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, October 24, 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: October 24, 2023 / 2:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Patty Acuna led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chair Lurie read the Civility Statement.
Chair Lurie requested a moment of silence to honor the memories of all those who lost their lives, injured or are suffering following the atrocities that have taken place in Israel.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Dzubak, Termeie, Vice Chair Sherry, Chair Lurie Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Stephanie Harris, Patty Acuna, Matthew Brown, Adrine Ovasapyan, Joana Torres, Paul Paolone, 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.
Two public comments were submitted. One for Tab #3, Joint Powers Agreement and two for Tab #6, Beverly Hills Community Dog Park.
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 Regular Meeting from 09/26/2023.
MOTION by Vice Chair Sherry, SECONDED by Termeie to approve September 23, 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 October 24, 2023
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Beverly Hills Unified School District
Representatives from the Beverly Hills Unified School District were unable to attend.
PRESENTATIONS
3. Joint Powers Agreement Update
Patty Acuna, Assistant Director of Community Services, will provide an update.
Patty Acuna, Assistant Director highlighted points from the completed Joint Powers Agreement (JPA):
- Tuesday, October 3, 2023, City Council approved the 2023 -2026 Joint Powers Agreement. Community Services staff and members of the executive team of the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) began negotiations in February, 2023.
The focus of the working group was to review each section of the agreement and discuss any concerns or issues from either party as it had been outlined in the previous agreement and to look for recommendations on how to better communicate the need or rectify the issues.
Jasmine Yadgari provided a public comment.
4. Art Show Update
Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, will provide an update on the Fall Art Show.
Paul Paolone, Interim Recreation Services Manager, provided highlights of the October 2023 Art Show to the Commission:
- The Fall Art Show was held on October 21& 22, from 10am – 5pm celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Art Show.
- The Art Show was hosted by the Community Services Department’s Arts & Culture Division.
- There were 235 artists in attendance which included 11 mediums. - The event included: Children’s Arts Workshops, Selfie Spots, Beer & Wine Garden, Dining Options, Partner & Community Booths. In addition to the Artist’s Reception and Awards.
- Save the Date for the Spring Art Show: May 18 & 19, 2024.
5. Fall Fantastic at Farmers’ Market
Evan Doyle, Recreation Supervisor, will provide an update on the Farmers’ Market’s Fall Funtastic event.
Evan Doyle, Recreation Supervisor, updated the Commission on the upcoming Farmers’ Market’s Fall Funtastic event:
- Fall Funtastic will be held Sunday, October 29th, at the Beverly Hills Farmers Market from 8:00am - 1:00pm and at the Beverly Hills Library from 1:00pm - 3:00pm. - This special event combines the fall harvest celebrations, Halloween, and with the help of the Arts and Culture team, Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities. - The market will be hosting a pumpkin carving/decorating contest, and the Recreation division will be hosting a kid's craft and games area.
- Cortines High School’s Folklorico dance troupe will premiere a new Dia de los Muertos choreography on the Farmers’ Market main stage at 10:30am.
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis October 24, 2023
- The award-winning visual artist Ginette Rondeau has created two pop ups in the Beverly Hills Library: A Community altar and an interactive exhibition called the “Mailbox to Heaven.”
- The Beverly Hills library will be hosting a 1pm screening of the Disney animated feature, Coco. Gabriela Tessier from Univision will be on hand to provide a brief history of the holiday and introduce the film.
NEW BUSINESS
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
6. Dog Park Update
Joana Torres, Community Services Manager, will provide an update. - On September 26, 2023, the Recreation and Parks Commission requested a presentation on the dog park’s history and current statistics. - Joana Torres, Community Services Manager, provided an overview on the Beverly Hills Dog Park’s operations and statistics in addition to the research and decision on the park’s surface.
- Staff investigated alternate surface options that included a combination of mixed materials that would be both, aesthetically appealing and functional. - Staff is seeking the Commission’s feedback on the Beverly Hills Community Dog Park. - Recommendations for the dog park will be brought forward to the Recreation and Parks Commission City Council Liaison Committee.
Linda Kyriazi, Recording Secretary, read a public comment from Mark Elliot into the record.
Michelle Yasharpour provided a public comment.
- After a robust conversation on maintenance & costs, shade structures, park benches, registrations, different types of surface, and a requested survey from registered users, it was agreed that staff will schedule a meeting with the Recreation and Parks Commission City Council Liaison Committee.
- It was agreed that the Commission would like to view the Dog Park either by being provided access or a planned Commission visit.
7. Pickleball Pilot Program Update
Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, will provide an update. - Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, provided an update on the progress and planning process for determining the next phase of the pickleball pilot program. - Staff will begin the process of meeting to discuss the next phase of pilot program options with the Recreation and Park Commission Community Events & Recreation Programs Ad Hoc Committee. Some of the items to be reviewed are:
- Pickleball court locations at the La Cienega Tennis Center. - Pickleball court locations at the Roxbury Park Tennis courts. - Needs for noise mitigation.
- Pickleball court reservation software.
- Program rules and policies.
Process for moving through steps to Pickleball Pilot Program completion:
- Review options with Recreation and Parks Commission Ad Hoc Committee. - Present findings to Recreation and Parks Commission for review.
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis October 24, 2023
- Present recommendations to Recreation and Parks Commission City Council Liaison Committee.
- Conduct community outreach.
- Present to Recreation and Parks Commission City Council Liaison/full City Council.
Communication has started with a 3rd party vendor for Community Outreach.
Staff will be scheduling the Ad Hoc meeting with Chair Lurie and Commissioner Dzubak prior to the November Commission meeting.
STATUS REPORTS
8. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
PROJECT UPDATES
• Manager updates
• Recreation & Parks Commission Priorities
• Community Services Events
- La Cienega Water Wells
Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, provided an update. Staff continues to work with Public Works to start scheduling meetings with both the Youth & Adult Sports groups.
- Holidays at Greystone Mansion is scheduled for the weekend of December 2 & 3, 2023. Registration will be required. There will be four time slots starting at 10am until 4:30pm.
- Family Dances. A Winter Wonderland theme dance is scheduled for Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 6pm – 9pm at Greystone Mansion and Gardens. This event is for any BHUSD student 3rd to 5th grade: child plus one adult. Registration is required.
• Community Services Events Calendar
- Matthew Brown, Recreation Services Manager, highlighted a few events: BHAAC’s Halloween Dance scheduled for Monday, October 30th at 1pm at Roxbury Community Center.
- Sunday, November 5, 2023, Doggie Daze 90210 will be held at Roxbury Park from 11am – 3pm.
- Monday, November 13, 2023, is the annual Thanksgiving Luncheon at Roxbury Park Community Center from 11:30am to 1:30pm, hosted by the Beverly Hills Fire Fighters Association.
- Monday, December 11, 2023, is the Roxbury Variety Show, 1pm to 3pm at Roxbury Park Community Center.
- Monday, December 18, 2023, is the BHAAC Holiday Dance at 1pm at Roxbury Park Community Center.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
9. Chair Report
a. Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- Meeting Minutes
b. Ad Hoc Committees
- None to report
c. Recreation and Parks Commission Upcoming Meetings
Recreation and Parks Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis October 24, 2023
- Review calendar and attendance
- The Commission, along with staff, reviewed the November and December meetings. The December 2023 meeting was considered to be moved up to December 19, 2023, at 10am for a Special Meeting.
d. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities.
- Commissioner Termeie provided a statement about the tragedies of October 7, 2023.
NEXT MEETING: November 28, 2023
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: October 24, 2023 / 4:05 p.m.
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, November 14, 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, November 14, 2023 / 10:03 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Corrina Lesser, Recreation Supervisor, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CIVILITY STATEMENT
Chair Maralee Beck read the Civility Statement.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners present: Pamela Beck, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol, Chair Maralee Beck
Commissioners absent: Liliana Filipovic
Staff Present: Stephanie Harris, Patty Acuña, Paul Paolone, Corrina Lesser, Brandy Scott, and Linda Kyriazi
Commissioner Liliana Filipovic arrived at 10:07a.m.
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 Marilee Beck switched Tab #3 with Tab #4, to accommodate staff’s schedule.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 14, 2023
1. Consideration of minutes from the Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting of October 10, 2023
MOTION by Deborah Frank, SECONDED by Pamela Frank to approve the minutes as presented.
AYES: Commissioner Pamela Beck, Deborah Frank, Liliana Filipovic, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol, Chair Maralee Beck (5/0) NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED:
PRESENTATIONS
2. Interim Recreation Services Manager, Paul Paolone, will present a recap on the Fall Art Show.
Interim Recreation Services Manager, Paul Paolone, informed the Commission on the successful Fall Art Show.
- The Art Show was held October 21 & 22, 2023 celebrating the 50th Year. - There were 235 Artists with 11 mediums that covered 4 blocks of Beverly Gardens Park.
- The Beer & Wine Garden returned along with the Artist’s Reception. - Save the Date for the Spring Art Show: May 18 & 19, 2024. Applications for this show will open in a few weeks.
4. Arts and Culture Program Associate, Brandy Scott, will present a report on the Wallis Annenberg Campus as a suggested location for the installation of Trinity by Judy Chicago.
Arts and Culture Program Associate, Brandy Scott, updated the Commission on the proposed site for the installation of Trinity by Judy Chicago. - Staff was informed that Artist Judy Chicago no longer supports Beverly Gardens Park as the installation location. The artist proposed a new location for installation on the northwest corner of South Santa Monica Boulevard and Crescent Drive on the Wallis Annenberg property
- With the new proposed site, the installation will require additional elements:
• Excavation of the concrete base where the previous Lichtenstein sculpture was installed.
• Re-route irrigation drip lines
• Re-configure the lighting electrical grid
• New concrete base and landscaping
- These items will exceed the original request for $150,000 for ancillary costs.
This will bring the overall acquisition and installation to a not-to-exceed cost of $650,000.
- With the support of the Arts and Culture Commission, the proposed site and increase funding will be brought to the City Council Liaisons for approval and then brought before City Council for final approval.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 14, 2023
After a discussion on the necessary needed expenses, in addition to the presented location, the following motion was made:
MOTION by Deborah Frank, SECONDED by Pamela Frank: I move that the Arts and Culture Commission approve staff and the ad hoc’s recommendation of the Wallis Annenberg Performing Arts Center as the installation site for the Judy Chicago sculpture Trinity. Additionally, we approve the allocation of an additional $100k in ancillary costs to cover the excavation and site build of the installation site. This would bring the overall not-to-exceed total to $650,000 for the acquisition and installation of Trinity by Judy Chicago.
AYES: Commissioner Pamela Beck, Deborah Frank, Chair Maralee Beck (3/0/2)
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Liliana Filipovic, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol PASSED:
CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. Recreation Supervisor, Corrina Lesser, will present a summary of the Ad Hoc discussion for Festival BH in 2024.
Recreation Supervisor, Corrina Lesser, updated the Commission on the Performing Arts and Annual Events Ad Hoc meeting that included Vice Chair Gordy Bristol and Commissioner Filipovic for Festival BH in 2024.
- Proposed festival dates and locations were reviewed for the 2nd annual festival.
A summer festival being held in July 2024 was agreed upon. - It was discussed to move the festival from the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market to Roxbury Park. This is to have a more expansive roster and to increase the footprint of the festival.
- A creative program was discussed reviewing the programs and performances. - The Festival should represent the community of Beverly Hills.
After a discussion on including the Beverly Hills High School, the summer suggested dates and parking, the following motion was made:
MOTION by Vice Chair Gordy Bristol, SECONDED by Commissioner Filipovic: I move that we move forward with planning a Festival Beverly Hills at Roxbury Park for 2024 summer months.
AYES: Commissioner Pamela Beck, Liliana Filipovic, Deborah Frank, Vice Chair Karla Gordy Bristol, Chair Maralee Beck (5/0) NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PASSED:
The event will move forward to the City Council liaisons for approval.
Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 14, 2023
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 October 31, 2023. - No in-lieu payments nor deposits were received for the month of October 2023.
- The expenditures for October 2023 were minimal basic maintenance for the art pieces along Beverly Gardens Park for the Art Show. b. Fine Art Obligation
9000 Wilshire Boulevard - Carte Blanche by Heather Day update Arts and Culture Program Associate, Brandy Scott, informed the Commission on the developer owned art Carte Blanche by Heather Day. - April 19, 2022 – Carte Blanche by Heather Day was presented at the Arts and Culture Commission Special meeting for consideration as the Fine Art Obligation installation for 9000 Wilshire Boulevard. The piece was wellreceived and approved by the Commission. - November 7, 2023 – The Fine Art/Public Art Ad Hoc Commissioners, Deborah Frank and Pamela Beck, attended a site visit to approve the installed piece matched the original proposal.
6. COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
PROJECT UPDATES
1. Arts and Culture Commission Updates
• Artwalk Guided Tour update
- The current art walks explore Beverly Gardens Park.
- The November 5, 2023 art walk was enjoyed by both registered and walkup attendees.
- The last art walk for this year is scheduled for December 10, 2023 at 11am and there are still openings to register at Beverlyhills.org/artwalk • Manager’s Report
• Inside the Mansion recap
- The final 2023 Inside the Mansion was held on November 4, 2023 as Greystone is now preparing for Holidays at Greystone scheduled for December 2 & 3, 2023. Inside the Mansion will return in January 2024. • Farmers’ Market Fall Funtastic / Dia de los Muertos recap - Recreation Supervisor, Corrina Lesser, provided a recap to the Commission on the Fall Funtastic and Dia de los Muertos event which included both the Library display and the Farmers’ Market event that was held on Sunday, October 29, 2023.
- The movie Coco was screened at the Library Auditorium. • Greystone in the Movies The Holiday on December 8 & 10 update Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 14, 2023
- Tickets will go on sale for Beverly Hills residents on November 28th and for non-residents on November 30, 2023 via beverlyhills.org/Greystone - A tour of the dining room of Greystone, where scenes were filmed, will be prior to the film screening.
• Community Services updates
- Patty Acuna, Assistant Director of Community Services, updated the Commission on the status of the open positions in the division. • Information only items
o Holidays at Greystone
- Tickets are still available for December 2 & 3, 2023. - A reminder to bring an unwrapped toy for the Spark of Love Toy Drive. o Craft Fair at Farmers’ Market with Cookie Baking Contest - This event is being held Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 8am to 1pm. - Register for the cookie baking contest at beverlyhills.org/farmersmarket - Local vendors will be displaying their unique crafts for sale. • Event Calendar
- Reviewed.
7. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Chair’s Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting Highlights
- Chair Maralee Beck informed the Commission that the November 2023 Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting was cancelled due to the City being one of the two locations in Los Angeles where an organization called Bring Them Home Now brought four speakers to City Hall to tell their firsthand reports of their experience on October 7, 2023. b) Ad Hoc Committees
- Fine Arts/Public Art (Frank, P. Beck - Scott)
- Heritage Initiative (M. Beck, D. Frank – Paolone)
- Chair Maralee Beck reported on the Heritage Initiative meeting with Commissioner Frank and staff on how to present the history of Beverly Hills to the world when the 2028 Summer Olympics comes to Los Angeles.
- Performing Arts and Annual Events (Gordy Bristol, Filipovic – Lesser) - Commissioner Filipovic noted that Festival BH was previously discussed.
- Embrace and Celebrate Culture Initiative (M. Beck, Gordy Bristol – Paolone)
c) Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities.
- Chair Maralee Beck informed the Commission about attending a Library Council event with Rosa Lowinger, who is part of RLA Associates, who curated our art collections. Her fascinating book is titled, Dwell Time: A Memoir of Art, Exile, and Repair. During her presentation, she included the City of Beverly Hills’ art piece by Tony Arts and Culture Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 14, 2023
Smith, “Playground,” that’s located in Beverly Garden Park, which had been graffitied during the demonstrations from years back. She explained how she was able to remove the graffiti and restore the piece.
- The closure of Canon Drive has been extended for another year as the construction of the Metro continues. The artist of the mural, Tomokazu Matsuyama, has agreed to extend his work for another year. - Commissioner Filipovic reminded the Commission of Thursday’s, November 16, 2023, Annual Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration from 5pm – 8pm. The event is free.
- Vice Chair Gordy Bristol suggested that a gallerist informed her of an art event she’d like to make the Commission aware of. Staff to research first.
- Vice Chair Gordy Bristol requested that the web site for Arts & Culture be placed on future agendas.
d) Arts and Culture Commission Upcoming Meetings: Tuesday, December 12, 2023.
ADJOURNMENT
• Date / Time: November 14, 2023 / 11:32 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, 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
ARCHITECTURAL COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
November 15, 2023
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Architectural Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: November 15, 2023 / 1:32 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Vice Chair Meyer, Chair Devlin
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Mark Odell, Deborah Hong, 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 October 18, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Meyer to adopt the minutes as presented (5- 0).
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 15, 2023
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Vice Chair Meyer, Chair Devlin
NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
NEW BUSINESS
Vice Chair Meyer advised that he has a financial interest in other real properties located more than 500 feet but less than 1,000 feet from the project at 9460 Wilshire Boulevard, and has considered whether the proposed project would change the Development potential; Income producing potential; Highest and best use; Character by substantially altering traffic levels, intensity of use, parking, view, privacy, noise levels, or air quality; or Market value of the real property in which he has a financial interest. Based on the nature of the proposed project, he finds that it would not change any of the stated factors, and thus will participate in the consideration of the matter.
2. 9460 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
US Bank (PL2300468)
Request for approval of an architectural review for 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: Deborah Hong, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: US Bank
Project Representative: AKC Permit, Michael Schmidt
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Schreiber, SECONDED by
Commissioner Pynoos to adopt the resolution as amended (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Chair Devlin NOES: None
CARRIED
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 15, 2023
Citing a financial interest in real property less than 300 feet from the project at 371 North Rodeo Drive, Vice Chair Meyer recused from the item and left the meeting room at 1:45 PM.
3. 371 NORTH RODEO DRIVE
David Yurman (PL2300469)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a façade remodel and a Sign Accommodation for multiple Business Identification Signs. 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: Deborah Hong, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: David Yurman
Project Representative: Watershed Partners
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Matson, SECONDED by Commissioner Schreiber to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Chair Devlin NOES: None
RECUSED: Vice Chair Meyer
CARRIED
Vice Chair Meyer returned to the meeting at 2:02 PM
4. 227 SOUTH TOWER DRIVE
Multi-family Residential (PL2300435)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a new five-story, ten-unit multi-family residential building with landscaping. 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: Deborah Hong, Associate Planner
Project Agent: Nelia and Arrian Torkian
Project Representative: PLUS Architects
Samuel Kim, Landscape Architect
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Schreiber, SECONDED by Chair Devlin to adopt the resolution as amended (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Vice Chair Meyer, Chair Devlin
NOES: None
CARRIED
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 15, 2023
The Commission took a recess at 3:09 PM
The Commission reconvened at 3:16 PM
5. 208 NORTH CRESCENT DRIVE
Multi-family Residential (PL2300470)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a new four-story, ten-unit multi-family residential building with rooftop uses, and landscaping. 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: Deborah Hong, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: GACAC, LLC
Project Representative: Kevin Tsai Architecture
Public Input: Mitch Waldow
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Pynoos, SECONDED by Commissioner Matson to adopt the resolution as amended (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Vice Chair Meyer, Chair Devlin
NOES: None
CARRIED
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
o The November Mayor’s Cabinet meeting was cancelled.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Urban Designer Updates
o Urban Designer Mark Odell advised the Commission of the following:
▪ City Staff continues to review proposals for the façade remodeling of Cityowned parking structures. ▪ There are currently no projects scheduled to be heard by the Design Review Commission; its December meeting will likely be cancelled. ▪ Work on the survey of multi-family buildings to identify potential historic resources in the City continues. Staff anticipates the completed survey will be ready to present to the City Council in early 2024.
o Commission Specialist Karen Myron reminded the Commission that the City’s Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration will take place tomorrow, Thursday, November 16 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Associated street closures will begin tonight at 9:00 PM.
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 15, 2023
6. 2023 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
7. 2024 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: November 15, 2023 / 4:21 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
November 16, 2023
9:00 a.m.
Recordings of the Human Relations Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: November 16, 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, Susana De La Torre, 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 October 19, 2023.
MOTION by Kaiserman, SECONDED by Kraushaar to approve the Meeting Minutes of October 19, 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
November 16, 2023
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, introduced new staff member, Susana De La Torre, who is the Human Services Division’s new Human Services Specialist.
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Police Department
Lieutenant Evans provided an update:
- Reviewed the statistics for the months of September & October 2023. - Reminded the Commission of the Rodeo Drive Lighting Ceremony being held this evening from 5pm – 8pm
- Today, November 16, 2023, is the Police Department’s monthly Cedars Sinai Children’s Unit visit.
- December 14, 2023, Cocoa With A Cop is taking place at andSons Chocolates, 9548 Brighton Way from 8:30am – 10am.
- The Holiday Safety Tips were reviewed: lock your car doors, keep windows rolled up, don’t leave packages in sight and shop during daytime hours.
- Try not to post your holiday plans or photos on social media.
Beverly Hills School District
Beverly Hills Board of Education member, Dr. Amanda Stern, provided an update on the following:
- Students can anonymously report safety concerns using Titan QR codes. - A Unity Vigil was held on Monday, October 30, 2023, in honor of victims in the Middle East. - The schools participated in the 2023 Great ShakeOut earthquake drill. - Students were provided maps for the safest routes to get to school. - BulldogAid Wellness Center celebrated their Grand Opening on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 in the BulldogAid Wellness Center.
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. - Two stories highlighting the successes of the Ambassador Team’s safety escorts were shared.
- The Ambassadors will be out tonight at the Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration and will be providing hospitality assistance and safety escorts for the public.
PRESENTATIONS
3. Anti-Hate Initiative
a. CA vs. Hate
California Civil Rights Department (CRD) will be providing a virtual presentation on the CA vs Hate program. CRD staff joining will include Becky Monroe, Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs; James Williams, Jr., CommunityBased Organization Manager; and Chantel Bermudez, Senior Manager. - California vs Hate staff updated the Commission on their non-emergency reporting system designed to support communities targeted for hate. The main goals of the program include identifying next steps after an act of hate, Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 16, 2023
connecting victims with resources, and improving reporting data to enhance prevention and response.
- Their mission is to protect the people of California from unlawful discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and from hate, violence, and human trafficking.
- Identify options along with next steps for individuals and communities targeted for hate and connect with culturally competent resources. - An online portal, CAvsHate.org, includes a form in 15 languages. - Phone calls: short in-language processing for phone calls along with longer inlanguage follow up calls.
Alex Watts, Senior Advisor to the California Civil Rights Department, provided an overview to the Commission on the State of Hate from the Civil Rights Department.
b. Update on Anti-Hate Initiative
Brief update on United Against Hate Week November 12-18, 2023 - A toolkit is available that includes suggested ideas for participating in United Against Hate Week.
- More information on events is available at the United Against Hate Week website or by reaching out to [email protected].
4. CAGF Partner: OPICA Adult Day Program & Counseling Center Mary Michlovich, Executive Director of OPICA, will provide a presentation on the programs offered by this new CAGF recipient and bring awareness to National Family Caregiver Awareness Month of November.
- November is National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM). Optimistic People In a Caring Atmosphere (OPICA) is one of Human Services’ new Community Assistant Grant Funding (CAGF) partners. OPICA is the first Adult Day Program (ADP) and Counseling Center in Los Angeles to serve adults challenged with memory loss and their families. - OPICA is a non-profit that fosters an active cognitive lifestyle for its member which has been shown to increase quality of life and slow cognitive decline. - Executive Director, Mary Michlovich, discussed the various services provided by OPICA that includes: Support for adults with memory loss and their families along with powerful tools for caregivers.
5. Mental Health Awareness
a. Mental Health Legislation Update
Cynthia Owens, Municipal Affairs Program Manager, will provide an update on Assembly Bill 531 (Irwin) - The Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2023 and Senate Bill 326 (Eggman) - The Behavioral Health Services Act. - Cynthia Owens, Municipal Affairs Program Manager, provided details on the Mental Health Legislation:
- Senate Bill 326 modernizes the Mental Health Service Act - Assembly Bill 531 includes a $6.38B bond which would build new treatment beds and supportive housing units in addition to outpatient services. The City Council has declared their support of both bills.
- Proposition 1, the Behavioral Health Service Program and Bond Measure is on the ballot for March 5, 2024.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 16, 2023
b. Chair’s Mental Health Challenge
- Chair Freeman shared a phone feature called “greyscale mode” which sets your phone screen to black and white. Phone users, in particular children, are enticed by the bright colors on the screen. Being addicted to one’s phone can led to lack of sleep and improper movement.
NEW BUSINESS
6. Election Civility Statement
At the October 2023 Human Relations Commission, the Commission asked for a discussion of updating the Election Civility Statement be added to the November agenda. - The Chair noted that social media was not a political tool when this statement was created and adopted in 2010 like it is today, and the statement should be updated to reflect that reality. This would be incorporated into the City’s Candidate Handbook. - After a discussion, it was agreed for this item to be part of the Commission’s Civility Ad Hoc which includes Vice Chair Margo and Commissioner Kaiserman in addition to the Commissioners returning to next month’s meeting with ideas and suggestions for direction.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
7. Embrace Civility Month & Award
- Public recognition of the 2023 winner, Tina Wiener, took place at the November 7, 2023 Formal City Council meeting. The honoree received a proclamation, a personalized name plate on the Embrace Civility Plaque, and offered the opportunity to share their perspective on how to embrace civility.
- Staff shared photos of the October is Civility Month promotion in addition to the Embrace Civility award process, selection, and final presentation at City Council.
8. Kindness Week 2024
The Commission Ad Hoc met since the October Commission meeting to further develop the ideas generated at that meeting. The Commission reviewed the draft outline of the various elements of Kindness Week 2024 for further input and discussion. - The Community Assistance Grant Fund (CAGF) partners are being considered to participate.
- The Commission will again participate in the Beverly Hills Active Adult Club (BHAAC) Valentine’s Day dance in addition to the Beverly Hills Public Library’s Storytime that will include Kindness literature being read by the Commissioners to the toddlers.
9. Beverly Hills Homeless Initiative
a) Advocacy & Community Education Update
- Community members are encouraged to contact the centralized unhoused hotline number if they encounter someone in need at (310) 285-BHOT (2468). - Staff continues to work with Step Up on Second on the Scattered-Site Permanent Supportive Housing Program, as well as participating in regional efforts with the County of Los Angeles, LAHSA, West Side Cities Council of Governments, and Los Angeles Council District – 5 (Yaroslavsky).
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
November 16, 2023
- Staff has an upcoming meeting with Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, LAHSA, as it’s time to plan for the January 2024 Homeless Count.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
10. Administrator’s Report
a) Introduction of Susana De La Torre, new Human Services Specialist b) Community Services Events:
- Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration on Rodeo Drive, Thursday, November 16, 2023.
- Holidays at Greystone at Greystone Mansion & Gardens, Saturday & Sunday, December 2 & 3, 2023 from 10am - 4:30pm. Tickets are required. - Greystone Gala Family Dance at Greystone Mansion & Gardens, Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 6pm to 9pm.
- Holiday Craft Fair & Cookie Baking Contest at Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market on Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 8am - 1pm.
c) Community Services Event Calendar
- Reviewed
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
11. Chair Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
- The last two Mayor’s Cabinet Meetings have been cancelled due to conflicts. b) 2023 Commission Work Plan – Revised
c) Ad Hoc Committees
d) Review Commission Meeting dates
e) Good and Welfare. Other items, brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
- Chair Freeman mentioned a situation a tenant was having with their landlord more on the human services side. Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, advised the Chair to direct the person to Human Services.
12. Kindness Matters
- Staff recognized and thanked Chair Freeman for attending the Beverly Hills Active Adult Club’s (BHAAC) Thanksgiving Luncheon and volunteering to serve the senior citizens.
ADJOURNMENT
November 16, 2023 at 11:13 a.m.