1 THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,
CULVER CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, CULVER CITY
DISASTER COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD
REGULAR MEETING OF THE October 14, 2024
CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO 7:00 p.m.
THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD,
CULVER CITY DISASTER COUNCIL, CULVER CITY
PARKING AUTHORITY BOARD, REDEVELOPMENT
FINANCING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND CULVER CITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY 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 Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Disaster Council, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board to order for recognition
presentations at 6:01 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.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, indicated that no public comment had been received for Closed Session items.
October 14, 2024
2 MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSO N, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, CULVER CITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOAR D, CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, CULVER CITY DISASTER
COUNCIL, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION.
At 6:02 p.m. the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Disaster Council, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned to Closed Session to consider the following Closed Session Item:
CS-1 CC – Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
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Recognition Presentation
Mayor McMorrin called the regular meeting of the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Disaster Council, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board to order for recognitio n
presentations at 6:41 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
Item R-1
CC – Presentation of a Proclamation Designating October 2024 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024
Council Member Vera presented the proclamation designating October 2024 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
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Item R-2
CC – Presentation of a P roclamation Designating October as Disability Awareness Month 2024
Vice Mayor O’Brien presented the p roclamation designating October as Disability Awareness October Month 2024.
October 14, 2024
3 Janice Goldhaber, Disability Advisory Committee Chair, expressed appreciation for the recognition; discussed National Disability Employment Awareness month; the successful Abilities Carnival; and goals of the Disability Advisory Committee.
Marcy Sookne, Disability Advisory Committee Vice Chair, invited Council Members to participate in the annual wheelchair basketball game at Culver City High School on October 24.
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Item R-3
CC – Presentation of a Commendation to No Limits for Dea f Children and Families for Their Contributions to Culver City Community Members with Disabilities and their Families
Council Member Eriksson presented a commendation to No Limits for Deaf Children and Families for their contributions to Culver City community members with disabilities and their families.
A representative from No Limits for Deaf Children expressed appreciation for the Commendation.
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Item R-4
CC – Presentation of a Commendation to Donna Iarocci for her Contributions to Culver City Community Members with Disabilities and Their Families
Council Member Puza presented a commendation to Donna Iarocci for her contributions to Culver City community members with disabilities and their families.
Donna Iarocci expressed appreciation for the commendation and invited everyone to an upcoming concert in November.
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Item R-5
CC – Presentation of a Proclamation in Recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day 2024
October 14, 2024
4 Mayor McMorrin presented the proclamation in recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day 2024.
Rebecca Rona Tuttle, Equity and Human Relations Advisory Committee (EHRAC) Member, speaking on behalf of herself, expressed appreciation for the proclamation; noted that Culver City is on the ancestral lands of the thousands of indigenous people; discussed members of the original tribes who still live locally and view themselves as caretakes of the land; she felt it important that they not be invisible; and she shared the names of the tribes and bands that originally inhabited the area and continue to do so.
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Item R-6
CC – Presentation of a Proclamation in Honor of Filipino American History Month 2024
Mayor McMorrin presented the proclamation in honor of Filipino American History Month 2024.
Stephanie Loredo, Culver City School Board Member , indicated that she was the first Filipino on the westside to be elected to a city office; provided background on Culver City Kapwa; discussed Filipino businesses in Culver City; invited everyone to the grand opening of Mestizo on October 15; and she welcomed everyone to learn more at culvercitykapwa.com.
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Regular Session
Mayor McMorrin called the regular meeting of the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Disaster Council , and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board to order at 7:10 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
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Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor McMorrin led the Pledge of Allegiance.
October 14, 2024
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Land Acknowledgement
Mayor McMorrin read the Land Acknowledgement and stated that a more comprehensive version had been posted in Council Chambers.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor McMorrin indicated nothing to report out from Closed Session.
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Community Announcements by Members/Updates from Commissions, Boards and/or Committees/Information Items from Staff
Council Member Eriksson discussed the new exhibition at the Wende Museum entitled Counter/Surveillance: Control, Privacy, Agency.
Council Member Puza discussed the Abilities Carnival; the Art Walk and Roll Festiv al; National Coming Out Day; and he announced Spooky Saturday on October 19, the last of the Love Local events for the year.
Vice Mayor O’Brien discussed attending ArtWalk; Spooky Saturday; and he announced an upcoming Arts District Medians Creative Ideas Session.
Mayor McMorrin discussed Domestic Violence Awareness Month; available resources; reducing stigma; the Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 978-3600; World Mental Health Day on October 10; prioritizing mental health in the workplace; the Culver City Mobile Crisis Team that can be contacted by calling (310) 253-5750; she congratulated staff on the Abilities Fair; discussed Art Walk; and Sunday Jazz Nights at the Kirk Douglas Theater.
Jason Sims, Culver City Police Department (CCPD) Chief, introduced recent graduates from the Culver City Police Academy and he indicated that the Culver City Police Department participated in the Pink Patch Initiative noting that more information was available at culvercitypd.org.
October 14, 2024
6 Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, announced that Birdie was back; discussed key election dates; vote by mail ballots; early voting available in Norwalk; online voter registration day; v ote centers; and she indicated that information was available at the lavote.gov website.
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Presentations to City Council
Item P-1
Presentation to the City Council by the California Department of Insurance of an Overview of the Sustainable Insurance Strategy
Brenda Caloca, California Department of Insurance, provided background on the organization and an overview of the
Sustainable Insurance Strategy; noted that they were a resource for anyone needing help; discussed the current market; top companies; Safe from Wildfires; in teragency partnerships; California Fair Plan and Wildfire Risk Score; risk management tools; she indicated that they were available for partnerships and community forums; and she provided contact information for anyone who needed help.
Mayor McMorrin note d that issues come up for residents and community members and she hoped that there would be an
opportunity to partner up in the future.
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Item P-2
Culver City Police Department 2024 Mid-Year Update
Andrew Bellante, CCPD Captain, indicated that the presentation was in response to a request for information on areas of Culver City with the highest frequency of calls; discussed hot spots; analyzing data collected in quarterly reports; making a plan of action to address issue s; crime trends; strategies to reduce crime and enhance public safety; daytime population of Culver Cit; adjacency of the City to state highways; major
thoroughfares; large corporations in the area; employees; shopping areas in Culver City; West Los Angele s College; monitoring data associated with calls f or service; making October 14, 2024
7 informed decisions with proper resource allocation; effective patrol strategies and response; addressing crime and taking preventative measures; collaboration with community partners; crime prevention programs; crime trends; data -driven
strategies; mid-year statistics for 2024; different types of crimes and areas with the most calls; peak call volume; clearance rates; response time; providing balanced and equitable service; specific incidents; the Five District Plan; staffing; technology; Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs); and Community Policing.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
No comments were received.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the report; appreciation for the response times and case clearance rate s; ALPRs; assistance with apprehension of suspects; effectiveness in preventing crime; people coming into the City to commit crime; percentage of crime s committed by people driving cars; crimes committed by residents vs. by non-residents; the importance of adequate staffing to ensure shorter response time and higher case clearance; the Special Enforcement Team (SET); the Partnership in Policing Team; focusing on neighborhood issues; collaboration to address crime and quality of life issues; taking a customized approach for issues; quarterly meetings at the Senior Center; connecting seniors with City resources; Security through Environmental Design; appreciation for address ing hot spots, attention to detail, and the reduction to crime; and guns taken off the street.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to CCPD for their efforts; the importance of maintaining proper staffing levels; appreciation for recruitment efforts; the Transparency Report; the ranking list for response times in Culver City vs. Los Angeles county; improved crime statistics; appreciation for the effort put into Community Policing; the importance of establishing
relationships; proper staffing; and eagerness for continued improvement.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the speed of meeting the request for information; clarification that the report would be posted on the CCPD page; looking at trends over the past five years; research alluding to crime being down nationally; comparisons October 14, 2024
8 of clearance rates over past years with staffing levels; lack of specificity regarding neighborhoods with a higher number of calls; keeping track of numbers moving forward; the Transparency Report; clarification that the percentage of non -residents committing crimes is pretty consistent annually; the focus placed on Community Policing; monthly events; meetings with businesses and residents; gaining trust and legitimacy in the community; arrests generated from calls for service; the “no call too small” and “see something, say something” model; demographics on wh o places calls; development of the Five District Plan in response to the continual growth of Culver City; impact to response time; the high priority place d upon response time; average number of calls for service per year; classification and evaluation of c alls; the Daily Watch Commander’s Reports sent to Council Members; daily highlights; tracking types of calls; discretion of the Watch Commander as to what the most important calls and events are that take place during their shift; a suggestion that a pie chart for types of calls be created; information in the Transparency Reports available on the website; examining trends; looking at what neighbors are calling about; the Dispatch Center; top three calls for service; and appreciation for the transparency and willingness to engage.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding 2024 clearance rates vs. clearance rates for previous years; data vs. specific stories; lifting up reasons for shifts over the years that may contribute to different outcomes; frequency of data sharing; conflicting information online regarding traffic violence, daytime population, and red light cameras; estimations; metrics for estimates; the Sustainable Design Assessment Report; determinations made through examination of ALPR data; use of ALPR data; cloud technology; data collected that is searchable; clarification on where data is being held; ALPR recordings of the license plate of the vehicle only; running of license plates thr ough law enforcement databases; bumper stickers; searchable categories ; the intent to solve crimes and keep clearance rates up; clarification that political party affiliation is not anything that CCPD is tracking; functionality; Border Patrol; Planned Parenthood; ways to assure people that data being collected in Culver City is not used for other purposes; a request that next time a report comes forward it include information on what the department is doing to effect changes to clearance rates over the years as well as information around percentage of calls overall with trends in district areas and whether more niching needs to be done; yield on investments; staffing levels; constant turnover; comparison of data year over October 14, 2024
9 year; tracking type and location of calls; data collection around placement of red light cameras; and future placement of red light cameras.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that Action Item A-1 had to be removed from the agenda.
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Joint Public Comment – Items NOT on the Agenda
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, read the City Council statement regarding hate speech ; noted that Council Chambers were a limited public forum; and she discussed City Cou ncil policy prohibiting campaign activity during Council meetings or in Council Chambers.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
David Coles discussed the recent pedestrian fatality at National and Wesley; four fatalities on that stretch of National within the last 18 years; human error; poor design; speed; and the need for a community conversation about what the street should be.
Mary Daval expressed heartbreak with the loss of another community member and frustration with inaction after years of asking the City Council to direct staff to make the streets safer for all users; discussed the adoption of the Vision Zero and Complete Streets Policy; continued traffic violence; the need to use policies to prioritize safety for all road users rather than continuing to support car -centric infrastructure choices; number of reported deaths; serious injuries that go unreported; innumerable near misses; those afraid to use active transportation; the need to change and improve infrastructure; traffic calming measures; and she asserted that speeding happens because of, or in reaction to, street design.
David Metzler asked for quick build improvements to reduce vehicle speed and improve pedestrian safety , especially at National and Wesley as well as at Green Valley Circle and Doverwood; discussed plans but not changes made; awareness of the danger over a long period of time; saying something vs. doing something; implementation of state law AB413; he asked that Public Works and Transportation be empowered to implement safety improvements in a more rapid way; noted existing research October 14, 2024
10 and public input; and asserted that each change should not have to come to a vote.
Bubba Fish provided background on himself; discussed the recent pedestrian death in Culver City; two other people who lost their lives on the same stretch of road since 2006; concern with lack of changes despite the tragedies; he observed that the issue was not isolated; asserted that traffic violence was predictable and preventable; discussed incidents of traffic violence impacting people across Culver City; learning from cities around the world that have reached the goal of zero traffic fatalities in a year; issues with the street where the most recent traffic fatality took place; traffic speed as a predictor of survival rate; and he noted the need to invest in traffic calming to prevent tragedy.
Angelo Mike questioned what matter was being addressed with the reconfiguration of the bike lanes on Culver and Washington Boulevards; discussed his experience using the lanes; reducing car traffic and congestion; increases to daily Metro and bus trips; prioritizing transit to get more trips done; wider and emptier roads as leading to increased speed which leads to deadlier roads; the recent traffic fatality on National an d Wesley; callousness toward road deaths; he asked people to support healthier and happier streets to prevent further deaths; and he asserted that if they wanted to decrease traffic they should support transit.
Dorothy Sadd, speaking on behalf of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) , requested that the City Council direct that the BPAC be tasked with consideration of how kiosks relate to mobility, wayfinding, and distracted driving; and she asked that the City Council send the matter of the recent accident at National and Wesley to the BPAC for discussion to provide feedback and advice to the City Council.
Ivanska Pagan discussed lived horrors in Gaza and she asked the City Council to urge a ceasefire.
Steve Siegel discussed a letter sent to the City Attorney; a lawsuit brought forth by Friends of MOVE Culver City; suing those who sued Culver City; concern with a frivolous lawsuit and frivolous appeal; acting as a deterrent to similar lawsuits; and he questioned how Council Member Puza could be allowed to serve, and Bubba Fish be allowed to run for office when they were campaigning on the Culver City High School campus in 2022.
October 14, 2024
11 Stephen Schaller discussed the recent traffic fatality at National and Wesley; comments from his son in response to the fatality indicating that was why he did not want to walk to school; fear of walking or biking the short, dangerous route to school alone; actions by the Council majority to remove the few safeguards that had been in place; he noted that the City Council had the power to address the number one cause of childhood death in Los Angeles county; and he asserted that the City Council could implement common sense traffic measures to prevent senseless death and violence.
Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin acknowledged the recent pedestrian death noting that it had not occurred in a crosswalk; discussed the need for more details about the incident; the somber reminder about entering into a social contract when interacting with others in a public space; Disability Awareness Month; ensuring inclusive public rights of way for people of all abilities with infrastructure that reflects the commitment of Culver City; examining implementation of raised crosswalks in certain areas to make them even safer; reduced vehicle speed and increased visibility; and she wanted to see safer crossings prioritized in all areas of Culver City.
Hanzade Acar provided background on herself; indicated being the co-founder of Non-Plastic Planet; discussed sustainability; using groundbreaking sustainable materials; collaboration; Culver City as having created a name for itself as being a leader in sustainability; the upcoming Olympic games; being invited to be a guest lecturer at Otis College of Design ; and she indicated wanting to be a volunteer in the community.
Mayor McMorrin invited Ms. Acar to attend the next
Sustainability Subcommittee meeting on November 18.
Lucas Bica was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Melissa Sanders expressed excitement about the changes happening in downtown Culver City; discussed work to be done on the outdated Complete Streets plan; public outreach; the grant; sidewalks; and she emphasized the importance of focusing on providing safe sidewalks.
Caro Vilain expressed concern that the City Council majority did not listen to concerns regarding traffic violence; discussed data indicating that MOVE Culver City benefitted the com munity in many ways; those who spoke in support of the bike lanes; October 14, 2024
12 motor vehicles as the single largest source of greenhouse emissions in California; motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of death for children in Los Angeles county; the task of the City Council to set policy; she asserted that fatal and severe injury crashes were preventable, a choice, and a result of policy; and she asked the City Council to think about it.
Patrick Godinez was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or online.
Stephanie Sharp provided background on herself; indicated speaking on her own behalf in support of a mutual ceasefire resolution; asked that the City Council approve a moderated discussion of a mutual ceasefire by the EHRAC; discussed amplifying division and exclusion while calling it safety; distance; and the October 2023 statement made by the City Council.
Mariah Fontjin provided background on herself; asserted that Israel’s war on Gaza had to stop; discussed defense; war crimes being committed with U.S. weapons and taxpayer money; the City Council condemnation of the terror of October 7, 2023; lack of justification for actions; the need for the City Council to condemn acts of terror inflicted on Palestinians; and she asked that the City Council direct the EHRAC to moderate a community discussion of a mutual ceasefire resolution.
Judi Sherman provided background on herself; discussed a fifth proposal in Fox Hills that will bring the number of housing units proposed for the south side of Slauson to 2900 units; the predictable outcome; candidates running for City Council who have voiced support for lowering the density designation; she hoped candidates would keep their word; noted the high priority that the City has refused to address despite knowing about concerns since last year; and prioritization of the matter when the new City Council is sworn in.
Scott Stevens, The Hero Workshop, thanked the City Council for putting the Hero Fair item on the agenda for October 28 ; he clarified that the actual amount being requested was $3,000 ; and he discussed costs associated directly with Culver City.
Mayor McMorrin thanked Mr. Stevens for the clarification and noted that the item would be agendized at the end of the meeting.
Candance Simmons and Brita Eriksson with the Culver City Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Council announced winners of the October 14, 2024
13 Women in Business Leadership Award for 2024 and invited everyone to attend the 9th Annual Women Leadership Award Luncheon on October 25.
Gary Zeiss discussed issues with remanding the Gaza resolution to the EHRAC; fostering community understanding; moving the discussion to a different organization that would be subject to the same pushing of one side over the other; and he suggested that the City Council encourage the discourse, but not direct a recommendation to be made.
Travis Morgan thanked the City Council for listening; discussed the recent motor vehicle fatality and the fatality in Fox Hills in 2022; his efforts to improve s afety in Fox Hills for six years; likelihood of success with the broader grant application; he requested City Council consensus to direct staff to move forward with the previously approved proposal immediately to bring back phase 2 that would require City funding and to direct staff to develop legislative options to direct impact fees to the areas in which they were generated; and he noted the importance given the number of units coming to Fox Hills that will generate impact fees.
Kelly Kent , Culver City School Board President, indicated speaking on behalf of herself; discussed the role of government to protect all of its citizens, especially the most vulnerable; the presentation made by CCPD relating to keeping community partners safe; the press release from CCPD regarding the recent traffic fatality at Wesley and National; government
infrastructure meant to save lives when people make mistakes; job protections; the need to design policy to institute appropriate protections; slow speeds in residential
neighborhoods; and she admonished the use of language that suggests human error absolves government infrastructure of responsibility when one of its charges loses their life.
Mariena Quintanilla was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or on Webex.
Adam Magdaleno provided background on himself; discussed disfunction in the housing market; union support of Proposition 33; and the ability to decide on issues in the upcoming election.
Karim Sahli stated that cars kill more people in Culver City than all the violent crimes and homicide combined; discussed the failure of governance when a pedestrian dies in Culver City; lack of action that determines who lives, dies, or makes it home October 14, 2024
14 safely; removal of protected bike lanes; increased traffic speed in Culver City; lack of action taken to improve sidewalks; City Council and staff responsibility for the recent traffic fatality and future traffic fatalities in Culver City; and he asserted that the time to act was now.
Council Member Vera discussed an agendized conversation after the last traffic fatality.
Phoebe Kiekhofer Garfinkel reported becoming a traffic violence statistic on August 8; discussed her injuries from being hit by a truck on her residential street; facing what vehicular violence does to people; she begged the City Council to address vehicular violence prevention as a part of Public Safety; she felt that lower speeds should be enforced and that
infrastructure should be built to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe; and she asked the City Council to take action.
Jasmyne Cannick , Pan African Film Festival, requested City Council support during Black History Month in 2025 in various venues throughout Culver City; provided background on the event; discussed their expansion into Culver City; benefits to Culver City; different components of the festival; partnerships with local businesses; and, responding to inquiry, she indicated they were seeking City spons orship for the event scheduled for February 4-17, 2025.
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Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY 3:00 P.M. ON OCTOBER 14, 2024.
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Order of the Agenda
Mayor McMorrin noted that Item A -1 had been removed from the agenda with the intention of hearing it at the next meeting and she encouraged those interested in the item to check
culvercity.org/agendas.
Consent Calendar Items C-4, C-6, C-10, C-12, C-14, C-15, C-16, and C-17 were considered separately and Item A -1 was removed from the agenda.
October 14, 2024
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Consent Calendar
Item C-1
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Cash Disbursements for September 14, 2024 to October 4, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 TO OCTOBER 4, 2024.
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Item C-2
CC:HA:PA:SA – Approval of Minutes for the Regular City Council Meeting Held on September 23, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, PARKING
AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE MINUTE S FOR THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON SEPTEMBER 23, 2024.
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Item C-3
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Amending the Records Retention Schedule for the City of Culver City, Authorizing Destruction of Certain City Records in Accordance with the Amended Retention Schedule, and Rescinding Resolution No. 2022-R032
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RECORDS
RETENTION SCHEDULE FOR THE CITY OF CULVER CITY, AUTHORIZING
DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN CITY RECORDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMENDED RETENTION SCHEDULE, AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2022- R032.
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Item C-4
CC:DC – (1) Culver City Disaster Council Adoption of a
Resolution Recommending to the City Council the Adoption of the City of Culver City Emergency Operations Plan; and (2) City October 14, 2024
16 Council Adoption of a Resolution Adopting the City of Culver City Emergency Operations Plan
Christina Parra, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding percentage of the population with disabilities; data available about location of those needing assistance; people who rely on devices requiring electricity; the county database that is no longer available; people who reach out for support; resou rce centers; identification of gaps; English as a Second Language speakers; Voluntary Organizations Active in a Disaster (VOAD); the Los Angeles county liaison; individual Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs); Community Connect; work with Grace Diner during COVID; collaboration with community organizations in Culver City; concern with a shutdow n of the gri d; staff agreement to research the ability of Culver City to generate their own energy; outside resources; mutual aid; the need for people to have a plan in place for how to charge their individual devices; information available at culvercity.org/emergencyprep; Neighborhood Emergency Response Teams (NERT); identification of those who need extra assistance; things that need to happen at a local block-by-block level; the actions of other cities; the list of people who rely on electricity; an annua l exercise on October 17 with CCCARES and CERT; emergency supplies for across Culver City; grants; studies; planning; examination of
additional opportunities for solar by the Sustainability Subcommittee; the public survey; response from disability partners incorporated in planning; appreciation for the level of care being put into the process; amplification of the plan; raising awareness in the community; the process for follow up; annual review of the plan; and incorporation of suggestions and updates.
THAT THE DISASTER COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING TO
THE CITY COUNCIL THE ADOPTION O F THE CULVER CITY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CULVER CITY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN.
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Item C-5
October 14, 2024
17 CC – Adoption of a Resolution Amending the City’s Conflict of Interest Code Pursuant to the Political Reform Act,
Incorporating the Terms of the Fair Political Practices Commission’s (FPPC) Model Conflict of Interest Code, as Set Forth in Title 2 of California Code of Regulations Section 18730, and Rescinding Resolution No. 2023-R026
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE CITY’S
CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE PURSUANT TO THE POLITICAL REFORM ACT, INCORPORATING THE TERMS OF THE FPPC’S MODEL CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE AS SET FORTH IN TITLE 2 OF CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS SECTION 18730, AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2023-R026. o0o
Item C-6
CC – (1) Approval of the Culver City Arts District Business Improvement District Advisory Board's Annual Work Program and Budget; (2) Conduct a Public Meeting to Allow Public Testimony Regarding the Proposed Increased Assessment; and (3) Adoption of a Resolution Declaring the Intent to Levy the Culver City Arts District Business Improvement District Assessment for 2025 and Setting a Public Hearing for November 11, 2024
Elizabeth Garcia, Economic Development Manager, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the median discussion on October 19 at the Parks Project.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Denise Neal asked about Business Improvement District (BID) plans for the Arts District , and questioned who would be included in the meeting and in the plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regardi ng the annual work plan for the BID; clarification that there is no associated housing or arts program; resident members of BIDs; refurbishment of art installations at bus shelters; and work with the Cultural Affairs Director.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
October 14, 2024
18 1. APPROVE THE CULVER CITY ARTS DISTRICT BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT 2025 ANNUAL REPORT AS FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK OR AS AMENDED BY THE CITY COUNCIL; AND,
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO LEVY THE CULVER CITY ARTS DISTRICT BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ASSESSMENT FOR 2025 AND SETTING NOVEMBER 11, 2024, AS THE DATE FOR THE REQUIRED PUBLIC HEARING.
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Item C-7
CC – (1) Approval of the Downtown Culver City Business
Improvement District Advisory Board's (“DCCBID”) Annual Work Plan and Budget; (2) Conduct a Public Meeting to Allow Public Testimony Relative to a Proposed Increased Assessment; and (3) Adoption of a Resolution Declaring the Intent to Levy the DCCBID’s Assessment for 2025 and Setting a Public Hearing for November 11, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ASSESSMENT 2025 ANNUAL WORK PLAN AS FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK OR AS AMENDED BY THE CITY COUNCIL; AND,
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO LEVY THE DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ASSESSMENT FOR 2025 AND SETTING NOVEMBER 11, 2024, AS THE DATE FOR THE REQUIRED PUBLIC HEARING.
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Item C-8
CC - Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Agreement with Woods Maintenance Services, Inc., for Cleanup and Abatement of Illegal Dumping in Encampments of Unhoused Persons to Extend the Term for Two Years in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $162,800 Annually
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING AGREEMENT WITH WOODS MAINTENANCE, INC. FOR THE CLEANUP AND ABATEMENT OF ILLEGAL
DUMPING IN ENCAMPMENTS OF UNHOUSED PERSONS TO EXTEND THE TERM TWO YEARS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $162,800 ANNUALLY; AND, October 14, 2024
19 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-9
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing Staff to Submit Applications for Measure A Grant Funding from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING STAFF TO
SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR MEASURE A GRANT FUNDING FROM THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGIONAL PARK AND OPEN SPACE DISTRICT.
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Item C-10
CC - Authorization of a Task Order for Traffic Engineering Services for the Safer Fox Hills Project in the Amount Not -to- Exceed $136,760 Pursuant to the Terms of the City’s On -Call Professional Services Agreement with Willdan Engineering
Yanni Demitri, Public Works Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the small percentage of roadway used for bicycle facilities, but more coming in the future.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: AUTHORIZE A T ASK ORDER FOR TRAFFIC
ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE SAFER FOX HILLS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $136,760 PURSUANT TO THE TERMS OF THE CITY’S ON -CALL PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH WILLDAN ENGINEERING.
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Item C-11
CC - (1) Approval of Instructor Agreements with 1st Class Prep, Beyond Pre-K, Dee-Lightful Musical Theater Productions, Golden October 14, 2024
20 Tiger, Skateside, Ted Salter, and Youth Sports Enrichment, Inc. for Various Enrichment Class Instructional Services with the Instructors Receiving 70% of Class Fees and the City Receiving 30% of Class Fees; and (2) Authorization to the City Manager to Approve Amendments to Such Agreements if Necessary Based on Class Enrollment
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AGREEMENTS WITH 1ST CLASS PREP, BEYOND PRE -K, DEE-
LIGHTFUL MUSICAL THEATER PRODUCTIONS, GOLDEN TIGER, SKATESIDE, TED SALTER, AND YOUTH SPORTS ENRICHMENT, INC. FOR ENRICHMENT
CLASS INSTRUCTION SERVICES WITH VARIOUS CONTRACTORS EACH IN AN AMOUNT TO EXCEED $50,000 WITH THE INSTRUCTORS RECEIVING 70% OF CLASS FEES AND THE CITY RECEIVING 30% OF CLASS FEES; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE TO THE CITY MANAGER TO APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO SUCH AGREEMENTS IF NECESSARY BASED ON CLASS ENROLLMENT; 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-12
CC – Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Culver City Municipal Code Section 3.01.005 to Increase the Salary of City Council Members from $485.10 Per Month to $1,261.26 Per Month
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 3.01.005 TO INCREASE THE SALARY OF EACH CITY COUNCIL MEMBER FROM $485.10 PER MONTH TO $1,261.26 PER MONTH.
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Item C-13
CC – Quitclaim of Storm Drain Easement through 5880 Adams Boulevard from Adams Boulevard to La Cienega Boulevard
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: QUITCLAIM THE STORM DRAIN EASEMENT WITHIN 5880 ADAMS BOULEVARD FROM ADAMS BOULEVARD TO LA CIENEGA October 14, 2024
21 BOULEVARD AS SHOWN AND DESCRIBED IN EXHIBITS A AND B OF ATTACHMENT ATT-2.
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Item C-14
CC – Approval of Final Plans and Specifications and
Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids for the 2024-25 Annual Pavement Rehabilitation Project, PS-005
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding accommodation of improvements to the island on Jackson as part of the project contingency and improvements made before the resurfacing project occurs.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2024 -25 ANNUAL PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, PS-005; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE 2024-25 ANNUAL PAVEMENT REHABILITATION, PS- 005.
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Item C-15
CC – Approval of an Application for $14,904.00 in Grant Funds through the FY 2024 U.S. Department of Justice, Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program Local
Solicitation
Jason Sims, CCPD Chief, introduced Captain Luis Martinez.
Luis Martinez, CCPD Captain, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Jamie Wallace was called to speak but was not online or in Council Chambers.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding replacement of the current nine year old dog; whether the money was already included in the CCPD budget; the request to apply October 14, 2024
22 for the grant; the need that arose out of the age of the dog; identification of the type of dog that would best serve Culver City; the number of upcoming events in Culver City ;
clarification that the funding is not in the current year budget; the process when a dog ages out; lack of overlap between the older dog and the younger dog; and extra compensation for the officer who works with the dog.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,904.00 THROUGH THE FY 2024 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, LOCAL EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM; 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-16
CC – Approval of a Purchase Order with Econolite Control Products for Six Traffic Signal Video Det ection Systems in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $122,506.06
Yanni Demitri, Public Works Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Steve Siegel asked about the high cost of the item and whether there was a bidding process ; discussed concern with privacy; what is being recorded, what happens with images, and how long it is stored; he expressed concern with sharp words spoken to the Cit y Council by a previous speaker ; and he questioned whether there would be a luncheon for Council Member Eriksson as he completes his 8 years of service on the City Council.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding consistent pricing; clarification that nothing is being recorded and no data is stored; vehicle detection; and signal phasing.
October 14, 2024
23 THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER WITH ECONOLITE CONTROL PRODUCTS FOR
SIX TRAFFIC SIGNAL VIDEO DETECTION SYSTEMS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO- EXCEED $122,506.06; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO EXECUTE THE PURCHASE ORDER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-17
CC – Appointment of Hope Parrish as Honorary City Historian Jesse Mays, Assistant City Manager, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding confidence in the ability of Ms. Parrish to serve the community; gratitude for her leadership; the importance of establishing clear guidelines for the honorary position moving forward; the survey for the Artist Laureate Program; allowing the community to weigh in; providing legitimacy to processes and clarity on what is expected; reasons for processes and procedures; defining roles; making the process open to anyone who would like to participate; support for Ms. Parrish; creating a job description for the volunteer position; gratitude for the work of Ms.
Parrish; mentorship of young people; continuing the legacy of Culver City; clarification that there is no set duration for the role; and City Council discretion.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPOINT HOPE PARRISH AS HONORARY CITY HISTORIAN.
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Item C-18
CC – (1) Approval of an Agreement with Granicus to Upgrade the City’s Agenda Management Software Suite in an Amount Not -to- Exceed $45,000; and (2) Authorization of an Expenditure in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $109,675 for Annual Software Licensing of Granicus Software Modules; and (3) Authorization to the City Manager to Approve Annual Ongoing Expenditures to Granicus in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $109,675 Allowing for an Annual Increase October 14, 2024
24 of Five Percent Until the Agreement is Substantially Changed or Terminated
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH GRANICUS (DENVER, CO) TO UPGRADE
TO THEIR AGENDA MANAGEMENT/GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY SOFTWARE IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $45,000, AND,
2. APPROVE AN EXPENDITURE IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $109,675
FOR A NNUAL SOFTWARE LICENSING OF THE GRANICUS ENTERPRISE SOFTWARE MODULES THAT THE CITY UTILIZES; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO APPROVE ANNUAL ONGOING EXPENDITURES TO GRANICUS IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $109,675 ALLOWING FOR AN ANNUAL INCREASE OF FIVE PERCENT (5%) UNTIL THE AGREEMENT IS SUBSTANTIALLY CHANGED OR TERMINATED; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE ANY NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND
5. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1 THROUGH C-11 AND C-13 THROUGH C-18.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM C-
12. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, PUZA, MCMORRIN
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: VERA
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Public Hearings
None.
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Action Items
October 14, 2024
25 Item A-1
SA - Approval of an Amended Disposition and Development Agreement by and between the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency and Culver Public Market, LLC, Related to a Commercial Project at Washington Boulevard and Centinela Avenue (Culver Pub lic Market). located at 12337 - 12423 Washington Boulevard, 4061 - 4063 Centinela Avenue, and 4064 Colonial Avenue
This item was removed from the agenda for consideration at a future date.
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Item A-2
CC - (1) Review and Approval of the 2023-2024 Culver City Police Department Military Equipment Annual Report Pursuant to Government Code Section 7071(e)(2); (2) Renewal of (i.e., Continuation of) Ordinance No. 2022-005, Codified as Subchapter
3.04.400 of the Culver City Municipal Code, Governing the Use of Military Equipment by the Culver City Police Department and Approving the Military Equipment Funding, Acquisition and Use Policy Pursuant to Assembly Bill 481; and (3) Direction to the Police Chief as Deemed Appropriate
Jason Sims, CCPD Chief, introduced the item.
Ryan Thompson, CCPD Lieutenant, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Steve Siegel expressed appreciation for the report; discussed the budget and the movement to defund the police; response times in Los Angeles; maintaining staffing le vels; places to cut; Council Members that do not want CCPD to make traffic stops; compliance associated with military equipment; and he expressed appreciation for the work done to manage required data.
Jamie Wallace thanked CCPD for their work in recordkeeping and to provide transparency, and she hoped that there would not be arguments about shifting funds noting that CCPD was required to provide the annual report.
October 14, 2024
26 Melissa Sanders thanked CCPD for their work; was sorry that the word military had to be used in relation to the equipment; and expressed appreciation for the thoroughness of CCPD.
Denise Neal thanked CCPD for their transparency and
accountability with their arsenal; asked about having
substations or storage areas for any additional items needed to prepare for FIFA, the Super Bowl , the Olympics, and emergency management; and she asked about community dialogue.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding replacement of ammunition; the importance of live fire for training; appreciation to staff for the work done to provide and present the report; ensuring that officers remain proficient with the equipment they are using to ensure their safety and the safety of the community; training in a live fire situation; creating realistic situations on a range; preparing officers for high stress real life encounters; patrol -level officers; different requirements for emergency response team officers; regular training; mandates for the emergency response team; armed vs. armored vans; rescue operations; clarification that CCPD has had the equipment for many years but was not required to disclos e it until 2021; clarification that none of the equipment came from the military; the report required each year; clarification that there is no intent to acquire any additional equipment; the transparency and accountability tool;
compliance; the process to make a complaint or report a violation; tracking complaints; clarification that there have not been any complaints; the drone policy; use of drones; routine training; National Night Out; the reason why the equipment is referred to as military equipment; items that can be purchased on Amazon; other jurisdictions that receive similar equipment from the military; training at large community events; and flight hours for pilots.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. REVIEW AND APPROVE THE 2023 -2024 CULVER CITY POLICE
DEPARTMENT MILITARY EQUIPMENT ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 7071(E)(2); AND,
2. RENEW ORDINANCE NO. 2022 -005 OF THE CITY OF CULVER CITY ADDING SUBCHAPTER 3.04.400 TO TITLE 3, CHAPTER 3.04 OF THE
CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE, GOVERNING THE USE OF MILITARY
EQUIPMENT BY THE CULVER CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT AND APPROVING October 14, 2024
27 THE MILITARY EQUIPMENT FUNDING, ACQUISITION AND USE POLICY PURSUANT TO ASSEMBLY BILL 481.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, PUZA, VERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: MCMORRIN
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Item A-3
CC - (1) Discussion Regarding the Culver City Interfaith Alliance and Other Communication Initiatives for Community Religious Groups; and (2) Direction to the City Manager as Deemed Appropriate
Dana Anderson, Human Resources Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Ivanska Pagan asserted that what was going on in Palestine and Israel was not about religion.
Mariah Fontijn, Cul ver City Residents for Peace, provided background on the organization noting that they sought fairness for all residents of Culver City no matter what their religion was; she reiterated comments made by the previous speaker; asserted that the state of Isra el was founded by many secular Jewish people; she noted that Muslims, Jews, and Christians had lived in peace for 1500 years; she indicated that they wanted to meet in a moderated discussion with the EHRAC to come to a mutual decision and call for peace in the Middle East in Palestine/Israel; and she asked that the EHRAC be directed to moderate the discussion at their October meeting.
Denise Neal questioned whether there would be opportunities to continue to foster understanding in the clear purpose; asked about welcoming committees from the interfaith groups for upcoming international events; asked about training for emergency crisis management; discussed language accessibility programs within the groups; overlap with Sister Cities, Cultural October 14, 2024
28 Affairs, and other groups; and creating a network to step in if needed.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to staff for their efforts; potentially moving forward with an interfaith alliance and /or communication initiatives for community religious groups; inclusion of atheist and agnostic members; ensuring that people are heard;
accountability; taki ng a pulse on what is happening on all communities and mechanisms to do that; Commissions, Boards and Committees (CBCs) as a tool for understanding what is happening in the community on various issues; the opportunity to be more responsive to the faith, agnostic, and atheist communities; the possibility that such a body could be more responsive;
responsiveness of Culver City to the needs of the overall community; providing procedure, systems, and accountability; outreach to learn about issues in particular communities; regular feedback gained from certain communities; the interfaith council of the current District Attorney and work of the county in partnership with churches and other bodies; and potential quarterly outreach similar to what is done to other c ommunity groups in Culver City around community belonging, interfaith issues, and religious-type conversations.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding providing a mechanism to bring faith -based
organizations together to s ee how they can best serve the community; responsiveness of Culver City; providing a clear separation between church and city or state; the potential for confusion; providing service to the community; providing a catalyst for Mr. Clarke or Pastor Rosenau; sharing information with the community; fostering communication and a safe place for people to talk; and the existing Committee that provides a safe space for people to talk.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the feeling that the issue is not the responsibility of the City; lack of interest from the community; things that are covered and things that need attention; the ability of others to coordinate and start their own group; leaving the issue to community members; the Constitution; and the separation of church and state.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to Reverend Dr. Rosenau, Mr. Rudin, and former Mayor Jim Clarke for sharing their experiences; opportunities October 14, 2024
29 for the committee; support for more outreach and communication to different populations within the community; benefits to hearing from faith-based leaders about the needs and wants of their memberships; the advisory nature of such a body; the opportunity of Culver City to broaden outreach; people who apply for CBCs who are not appointed; the potential reason for the lack of response to the item as being that a call was not put out; other cities with different CBCs; the need for people who are committed; people in the community who are advocates for peace and want to build bridges; agreement that the body should not be political; support for some sort of interfaith alliance; and support for a check in with faith based communities.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding lack of feedback from faith-based leaders asking for such a committee; feedback regarding a previous committee; potential outreach by the EHRAC with a report out to the City Council; and concern with staff time.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the current work plan for the EHRAC; the current community conversations forum agendized for the next EHRAC meeting; the immediate issue; expanding community capacity to extend empathy for each other; historical context for what is happening; impacts of events on the global stage; lateness of the hour; seeking support for an issue that the City needs; the idea that neighbors have to come to a meeting to ask for what they need; expanding cap acity of what there is and what is needed; lack of a clear mechanism for outreach to community members; concern that one needs a relationship with a City Council Member in order to know how to bring an issue forward; the need for more awareness and outreac h that goes beyond the business community, seniors, and the disabled community; intersectionality; concern with th e lack of nimbleness and flexibility; the importance of being responsive and in community with more than those who show up at meetings; obtaining better survey responses; appreciation and acknowledgement for efforts made; gaps in engagement; providing a mechanism for hearing from different communities; regular updates that go out for Culver City events; social media; clarification that specific outreach to religious leaders has not been done; mechanisms for those who are interested to get information; contact information for religious and religious-related groups; understanding community needs; poor attendance of United vs. Hate Week; faith
communities that feel stigmatized; the possibility of outreach that goes beyond govdelivery; groups that rent space from Culver October 14, 2024
30 City; being good partners; the disconnect; people who do not feel heard or safe; meeting people where they are; outreach to ask how Culver City can be a better partner; committing to having a space or a room where groups can be invited together to see if they would like to have a regular check -in with the City; gaining feedback from all communities; establishing procedures and protocols moving forward; engagement processes beyond those for specific projects; and ensuring that the public is heard from more routinely.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding building-out a process to connect in a similar way that is currently being done with the business community; faith -based leaders who are organized and understand the needs of their community; building on different populations; practicality with increasing outreach; communities that are traditionally not included; support for expanding outreach; the upcoming EHRAC meeting; having an initial call to action via an in-person or online meeting to focus on building outreach and community; the goal to address those who feel that the City is not responsive; publicizing the proposed meeting; staff time; Council Member involvement in inviting participation; providing a space to build on; continuing to build outreach, community, and
responsiveness within the faith, agnostic, and atheist community in Culver City; and responsiveness to those who feel the City is not responsive.
Mayor McMorrin moved that Culver City conduct one outreach in the form of a meeting either in -person or online to focus on building outreach and community with the goal of addressing those who feel that Culver City is not responsive and a follow up staff report to evaluate the effectiveness after the meeting takes place.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding individual outreach to faith -based leaders to gage interest in reforming the Interfaith Alliance; concern with something becoming an initiative of an individual rather than the City; the goal for the City to be more responsive; and creating procedures that live beyond the current City Council.
MOVED BY MAYOR MCMORRIN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO HOLD A MEETING WITH
RELIGIOUS, ATHEIST, AND AGNOSTIC GROUP MEMBERS TO BUILD COMMUNITY AND TO BRING BACK A REPORT ON WHAT IS LEARNED.
October 14, 2024
31 THE MOTION FAILED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: MCMORRIN, PUZA
NOES: O’BRIEN, VERA
ABSTAIN: ERIKSSON
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Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Heather Baker, City Attorney, noted that earlier in the meeting there was a speaker who was campaigning for a state measure; she cautioned the public that there is no campaign activity allowed in Council Chambers; and she asked those making public comment to refrain from any campaign activity.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Polly Stenberg provided background on herself; expressed support for comments made by Vice Mayor O’Brien regarding the specific goals of the EHRAC and their ability to attend to all manner of diversity in the community; she referenced the discussion on disaster preparedness and ensuring access to hot water and electricity without the grid; discussed current conditions for those in Gaza; terrorism; United Against Hate; standing together in a laying down of arms; the need for humans to evolve past war; climate conditions; she asserted that the international community calling for a ceasefire is an interfaith alliance; she noted that it was never ok to bo mb a pre-school; and she asked the City Council to direct the EHRAC to have a conversation that can result in a ceasefire resolution.
Maria Beg discussed her previous comments made to the City Council, along with others, to request agendizing consideration of a ceasefire resolution or to direct the EHRAC to specifically hold a conversation about a ceasefire resolution; she questioned what the harm was in holding the conversation; discussed acknowledging the pain the community is going through; the immediate need; members of the community who feel marginalized and ignored; and she asked that they be given the space they were requesting.
Denise Neal asked if there was a way to set up a fiscally responsible structure for reparations for Foundational Black October 14, 2024
32 Americans in Culver City; discussed strategically building business and preparing for upcoming events ; emergency
management; needed substations in the south and at Ivy Station; improving infrastructure by retrofitting or tearing down Southern California Hospital; the need for a solid, safe medical facility; partnering with training schools and Cedars Sinai to update the medical facilities as was done in Marina del Rey; and collaboration with local universities and the Community College District.
Rayda Humeda reiterated previous requests for the City Council to direct the EHRAC to hold a discussion that would include a ceasefire resolution; discussed people coming since August to support a ceasefire resolution; the need for compassion for those who were bombed last night; people killed while they were sleeping; she asked the City Council to do the right thing and specifically include a ceasefire resolution as part of the healing process; and noted the responsibility of the Mayor to follow the people.
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Items from Council Members
Council Member Vera received consensus from Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Member Puza that the City Council agendize an item to consider keeping impact fees within the area where the development is happening.
Council Member Puza received consensus from Mayor McMorrin, Vice Mayor O’Brien, and Council Member Vera to agendize consideration of a sponsorship for the Pan African Film Festival in 2025 and he asked about agendizing consideration of a quick build project at National and Wesley to increase safety but did not receive consensus.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the pedestrian who was killed outside of a crosswalk; the quick build project that would be an eight -foot fence prohibiting people from jaywalking; and the inability to discuss the item until is agendized.
Vice Mayor O’Brien received consensus from Mayor McMorrin and Council Members Puza and Vera to agendize consideration of sponsorship up to $3,000 for the Hero Fair as requested by Scott Stevens.
October 14, 2024
33 Mayor McMorrin expressed appreciation for the presentation from Brenda Caloca of the California Department of Insurance, and for being able to attend the presentation from the county on the Public Works data; discussed the homeless dashboard; she received consensus from Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Member Puza that when the report with an update from Housing and Human Services comes to the City Council, that a presentation from the Los Angeles County Public Works team be made on their homelessness and public works data to provide context; she discussed a presentation held by Supervisor Mitchell on the tool that is available; and she indicated that Assistant City Manager Jesse Mays had sent out the tool to Council Members.
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Council Member Requests to Agendize Future Items
City Council consensus was achieved to agendize the following items for consideration on a future agenda:
• Consideration of keeping impact fees within the area where the development is happening
• Consideration of a sponsorship for the Pan African Film Festival in 2025 as requested by Jasmyn Cannick
• Consideration of sponsorship up to $3,000 for the Hero Fair as requested by Scott Stevens
• Receive a presentation from the Los Angeles County Public Works team on their homelessness and public works data to provide context at the meeting where the update whe n
Housing and Human Services is received
Mayor McMorrin asked that the meeting be adjourned in memory of equal pay advocate and women’s rights activist Lilly Ledbetter.
MOVED BY MAYOR MCMORRIN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF LILLY LEDBETTER.
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October 14, 2024
34 Adjournment
There being no further business , at 11:59 p.m., the City Council, Housing Authority Board, Parking Authority Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Disaster Council, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned in memory of Lilly Ledbetter to a meeting to be held on October 28, 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, Culver City Disaster Council 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, Culver City Disaster Council and Culver City Parking Authority
Date: _________________________