1 THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,
CULVER CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY,
AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD
REGULAR MEETING OF THE August 12, 2024
CITY COUNCIL, CULVER CITY 7:00 p.m.
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor McMorrin called the regular meeting of the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority, Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board to order at 6:00 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
Present: Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Mayor
Daniel O’Brien, Vice Mayor
Göran Eriksson, Council Member
Freddy Puza, Council Member
Albert Vera, Council Member
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Closed Session
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, indicated that no public comment had been received for Closed Session items and she read the Council Chambers Rules of Order and Decorum.
August 12, 2024
2 MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, CULVER CITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION.
At 6:05 p.m. the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority, Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned to Closed Session to consider the following Closed Session Items:
CS-1 CC - Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation Re: Shahla Smith v. City of Culver City
Case No. 21STCV02837
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
CS-2 CC - Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation (1 Item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
CS-3 CC – Threat to Public Services or Facilities
Consultation with Culver City Chief of Police Jason Sims Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957(a)
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Reconvene
Mayor McMorrin reconvened the meeting of the City Council at 6:52 p.m. for recognition presentations with five Council Members present.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, read a statement on Rules of Order and Decorum; discussed potential disruptions given the large audience and number of people re questing to speak ; reminded all members of the public to abide by the Rules of Order and Decorum while in Council Chambers; not ed that rules were meant to facilitate treating others courteously; discussed listening to others respectfully and allowing Council Members, members of the public, and City staff to speak without
intimidation or interruption; ensuring a fair opportunity fo r attendees to participate while allowing the business of the City to be conducted ; she read a list of prohibited actions that interfere with the public’s right to participate in the meeting and interfere with City business that would not be permitted; August 12, 2024
3 discussed consequences for failure to comply; the ability of members of the public to attend the meeting virtually; and she announced that Item R-3 had been moved to a future agenda.
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Recognition Presentation
Item R-1
CC – Presentation of Awards Created by the Equity and Human Relations Advisory Committee to Sophia Gomez, No Limits for Deaf Children, Duenas Family Childcare, and Abby Klein for their Service and Contributions to Equity and Human Relations in Culver City
Mayor McMorrin thanked members of the Equity and Human Relations Advisory Committee (EHRAC) for their efforts; provided
background on the item; and she presented an Equity and Human Relations Award to Abby Klein for her service and contributions to equity and human relations in Culver City.
Abby Klein expressed appreciation for the recognition; indicated the she felt it important to have conversations with children at a very young age; reported that children know their gender identity by the age of 4; noted the importance of having developmentally appropriate conversations so that children feel affirmed, accepted , and loved in safe and inclusive
environments; and she expressed appreciation for the
recognition.
Haifaa Moammar, EHRAC Committee Member, presented the medallion from the EHRAC to Abby Klein and expressed appreciation for their work.
Mayor McMorrin presented the Equity and Human Relations A ward in the individual category to Sophia Gomez.
Haifaa Moammar, EHRAC Member, presented the medallion from the EHRAC to Sophia Gomez and expressed appreciation for her work and to Culver City High School teachers for their support of the students.
Mayor McMorrin presented the Equity and Human Relations award in the business category to Duenas Family Childcare.
Denice Renteria, EHRAC Member, presented the medallion on behalf August 12, 2024
4 of the EHRAC and she thanked Duenas Family Childcare for their work.
A representative for Duenas Family Childcare expressed
appreciation for the recognition.
Mayor McMorrin presented the Eq uity and Human Relations Award to No Limits for Deaf Families noting that the certificate would be presented in the future.
Michelle Christie, No Limits for Deaf Children, invited anyone who was interested to take a tour to get more information.
Denice Renteria, EHRAC Member, presented the medallion to Michelle Christie and thanked them for their work.
Council Members took photographs with all of those who received awards.
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Item R-2
CC – Presentation in Honor of Black Business Month 2024 to Realty Executives Westside
Mayor McMorrin presented a Certificate of Recognition to Realty Executives Westside in honor of Black Business Month 2024.
Peter Bledsoe, Realty Executives Westside , expressed
appreciation for the honor.
Dr. Luther Henderson provided background on the organization; discussed accomplishments; key individuals; and expressed gratitude for the recognition.
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Item R-3
CC - Presentation of a Commendation Celebrating the 100th Birthday of the Culver Hotel
This item was deferred to a future agenda.
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August 12, 2024
5 Regular Session
Mayor McMorrin convened the regular meeting of the City Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board, Culver City Financing Authority, Culver City Parking Authority and Culver City Housing Authority Board at 7:17 p.m. with five Council Members present.
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Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor McMorrin led the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor McMorrin indicated nothing to report out of Closed Session.
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Community Announcements by Members/Information Items from Staff
Council Member Eriksson thanked staff for their efforts on the Olympics Closing Ceremony on August 11.
Vice Mayor O’Brien echoed comments from Council Member Eriksson and he expre ssed appreciation to the Parks, Recreation and Community Services (PRCS) department for the opening ceremonies event at the Senior Center.
Mayor McMorrin discussed representing Culver City at the Fire Department re -certification; acknowledged Chief Powell and Culver City Fire Department (CCFD) for their sixth re - certification; discussed the e vent at the Wende Museum on the fight for incarcerated women centering Susan Burton; noted that the Summer Concert Series would be wrapping up soon , she acknowledged staff for their work, and she encouraged everyone to check go to a concert ; discussed the Olympics Closing Ceremony; the Building Better Communities event she attended at the White House; her goal to further the idea that everyone feel seen and heard and feel true belonging in a previous Sundown Town; faith that neighbors can extend hope and empathy toward one another; the need for transparency, honesty, respect, and accountability; and she indicated that she felt respect for August 12, 2024
6 everyone in the community and she hoped her leadership showed that.
T'Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, reported that Item C-14 had been moved to a future agenda.
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Presentations
Item P-1
Presentation from Dr. Nicole Yates of Keen Independent Research L.L.C. regarding the City of Culver City Racial Equity Action Plan (REAP) Project
Michelle Hamilton, Senior Human Resources and Equity Manager, reported that in accordance with City goals to embed racial equity into its framework, policies, procedures, and structure, Keen Independent Research had been engaged to develop the Racial Equity Action Plan (REAP); she discussed the purpose of the plan; the background of Dr. Nicole Yates; and she indicated that staff was available to answer any questions.
Dr. Nicole Yates, Keen Independent Research, provided a presentation on the Racial Equity Action Plan (REAP); discussed the firm; intent and goals of the REAP; overview of the project; factors that inform people’s experiences; tasks; the baseline assessment; the workforce analysis; potential disparities in the City’s workforce; identification of priorities; stakeholder and community engagement; development of the report;
implementation; estimated date of completion; examples of prior work; current and upcoming tasks; and City Council involvement.
Discussion ensued between Dr. Yates, staff, and Council Members regarding agreement to provide a copy of the presentation to Council Members; appreciation to Dr. Yates for the presentation and for her work; gratitude to staff for their efforts; the Equity Subcommittee; ensuring wide engagement; placing an emphasis on engaging people where they are; composition of the internal committee; work done during normal work hours; those who do not feel comfortable making a report; building out conditions to help people feel safer; focusing on why people do not feel comfortable; listening sessions; providing a safe space to discuss issues; key practical steps to all for progress in helping everyone to feel belonging; dismissal of concerns shared that have a different point of view than the majority of the August 12, 2024
7 community; creating a culture that listens and validates people’s lived experience; and acknowledging that many things can be true at the same time.
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Joint Public Comment – Items NOT on the Agenda
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, noted that Council Chambers had reached capacity, but people were able to participate online , and she read the City Council statement regarding hate speech.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Hala Khan provided background on herself; discussed things that their children were having to hear at school from other children; concern with having to take sides; the need to unite when calling for peace; modeling for children and the community; acknowledging everyone’s voice; the fact that calling for a ceasefire should never be controversial; and she asked the City Council to take a stand.
Maria Beg provided background on herself; expressed support for a permanent ceasefire resolution such as other City Councils have done; discussed genocide aided by the United States; she noted that the Muslims and Palestinians in Culver City were hurting; and she asserted that steps taken by Culver City could impact the government on a national level.
Huong Nghien-Eilbek, with one minute ceded by Taylor Vivanco , provided background on herself; discussed her previous
engagement with the City Council regarding gun violence; people in the community grieving child deaths in Gaza; the effect of war on children; the term Wounded Child, No Surviving Family (WCNSF); health and human rights violations in the war; number of people killed; normalizing the death of children; the fact that all wars a re wars against children; she urged the City Council to agendize a discussion of a ceasefire resolution in Gaza; noted the need for the community to support each other and come together; and she read the names of four children who had been killed.
Lisa Schultz, with one minute ceded by Leila Ullman , provided background on herself; indicated working in Gaza for the past ten years; discussed losses of people she knows; the arts August 12, 2024
8 movement in Gaza; destruction; systematic bombing of schools by Israel; she asserted that the issue was no longer international when tax dollars are diverted from health and housing to drop U.S. made bombs on children ; she discussed disregard for international law; the message being sent to children;
normalizing horrific violence that will only spread; gun violence; school shootings; and she asked that the City Council put a ceasefire on the agenda.
Noel Braham provided background on the Micheaux Film Festival; asked the City Council to agendize consideration of a marketing sponsorship; reported support from Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell; and, responding to inquiry, he indicated that the event would take place at the Culver City Theater from October 21-27, 2024.
Fawaz Istwani , with one m inute ceded by Nicholas Connor , provided background on himself; indicated that they were not present to take sides; noted that the war was going nowhere; discussed senseless killing in the war; the need to do
something; he called for a ceasefire and the immediate return of all hostages, including the 10,000 innocent Palestinians being held indefinitely without due process; discussed torturing of civilians; targeting of children; Culver City’s desire for peace expressed in October 2023; and he noted that families were being torn apart.
Patrick Godinez acknowledged that Culver City was doing a good job providing housing for unhoused neighbors; discussed the next challenge of addressing substance abuse and mental health disorders; he asked the City Council to agendize consideration of bringing in USC’s Street Medicine Team to work directly with Urban Alchemy and other providers to address the safety of the population; discussed potential grants; taxes to pay for services; diversion; and he proposed agendizing c onsideration of bringing in the DOJ (Department of Justice) program to ensure that clients are well taken care of.
Emily Dibiny, with one minute ceded by Michael Christopher , provided background on herself; discussed her volunteering efforts in Culver City; acting as a terrorist vs. as a community member; loss of family members in Gaza; and she presented photos of friends and family killed in Gaza.
Thea Krizmanich was called to speak but was not in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Shaheen Nassar was called to speak but did not respond.
August 12, 2024
9 T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, noted that Council Chambers had reached capacity, but people were welcome to participate virtually.
Ayman Mahfouz was called to speak but did not respond.
Dr. Kelly Kent, Culver City Unified School District ( CCUSD) Board of Education President, spoke on behalf of herself; discussed feedback from the community in support of a ceasefire and release of hostages; honoring the current and historical experience of Palestine and Gaza; feedbac k regarding the position taken in support of Israel and the release of the hostages; power and privilege; many in the community that would like to hear the City support Palestinians and call for a ceasefire in addition to the release of hostages; intimidation; understanding that those speaking represent only some of the many; and she expressed hope that the City Council would consider agendizing a more wholistic conversation.
Leah Pressman discussed moving testimony from the community ; passing a resolutio n calling for a ceasefire; the official position of the California Democratic Party; opposition to a ceasefire as a fringe position among Democrats; provisions of the state resolution; authors of the resolution; party unity; and she asserted that for Council Members Eriksson and Vera to oppose agendizing a resolution would be to radically depart from the express values and position of the Democratic Party.
Kiran Randhawa provided background on herself; discussed her duty as a nurse; duties of Council Members; tax dollars; blockage of humanitarian aid; the effect of calling for a ceasefire; taking a stand for humanity; caring for everyone with equality; the duty to assure safety; Islamophobic hate; signs to Free the Hostages; Palestinian hostages; children being killed daily; and she asked th at Culver City call for a ceasefire.
Pitango Tratou sh, with one minute ceded Sara Abrahamsson , provided background on himself; discussed the ongoing situation; the need for action from Culver City; the violence in Gaza; the importance of understanding the truth; a ceasefire for the future of the children; the job of the City Council to guide and help residents; and the inability of the City to do their job if they close their eyes.
Matilde Angle indicated ceding their time to another speaker.
August 12, 2024
10 T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, reminded those on Webex to change their name so that staff can see the name on the list or to send a chat message to alert them.
Bineh Ndefru was called to speak but did not respond.
Gary Zeiss discussed an initiative launched by Mayor McMorrin and Council Member Puza called Culver City for All; respect for the community; core values; he urged the City not to consider a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza ; discussed
established Jewish and Muslim communities in Culver City; people on either side of the crisis; concern with advocating for one side over another; neighbors with starkly different
perspectives; celebrating the community and diversity; and the divisive nature of making a resolution.
Majed Dakak , Arab American Lawyers of Southern California, discussed the truth; Martin Luther King, Caesar Chavez, and Ghandi; living with the truth in how Council Members vote and messages sent; a community member who reached out to a Council Member about the ceasefire indicating that Culver City has no bearing on international matters; and the resolution passed in October 2023.
Alex Dakhi discussed the previous vote of the City Council to support the state of Israel which contradicts the statements of not engaging in international policy; contradiction funded by local tax dollars; and loss of life funded by tax dollars.
Ron Ostrin, with one minute ceded by Leslie Ostrin , discussed the responsibility for mutual humanity; the fact that no one has condemned Hamas; using innocent civilians as shields; silence as betrayal; support for peace; the tragedy that was knowingly created; he asserted t hat the matter was not the responsibility of Culver City; discussed normalizing horrific violence; plans of Hamas to destroy Israel; and he proposed peace by looking at each other’s humanity.
Al B. asserted that he was a proud Zionist; discussed racist antisemites who want to murder all the Jews disguised as a ceasefire resolution; support for a ceasefire along with the release of all the hostages and disarming Hamas; genocide; burning the American flag; implementing Hitler’s plan; Jewish support; and he asked the City Council to pass a resolution in support of Israel.
August 12, 2024
11 Marci Baun felt that Culver City was not the place for the national issue; questioned what the passage of a similar resolution by 140 cities had accomplished; asserted that it was not right for a bunch of people to come in and try to push their decision on Culver City; discussed the two groups in Culver City; the diverse City; the feeling that support of a resolution would be divisive; the importance of being a welcoming
community; and she urged Culver City not to pass a resolution
Polly Stenberg provided background on herself; expressed support for a ceasefire; discussed genocide funded by tax dollars; and the need for an end to the military bombardment that makes no one safer.
Ronald Da vis provided background on himself; discussed bloodshed; justification of the brutality as collateral damage; the cost of war; concern with not taking action for fear of being divisive; not standing against horror; the City Council of Berlin in 1938; and being silent today.
Ivanska Pagan spoke in support of businesses in Culver City; provided background on herself; discussed support for
Palestinians and a ceasefire; length of the conflict; concern with killing for killing; destroying lives; she asserted th at the Palestinians deserved life and kids that wanted to play and have a future; and she could not understand how the killing could continue.
Alison Furuto was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Jeffrey Cooper provided background on himself; asked the City Council to pass a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire and permanent peace in Gaza with a mutual exchange of hostages and reinstatement of funding for UN Relief and Works Agency and an end to the U.S. sending arms; asserted that Palestinians and Jews would continue to die if the war continue d; expressed opposition to any discriminatory beliefs and actions; discussed government inaction; setting the stage for a polio epidemic; starvation; and a wider a nd destructive war throughout the world.
Joan Sekler, with one minute ceded by Sherna Gluck , discussed work in Santa Monica to get their City Council to pass a ceasefire in Gaza; Culver City as an international City with Sister Cities; fostering international friendship; the
resolution as in keeping with international understanding and August 12, 2024
12 peace; other cities that have passed resolutions; and she asked the City Council to do the right thing and pass the resolution.
Conor Proffitt, with one minute ceded by Keith Watabayashi , called for a permanent ceasefire and release of all hostages and unjustly held prisoners; discussed feeling threatened; the diverse community; the need to be free to express opinions without fear of reprisal; those who discuss winning or losing; peace as a win for everyone; support for dialogue with
neighbors; freedom to express valid opinions; the importance of dialogue; City Council as the voice for the community; change from the bottom up; the civil rights movement; small actions that pile up to make the government respond; and he asked tha t the City Council represent citizens an d call for a permanent ceasefire.
Stephen Jones provided background on himself; asked the City Council to agendize a discussion and vote yes on a resolution calling for a durable ceasefire in Gaza and release of all hostages; discussed differences of opinion; shared values; the vote last year to condemn the violen ce on October 7, 2023; rising above politics and ideology; coming together to stop violence; and affects to residents of Culver City.
Ryan Riliani, with one minute ceded by Sana Manaie , provided background on himself; asked the City Council to agendize a ceasefire resolution; discussed destruction of schools and universities in Gaza; hypocritical silence; brave first steps taken by Culver City to protect students and the community; effects of the issue on more people in Culver City than they realize; the need to address the issue rather than sweep it under the rug as has been done since October 7; recognition that pointless bombing only results in death and destruction; and he asked the City Council to hear its residents.
Camilla Huntley, with one minute ceded by Helene Sklar, provided background on herself; asked the City Council to agendize consideration of a ceasefire; discussed teachers being silenced; students being unable to openly share their feelings; allowing acknowledgement of what is happening in the world; issues affecting the community; showing community members that their voices and opinions matter; City leaders voted in to rep resent residents; her role as student representative; and she asked that the City Council stop silencing their voices.
Daniel Nickfardjam provided background on himself; discussed the duty of Jews to repair the world; asserted that agendizing August 12, 2024
13 a ceasefire resolution was not an antisemitic act; he noted that the only time he felt threatened as a Jew was from other Jews that he has grown up with; and he asked that the City Council pass a ceasefire resolution.
Samantha Mohammed provided background on herself; discussed the importance of passing a ceasefire resolution and moving in the right direction; and concern that her tax dollars are going toward the killing of her family.
Shaheen Nassar provided background on himself; discussed people murdered in his family; racist violence; fear that his cousin may be among the casualties; the Culver City statement about their commitment to racial equality; silence as support for genocide; violating the commitment to racial equity; tax dollars given to Israel’s military; voters who will remember in November; choosing a path away from moral cowardice; and he asked that the City Council agendize consideration of a ceasefire resolution and pass it.
Cynthia Klingelfuss was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Kristen Schroer was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Salma Ibrahim, with one minute ceded by Raelie Loredo, provided background on herself, requested that the City Council agendize consideration of an immediate and permanent mutual ceasefire as has been done by 16 other Southern California cities; discussed the genocide of Palestine; dehumanizing and justifying actions; remembering those lost rather than numbers and percentages; the need to take accountability; and the need to come together to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.
Tasneem Noor provided background on herself; discussed diversity; feeling safe and welcome in Culv er City; 16 cities in Southern California that have passed a resolution in support of an immediate mutual ceasefire; the purpose of the resolution; clarification that they do not have to choose the safety of one group over another; the obligation to answer the question asked by students about killing 40 Palestinians to get one Hamas; the need to explain that Palestinians are people, not terrorists ; concern that people are not as upset about children dying as they are; and being seen as a terrorist sympathiz er for being sad that children have no safe space to go.
August 12, 2024
14 Melissa Sanders expressed agreement with comments made by Gary Zeiss; asserted that Hamas started the conflict; discussed the seemingly one-sided request; her family in Israel; those who want to kill people because they are Jewish; those upset about the use of their tax dollars; she felt it wrong to demand a ceasefire before anything else was resolved; asked the City to do nothing on the international issue; and she asked people to deal with reality and to stop blaming.
Andrea Cohen provided background on herself; discussed worries for her family in Israel; being horrified and distressed with the killing and destruction in Gaza; she felt that Israelis and Palestinians should be allowed to live in safety and peace; noted that there was no “either/or” but rather only both; asserted that the land belonged neither exclusively to
Palestinians or Israelis; pointed out that the only way to arrive at peace was through an immediate ceasefire, return of hostages, and of the unlawfully detained prisoners, and for all people of the region to find new leaders who support lasting peace; and she asked that a ceasefire resolution be put on the agenda and passed.
Jared Bailey provided background on himself; asserted that it was imperative to agendize a permanent ceasefire resolution; discussed the morally and ethically correct position;
safeguarding the community; increased incidents of anti -Muslim hate crimes; calling for peace abroad and at home; the number of Palestinians massacred in Gaza; and ensuring that peace and safety prevail.
Bryan Sanders, with one minute ceded by Florian Horn Sanders , discussed historical acts of violence and destruction; August 12 as the day of threat to strike again; listening to hatred; he noted that no one wanted war or death; felt the goal should be condemning Hamas; asserted that the Jews were used to Holocaust inversion; discussed slander; apartheid; and he hoped that the City Council would do nothing with the request for the resolution which is another propaganda to ol from Iranian jihadists to infiltrate American universities and non -profit organizations.
Sam Shofani, with one minute ceded by Camilla Shofani, provided background on himself; discussed disproportionate bombardment of civilian atrocities; the IDF; morality; ethics; he expressed support for a ceasefire; indicated that he did not support one side over another; discussed the importance of supporting humanity; and he asked the City Council to agendize
August 12, 2024
15 consideration of a ceasefire.
Lorri Horn asserted that calling for a ceasefire was not problematic, but failure to mention the hostages was; discussed the irony of calling for peace and justice for all but not including all; the fact that louder voices d id not mean their suffering was more than that experienced by others; she asserted that the war would have ended months ago if Hamas surrender ed and let the hostages and citizens go; felt that rather than calling for a ceasefire, Hamas should be called to let everyone go; and she noted that the Anti-Defamation League urged public officials to keep the highly problematic resolutions that go along with ceasefire resolutions in mind.
Michael Hersh was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Jasmine Delgado provided background on herself; implored the City Council to agendize consideration of a resolution in support of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza; discussed slaughter and dismemberment of children; making history as
representatives; profound effects; determining whether Culver City supported the call for peace; a ceasefire as the beginning of negotiations for peace and reparations; stopping the death toll from rising; concern with ignoring the call from
constituents for a ceasefire; and showing humanity as global citizens.
Haifaa Moammar indicated being a member of the EHRAC speaking on behalf of herself; noted that cities ha d always been the heart of change; felt that when cities unite d in passing ceasefire resolutions they wielded the collective power of their citizens; she extended condolences to every Jewish person in the room and outside for their loss on October 7; asked the City Council to agendize consideration of a ceasefire resolution as a reflection of who they are as a community; indicated being an Arab and a Muslim from Saudi Arabia; and she asked everyone to be kind.
Monica Richardson was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Donna LeBlanc was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Bubba Fish, with one minute ceded by Aaron Lieberman, discussed other city councils that have adopted ceasefire resolutions; August 12, 2024
16 support by Democrats and voters across party lines; remarks in support of a ceasefire by Supervisor Mitchell and Kamala Harris; the importance of using your voice; not using grief from the hatred and violence as a justification for more violence; the belief that Jews standing up for Palestinian, Arab, and Muslims are denigrating themselves; bonding with Jewish neighbors over challenging conversations with family and friends ; those who want an end to the violence; the belief that all people are created in God’s image; finding ways to be better advocates in one’s community; and raising voices for brothers and sisters in Gaza and for ancestors and descendants to say never again for anyone.
Mirvette Judeh provided background on he rself; discussed the genocide of her people; family members currently imprisoned; the job of everyone to stop a genocide; ceasefire as being for all sides; the number of civilians murdered; the percentage of women and children killed; she questioned what it would take; asserted that every city contributed to the genocide therefore it was a local issue; cited money from Culver City that goes toward genocide; and she wanted the killing of everyone to stop noting that lives were not safer with the continuation of killing.
Joan Davidson was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Elly Levy provided background on himself; spoke in favor of a ceasefire; discussed textbook genocide; the Israeli propaganda machine; the co-genocidal campaign massacre; the argument of self-defense; static manufactured around the resolution; and he asked the City Council to agendize consideration of the resolution.
Neal Tabachnick expressed gratitude to the Culver City Police Department (CCPD) and appreciation for everyone who showed up to express their views; indicated being against anxiety and suffering; he mourned the loss of children; felt that a ceasefire without a meaningful plan in place was kicking the can down the road; stated that a ceas efire was a victory for Hamas on October 7; he felt that the issue was inappropriate for the forum; and he wanted to see Palestine freed from Hamas.
Pamela Erwin provided background on herself; asserted that once you learn the truth your life change s; provided resources for people to learn more; discussed the Zionist narrative that has taken over America; encouraged people to align themselves with August 12, 2024
17 international law and humanity ; she read words from Aaron Bushnell who self-immolated; and she asked the City Council to agendize a ceasefire now.
Joy Rodriguez was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Scott Stevens was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Linda Milazzo provided background on herse lf; discussed the number of people killed in Gaza; different types of news that people watch; concern that the City Council would have any reservations about voting for a ceasefire; concern with Jews who do not want to stop the holocaust happening in Gaza; she pointed out that Jews didn’t own holocaust; she felt that the one happening right now could be stopped and she did not understand why people did not take action to do so; and she asked the City Council to vote to stop what is going on in Gaza.
Reverend Heidi Worthen Gamble provided background on herself; discussed impacts of the terrorist attacks on October 7; grief; condemnation of the attacks and a call for the release of the hostages; horror at the loss of innocent live s in Palestine; Peace USA; teams sent to Palestine who indicate that it is worse than what is being reported; the horrific genocide being committed; the moral compass of the world; the inability to normalize genocide; the importance of action in the United States; and she asked the City Council to consider support of a ceasefire.
Tony Higgins discussed the effectiveness of a resolution by a small city; the number cities in the United States; making progress bit by bit; making a difference by passing a
resolution; he indicated that he wanted to see a resolution for a ceasefire, return of the hostages, and a better future for the children on both sides; and he asked the City Council to do their duty by passing a resolution in support of a ceasefire.
David Kairo indicated that he and his neighbors were very concerned by the upcoming development at 5700 Hannum; discussed increased traffic and noise pollution; exacerbation of the already difficult parking situation; impacts to the way of life in the neighborhood; inequality in how different neighborhoods in Culver City are treated; Fox Hills as being the most dense and culturally diverse area in Culver City; putting all of the state required density in Fox Hills; making a walkable
August 12, 2024
18 neighborhood; businesses that are already in walking dista nce; single family housing neighborhoods that are allowed to keep the status quo; he demanded that density be spread equally across Culver City; and he proposed that high rise buildings be built along major arteries.
Kayla Shore provided background on herself; indicated that she stood against the genocide of Palestinians by Israel; discussed Jewish tradition; healing; the local issue because of the way taxes are spent; and she asked the City Council to join many other cities to agendize a resolution for a ceasefire.
Joanne Tortorici Luna was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Beth Lane provided background on herself; noted that she had comments for Item A-1l; discussed the proposal put in for the Neighbor Traffic Management Plan (NTMP) in 2015; construction that began in in 2021; and she asked th e City to accomplish items that have not been addressed.
Ghassan Khoury, with one minute ceded by Jacob Ritter, provided background on himself; indicated being part of the Santa Monica ceasefire resolution; discussed the moral weight of the decision before them; consideration of historic instances of those who stood by and did not speak up about atrocities; harsh judgement of those who do not speak up; alignment with dark forces of history; the continuation of the most documented mass murder of children in our time; fear to speak up; unwavering support of Israel by the government; the will of the people; the agenda of a few people who have been bought by foreign interests; standing on the right side of history; and he asked that the City Council agendize a ceasefire resolution.
Ayman Mahfouz discussed voters; the variety of people who spoke up; failing constituents; taking part in the conflict by posting the sign on Overland; efforts to appease Zionists in Culver City; he noted that there were no sides to the conflict, there was only humanity; asserted that one could not take the side of those who bomb people lining up for food; discussed the need to condemn Hamas and the IDF; those called racist for speaking up for a ceasefire; he expressed hope that the City Council would not be silenced; and he asked the City Council to agendize a resolution in support of a ceasefire.
Estee Chandler, with one minute ceded by Thistle Boosinger, provided background on herself; discussed the most documented August 12, 2024
19 genocide in human history; the critical moral challenge; recognizing personal and civic stakes in events that take place around the world; believing in the lived reality of Never Again for everyone; the World Health Organization statement that the people of Gaza are starving to death; the genocide going on; she asserted that nothing could be more Jewish than agendizing and passing a resolution to call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire; and discussed work to save every human life possible.
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Receipt of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY 3:00 P.M. ON AUGUST 12, 2024.
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Order of the Agenda
Item R-3 and Item C-14 were postponed to a future agenda, and Items C-4, C-5, C-7, C-8, C-12, C-13, and C-15 were considered separately.
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Consent Calendar
Item C-1
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Cash Disbursements for June 29, 2024 to August 2, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR JUNE 29, 2024 TO AUGUST 2, 2024.
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Item C-2
CC:HA:PA:SA – Approval of Minutes for the Regular City Council Meeting Held on July 8, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, PARKING
AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT August 12, 2024
20 AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE MINUTE S FOR THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON JULY 8, 2024.
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Item C-3
CC - Approve Purchase Orders with Sea-Clear Pools Inc. for Pool Maintenance Supplies in the Additional Amount of $30,000, for a Total Amount Not-to-Exceed $80,000 for Fiscal Year 2023-2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE PURCHASE ORDERS WITH SEA -CLEAR POOLS INC. IN THE ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $30,000, FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $80,000 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO EXECUTE SUCH PURCHASE ORDERS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-4
CC – Approval of a Purchase Order with Flo -Systems Inc. for Immersible Pumps for the City Sewer System in an Amount Not-to- Exceed $210,000 for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Kevon Ramirez was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER WITH FLO -SYSTEMS INC. FOR
IMMERSIBLE PUMPS SYSTEMS IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $210,000 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO EXECUTE THE PURCHASE ORDER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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August 12, 2024
21 Item C-5
CC – Adoption of a Resolution Adopting a Five-Year Update to the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan as the City’s Hazard Mitigation Plan
Council Member Eriksson stated that he had received feedback from property owners that the numbers quoted were too low ; he received clarification the numbers used were the latest ; and staff agreed to check the numbers again before moving forward and would revise the numbers at that time.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the grant application process; the local match; and money from the General Fund.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Ron Bassilian discussed costs for retrofitting; concern with estimates; interes t rates; pass throughs to rent control tenants; programs to offset costs; he asked that an item be agendized for consideration; asked that the City Council research vendors who might offer a group discount; indicated that he could be reached at [email protected]; discussed calls for civil dialogue; and legal issues that the City Council should look at.
Dobby Hy acknowledged the need to retrofit, but felt that asking landlords to cover costs while dealing with rent control and ever increasing costs was burdensome; asked that Culver City help protect against predatory engineering firms and contractors reaching out to unsuspecting owners; discussed the expense of retrofitting; construction loans; tenants who benefit from the retrofit; the 1994 earthquake; renters who benefitted from FEMA while homeowners had to walk away from their homes; insurance costs; non-renewals; affordable units owned by “mom and pops” and she discussed Israel and Hamas.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 5-YEAR
PLAN UPDATE TO THE MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN AS THE CITY’S HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN.
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August 12, 2024
22 Item C-6
CC – Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the City to Enter into an Agreement with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District for the Transfer of Measure W Safe Clean Water Program Funds for Fiscal Years 2024-2025 through 2027-2028
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT FOR THE TRANSFER OF MEASURE W SAFE CLEAN WATER PROGRAM FUNDS; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-7
CC – Receipt and Filing of the Biannual Written Reports of Culver City’s Commissions, Boards, and Committees
Mimi Ferrel, City Clerk Specialist, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding consistent formatting; meeting frequency; context; including a list of dates that the bodies met; appreciation for the way the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services (PRCS) Commission handled the tennis, paddleball, and pickleball issue; and appreciation for all of the work being done by the Commissions, Boards and Committees (CBCs).
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: RECEIVE AND FILE THE BIANNUAL WRITTEN REPORTS OF COMMISSIONS, BOARDS, AND COMMITTEES.
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August 12, 2024
23 Item C-8
CC - Approval of a Purchase Order with K.R. Nida Corporation for Replacement Portable and Mobile Radios in an Amount Not-to- Exceed $187,160.33 and Approval of a Purchase Order with Motorola for Replacement Portable Radios and Radio Upgrades in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $73,404.73
Mayor McMorrin received clarification that the money had already been allocated in the budget.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER WITH K.R. NIDA CORPORATION FOR THE
PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT PORTABLE AND MOBILE RADIOS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $187,160.33; AND,
2. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER WITH MOTOROLA FOR THE PURCHASE OF
REPLACEMENT PORTABLE RADIOS AND RADIO SOFTWARE UPGRADES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $73,404.73; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO EXECUTE THE PURCHASE ORDER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-9
CC - (1) Award of Construction Contract to PTM General
Engineering Services Inc., as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder, in the Amount of $244,044 for the Sawtelle at Matteson Traffic Signal Modification Project, PL -010; and (2) Authorization to the Public Works Director to Approve Change Orders to the Contract in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $35,803 to Cover Contingency Costs (14.5%)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AWARD THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO PTM GENERAL ENGINEERING SERVICES INC., AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, IN THE AMOUNT OF $244,044 FOR THE SAWTELLE AT MATTESON TRAFFIC SIGNAL MODIFICATION PROJECT, PL-010; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS TO THE CONTRACT IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $35,803 TO COVER CONTINGENCY (14.5%); AND,
August 12, 2024
24 3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-10
CC – (1) Acceptance of Award of $17,000,000 to the City of Culver City through California State Assembly Bill No. 179 for Streetlight Replacement and Upgrades; and (2) FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE REQUIREMENT: Approval of a Budget Amendment Appropriating the Grant Funds to Capital Improvement Project #PL016
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT AWARD OF $17,000,000 TO THE CITY OF CULVER CITY THROUGH CALIFORNIA STATE ASSEMBLY BILL NO. 179 FOR STREETLIGHT
REPLACEMENT AND UPGRADES; AND,
2. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO APPROPRIATE THE GRANT FUNDS TO CIP #PL016 (REQUIRES A FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE).
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Item C-11
CC – (1) Approval of an Amendment to the Memorandum of
Understanding between the City of Culver City and the Culver City Arts District to Extend the Term from 2024 to 2026; (2) Allocation of $70,000 for Lighting Enhancements in the Public Right-of-Way Pursuant to the Fiscal Year 2024 -2025 Capital Improvement Plan Budget; and (3) Approval of a License Agreement for Installation and Maintenance of Decorative Lighting
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH
THE CULVER CITY ARTS DISTRICT TO EXTEND THE TERM FROM DECEMBER 31, 2024 TO DECEMBER 31,2026; AND,
2. ALLOCATE $70,0000 FOR LIGHTING ENHANCEMENTS IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY PURSUANT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2024 -2025 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN BUDGET; AND,
August 12, 2024
25 3. APPROVE A LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF DECORATIVE LIGHTING WITH THE CCAD; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
5. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-12
CC – Approval of Final Plans and Specifications and
Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids for Sidewalk, Curb Ramp and Driveway Approach Replacement Project, PZ-428 and PCC Pavement Replacement Project, PS-001
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Melissa Sanders noted that the sidewalk in front of her house was not on the list, though staff indicated that it would be , and she asked about the use of environmentally friendly alternatives.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL : APPROVE THE FINAL PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZE THE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE
INVITING BIDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SIDEWALK, CURB RAMP AND DRIVEWAY APPROACH REPLACEMENT PROJECT, PZ -428 AND PCC PAVEMENT REPLACEMENT PROJECT, PS-001.
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Item C-13
CC – (1) Approval of an Amendment to Existing Agreement with Elevators Etc., Inc. in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $760,436 for Elevator Modernization for the Cardiff, Watseka, and Ince Parking Structures, for a Total Agreement Amount of $1,307,365; and (2) FOUR -FIFTHS VOTE REQUI REMENT: Approval of a Budget Amendment Appropriating $150,436 from the Parking Authority Fund Balance to CIP #PA010
Mayor McMorrin received clarification that the additional request was to cover interior upgrades to the elevators.
August 12, 2024
26 THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING AGREEMENT WITH ELEVATORS ETC., INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $760,436 FOR ELEVATOR
MODERNIZATION FOR THE CARDIFF, WATSEKA, AND INCE PARKING STRUCTURES, FOR A TOTAL AGREEMENT AMOUNT OF $1,307,365; AND,
2. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATING THE AMOUNT OF $150,436 FROM THE PARKING AUTHORITY FUND BALANCE TO CIP #PA010
TO FUND ELEVATOR INTERIOR REFURBISHMENTS (REQUIRES A FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE); AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-14
CC – Approval of Amendment to the Existing Agreement with Commline, Inc., for Support and Maintenance Services for the Mobile Data Computers, Body Worn Cameras, and the Panasonic Arbitrator 360 HD In -Car Mobile/Audio Video Systems in an Additional Amount Not -to-Exceed $120,677.61 and Extending the Term through August 31, 2025
This item was deferred to a future agenda.
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Item C-15
CC – Approval of a Cost Sharing Agreement Covering a Share of the Administrative Costs of the Santa Monica Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Kevin Ramirez was called to speak but was not present on Webex or in Council Chambers.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
August 12, 2024
27 1. APPROVE A COST SHARING AGREEMENT COVERING A SHARE OF THE
ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF THE SANTA MONICA BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
MOVED BY MEMBER VERA , SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1 THROUGH C-13 AND ITEM C-15.
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Public Hearings
None.
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Action Items
Item A-1
CC - Discussion and Direction Regarding (1) a Potential New Bicycle and Pedestrian Ramp and Pathway Connecting Ince Boulevard to Ballona Creek; and (2) a Potential New Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge across Ballona Creek Connecting Jefferson Boulevard to Ince Boulevard
Yanni Demitri, Public Works Director, addressed comments made by public speakers; discussed the low point in front of Melissa Sanders’ house; the upcoming storm drain project to address issues; the Higuera Street NMTP; pending items; the Higuera Street Bridge; MOVE Culver City; affects to traf fic patterns and volumes; and he provided a summary of the material of record for Item A-1.
Mate Gaspar, Engineering Services Manager, discussed the Army Corps of Engineers; the timeline; hydraulic effects; and the importance of taking floodwaters into account.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
August 12, 2024
28 Donna LeBlanc was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or online.
Beth Lane discussed the NTMP for Rancho Higuera; expressed concern with bringing additional traffic into the community; discussed cut-through traffic; the data analysis for the pedestrian and bike path; cut through traffic on Higuera; speed conditions; lack of safety on Ince Boulevard; she indicated that the neighbors felt overlooked with all the new things coming into play; and she wanted the area to be considered a “no go” until residents’ concerns could be resolved.
Jim Shanman expressed support for allowing ad ditional access; discussed other cities with similar paths; and he was looking forward to seeing the project move forward.
Travis Morgan was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Karim Sahli expressed disappointment with the information provided as part of the agenda; expressed support for the ramp; felt that the bridge was confusing and would take bicyclist s and pedestrians to a busy boulevard that lacks protection and is dangerous; questioned whether the bridge benefitted residents or a real estate project; and he asked whether a developer or project was attached and who would pay for the project.
Michael Hopson was called to speak but was not in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Melissa Sanders acknowledged concerns from Beth Lane; expressed concern with deficit spending; and she wanted to see the budget resolved before moving forward unless it is an emergency.
Kevin Ramirez was called to speak but was not in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Andrew Leist expressed support for the item; discussed previous City Council support for projects that are removed from larger boulevards; creating additional access to e xisting bicycle infrastructure; and he encouraged the City Council to support the item.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding acknowledgement of concerns about additional traffic; bridge access; support for allowing more access to the Creek; phases; August 12, 2024
29 financing; sponsors; whether to wait for the completion of the NTMP to see what the traffic flow is before it changes; community buy-in; feasibility studies; guidance and direction fro m the City Council; clarification that the outreach was pending City Council direction; the Higuera Street bridge; support for starting with the ramp and then assessing the situation; outreach to the neighborhood; connectivity; maximizing
available resourc es; costs for a feasibility study and conceptual design; focusing on putting safe bike infrastructure in not highly trafficked areas; the process of rezoning Culver City; voices in Culver City asking that other areas in Culver City carry additional density ; the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook; community outreach as part of the feasibility study; people who signed up to speak that were not present; agreement with Beth Lane that the NTMP needs to be done; addressing needs on Ince; and finding a way to fund the project.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to staff for their efforts and to the community that provided comment; potential funding with SmartGrowth cities and the Mayor’s Institute on Pedestrian Safety; components of the feasibility studies; type of outreach and feedback sought; clarification that the project complements the existing bike and pedestrian plans; identification and prioritization of potential infrastructure projects; available funding and community priorities; potential design; concern with building a ramp without building a bridge ; and the importance of considering the project as a whole.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIE N, SECONDED BY MAYOR MCMORRIN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL : APPROVE A
FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR NEW BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN RAMP AND PATHWAY CONNECTING INCE BOULEVARD TO BALLONA CREEK; AND FOR A
POTENTIAL NEW BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE ACROSS BALLONA CREEK CONNECTING JEFFERSON BOULEVARD TO INCE BOULEVARD.
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Item A-2
CC - Discussion and Direction Regarding: (1) Designation of September 21 - September 27, 2024, as “Culver City United Against Hate Week”; (2) Designation of the “Culver City United Against Hate Week” as a City -Sponsored Campaign; (3)
Authorization to the City Manager to Administratively Approve Agreements, Permits and Licenses Needed for the Implementation of this Campaign to Promote Anti-Hate Awareness and to Reinforce August 12, 2024
30 the Message of Unity Against Hate and Hate Crimes within the Culver City Community; and (4) FOUR -FIFTHS VOTE REQUIREMENT:
Approval of a Related Budget Amendment Appropriating $17,000 from the General Fund Unassigned Fund Balance to Cover City Costs
Jeannine Houchen, Human Resources Equity Analyst, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Hala Khan was called to speak but did not respond.
Emily Dibiny noted that many who had signed up to speak were no longer pr esent; asked that the anti -hate campaign language include anti-Palestinian derogatory terms and an apology from the City Council Member that chose to make a divisive comment that is causing hate in the community; she felt that the residents in the communit y who are being doxed should be protected; she noted that it was currently illegal in California to use people’s names and expose where they work because of their political beliefs; she discussed social media posts; campaign support; she asked that the Cit y provide a screening of The Stones Cry Out; and she received agreement from Council Member Vera to meet with her.
Maria Beg provided background on herself; questioned who Anti- Hate Week was meant to protect; expressed fear for her bi-racial children; discussed hate in Culver City; the statement made on October 23 in section 6 that specifically states that Culver City does not stand for antisemitism; the fact that anti-Muslim, anti-Arab, or Anti-Palestinian hate is not referenced; comments and lack of action that is fueling hate within the community; and she asked the City Council to consider who they were trying to protect.
Huong Nghie m-Eilbeck expressed appreciation the REAP
presentation; discussed comments made by former President Trump resulting in anti-immigrant sentiment; a horrific hate crime against an Asian woman in 2021; directing research to the culturally sensitive survey; support for the events held; people who do not want to rock the boat in Culver City; language appropriate for Asians; and she proposed reexamination of the statement on October 23 that could trigger with potential changes made.
August 12, 2024
31 Lisa Schultz was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Fawaz Istwani, with one minute ceded, reported that his business had been facing hate by being bombarding with bad reviews; he discussed Code Pink; people who support Council Member Vera; and he indicated that the anti -Muslim sentiment needed to be addressed.
Thea Krizmanich was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Shaheen Nassar was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Pitango Tratoush was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Kiran Randhawa was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Ron Ostrin was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Estee Chandler was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Ronald Davis wondered who could be against an Anti -Hate Week; discussed his time in Mississippi working in the Civil Rights Movement; resolutions passed condemning hate; defining what hate means; taking into consideration those people who are feeling hated; and he noted the need to include a serious discussion of a why a ceasefire resolution can’t be agendized during Anti - Hate week.
Ivanska Pagan discussed hate that can’t be seen; displaying flags; concern with support of hate by the U.S. government; the need to include everyone; hate toward anyone without a U .S. flag; ignoring minorities; and going with the United States.
Joan Sekler was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Conor Proffitt questioned how C ulver City defined hate; discussed understanding systematic causes of hate; the need to August 12, 2024
32 address hate systematically; and he read a passage from Martin Luther King, Jr.
Claudia Huiza was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Ryan Wiliani was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Camilla Huntley was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Daniel Nickfardjam was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Samantha Mohammed discussed many different types of hate that she has seen since moving to Culver City; appreciation for advocacy for a week against hate; the need to advocate for change and to bring people together; diverse representation; the documentary screening proposed; ensuring that everyone has equal opportunity to express themselves; and working as a community to abolish hate.
Salma Ibrahim was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Tasneen Noor was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Frances Rosenau provided background on herself; expressed support for the resolution; discussed raising voices as a community; hate and violence that has been done in the name of Christianity; persecution and violence; hate in the name of Christianity against LGBTQ individuals; she asked Culver City to call upon her to help get faith congregations involved; she asserted that Culver City was for everyone; and she noted that unity, love, and peace is always the answer to moving forward together.
Melissa Sanders asked that the CCUSD be included; discussed the School Board President; the need to educate children; hating people for random reasons; antisemitic comments made by people attending the meeting; Code Pink; and she urged the City Council to think about their reasons for what they were doing.
Jasmine Delgado was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
August 12, 2024
33 Haifaa Moammar was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Mirvette Judeh expressed support for an Anti -Hate Week; discussed the need for the City Council to define hate; conflation of Zionism and antisemitism; the 300% increase in anti-Arab, anti-Muslim, and anti-Palestinian hate in the past 10 months; businesses that are targeted; doxing; the need to be inclusive in the plan in order to truly set an example and counteract hate; agreement that schools be included; homophobia; she felt that passing a ceasefire resolution would be a great way to start Anti-Hate Week; and she noted that taking a stand against genocide would show that hate is not ok.
Angelina Cicchini was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Gloria Cowan was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Reye Lop was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Gary Zeiss expressed support for the measure but felt tha t it did not go far enough; discussed the need for change; creating continuous dialogue between communities; the need to remember what happened at universities over the last few months; instances of hatred on both sides; he felt that Culver City should not pick sides; and he noted the importance of leading dialogue for an effective response.
Nicholas Conner provided background on himself; expressed appreciation to CCPD for their efforts; discussed hatred received by Jackson Market since they started speak ing up for Palestinian people; the need for leadership to bring people together; he felt that the City had written an incomplete resolution on October 23; and he provided a proposed resolution that is more inclusive for City Council consideration.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the speakers; support for including everyone in the conversation; the need for extensive outreach;
appreciation to staff for their work; agreement that dialogue is needed; providing a more extensive program than last year; the 2023 Hate Crimes Report released by the Attorney General; decreased reports of hate crimes overall in California; most August 12, 2024
34 prevalent types of hate crimes; a racist and homophobic incident at a Culver City school; training available through LA vs. Hate; comments made by Holly J. Mitchell; modeling authentic dialogue; calling people in rather than calling people out; appreciation to the EHRAC and the Human Relations Department; time, energy, and intentionality; ta king steps in the direction of greater understanding; the importance of training; implicit bias; the need to mitigate issues rather than pretend they do not exist; education; dialogue; support for consideration of a screening of The Stones Cry Out; the need to include everyone; accidental omissions; defining hate; causes of hate; emails received; fear; whether Anti-Hate Week is performative; the consistent turnout of the same people; appreciation for comments from Mr. Conner; bringing people who are fearful into the discussion ; Jackson Market as a target; the work of staff to make Anti-Hate Week as informative as possible; buy-in; and those directly impacted.
Council Member Vera indicated that he would reach out to Mr.
Conner.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to staff, the community, and EHRAC; ways to be supportive; the interfaith space; United Against Hate Week 2023; the leadership of Los Angeles County; the list on page 2 of the staff report; appreciation for advancements made; the large amount of work done and still to be done; the website for equity and inclusion in Culver City; resources and education; adding information on the website for Culver City recommended resources, or a pla ce for community members to make
recommendations; the presidential race; efforts to create community belonging; resources; the budget; including county offerings; coordination with CCUSD; the upcoming race relations event on September 17 that involves CCUSD; licensing issues related to having a screening; creation of community -related events; the Hate Crimes Report; safely addressing issues in the community; support for agendizing a more formal discussion at the next CCUSD/City Council meeting; and a correc tion to the date in the staff report to reflect September 21-27, 2024.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE DESIGNATION OF SEPTEMBER 21, 2024 - SEPTEMBER 27, 2023, AS “CULVER CITY UNITED AGAINST HATE WEEK;” AND,
2. DESIGNATE THE “CULVER CITY UNITED AGAINST HATE WEEK” AS A CITY-SPONSORED CAMPAIGN; AND,
August 12, 2024
35 3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ADMINIS TRATIVELY APPROVE
AGREEMENTS, PERMITS AND LICENSES NEEDED TO IMPLEMENT THIS
CAMPAIGN, IN ORDER TO PROMOTE HATE CRIME REPORTING AWARENESS
AND THE MESSAGE OF UNITY AGAINST HATE AND HATE CRIMES WITHIN THE CULVER CITY COMMUNITY; AND,
4. APPROVE A BUDGET AMEND MENT APPROPRIATING $17,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND UNASSIGNED FUND BALANCE TO ACCOUNT #10122100.517000 (REQUIRES A FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE).
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Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Denise Neal expressed appreciation for providing a forum for the discussion; discussed the Olympics and other upcoming events; questioned whether the EHRAC and other bodies could work to find unity and participation; discussed finding ways for inter-group understanding; she noted that issues would not go away; asked about the status of FBA reparations; and she encouraged community dialogue on how to put the pieces together.
Mayor McMorrin noted that Culver City was i n the process of creating the REAP ; reported that work on reparations would continue at the end of the REAP ; and she indicated that the presentation from Dr. Yates would be available at
culvercity.org/agendas.
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Items from Council Members
Vice Mayor O’Brien received unanimous consensus to agendi ze consideration of a request for sponsorship of the Micheaux Film Festival in October, and he noted the need for a conversation about how Culver City can help coordinate a list of preferred vendors for retrofitting.
Council Member Eriksson received consensus from Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Member Vera to add information regarding retrofit support, grants, and what a pass through would look like to the agenda item requested above.
August 12, 2024
36 Mayor McMorrin received consensus from Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Member Puza to agendize an examination of the hot zones where the most common Police Department calls are coming from; she discussed looking at data and how it is utilized; where hot spots are in terms of crime in Culver City; diving into data already collected in quarterly reports to get clarity; and looking at a plan of action to address the zones.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding designated lactation spaces at City Hall or in other City spaces; a request for information regarding other cities with designated space; grants available for the Street Medicine Team; recent litigation; the new Executive Order from the Governor; local ordinance enforcement; having a conversation about what is happening with homelessness in Culver City; holding a joint conversation with the Advisory Committee on Housing and Homelessness; reports from the Housing Department; appreciation for feedback from Mr. Godinez; things that have changed since the last joint meeting; holding a special City Council meeting; a suggestion to start a regular meeting earlier to hear a report; providing a forum for the community and an opportunity to update everyone on changes; examining how things stand with the local ordinance; being clear on what is being done in the community as many things have shifted in the past year; and consensus from Mayor McMorrin, Vice Ma yor O’Brien and Council Member Puza to look at coordination with the respective bodies to identify a date and time for a joint meeting within the next six months.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the work of staff to set up lactation stations to meet requirements.
Council Member Vera requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of John Riordan and Carlos Lugo.
Mayor McMorrin expressed condolences to Dorothy Suchkova on the loss of her mother; noted the impor tance of continued work to combat traffic violence; she lifted up the tenth anniversary of Mike Brown’s murder, and the memory of Sonya Massey who was shot and killed in her home after calling for help; noted innocent lives lost; expressed condolences to all who had lost a loved one; and she commented on additional work to be done together.
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Council Member Requests to Agendize Future Items
August 12, 2024
37 City Council consensus was achieved to agendize future consideration of the following items:
Potential sponsorship of the Micheaux Film Festival in October.
Coordination of a preferred list of vendors for retrofitting along with information about support and grants and how a pass through would work.
Examination of hot zones in Culver City that receive the most Police Department calls for clarity and to create a plan to address them.
Holding a joint meeting with the Advisory Committee on Housing and Homelessness one hour before a regular City Council meeting to provide an update on things that have chan ged in the past year.
Staff report back on lactation areas in City Hall or other City facilities.
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MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA,
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY
OF JOHN RIORDAN, CARLOS LUGO , AND TU TRANG KIEU , DOROTHY SUCHKOVA’S MOTHER.
August 12, 2024
38 Adjournment
There being no further business, at 12:03 a.m., Tuesday, August 13, 2024, the City Council , Housing Authority Board, Parking Authority Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned in memory of John Riordan, Carlos Lugo, Tu Trang Kieu, to a meeting to be held on August 26, 2024.
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Jeremy Bocchino
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and SECRETARY of the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Parking Authority and Culver City Housing Authority Board
Culver City, California
YASMINE-IMANI MCMORRIN
MAYOR of Culver City, California and CHAIR of the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board,
Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Housing
Authority Board, and Culver City Parking Authority
Date: _________________________