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
January 11, 2024
8:00 AM
.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: January 11, 2024 / 8:01 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
SWEARING IN OF NEW COMMISSIONER BEN RITTERBUSH
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Ritterbush, Kimura, Nehoray, Vice Chair Nystrom, Chair Millan
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Craig Crowder, Josette Descalzo, Samer Elayyan, Shana Epstein, Michael Hensley, Ilene Knebel, Ken Pfalzgraf, Tristan Malabanan, Robert Welch
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Public Speaker: None.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By order of the chair, the agenda was approved as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of Minutes
Consideration of Minutes of the Public Works Commission regular meeting of December 14, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Nystrom, SECONDED by Commissioner Nehoray to approve the Consent Calendar item as presented (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Kimura, Nehoray, Vice Chair Nystrom, Chair Millan NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Ritterbush
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 11, 2024
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Operations Reports from City Departments, Consultants and Outside Agencies Environmental Compliance & Sustainability Program Manager Josette Descalzo introduced Graham Hill, Founder and CEO of The Carbonauts, a consulting company dedicated to working with companies to achieve greater sustainability and foster climate literacy. He gave a presentation on the focus of the company and the various tools and programs it uses to achieve that with major companies such as Amazon, Chanel, and Disney, among others. The Commission thanked Graham for his presentation and asked about whether The Carbonauts operates internationally and what kind of feedback they receive from people enrolled in their courses.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from David Gingold.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. Best Practices – Tiny Forests
City Arborist Ken Pfalzgraf gave a presentation seeking commission support for a Tiny Forest model landscape plan to be planned into the design of the Cabrillo Reservoir project, with the goal of maximizing the canopy coverage at the Reservoir. He also explained the definition of “Tiny Forests”, a method of maximizing canopy coverage in small spaces of available land.
The Commission asked about social functions for Tiny Forests, how and why trees are condemned and replaced, whether trees on private property are involved, whether the Tiny Forest could be an educational site as well, and how to find balance on the project. The Commission gave consensus approval to pursue the project.
The commission took a break at 9:34 AM.
The commission returned from break at 9:45 AM.
NEW BUSINESS
3. Fleet Services Decarbonization
Public Works Deputy Director Michael Hensley and Fleet & Facilities Manager Craig Crowder gave a presentation on Public Works’ various methods of decarbonizing’s the city’s vehicle fleet, including electrification, Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, switching to renewable natural gas, and purchasing gasoline electric hybrid vehicles. The Commission asked about any difficulties in decarbonizing the city’s fleet for heavier vehicles such as street sweepers, the fleet’s engagement with the California Fuel Cell partnership, backup generators for charging stations, and the number of Level 2 chargers.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from David Gingold.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
4. La Brea Subarea Update
Project Manager Tristan Malabanan gave an update on the La Brea Subarea. The Le Doux and Clifton wells bids are due January 16 at 2pm. Assuming that a lowest responsive bid is received, staff plans to present the bid to the City Council for approval in February 2024. The Commission asked about the costs of the project and potential environmental impacts on the site due to businesses on La Cienega.
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 11, 2024
5. Water Efficiency Update
Utilities Manager Rob Welch reported that the storms and snowpack are not up to expectations and that conserving water is still important. The Commission asked about filling in the Water Conservation Administrator’s position and how much water the city conserves.
6. Capital Projects Update
Project Manager Samer Elayyan gave an update on capital projects. A notice to proceed will be sent out for the Reservoir Management Project this week with the goal of beginning construction in spring 2024, alongside other projects such as the La Cienega wells. The commission asked about the water pumps in the Burton Way median project and rain levels.
7. Specific Information and Department Updates
No questions from the commission.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
8. Chair’s Report
Chair Millan asked residents to read and review the Water and Wastewater Rates pamphlets being sent to them in the mail.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
9. Director’s Report
Public Works Director Shana Epstein announced that a liaison meeting is scheduled for January 25 concerning the Plastics Ordinance and the Dewatering Ordinance. She also said that she has been going to other Commissions and reviewing the wastewater/water rates pamphlets with them. She asked residents to read and review the pamphlets they receive in the mail or to visit the City’s website. Two townhall meetings for residents to discuss the rates are scheduled for January 17 and February 1.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from David Gingold.
ADJOURNMENT
Date/Time: January 11, 2024 / 11:09 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
January 17, 2024
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Architectural Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: January 17, 2024 / 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: Tom Roberts
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Order of the Chair and with the consensus of the Commission with Vice Chair Meyer recused, the agenda was approved as amended, moving item #3, 352 North Beverly Drive – A.L.C. to the Consent Calendar.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Architectural Commission regular meeting of December 20, 2023.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Schreiber to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0).
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 17, 2024
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Vice Chair Meyer, Chair Devlin
NOES: None
CARRIED
3. 352 NORTH BEVERLY DRIVE
A.L.C. (PL2400006)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a construction barricade with Business Identification Signage and 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.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Schreiber, SECONDED by
Commissioner Pynoos to adopt the resolution as presented (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Pynoos, Schreiber, Matson, Chair Devlin NOES: None
RECUSED: Vice Chair Meyer
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
• PROPOSED WATER AND WASTEWATER RATE ADJUSTMENTS
Informational Presentation from the Public Works Department regarding upcoming proposed Water and Wastewater Rate Adjustments
Director of Public Works Shana Epstein provided an update on the proposed changes to water and wastewater rates, including information on two upcoming Town Hall meetings.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
NEW BUSINESS
Commissioner Schreiber disclosed that she has a financial interest in real property 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 she has a financial interest. Based on the nature of the proposed project, she finds that it would not change any of the previously stated factors, and she will participate in the discussion of the matter.
Vice Chair Meyer disclosed that he has a working relationship with Shubin Donaldson, the architecture firm for the project at 9460 Wilshire Boulevard; however, the associated projects are Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 17, 2024
complete, and he does not believe there will be a material impact on how he views this project.
Additionally, the Vice Chair disclosed that he has a financial interest in real property located more than 500 feet but less than 1,000 feet from the project site, 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 previously stated factors, and he will participate in the consideration of the matter.
Chair Devlin disclosed that he has previously worked with the architect for the project at 9460 Wilshire Boulevard. He advised he is able to dispassionately review the project without regard for this previous working relationship and will participate in the discussion of this matter.
2. 9460 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
O’Gara Coach Company and Rolls-Royce (PL2400003)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a construction barricade with Business Identification Signage. 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.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Deborah Hong, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: CIM Group
Project Representative: Murray Fischer - Murray D. Fischer Law Offices Mark Hershman – Shubin Donaldson
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Meyer, SECONDED by Commissioner Schreiber 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 No report; the January Mayor’s Cabinet meeting was cancelled.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
Architectural Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 17, 2024
• Urban Designer Updates
o Urban Designer Mark Odell advised the Commission of the following:
▪ At its meeting on Wednesday, January 10, the Cultural Heritage Commission selected three new nominees to potentially receive a Golden Shield Cultural Recognition Plaque; and continued its review of the Historic Preservation Ordinance for potential changes.
▪ The Design Review Commission is scheduled to review one new project at its upcoming meeting on Thursday, February 1.
4. 2024 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: January 17, 2024 / 2:14 PM
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
January 25, 2024
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: January 25, 2024 / 1:33 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
SWEARING IN OF NEW COMMISSIONER LOU MILKOWSKI
New Commissioner Milkowski was sworn in by City Clerk Huma Ahmed.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Chair Ross Commissioners Absent: Vice Chair Kaplan
Staff Present: Masa Alkire, Cindy Gordon, Chloe Chen, Patrick Achis, 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: Steve Mayer, Darian Bojeaux
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 December 14, 2023.
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 25, 2024
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Wolfe, SECONDED by Commissioner Demeter to adopt the minutes as presented (3-0-1-1).
AYES: Commissioners Wolfe, Demeter, Chair Ross
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Milkowski
ABSENT: Vice Chair Kaplan
CARRIED
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
2. A DRAFT ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS AMENDING ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNIT REGULATIONS, AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE EXEMPT UNDER
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
The Planning Commission will consider a draft ordinance to amend the Beverly Hills Municipal Code (BHMC) updating the City’s regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) to implement changes to state law that became effective on January 1 in 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024.
Ex Parte Communications: Commissioner Demeter disclosed speaking with an unnamed resident regarding the status of the City’s review of ADU regulations.
Project Planner: Patrick Achis, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: City-Initiated
Public Input: Marc Meshekow, Shahram Melamed – Trousdale Estates Neighborhood Association, Kian Beroukhim, Murray Fischer, Lee Pasternak, Darian Bojeaux, Cathy Baker, Allison Revivo
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Wolfe, SECONDED by Commissioner Milkowski to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1)
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe
Prior to casting her vote, Commissioner Demeter requested clarification of the direction provided by the Commission. After discussion, staff confirmed that Commissioner Wolfe’s motion remained unchanged, as did Commissioner Milkowski’s second of the motion; the roll call vote was then restarted.
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Chair Ross NOES: None
ABSENT: Vice Chair Kaplan
CARRIED
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 25, 2024
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
• PROPOSED WATER AND WASTEWATER RATE ADJUSTMENTS
Informational Presentation from the Public Works Department regarding upcoming proposed Water and Wastewater Rate Adjustments
Director of Public Works Shana Epstein provided information on the proposed changes to water and wastewater rates, including details regarding an upcoming Town Hall meeting.
The Commission took a recess at 4:25 PM
The Commission reconvened at 4:39 PM
Return to Order
STUDY SESSION
3. PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL SECURITY CAMERAS STUDY SESSION
A follow-up study session to continue Planning Commission discussions from the October 12, 2023 meeting. This study session will focus on potential regulations for pole-mounted private security cameras in single-family residential zones.
Project Planner: Patrick Achis, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: City-Initiated
Public Input: Shahram Melamed
The Commission received the staff report and public comment, and determined that additional regulations regarding pole-mounted private security cameras in single-family residential zones are not necessary. The Commission directed staff to draft a statement on behalf of the Commission, advising of their position on the matter. Staff also advised that the Commission’s position on this issue will be communicated to individuals on the associated interested parties list.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Commissioners Wolfe, Demeter, and Chair Ross welcomed Commissioner Milkowski to the group.
• Commissioner Milkowski thanked fellow Commissioners for their warm welcome, and staff for the support they provide to the Commission.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• City Planner Updates
o On behalf of staff, City Planner Masa Alkire also welcomed Commissioner Milkowski to the team.
o City Planner Alkire also provided brief updates regarding items discussed at the January 23, 2024 City Council meeting:
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
January 25, 2024
▪ The City Council adopted the Planning Commission’s recommendation regarding calculating density for adaptive reuse projects based on building floor area, rather than lot area.
▪ Additionally, after hearing the appeal of the Planning Commission’s July 13, 2023 decision on the project located at 9884 South Santa Monica Boulevard.
The Council directed staff to return with a resolution approving the requested project with minor modifications through the Development Plan Review process, rather than the Historic Incentive Permit process.
4. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
5. Building Permit Report – December
o Received and filed
6. 2024 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: January 25, 2024 / 5:20 PM