CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
ARCHITECTURAL AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
SYNOPSIS
April 16, 2025
1:30 PM
Recordings of the Architectural and Design Review Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: April 16, 2025 / 1:31 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos, Chair Meyer
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Cindy Gordon, Minjee Hahm, Ally Majka, 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
Absent objection from the Commission and with Chair Meyer recused, the agenda was approved as amended, removing item #6 – 411 North Canon Drive, Logan Hollowell Jewelry, from the Consent Calendar.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Consideration of Minutes of the Architectural and Design Review Commission regular meeting of March 19, 2025.
G-1
Architectural and Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 16, 2025
2. 9250 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
Gatsby Investment (PL2500103)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a business identification sign. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
3. 9701 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
Banc of California (PL2500102)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a building identification sign. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
4. 150 NORTH ROBERTSON BOULEVARD
Beverly Hills Medical Plaza (PL2500107)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a building identification sign. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Devlin, SECONDED by Commissioner Smooke to adopt Consent Calendar items #1, #2, #3, and #4 as presented (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos, Chair Meyer
NOES: None
CARRIED
5. 371 NORTH RODEO DRIVE
David Yurman (PL2500112)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a construction barricade with lifestyle graphics. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Pynoos, SECONDED by Commissioner Smooke to adopt Consent Calendar item #5 as presented (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos NOES: None
RECUSED: Chair Meyer
CARRIED
Citing a financial interest in real property less than 300 feet from the subject property, Chair Meyer recused from item #6 and left the meeting room at 1:55 PM.
Architectural and Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 16, 2025
6. 411 NORTH CAÑON DRIVE
Logan Hollowell Jewelry (PL2500099)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a construction barricade with lifestyle graphics. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Ally Majka, Assistant Planner
Project Applicant: Logan Hollowell Jewelry
Project Representatives: Art Nesterenko
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Smooke, SECONDED by Commissioner Daniels to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos NOES: None
RECUSED: Chair Meyer
CARRIED
Commissioner Meyer returned to the meeting at 2:03 PM.
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
7. 128 SOUTH CARSON ROAD
New Single-Family Residence (PL2500017)
Request for an R-1 Design Review Permit to allow the construction of a new two-story singlefamily residence located in the Central Area of the city, south of Santa Monica Boulevard.
Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA. Continued from the March 19, 2025 Architectural and Design Review Commission regular meeting and to be continued to the May 21, 2025 Architectural and Design Review Commission regular meeting.
Absent objection from the Commission, this item was continued to the May 21, 2025 Architectural and Design Review Commission meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Commissioner Daniels advised that he is currently engaged as an architect for a project outside of the City of Beverly Hills, for which Crest Real Estate is also engaged as a consultant. Because Architectural and Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 16, 2025
he does not receive compensation from Crest Real Estate, Commissioner Daniels feels he is able to participate without bias in the consideration of the projects at 1000 Ridgedale Drive and 728 Chevy Chase Drive.
8. 1000 RIDGEDALE DRIVE
New Single-Family Residence (PL2500117)
Request for an R-1 Design Review Permit to allow the construction of a new two-story singlefamily residence located in the Central Area of the city, north of Santa Monica Boulevard.
Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Ally Majka, Assistant Planner
Project Applicant: Ridgedale Trust
Project Representatives: StudioMIG Architecture, Jason Somers – Crest Real Estate, Michael Gruber, Lisa Zeder, Waldo Fernandez, Shelly Azoff Public Input: Nancy Clavin
Motion: MOVED by Chair Meyer, SECONDED by Commissioner Devlin to adopt the resolution as amended, with final approval of the landscape plans to be granted by an Ad Hoc Committee comprised of Commissioner Devlin and Chair Meyer (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos, Chair Meyer
NOES: None
CARRIED
The Commission took a recess at 3:11 PM
The Commission reconvened at 3:16 PM.
9. 1728 CHEVY CHASE DRIVE
New Single-Family Residence (PL2500016)
Request for an R-1 Design Review Permit to allow the construction of a new two-story singlefamily residence located in the Central Area of the city, north of Santa Monica Boulevard.
Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: Chair Meyer and Vice Chair Pynoos disclosed separately visiting the adjacent related project site at 244 Ladera Drive in the City of Los Angeles.
Project Planner: Ally Majka, Assistant Planner
Project Applicant: Ridgedale Trust
Project Representatives: StudioMIG Architecture, Jason Somers – Crest Real Estate, Michael Gruber, Lisa Zeder, Waldo Fernandez, Shelly Azoff Architectural and Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 16, 2025
Public Input: Nancy Clavin (input provided during the discussion of item #8) Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Smooke, SECONDED by Commissioner Devlin to adopt the resolution as amended, with final approval of the landscape plans to be granted by an Ad Hoc Committee comprised of Commissioner Devlin and Chair Meyer (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos, Chair Meyer
NOES: None
CARRIED
Chair Meyer advised that he has a financial interest in real properties less than 500 feet from the project at 9601 Wilshire Boulevard, but because the subject property is not visible from those interests, he does not believe there will be a material impact. Additionally, he has a financial interest in other real properties 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 thus will participate in the consideration of the matter.
10. 9601 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
William Morris Endeavor (PL2500097)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a façade remodel, a business identification sign, and a construction barricade with signage. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Ally Majka, Assistant Planner
Project Applicant: William Morris Endeavor (WME) Agency Project Representatives: Law Offices of Murray D. Fischer Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Vice Chair Pynoos, SECONDED by Commissioner Smooke to adopt the resolution as presented (5-0).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos, Chair Meyer
NOES: None
CARRIED
Citing a financial interest in real property less than 300 feet from the projects at 330 North Beverly Drive and 370 North Rodeo Drive, Chair Meyer recused from both items and left the meeting room at 3:50 PM.
Architectural and Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 16, 2025
11. 330 NORTH BEVERLY DRIVE
ANTA (PL2500113)
Request for approval of an architectural review for a façade remodel and business identification signs. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural and Design Review Commission will also consider finding the project exempt from further review under CEQA.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Ally Majka, Assistant Planner
Project Applicant: ANTA
Project Representatives: Touxin Li
Public Input: None
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Daniels, SECONDED by Commissioner Smooke to adopt the resolution as amended (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Daniels, Smooke, Devlin, Vice Chair Pynoos NOES: None
RECUSED: Chair Meyer
CARRIED
PROJECT PREVIEW
12. 370 NORTH RODEO DRIVE
Cartier (PL2500111)
Request for a preliminary review for a new three-story commercial building.
Ex Parte Communications: None
Project Planner: Minjee Hahm, AICP, Senior Planner
Project Applicant: Richemont North America, Inc. f/k/a Cartier Project Representatives: Ashok Vanmali and Jill Wagner – Gruen Associates, Patrick Campbell and Jose Antonio Garcia Ares – Foster + Partners, Cristina Cimarusti - Cartier
Public Input: None
The Commission received the staff report and applicant presentation, asked clarifying questions, and provided preliminary feedback, but took no formal action on this item.
Chair Meyer returned to the meeting at 4:33 PM.
STUDY SESSION
None
Architectural and Design Review Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis April 16, 2025
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Commissioner Devlin inquired about the status of the upcoming vacancy for his position as the Licensed Landscape Architect on the Commission. Commission Specialist Karen Myron advised that the application period remains open through this Friday, April 18, and staff will provide an update after the application period closes.
• Vice Chair Pynoos inquired about the potential scheduling of Ad Hoc Committees assigned to review certain elements of the One Beverly Hills project. Principal Planner Cindy Gordon advised that the project team has not yet presented the associated materials, but staff will be in touch with the respective Committee members to schedule meetings as soon as the project team is ready.
• Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting
o Chair Meyer provided brief updates from the Mayor’s Cabinet meeting; meeting video is available online.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Principal Planner Cindy Gordon advised the Commission of the following:
o Information on the City’s upcoming Earth Day celebration on Sunday, April 27 is available on the City’s website at beverlyhills.org/earthday o The new City Council Liaisons for the Architectural and Design Review Commission are Vice Mayor Mirisch and Councilmember Corman.
o The City will celebrate Arbor Day with a brief ceremony on Friday, April 25 at 10:30 AM at Roxbury Park.
o In response to Commissioner questions that arose at the March 19 meeting:
▪ Planning staff has been in touch with the Building Inspector for the project on South Peck Drive to advise of the unpermitted railing above the porte cochere. ▪ Staff verified that the construction for the project on North Palm Drive appears to be consistent with the elevations approved by the Commission.
13. 2025 Meeting Schedule
o Received and filed
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: April 16, 2025 / 4:39 PM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Council Chamber
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
SYNOPSIS
May 1, 2025
7:00 PM
Recordings of the Planning Commission’s meetings are available online at www.beverlyhills.org
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 1, 2025 / 7:06 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Milkowski, Ross, Vice Chair Wolfe, Chair Kaplan Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Demeter (recused)
Staff Present: Michael Forbes, Masa Alkire, Andre Sahakian, Alvaro Gomez, Karen Myron, David Snow, Zachary Heinselman
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
None
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
Planning Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
May 1, 2025
PLANNING COMMISSION / BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS / PLANNING AGENCY PUBLIC HEARINGS – NEW BUSINESS
1. 9570, 9588-9596, 9600-9610, AND 9620 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD; 128 SOUTH BEDFORD DRIVE; 120, 121 SOUTH PECK DRIVE; AND 125-133 SOUTH CAMDEN DRIVE (9600
WILSHIRE BOULEVARD SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT)
General Plan Amendment, Specific Plan, Zone Text and Map Amendments, Conceptual Plan, Vesting Tentative Tract Map, Encroachment Permit, Master Plan of Streets Amendment, Development Agreement and Final Environmental Impact Report (PL2200266)
A request for a new specific plan to allow the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the Saks Fifth Avenue Women’s Building, retention of the 9570 Wilshire commercial building, and development of new residential, retail, office, hospitality, social club, boutique hotel, open space, and related uses throughout the project site. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act, the Commission will also consider a Final Environmental Impact Report.
Ex Parte Communications: Commissioner Milkowski, Vice Chair Wolfe, and Chair Kaplan each disclosed separately meeting with members of the Applicant team at the project site on more than one occasion, and advised that they remain open-minded on the matter.
Commissioner Ross had no ex parte communications aside from those previously disclosed.
Project Planner: Alvaro Gomez, AICP, Senior Planner
Project Applicant: HBC / Street-Works Development
Project Representatives: Doug Adams – Street-Works Development, Gary Esposito – Saks Global, Jonathan Chambers – Gibson Transportation, Benjamin Saltsman – Gibson Dunn, Amy Forbes
Public Input: Todd Johnson – Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, Lori Greene Gordon, Josh Flagg, Fern Seizer, Ken Goldman, Julie Auerbach, Jason Lewis, Lori Goldman, Zach Strasters, Amy Smith – CREED LA, Jeff Bree – Iron Workers 433, Milton Hyman, Sheila Hyman, Stan Hausner, Pouya Abdi, Tara Riceberg, Deborah Frank, Alex Calderon – Sheet Metal Workers Local 105, Giorgio Sease, Jeffrey Auerbach
The Commission took a recess at 8:48 PM
The Commission reconvened at 9:00 PM
Public Input, continued: Adrian Scott Fine – Los Angeles Conservancy, Edward Share (comments read by David Gottlieb), David Gottlieb, Ben Reiss, Debbie Schwartz, Rebecca Starkins, Kimberly Vinokur Reiss, Bobbe Fels, Heather Fels, Justin Walters – Plumbers Union Local 78, Samuel Nieto, Gus Torres – UA Local 250 Pipefitters Welders and Apprentices, Juan De Lara, Gay Abrams, Randy Steinberg, Ron J. Smith, Kelilah Federman – CREED LA, Joseph Gabbaian, Beverly Goldner, Judith Okun, Cindy Norian, Mitchell Thielemann – CREED LA, Allison Samek, Simon Aftalion, Susie Romano,
Stephen Hinden, Kelly Hinden, Honey Kessler Amado, Haleh Gabbay, Joey Behrstock, Stephan Berghoff, Daniel Gabbay, Eli Gabbay, Andy Licht, Nina Gabbay, Sandy Pressman, Amie Sherry, Planning Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
May 1, 2025
Jonah Breslau – UNITE HERE Local 11, Arezou Berghoff, Julian Chicha, Andrea Grossman, Gabe Samek, Bob and Ellisa Bregman, Chad Eshaghoff, Jordan Geller, MD, David Mirharooni, Wendy Nystrom, Rose Berman, Rose Kaiserman, Sue Wittner, Darian Bojeaux, Adams Boradwell Joseph & Cardozo on behalf of CREED LA, Mark Goldenberg, DDS, Helene Harris, Mike Lloyd, Lee Pasternak, Joyce and Richard Protzel, Nicky Shamsi, Steak 48 Beverly Hills, LLC, Howard and Helen Szabo, Marjorie Blatt, Vivian Wang, Mitchell Tsai on behalf of the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
The Commission took a recess at 10:54 PM
The Commission reconvened at 11:04 PM
Following the completion of public comment, the Commission asked questions of the applicant team and City staff, followed by Applicant and public rebuttal. The public hearing on the item was closed, and the Commissioners briefly began deliberations. Noting the late hour, it was the consensus of the Commission to continue the item to a date certain to resume deliberations.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ross, SECONDED by Vice Chair Wolfe to continue the item to the June 10, 2025 Planning Commission special meeting (4-0-1).
AYES: Commissioners Milkowski, Ross, Vice Chair Wolfe, Chair Kaplan NOES: None
RECUSED: Commissioner Demeter
CARRIED
STUDY SESSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
City Planner Masa Alkire reminded the Commission of the upcoming special meeting on Monday, May 5 at 2:30 PM.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 2, 2025 / 1:30 AM
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, May 1, 2025
9:00 AM
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 1, 2025 / 9:01 AM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
SWEARING IN OF COMMISSIONER NEGAR KAMARA
City Clerk Huma Ahmed administered the oath.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Kamara, Ignarro and Schwartz, Vice-Chair Geller, Chair Afra-Maghen.
Commissioners Absent: None.
Staff Present: Jessie Holzer Carpenter, Daren Grilley, Ilene Knebel, Lt. Renato Moreno.
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 Kerric.
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 April 10, 2025.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Ignarro, SECONDED by Vice Chair Geller to approve the consent calendar item as presented with corrections (4/0).
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis May 1, 2025
AYES: Commissioner Ignarro, Commissioner Schwartz, Vice-Chair Geller, Chair Afra-Maghen
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Kamara.
NOES: None.
CARRIED
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Police Department Report
Lieutenant Renato Moreno welcomed Commissioner Kamara to the commission. He reviewed recent events, including a DUI checkpoint on April 11 and distracted driving enforcement throughout the month of April. The commission thanked him for his presentation and asked about the types of distracted driving being targeted by the Police Department, the number of K-9s in the Police Department, and right-of-way violations.
Monthly Educational Speaker Series
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter introduced Cole Appelman, Policy & Legislative Analyst for the City of Philadelphia. He gave a presentation on the city’s automated speed enforcement (ASE) cameras, used on state corridors and school zones. The Commission thanked him for his presentation and asked about monetary penalties.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. Transportation Demand Management
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter gave a presentation on the City’s transportation demand management (TDM) efforts to mitigate congestion, improve air quality, and decrease fossil fuel use. She highlighted the city’s secure bike parking program at 450 N. Rexford Dr. The Commission asked about employee feedback, surveillance cameras for the bike parking program, and incentives for biking to work.
3. Connect Beverly Hills Implementation
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter gave a presentation on Connect BH, the city’s streetscape plan to improve the Wilshire corridor for Metro subway riders. She highlighted various parts of the plan, including bus stop benches, landscaping standards, pedestrian signals, and intersection redesigns. The Commission asked about funding.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
PROJECT UPDATES AND FOLLOW-UP ITEMS
4. Project Updates and Follow-up Items
Transportation Planner Jessie Holzer Carpenter provided an update about events that the city will hold for National Bike Month. She also highlighted the installation of the city’s first bike signal at Roxbury & Wilshire.
Traffic and Parking Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis May 1, 2025
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
5. Chair’s Report
The Commission welcomed Commissioner Kamara.
COMMUNICATION FROM STAFF
6. Department Report
Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer Daren Grilley welcomed Commissioner Kamara.
He also highlighted Public Works Day on May 18 at the Farmer’s Market and invited the commission to attend.
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 1, 2025 / 10:17 AM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In-Person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
SYNOPSIS
May 8, 2025
8:00 AM
.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Date/Time: May 8, 2025 / 8:01 AM
Commissioner Nystrom participated remotely in accordance with the provisions of AB2449.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Nystrom, Millan, Vice Chair Ritterbush, Chair Nehoray.
Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Kimura.
Staff Present: Josette Descalzo, Jason Dyogi, Cole Duffy, Samer Elayyan, Amandra Grossman, Ken Pfalzgraf, 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 April 10, 2025.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Millan, SECONDED by Vice Chair Ritterbush to approve the Consent Calendar item as presented (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Nystrom, Millan, Vice Chair Ritterbush, Chair Nehoray.
NOES: None.
CARRIED
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 8, 2025
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
Operations Reports from City Departments, Consultants and Outside Agencies Environmental Compliance and Sustainability Program Manager Josette Descalzo introduced Kendal Asuncion from the Clean Power Alliance (CPA). She appeared via Zoom to discuss the CPA’s efforts as the largest community choice aggregator in California to provide green power to homes and businesses. The City of Beverly Hills has avoided releasing over 485 million pounds of carbon dioxide since joining the CPA in 2019, or the equivalent of planting 3.6 million trees and growing them for 10 years. She also reviewed various energy and cost-saving programs provided by the CPA.
The Commissioners thanked her for her presentation and asked about the rates in comparison to Southern California Edison’s rates, the origins of the program, and how many smart homes are part of the CPA’s services.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. Willaman Street Tree Master Plan
City Arborist Ken Pfalzgraf gave an update on the street master plan for Willaman Drive to replace the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees residents have voiced concerns about due to their leaking sap and insect infestations. 91% of polled residents preferred a single species of tree to be planted along the street, and 54% of polled residents voted for Crape Myrtle as the new replacement trees. He asked for the Commission to approve the replacement plan and to send the recommendation to City Council for their approval.
The Commission asked about balancing old trees that don’t need to be replaced with new trees selected by the neighborhood, the funding for this project, and what happens to the wood from the trees that are removed. They also asked about the resident’s ability to request the removal of a tree in writing, even if the tree is perfectly healthy and poses no threat to the street.
Public Speaker: Public comment was heard from Karen Siegel and Rona Lewin.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Millan, SECONDED by Vice Chair Ritterbush approve the recommendation from staff and move the plan to City Council for approval. (4/0)
AYES: Commissioners Nystrom, Millan, Vice Chair Ritterbush, Chair Nehoray.
NOES: None.
CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
3. 2025 Public Health Goals Report
Water Quality Specialist Jason Dyogi provided an update on the 2025 Public Health Goals Report, which is required to be provided every 3 years to be compliant with the California Calderon-Sher Safe Drinking Water Act of 1996. The reports improve transparency and public awareness about the status of their drinking water. He reviewed the quality of the drinking water maintained by the City. The Commission asked about the treatment process and how the standards criteria are selected.
Public Works Commission Regular Meeting Synopsis
May 8, 2025
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Millan, SECONDED by Vice Chair Ritterbush to approve the report (4/0).
AYES: Commissioners Nystrom, Millan, Vice Chair Ritterbush, Chair Nehoray.
NOES: None.
CARRIED
PROJECT UPDATES AND STATUS ITEMS
4. Sustainability Report
Sustainability Program Administrator Amanda Grossman provided an update on the City’s Earth Day celebrations on April 27, including feedback from residents on their concerns about climate change and sustainability. Power On BH launched on April 27, now acting as the City’s electrical resilience pilot program. The Climate Action Adaptation Plan (CAAP) was approved and adopted by the City Council on April 22, with direction to communicate the plan with residents and developers. Ms. Grossman asked if Commissioners would be open to volunteering for the selection committee of the poster contest. The Commission asked about the Power On BH program and congratulated staff on getting the CAAP passed.
5. Capital Projects Update
Engineering Services Manager Samer Elayyan highlighted ongoing and new Capital Projects, including the Coldwater Canyon Rehabilitation Project. The Commission asked about the removal of the temporary walls around the Gregory Wells site, the AMI water meter project, and the status of the Burton Way Median project.
6. Specific Information and Department Updates
Utilities General Manager Robert Welch reported on the upcoming City Council Meeting items including a proclamation presentation for Public Works Week. Chair Nehoray requested the information from the Water Fund Financial Statement to be more understandable in comparison to the budget.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
7. Chair’s Report
Chair Nehoray reported on the most recent Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
8. Director’s Report
Utilities General Manager Robert Welch announced there will be an on-street Coldwater Canyon Ad-Hoc meeting on May 18. He also reviewed upcoming events including National Bike Month.
ADJOURNMENT
Date/Time: May 8, 2025 / 10:13 AM
CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
Room 280A
455 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
1 In-person / Telephonic / Video Conference Meeting
HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
SYNOPSIS
Monday, May 19, 2025
4:00 p.m.
OPEN MEETING
4:01pm
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Colby Gilardian led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Commissioners Chang and Hilborne, Vice Chair Felsenthal, and Chair Rosenthal
Commissioners Absent:
Staff Present: Fire Chief Gregory Barton, Deputy Fire Chief Alfred Poirier, EMS Division Chief Sean Stokes, Interim Human Services Administrator Enisha Clark, Police Lieutenant Renato Moreno, Administrative Assistant Roger Askin, Management Assistant Austin Brault, and Commission Secretary Karen Gutierrez
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Members of the public may address the Commission regarding any items not on the agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. By State law, the Commission may not discuss or vote on items not on the agenda.
There was no public comment.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
With the concurrence of the Commission, the Chair may choose to amend the order of the items on the agenda.
By order of the Chair, the agenda was approved as presented.
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
May 19, 2025
2 CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration of minutes from the Health and Safety Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025.
Motion: MOVED by Commissioner Hilborne, SECONDED by Commissioner Chang approve the minutes as presented (4-0).
AYES: Commissioners Chang and Hilborne, Vice Chair Felsenthal, Chair Rosenthal
ABSENT:
NOES: None
REPORTS FROM PRIORITY AGENCIES
• Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) – BHUSD Board Member Russell Stuart spoke about the District's new safety Command Center and the collaborative partnerships with the Beverly Hills Police Department, Nastec, and other third parties; new technology such as the use of AI in school security, and Automatic License Plate Readers & Fall Detection; recent security incidents; graduation 2025 safety plan; the District’s expanded access to nutritious food and comprehensive wellness education. • Beverly Hills Police Department – Police Lieutenant Renato Moreno provided an update on Police Department activities; presented the department’s month-to-month crime statistics and response time metrics for March 2025, April 2025, and May 1st-11th, 2025; success stories of investigating and solving crimes such as the use of Automatic License Plate Readers; shared information about May being National Bike Safety Month and grant funding the Department received to staff extra Police Officers to look out for traffic violations.
• Beverly Hills Fire Department – Deputy Fire Chief Alfred Poirier presented the department’s incident count and response performance by unit, from April to May 2025; The data showed all resources in Beverly Hills to be within or below the standard– accepted unit hour utilization, accomplished by supplementing additional resources to ensure the highest level of community services. Interim Human Services Administrator Enisha Clark spoke about various activities, programs, and partnerships to provide support services. She shared the April 2025 homelessness outreach metrics, scattered site housing, and information on the monthly senior wellness drop-in consultations. The Beverly Hills Outreach & Assistance Team (BHOT) is staffed 24/7 and can be contacted at (310) 285-2468. Call 9-11 for medical or mental health emergencies and for crime or illegal activity.
CONTINUED BUSINESS
2. Moment of Mindfulness
George Boyd, MA, author and founder of the Mudrashram Institute of Spiritual Studies, led the Commission in a Moment of Mindfulness.
Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
May 19, 2025
3 George Boyd led the Commission in a “Moment of Mindfulness,” fostering community strength and resilience through reflective practice. He introduced applied transformational meditation methods designed to support balanced spiritual development.
NEW BUSINESS
3. Policing with Cutting-Edge Technology
A presentation by the Beverly Hills Police Department on utilizing advanced technology to improve safety.
At this meeting, Lieutenant Renato Moreno from the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) presented on "Policing with Cutting-Edge Technology," which showcased the innovative tools in modern law enforcement. His presentation highlighted how advanced technology has enhanced public safety, improved response times, and adapted to the evolving challenges faced by officers in the field. Among the groundbreaking advancements is Live911, the Real Time Watch Center (RTWC), Milestone software system, Automatic License Plate Reader, Drone as a First Responder.
The Commission viewed videos that illustrated real-world police activity, and how cuttingedge technology plays a key role in capturing criminals.
PROJECT UPDATES
• None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION
• Chair’s Report –
o Mayor’s Cabinet Meeting Highlights – May 12, 2025
- Chair Rosenthal attended the May 12, 2025, and April 8, 2025, Mayor’s Cabinet Meetings; meeting highlights will be included in a future packet. • Commissioner Items –
- Vice Chair Felsenthal mentioned that Blue Can Water is available to be purchased via Just In Case BH and will be delivered to you home via the Fire Department.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF
• Director’s Report –
- Staff shared information about City evens in the coming weeks: Never Again is Now, Diversity of the Jewish Experience discussion panel with the Mayor (5/21/25); Memorial Day Remembrance Gathering at Roxbury Park (5/23/25); Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps community meetings (5/28/25 and 6/9/25); Just In Case BH Emergency Preparedness Fair (6/8/25).
• Health and Safety-Related Supplemental Information:
1. Beverly Hills Police Department Metrics (March and April 2025; May 1-11, 2025)
2. Beverly Hills Fire Department Metrics (April 2024 and 2025) Health and Safety Commission Special Meeting Synopsis
May 19, 2025
4 3. Beverly Hills Police Department – May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
4. Beverly Hills Police Department: Information Regarding Helmets and e-Bikes and e-Scooters
5. Beverly Hills Police Department – “Click It or Ticket” Campaign
6. Fire Department Human Services Division Drop-In Consultations Now Available
7. City of Beverly Hills, Emergency Evacuation Assistance Registry
8. Vegetation Management – City of Beverly Hills Brush Clearance Brochure
9. Stroke Awareness Month
10. National Wildfire Awareness Month – Home Hardening
11. Mental Health Month
12. Bike Month
13. LA County Department of Public Health - FAQ
14. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Newsletter May 2025
ADJOURNMENT
Date / Time: May 19, 2025 / 5:41 p.m.