings: Tuesday, November 14, 2023.
ADJOURNMENT
• Date / Time: October 10, 2023 / 12:11 p.m.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 10, 2023
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, Interim 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
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING SYNOPSIS
October 19, 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: October 19, 2023 / 9:00 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Pam Kraushaar led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chair Freeman read the Civility Statement
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Nisim, Vice Chair Margo, Chair Freeman Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Christopher Paulson, Enisha Clark, Patty Acuna, Stephanie Harris, 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 moved Tab #8 up over Priority Agencies.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 21, 2023.
MOTION by Kraushaar, SECONDED by Nisim to approve the Meeting Minutes of September 21, 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
October 19, 2023
8. Anti-Hate Initiative
Commissioner Nisim read a statement thanking the Mayor and City Council for introducing a Resolution standing in strong solidarity with Israel which passed at the October 17, 2023 City Council meeting.
a. Update on Anti-Hate Initiative
Commissioner Nisim updated the Commission on their conversation the ad hoc had with the State’s Commission on Hate. At some point, they will be sharing the analytics they have gathered from various cities throughout California on the State of Hate. b. Oct. 2 was World Day of Bullying Prevention
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, informed the Commission that October 2nd is recognized at World Day of Bullying Prevention. The date serves as a reminder of the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments for all individuals free from bullying and harassment.
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Police Department
Lieutenant Evans provided an update:
- Reviewed the statistics for the months of August & September 2023. - Reviewed the statistics from the Real Time Watch Center. - Tip-A-Cop was held on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at California Pizza Kitchen in Beverly Hills which was to raise funds for the Special Olympics in Southern California. - October 25, 2023, is the Citizen’s Police Academy Graduation. - October 28, 2023, between 7:15 am - 12:30pm, the free Etch and Catch on catalytic converters event is scheduled.
- October 31, 2023, celebrate Halloween safely.
- Police staffing was reviewed.
- Organized Retail Theft Taskforce, Smash & Grab, was reviewed. - Lieutenant Withers provided an update on the Drone Program.
Beverly Hills School District
Noah Margo, Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) Board President, provided an update:
- Informed the Commission that his orange shirt was for celebrating Unity Day on October 18, 2023.
- The district approved an Anti-Bullying consultant position. - This Friday is the last home football game.
STATUS REPORTS
2. Beverly Hills Ambassador Program
Ambassador Manager Jonathon Hunter will provide a monthly update.
Ambassador Manager, Jonathon Hunter, provided highlights for the month of September. - The Ambassadors had 192 interactions with the unhouse community; many were new to the area.
- Informed the Commission of a successful escort story from Ambassador Harris. - The Rodeo Drive Commission praised Ambassador Turner for the times he was called on for assistance.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 19, 2023
PRESENTATIONS
3. United Against Hate Week – November 12-18, 2023
Valentina D’Alessandro of the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations will provide a presentation regarding the LA vs. Hate campaign and how the County will be recognizing United Against Hate Week.
- Valentina D’Alessandro, Senior Human Relations Consultant, works on the LA vs Hate Team at the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations. She presented information on the LA vs Hate effort and how Los Angeles County will be recognizing United Against Hate Week.
- United Against Hate Week (November 12 - 18, 2023) is a call for seven days of local civic action by people in every community to stop the hate and implicit biases that are a dangerous threat to the safety and civility of our neighborhoods, towns, and cities. - United Against Hate was created by civic leaders in direct response to the sharp rise in expressions of hate in our communities. The goal is to empower residents to take action in their local communities and alter the course of this growing intolerance. For more information and calendar of events visit: www.unitedagainsthateweek.org/current-events
4. Beverly Hills Police Department & Department of Mental Health Clinician Officers Falossi and Rose will introduce the two Department of Mental Health Clinicians that are now partnering with the officers to form the Mental Health Evaluation Team (MHET). - On May 24, 2022, City Council authorized the City Manager to negotiate and execute a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the County of Los Angeles Department of Mental Health for two licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs). The two LCSWs will work alongside BHPD Officers Falossi and Rose, forming the City’s Mental Health Evaluation Team.
- The City welcomed the first social worker, Steven Garza, to the team in August 2023 and the second social worker, Maribel Mancillas, was added to the team in October 2023.
Lieutenant Withers provided an overview and the clinicians introduced themselves and gave an overview of their scope of work for the community. - Their goal is to provide an evaluation to determine if someone needs in-patient psychiatric care. If not, they’ll be referred to the appropriate resources within the Community. The law enforcement team’s goals are to reduce incarcerations, emergency room visits and to increase access to mental health services.
5. Beverly Hills Home Again Program
Rev. Daniel Tamm, All Saints Episcopal Church of Beverly Hills, and Kevin Conner of BHOT will provide an update on the program.
- The Home Again Program is an innovative program that supports the unhoused to reunify with their families if appropriate. Beverly Hills All Saints Episcopal Church and Step Up on Second are both CAGF partners contracted to serve our most vulnerable populations. - Enisha Clark, Human Services Outreach Manager, introduced Reverend Daniel Tamm of Beverly Hills All Saints Episcopal Church and Kevin Conner, Beverly Hills Outreach Team Lead and Assistant Program Manager with Step Up on Second, who presented their recent collaborations and successes with the Home Again Program.
NEW BUSINESS
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 19, 2023
6. Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill
At 10:19am on Thursday, October 19, 2023, millions of people will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great ShakeOut, the world's largest earthquake drill ever! The Commission will participate in the drill.
- On October 19, 2023 at 10:19 a.m., the City of Beverly Hills will join the State of California, County and City of Los Angeles, and many other stakeholders, including the Beverly Hills Unified School District, in participating in the Great California ShakeOut drill. All participants will stop what they are doing and react as if an earthquake has occurred; responding by dropping to the ground, taking cover under something sturdy, and holding on: DROP, COVER and HOLD.
- Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, reviewed with the Commission and staff how to prepare for an earthquake. Standing in a doorway is no longer the advice that is given, instead get under a surface and hold on.
- The Commission, along with staff, participated in the Great ShakeOut of 2023.
7. 2024 Kindness Week Planning
Kindness Week 2024 spans from Sunday, February 11 through Saturday, February 17.
Staff requested that Commissioners be prepared to provide suggestions for 2024 Kindness Week activities and events.
- After a robust discussion on what events were successful last year and the inclusion of new ideas, a draft of Kindness Week was agreed upon.
- An ad hoc meeting will be scheduled for the finalization of Kindness Week. Ad Hoc members are Vice Chair Margo & Commissioner Kaiserman.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
9. Mental Health Awareness
Chair Freeman shared information from the Organization for Social Media Safety’s newsletter. a) Mental Illness Awareness Week – October 1-7, 2023
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, informed the Commission Mental Health Awareness Week, which is the first week of October, October 1 – October 7, 2023. The week is to raise awareness about mental health and provide support and treatment options for mental health conditions. - Next year staff will inform the Commission of these October dates in September. b) October 10th is World Mental Health Day – World Health Organization (WHO) - The objective of World Mental Health day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. c) Chair’s Mental Health Challenge
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
10. Administrator’s Report
Embrace Civility Month & Award
- The Embrace Civility Award has been rescheduled to the November 7, 2023 City Council Meeting.
Community Services Events:
a. Beverly Hills Art Show – Saturday & Sunday, October 21 & 22, 2023. - Held in four blocks along Beverly Gardens Park
- Celebrating 50 years of the Art Show
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
October 19, 2023
b. Fall Funtastic Harvest Festival – Farmer’s Market – Sunday, October 29, 2023 - The event includes pumpkin carving and decorating contests - A Day of the Dead element will be included
c. Doggy Daze 90210 – Roxbury Park – Sunday, November 5, 2023 Community Services Event Calendar
- Reviewed
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
11. Chair Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- The September meeting was cancelled.
b) 2023 Commission Work Plan – Revised
c) Ad Hoc Committees
- None to report
d) Review Commission Meeting dates
- Reviewed
e) Good and Welfare. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities.
- Chair Freeman requested placing the Embrace Civility Election Statement on the November agenda to discuss and update to reflect the digital social media element.
Commissioners agreed to add the item to the November agenda.
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. Commissioners are encouraged to recognize a community member who has made an impact through their act(s) of kindness. - Chair Freeman wished both Commissioner Nisim and Enisha Clark a happy birthday. - Chair Freeman, as part of the Citizen’s Police Academy, acknowledged Officer Anderson, who was the officer during Chair Freeman’s ride-a-long as she was so attentive and kind. - Vice Chair Margo acknowledged the Bake Sale that was organized to raise money for three charities: Magen David Adom Israel, Hadassah Hospital Israel and United Hatzalah Israel. A shout out to organizers Hela Karel, Ellie Yadegar, Jennifer Batterson, Taylor Wolf, Lorraine Eastman and Bahare Yektafar. The bake sale was organized at the last minute and raised almost $10,000.
- Vice Chair Margo additionally gave a shout-out to Deena Lewis Rose, who is organizing a blood drive, with Cedars Sinai, for her birthday which is scheduled for October 28, 2023, 10am – 4pm.
ADJOURNMENT
October 19, 2023 at 11:06 a.m.