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, February 27, 2024
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: February 27, 2024 / 2:01 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Josette Descalzo, Program Manager in Public Works, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Riceberg, Dzubak, Vice Chair Termeie, Chair Sherry Commissioners Absent: Lurie
Staff Present: Stephanie Harris, Patty Acuna, Joana Torres, Adrine Ovasapyan, Michael Muse 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.
Recording Secretary read a Public Comment from Gina Seidel.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
With the concurrence of the Commission, the Chair may choose to amend the order of the items on the agenda.
Chair Sherry approved the Agenda as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of Minutes from the Recreation and Parks Commission Special Meeting from 01/23/2024.
MOTION by Vice Chair Termeie, SECONDED by Commissioner Dzubak to approve the Meeting Minutes as presented. (4/0)
AYES: Riceberg, Dzubak, Vice Chair Termeie, Chair Sherry NOES: None
ABSENT: Lurie
ABSTAIN:
CARRIED
Recreation and Parks Commission Special Meeting Synopsis February 27, 2024
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Election Update
Huma Ahmed, City Clerk, will provide an update on the City’s Election.
Huma Ahmed, City Clerk, informed the Commission on the upcoming March 2024 Beverly Hills General Municipal Elections.
- Beverly Hills has two seats up for election.
- Beverly Hills has consolidated its election process with Los Angeles County. - Vote by Mail ballots have been mailed to all registered voters in Beverly Hills. - Voting Options are: Vote by mail - USPS, Vote by Mail - Drop Boxes & Vote Center(s) - In Person Voting
- The Voting Centers are: The Beverly Hills Library Auditorium (11 days, February 24th – March 5th); Roxbury Park Clubhouse, La Cienega Tennis Center, Rodeo Room, and Horace Mann School (4 days, March 2nd – March 5th).
3. Josette Descalzo, Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager, will present the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), Refresher & Climate Change Adaptation
Josette Descalzo, Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Programs Manager, presented the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), Refresher & Climate Change Adaptation to the Commission:
- The Beverly Hills Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) is a roadmap to prepare the City of Beverly Hills for climate impacts, achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, and position the city in implementing ambitious and necessary climate action. The CAAP is not intended to be a detailed implementation plan. Additional planning, including feasibility assessment, will be required to implement some of the mitigation and adaptation measures.
- The CAAP provides measures to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as well as identify resiliency measures (Adaptation Measures) to protect the City from the effects of climate change.
- The role of the Recreation and Parks Commission is to help foster community awareness related to climate change, GHG mitigation measures and preparing for climate hazards by: Identifying key audience, collaborating with community-based organizations, hosting events, establishing educational programs and distributing educational materials.
- The Commissioners provided additional organizations and locations for the Plan to be presented to foster Community Awareness.
- Chair Sherry thanked Commissioner Lurie, along with former Commissioner Alissa Roston, for their participation in the program.
Public Comment: Teri Austin spoke on this Tab #3.
NEW BUSINESS
4. Public Works – Dog Park Shading
Shana Epstein, Director of Public Works, will be providing an update on the Dog Park Shading
Shana Epstein, Director of Public Works, along with architect Mark Desares, presented a selected shade design for the City’s dog park to the Commission. - The selection was unique, affordable and provides a large amount of shade.
Recreation and Parks Commission Special Meeting Synopsis February 27, 2024
- After a discussion on lifespan, durability, maintenance and replacement, the Commission agreed to move forward, with comments considered, with a formal agreement for the design.
- Chair Sherry thanked resident Tina Sinatra for participation in the support of the Dog Park shading structure.
Public Comment: Teri Austin spoke on this Tab #4.
Mark Elliott additional spoke on this Tab #4.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
5. 2024 Recreation & Parks Commission Work Plan Discussion - Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, reviewed the process for the Commissioners to submit their proposed items for their 2024 Work Plan. The Recreation and Parks Work Plan should reflect the mission of the Commission and fall in line with City Council Priorities. The goal is to prioritize five items for the 2024 calendar year. The existing Recreation and Parks Commission work plan items will remain as part of the priority list, providing the commission with the ability to add one new additional item. The Work Plan items will be voted on, ranked and determined by the results at this meeting.
- Proposals should be projects or events that can be reasonably implemented, have a start and end date and accurately fit the purview of Recreation and Parks which includes early education and youth recreation, adult and senior recreation, tennis and pickleball, Beverly Hills Dog Park, Beverly Hills Library, and the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market.
- The Commission is asked to discuss, evaluate, and rank proposed items. The process in which commission proposals will be presented is as follows:
1. Commissioners will be invited to present in roll call order.
2. Each proposal presentation should be approximately 5 minutes, followed by an additional 5-minute questions and comments.
3. Commissioners will receive a text message with a link to a poll for ranking the proposals once the last presentation, questions and comments are finished. - Commissioner Riceberg presented on New & Improved Park and Trail Signage and New Signs at Roxbury Recreation Center.
- Commissioner Dzubak presented developing a Junior Park Ranger Program for young people, ages 10 – 15, to be more engaged in Park participation and have the opportunity to come to a training with their parents, similar to Team Beverly Hills. - Vice Chair Termeie presented event ideas for July’s Parks Make Life Better month as this would involve all ages of our community.
- Chair Sherry presented Large Park Rules & Signs and La Cienega Park Lighting. - Director Stephanie Harris informed the Commission that the Lighting at La Cienega Park is being worked on by staff so could be removed from voting on as a Work Plan item.
- The Commission voted and took a recess from 3:25p.m. and reconvened at 3:31p.m. - The Commission agreed on the following ranking for the 2024 Work Plan
1. Large Park Rules & Signs – will move into the 5th place of the 2024 Work Plan.
2. New Signs at Roxbury Recreation Center tied with New & Improved Park and Trail Signage along with Junior Park Ranger Program.
3. Event ideas for July’s Parks Make Life Better.
Recreation and Parks Commission Special Meeting Synopsis February 27, 2024
- Chair Sherry reminded the Commission that the projects are for this year and this exercise will be repeated for the following 2025 year.
STATUS REPORTS
6. MANAGER’S REPORT
PROJECT UPDATES
• Manager updates
1. Community Services Department Showcase, March 10, 2024.
Adrine Ovasapyan, Recreation Services Manager, reminded the Commission that the Department Showcase will be held on Sunday, March 10th at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market from 8am to 1pm. Registration will not take place at this event; the programs will be showcased with vendors and staff available for information. • Recreation & Parks Commission Priorities
• Community Services Events
2. Kid’s Corner at the Farmers’ Market
The Kid’s Corner programming has returned to the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market on the 4th Sunday of each month.
3. AARP Tax Aid at Roxbury Community Center
Appointments are being scheduled on Wednesdays and Fridays between 1pm – 5pm and can be made by calling Roxbury Community Center. The program will end on April 12, 2024.
4. Playground & Paint at LA Cienega Park
Playground & Paint will take place on Wednesday, March 13th, April 10th and May 8th, at La Cienega Park from 10am – 11am.
• Community Services Events Calendar
- Commissioner Riceberg requested copies of the Active Adult Mobility Program flyer to have in her store for customers.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
7. Chair Report
a. Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
1. Meeting Minutes
b. Ad Hoc Committees
1. Capital Projects & Park Improvements
2. City / CS & BHUSD Partnership
3. Community Events & Recreation Programs
4. Health & Wellness
5. Teen Advisory Committee (TAC)
- Chair Sherry informed the Commission that the TAC members were provided a Fire Department tour.
c. Recreation and Parks Commission Upcoming Meetings
1. Review calendar and attendance
- Reviewed.
d. Other items brief announcements, request for information, and brief reports on activities
Recreation and Parks Commission Special Meeting Synopsis February 27, 2024
- Chair Sherry congratulated Commissioner Dzubak and Recording Secretary Linda Kyriazi for receiving the Kindness Award from the Human Relations Commission.
- Chair Sherry informed the Commission that there is a live survey available for the Early Education Center and After School Program that is in partnership between the City and the Beverly Hills Unified School District. The survey can be accessed at: beverlyhills.org\schoolsurvey
NEXT MEETING: March 26, 2024 – 2pm Meeting
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: February 27, 2024 / 3:41 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, March 7, 2024
9:00 AM
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: March 7, 2024 / 9:01 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Geller, Shalowitz, Ignarro, Vice-Chair AfraMaghen, Chair Schwartz Commissioners Absent: None.
Staff Present: Jessie Holzer Carpenter, Martha Eros, Daren Grilley, Ilene Knebel
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Members of the public may address the Commission regarding any items on the Agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. By State law, the Commission may not discuss or vote on items not on the agenda.
Public Comment: Public comment was heard from Michael Kerick. Public comment was read into the record from Sandra Trippichio.
PRESENTATION
Recognition of School Crossing Guards
Chair Schwartz read and presented special recognition to Beverly Hills Unified School District Crossing Guards Tiffany Coleman, Alonza Joyner, Gary King, Yulanda Taite, and Charlie Topitol.
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 February 1, 2024.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis March 7, 2024
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Shalowitz, SECONDED by
Commissioner Ignarro to approve the consent calendar item as presented (5/0).
AYES: Commissioners Geller, Shalowitz, Ignarro, Vice-Chair AfraMaghen, Chair Schwartz NOES: None.
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
2. Police Department Report
None.
3. Monthly Education Speaker Series – Santa Barbara State Street Enhancement Project Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter introduced Sarah Clark, Downtown Team Manager for the City of Santa Barbara’s Public Works department. She gave a presentation on that city’s efforts and experiences with revitalizing Santa Barbara’s State Street, the main street running through the city’s downtown area. The Commission thanked her for her presentation and asked about any pushback regarding parking and electric scooters.
Public Comment: Public comment was heard from Michael Kerick.
4. Planning Quarterly Report
Principal Planner Cindy Gordon informed the commission that adjustments to the City’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance will be introduced at the next City Council meeting on Monday, March 11, 2024. The City has also resubmitted its housing element for approval.
The Commission asked for a further explanation of the adjustments and how they affect current and upcoming projects.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
5. Complete Streets Plan Implementation Progress
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter gave an update on progress of the City’s Complete Streets Plan, originally adopted in April 2021. She explained all the projects that have been completed under the plan and gave an overview of projects currently in progress.
The Commission asked about the possibility of revisiting adjustments to Gregory Way and Charleville Boulevard. They also asked why sharrows are not present on Carmelita Avenue.
Public Comment: Public comment was heard from Michael Kerick.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis March 7, 2024
PROJECT UPDATES AND FOLLOW-UP ITEMS
6. Project Updates and Follow-up Items
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter gave an update on projects. The six-month traffic calming installation on Clifton Way is currently underway and will be finished by Sunday, March 10, 2024. The Beverly Boulevard bike lane installation is also nearing completion.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
The Commission thanked staff for coordinating the crosswalk guard recognition. The Commission also noted that bicyclists frequently run stop signs at Elevado Avenue and Carmelita Avenue.
COMMUNICATION FROM STAFF
Assistant Public Works Director/City Engineer Daren Grilley shared that Public Works is bringing forward two ordinances to City Council at their March 11, 2024, meeting. One focuses on banning single use plastic foodware and one amends the City’s current dewatering ordinance.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: March 7, 2024 / 11:09 AM
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
March 14, 2024
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: March 14, 2024 / 1:31 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Masa Alkire, Cindy Gordon, Chloe Chen, Alexandria Smille, Didier Murillo, 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: None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Order of the Chair and with the consensus of the Commission, the agenda was approved as amended, taking item #4, 8955 Olympic Boulevard (O’Gara Coach) ahead of item #3, 510-520 Stonewood Drive.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Planning Commission regular meeting of February 22, 2024.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Demeter, SECONDED by Vice Chair Kaplan to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0).
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 14, 2024
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
NOES: None
CARRIED
2. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Planning Commission special meeting of February 29, 2024.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Milkowski, SECONDED by Vice Chair Kaplan to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Wolfe
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
Taken out of Order
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
4. 8955 OLYMPIC BOULEVARD (O’GARA COACH)
Conditional Use Permit (PL2300519)
Request to amend a previously approved Conditional Use Permit (PL2300002) to allow the operation of a luxury vehicle sales and service use (O’Gara Coach) to be established in an existing building, to allow a reduction in the required number of parking spaces, and to allow a revision to the proposed operating hours. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Planning Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Alexandria Smille, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: O’Gara Coach Company, LLC
Project Representatives: Murray D. Fischer, Law Offices of Murray D. Fischer Public Input: Andrea Grossman, Michael Goldberg
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Milkowski, SECONDED by Vice Chair Kaplan to adopt the resolution as amended (4-1).
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross NOES: Commissioner Demeter
CARRIED
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 14, 2024
Return to Order
CONTINUED BUSINESS
3. 510-520 STONEWOOD DRIVE
Hillside R-1 Permits (PL2200461)
Request for a Hillside R-1 Permit to allow the cumulative floor area on a site to exceed 15,000 square feet; a Hillside R-1 Permit to allow a series of walls to exceed a cumulative height of 12’; a Hillside R-1 Permit to allow grading in excess of 3,000 cubic yards of earth material to be imported and exported from a site; and a Hillside R-1 Permit to allow an accessory building to be located on any part of the site. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Planning Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA. Continued from the February 8, 2024 Planning Commission Hearing
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Didier Murillo, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: RF Hollywood Real Estate LLC
Project Representative: Jason Somers – Crest Real Estate Tom Levyn – Glaser Weil
Alpna Gupta – Walker Workshop
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Wolfe, SECONDED by Commissioner Demeter to adopt the resolution as amended (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
NOES: None
CARRIED
The Commission took a recess at 3:25 PM
The Commission reconvened at 3:35 PM
5. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS TO AMEND THE BEVERLY HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE AND ZONING MAP: CLARIFYING, ADDING, OR CORRECTING LANGUAGE RELATED TO HILLSIDE R-1 PERMIT REQUESTS FOR A SERIES OF WALLS; STATE LAW REQUIREMENTS FOR FAMILY DAYCARE HOMES AND DENSITY BONUS; RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS; NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ADJACENT NEIGHBOR MAILED NOTICE AND THE VIEW RESTORATION PROCESS; MULTIFAMILY GUEST PARKING STNADARDS; NEW CODE GRAPHICS ILLUSTRATING EXISTING
STANDARDS FOR ACCESSORY STRUCTURE HEIGHT PLANE AND SERIES OF WALLS; REMOVAL OF EXPIRED STANDARDS FOR PET BOARDING FACILITES; AND
FINDING THE ORDINANCE TO BE EXEMPT UNDER THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
A draft ordinance to amend the Beverly Hills Municipal Code (BHMC) and zoning map to clarify, add, or correct language as part of a periodic code cleanup activity. Pursuant to the Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 14, 2024
provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Planning Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Project Planner: Patrick Achis, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: City-Initiated
Public Input: Darian Bojeaux, Rebekah Adams
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Demeter, SECONDED by
Commissioner Wolfe to adopt the resolution as amended (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
NOES: None
CARRIED
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Commissioner Demeter thanked staff members who attended Career Day at Beverly Hills High School.
• Vice Chair Kaplan noted concern for a member of the public who expressed frustration and said he didn’t feel heard when raising concerns about a project in his neighborhood. City Planner Alkire advised that contact information for appropriate City staff will be provided to him.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• City Planner Updates
o City Planner Masa Alkire advised the Commission of the following:
▪ The City Council will review the revised Housing Element at its upcoming formal meeting on Monday, March 18.
▪ As a reminder, the LA Marathon will take place this Sunday, March 17.
Information regarding related street closures, etc. is available at beverlyhills.org/marathon.
6. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
7. Building Permit Report – February
o Received and filed
8. 2024 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: March 14, 2024 / 4:25 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
March 21, 2024
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: March 21, 2024 / 9:00 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Jonathon Hunter, Ambassador Manager, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Commissioner Freeman read the Civility Statement
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Freeman, Vice Chair Nisim, Chair Margo Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Christopher Paulson, Enisha Clark, Joana Torres, 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 Margo approved the Agenda as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 15, 2024.
Commissioner Kraushaar noted a correction in the name of the person she nominated for the Kindness Award. The correction was made in the Meeting Minutes MOTION by Freeman, SECONDED by Vice Chair Nisim to approve the Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2024, with noted correction. (5/0)
AYES: Commissioners Kraushaar, Kaiserman, Freeman, Vice Chair Nisim, Chair Margo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CARRIED
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 21, 2024
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Beverly Hills Police Department
Lieutenant Myers provided an update:
- The statistics for the month of February 2024 were reviewed. Crime is trending down along with arrests.
- Wednesday, April 3rd will be their Coffee with a Cop event held at Beverly Hills Market, 303 N. Crescent Drive, between 9am – 11am.
- Officer Guzman took 1st Place in a motorcycle training/competition. - Anti-Defamation League, ADL, recognized Mark Swartz for his effort in combating hate.
Beverly Hills School District
Beverly Hills Unified School District Board Member, Noah Margo, provided an update:
- Horace Mann is celebrating Nowruz today.
- The High School celebrated their annual Career Day which included over 100 speakers. - The High School band & orchestra presented Sakura Sounds, a Japanese inspired instrumental evening.
- This High School is continuing their Food Drive through April 18th benefiting the Westside Food Bank.
- Beverly Vista completed their outdoor overnight trip to El Capitan in addition to having a Spring Concert.
- Horace Mann Elementary had their outdoor field trip to Camp Gilmore. - Hawthorne Elementary had a Family Literacy Night.
- The all-district Elementary Science Fair will be held on April 16th at Horace Mann.
PRESENTATIONS
2. Beverly Hills Ambassador Program
Ambassador Manager Jonathon Hunter will provide a quarterly update on the program.
Ambassador Manager, Jonathon Hunter, provided highlights from the past few months. - The Ambassadors connected multiple individuals to the City’s Outreach Team. - In addition to successful outreach stories there were also a number of successful safety escort encounters carried out by Ambassador Harris.
- Panhandling activity has decreased but individuals are still being noted in the triangle area.
The businesses are effectively communicating with the Ambassadors.
3. LA County 2022 Hate Crimes Report
Marshall Wong, of Los Angeles County Human Relations Commission, will provide an overview of the 2022 hate crime finding. Commissioners and staff will provide any available updates.
Marshall Wong, Human Service Administrator with the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations, provided an in-depth presentation about the hate crime trends that were observed in 2022 county-wide and specifically those that have occurred in the Beverly Hills community.
- Generally, hate crimes are underreported for various reasons. It is important to remember that these numbers only reflect a small sample of the actual hate crimes committed throughout Los Angeles County.
- Reported Hate Crimes rose 18%, which reflects the 2nd highest increase in more than 20 years.
- A full copy of the 2022 Hate Crime Report can be found at www.hrc.lacounty.gov Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 21, 2024
4. CAGF Partner Presentation: Jewish Family Services Los Angeles Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Lika Litt and Susan Mendlowitz-Belgrade will provide a comprehensive overview of the multitude of services JFSLA provides to Beverly Hills seniors.
Susan Belgrade, LCSW, and Lika Litt, LCSW, of Jewish Family Services Los Angeles (JFSLA), provided a presentation regarding the extensive range of services provided to seniors in the Beverly Hills Community.
- JFSLA has served the Los Angeles area for over 100 years. As the leading Jewish social services agency in Los Angeles, Jewish Family Service LA is a trusted and critical source of support for the Jewish community. They are committed to serving everyone in the Los Angeles community, of all backgrounds and identities.
- Some of their services include: Food Insecurity, Mental Health Services, Domestic Violence, Aging, Children & Families and Special Needs Life Skills. - More information about their services and programs can be viewed at their website:
https://www.jfsla.org/
5. Mental Health Awareness: NormanAid Wellness Center
Ali Norman-Franks, Wellness Counselor, will provide an in-person presentation about the variety of mental health services available to Beverly Hills High School students.
Ali Norman-Franks, Founder & Wellness Counselor of the NormanAid Wellness Center at Beverly Hills High School, provided a presentation regarding the extensive range of services provided to students to support their mental health and well-being. NormanAid is a student support and wellness center offering counseling services, crisis intervention and management, conflict mediation, mental health education, and peer counseling, to promote the well-being of BHHS students.
- Beverly Hills High School is committed to serving a diverse student body by providing counseling, conflict mediation, crisis management and wellness programs that facilitate students' academic and life goals.
- More information about their services and programs can be found on their website:
https://bhhs.bhusd.org
The Commission took a 7-minute recess and reconvened.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
6. 2024-25 Community Assistance Grant Funding (CAGF)
Staff will provide updates on the 2024-25 application cycle and review process.
Enisha Clark, Human Services Outreach Manager, provide an update:
- The CAGF Application submission closed on February 29, 2024, and applications have been compiled.
- Staff, along with Ad Hoc Commissioners Kaiserman and Kraushaar, are scheduled to meet for the first review of the applications followed by a joint ad hoc meeting to interview the new applicants.
- A report will be provided in the April Commission packet with the ad hoc’s recommendations.
7. Anti-Hate Initiative: Critical Conversation – Jewish American Heritage Month (May) The ad hoc has begun planning details for an event in May and will provide an update.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 21, 2024
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, informed the Commission that the Community Services Department is scheduling events for the month of May for Jewish American Heritage Month.
- Staff has been working with the ad hoc, Vice Chair Nisim and Commissioner Kraushaar, for a Critical Conversation which will be the final element of the Event. - Vice Chair Nisim informed the Commission that this Critical Conversation is titled:
Celebrating Jewish American Culture & the Power of Allyship. The goal is to not only celebrate the contributions and stories of Jewish-Americans but also to foster a spirit of unity and solidarity among all of our communities.
- The date of Tuesday, May 28th was agreed upon and to be held in City Hall’s Municipal Gallery.
8. Kindness Week 2024 Recap
Staff will provide a visual presentation highlighting memorable moments from February’s Kindness Week of events.
Christopher Paulson, Human Services Administrator, provided an overview of the successful Kindness Week 2024 with a photo slide show.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
9. Administrator’s Report
a) Social Work Month
- March is Social Work Month. The theme for 2024 is Empowering Social Workers. b) Community Services Events Calendar
- Reviewed
- The first event of the Jewish American Heritage Month will be held on Sunday, May 5 th at the Farmers’ Market from 8am – 1pm; the Rugelach Baking Contest. - Visit beverlyhills.org/farmersmarket for more information.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
10. Chair Report
a) Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
b) 2024 Commission Work Plan
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 Margo discussed the Nami (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Walk scheduled for May 4, 2024, from 10am – 2pm at the Los Angeles State Historic Park.
11. Kindness Matters
Commissioners will recognize a member of the Beverly Hills community for their kindness efforts and positive acts of service.
- Commissioner Kraushaar thanked all who donated items during Kindness Week’s Kickoff Donation Day and thanked the BHUSD District office in addition to her family and friends.
A special shout-out to her friend Janice who went above and beyond with her donations.
Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 21, 2024
ADJOURNMENT
March 21, 2024, at 11:17 a.m.
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
March 28, 2024
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: March 28, 2024 / 1:30 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Michael Forbes, Masa Alkire, Cindy Gordon, Alexandria Smille, Karen Myron, David Snow, Leslie Medina
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: Nanci Saper
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 March 14, 2024.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Demeter, SECONDED by
Commissioner Milkowski to adopt the minutes as presented (5-0).
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 28, 2024
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
NOES: None
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
2. 9030 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD (WIRES ONLY)
Conditional Use Permit (PL2200559)
A request for a Conditional Use Permit to allow the operation of a vehicle sales use (Wires Only) located at 9030 Wilshire Boulevard. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Planning Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Alexandria Smille, Associate Planner
Project Applicant: Wilshire Wetherly, LLC
Project Representatives: Hamid Gabbay, Gabbay Architects, Inc.
RD Whittington
Public Input: Steve Mayer
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Demeter, SECONDED by Vice Chair Kaplan to continue the item to the May 9, 2024 Planning Commission regular meeting (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Wolfe, Demeter, Vice Chair Kaplan, Chair Ross
NOES:
CARRIED
The public hearing on this item remained open.
STUDY SESSION
None
Planning Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
March 28, 2024
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• City Planner Updates
o City Planner Masa Alkire advised the Commission of the following:
▪ The City Council Installation Ceremony will take place next Tuesday, April 2 at 7:00 PM at the Wallis; the public is welcome to attend.
3. Current Planning Projects List
o Received and filed
4. 2024 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: March 28, 2024 / 4:16 PM