Public Feedback Emails — Manhattan Beach City Council, March 15, 2022

From: Paul Wafer
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Against Event Permits for Excluded Parks Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 11:08:32 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

The parks that are currently excluded from special event permits are all located in predominantly residential areas. Allowing special events at those locations will be disruptive to the local residents and may impact future property values. There is plenty of space available at the city's other parks, like Polliwog and Marine, and they are more suitable for larger crowds. Please refrain from changing the nature of our residential communities.

Sincerely,
Paul Wafer
East Manhattan Beach
310-467-0906
From: [email protected]
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Hildy Stern Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb; Steve Napolitano; Richard Montgomery; Joe Franklin; Suzanne Hadley Subject: [EXTERNAL] Allowing large events at Bruce"s Beach - Preposterous! Date: Friday, February 25, 2022 11:34:35 PM
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It has just come to my attention that there is the idea on the City Calendar with Parks & Rec to allow events at the smaller parks in MB, including and specifically at Bruce's Beach Park. I would like to offer my opinion that this is a completely foolish idea. Bruce's Beach park is a very small park surrounded completely by residential homes. On a good day the parking is extremely difficult, on a warm summer day it's impossible. To add the possibility of hundreds of people flocking to this area searching for parking is unconscionable. I am a 30 year resident of MB, in close proximity to Bruce's Beach. The park is typically used by families enjoying a picnic, neighbors walking their dogs, kids playing basketball, people admiring the ocean view. This would be impossible if the park were used for large events with the city's blessing. I implore you to vote to NOT ALLOW events at Bruce's Beach or other small parks in MB that have a similar footprint.

I'm sure that you've recently been made aware of a huge event scheduled for Sunday, Feb 27 at Bruce's Beach. It has been advertised on the Internet as a BYOB party open to everyone.

The disaster is looming in 36 hours. Please be sure to have proper permits, restroom facilities, parking and oversight on this event.

Regards,
Larry Levine

From: Elizabeth Lynch
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce"s Beach Park - Proposed Mega Event Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 10:52:39 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi - We are Timothy & Elizabeth Lynch. We own the property located at 229 25th Place which is a stone's throw from Bruce's Beach Park. While we are VERY supportive of folks who want to demonstrate or gather, we do NOT support them doing so without a permit.

Given that Bruce's Beach Park has ZERO parking and ZERO bathrooms, it is NOT the best location for a large gathering. Surely MB would not grant a permit for this type of large event.

We request that you, along with other relevant city officials, prevent this from happening.

Thank you for listening.

Timothy Lynch
Elizabeth Lynch
229 25th Place, MB
From: Cristina Thomas
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce"s Beach Please Exclude from CIty Permit Process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 2:02:51 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Manhattan Beach Parks & Recreation Commission

As a resident directly impacted by your decision I urge you to continue to maintain the current process of excluding Bruce’s Beach from the City’s special events permit review process.

I walk my GrandPuppy and meet up with neighbors and it is a local gathering that unifies our community.

Thank you for your consideration.

Cristina Thomas
404 27
th Street
Manhattan Beach, CA 92651
714-342-6768

From: Fred Taylor
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce"s Beach
Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 10:01:19 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

The CC has not acted on releasing the parkettes and BB’s for public use.

I strongly advocate they stay off-limits to public events. Of course, the parkettes are amongst close residents and homes, so that would be obvious.

Opening up BB’s would give the radical elements of BLM and Antifa who terrorized out city in 2020 the perfect license to plant their rebellion and hostility, not to mention a contact drain on PD resources.

To give credence to my position, a group are planning a “Blackity” event this very Sunday at BB without permits and a written invitation to bring alcohol. Doesn’t that violate MB beach rules??

We need mayoral leadership on this issue now!

Sent from Mail
for Windows

From: Michael Jenkins
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] February 28 agenda item — park use permits Date: Monday, February 21, 2022 2:11:47 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I understand that the Parks and Recreation Commission will review the City’s special event permit application process at its meeting on Monday, February 28. I am a longtime City resident and would ask that my comments below be provided to the members of the Commission prior to the meeting.

The City’s parks are a valuable asset to the community. They are used daily by many for recreational purposes and all but three are available for events through a reservation system. As I see it, residents should have the opportunity to reserve all parks for appropriate events, such as birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, family reunions and cultural celebrations. There is no reason why Bruce’s Beach, and the 8th Street and Larson Street parkettes should be excluded from the existing process by which the City can review and approve or deny permits for special events.

The process itself assures that the proposed use will be of an appropriate size and scope for the requested park space and will be subjected to conditions to minimize neighborhood impacts.

When this item appeared on the Council agenda earlier this month, numerous neighbors of Bruce’s Beach raised objections based on anticipated impacts. Anyone living adjacent to a park must expect some impacts associated with park use, whether by permit or otherwise. Bruce’s Beach was acquired ostensibly for park purposes in 1924 and has existed as a passive park since the 1950s; any person who owns or rents property in the vicinity certainly knew it was a park when they arrived here, and must reasonably expect that the use of the park will occasionally cause impacts. That is a normal consequence of choosing to live near a park, and is balanced out by the advantages and enjoyment of open space and unobstructed ocean views. Those who reside near Pollywog Park and Live Oak Park put up with traffic, parking and noise impacts from summer concerts, the Hometown Fair, sporting activities and other events, some of which are very impactful. The Bruce’s Beach neighbors are not entitled to a ban on use of that park any more so than neighbors of the other parks in town.

Bruce’s Beach, of course, has special significance insofar as it was acquired by the City for purpose of racial exclusion as documented in the City’s official history of the site. It is appropriately the site for events that celebrate inclusion and diversity or seek a remembrance of troubling parts of our American and City past. I attended the Juneteenth event in 2021 at Bruce’s Beach — which could not receive a permit under the current policy — and observed that the park was an ideal setting for the event.

The site amply accommodated the crowd in attendance, the event lasted only a few hours during the midday, traffic on Highland flowed unimpeded and there were no visible significant off-site impacts. The symbolic import of having the event at Bruce’s Beach cannot be overstated. The park is well suited for this type of event, as well as birthday parties, family reunions and the like.

I strongly encourage the Commission to recommend to the Council that Bruce’s Beach and the two parkettes be included in the existing special events policy so that they may on occasion be reserved in part or in whole for events. All parks in the City should be treated equally. The existing permitting process assures that the City will be able to apply conditions to assure that the type of event, the number of participants, the hours and whether amplified sound is allowed are all appropriate for the park in question.

Michael Jenkins
Sent from my iPad
From: John Randolph
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] For including the final 3 City Parks in the Special events Permit Process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 1:59:36 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Please include the final 3 city parks in the special permit process, especially Bruce’s Beach. Manhattan Beach should be inclusive, and this is yet another way to exercise that. I am a long time resident. Thank you. John Randolph
(you may put my comments into the official record.

From: Kathy Taylor
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Bruce Beach and Parkettes
Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 10:22:56 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Kathy Taylor <[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Feb 26, 2022 at 10:13 AM
Subject: Bruce Beach and Parkettes
To: <[email protected]
>
Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>
Hello,
I am a 42 year resident of Manhattan Beach and my husband has resided here since 1971.

My daughter grew up here and her family now resides here.

Please DO NOT remove the exclusion of Bruce's Beach Park and the two parkettes on 8th Street and Larsson Street from the Special Events Policy. We do not want these parks changed from their current status. Why are these residents being subjected to this update request? Please do not increase the traffic, noise and density for the residents.

Thank you,
Kathy Taylor
From: rambojack
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Keep restrictions on the small parks Date: Sunday, February 27, 2022 10:06:37 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Please do not allow big events to take place at the small parks in our city. That being the Larsson St Parkette, the 8th St., Park, and Bruce’s Beach. There is insufficient parking as well as these parks being buried in the middle of residential areas. We have plenty of large parks were big events can be held with music food trucks, whatever. Let’s leave some quiet peaceful parks for our residence.

Terry Watson
229 Larsson
Sent from my iPhone
From: Cynthia Strand
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please - Do Not Modify Existing Policy Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 10:18:45 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I urge you not to change the existing policy exempting our small parkettes and the Bruce’s Beach area from large gatherings. These small venues are in residential neighborhoods which presents many problems. There is limited parking and there are no restroom facilities. These venues were never meant to handle this nor should they be now.

Please, I urge you not to make any changes to the current policy.

Regards
Cyndi Strand
Sent from my iPad
From: Laura H. Kainsinger
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please allow all parks in the special events permit process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 1:33:20 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,
I would like to express my support for including all parks in the special events permit process. As a long time resident, I have enjoyed having birthday parties and family gatherings at many of our local parks.

The current tiered, permit process allows for City staff to properly plan, set limits and collect fees, including billable city service fees, for any large gatherings. As per the concern to the community impact, I will share that I live on Valley Drive and I am personally impacted for at least 5 days out of the year due to the Hometown Fair, Bicycle races and Grandview's 5K races. Living in a densely populated community, I understand and welcome this yearly impact because of the benefit that having large family oriented events has for our community.

Sincerely,
Laura Kainsinger
MB resident
From: Kim Brant-Lucich
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please Include All City Parks in Special Events Permitting Process Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 6:51:26 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Parks and Recreations Commission,
I am a longtime City resident and ask that my comments related to the Special Events Permitting process be shared with members of the Commission prior to the February 28 meeting.

Manhattan Beach parks are a valuable asset to the community. They are public parks for the use of all residents. Currently, all but three city parks are available for residents to reserve for appropriate events. There is no valid reason to exclude three parks from the existing process, which enables the City to approve or deny permits, and to set conditions of use considering potential impacts.

When this item appeared on the Council agenda earlier this month, some neighbors of Bruce’s Beach raised objections, citing anticipated impacts. They offered "NIMBY" (not in my backyard) objections, especially focused on Bruce's Beach, and the type of event that might be held there. Bruce’s Beach has existed as a public park since the 1950s. Any person who owns or rents property in the vicinity certainly knew it was a park and lifeguard center when they arrived, and should expect use of the park to occasionally cause impacts. I live very close to Live Oak Park and my husband and I are impacted annually by the Hometown Fair, Little League Opening Day Celebrations, and every City event that takes place in the park, as well as at the Veterans' and 9/11 Memorials. We accept that this is part of living near public parks and throughways. Bruce’s Beach neighbors are not entitled to a ban on use of the park near them any more than I am entitled to a ban on the use of Live Oak Park, or neighbors of Polliwog Park are entitled to a ban on Concerts in the Park.

Bruce’s Beach has a special significance; it was acquired by the City in 1924 through racially motivated eminent domain action. This history has resulted in the park being viewed as an appropriate venue for events like observation of Juneteenth. The Juneteenth 2021 celebration was a cheerful and uplifting event, attended by residents, visitors and local politicians, including Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi and State Senator Ben Allen. There were no adverse events and no notable traffic traffic congestion; it was an afternoon celebration that finished well before sunset.

Compared to the Hometown Fair Beer Garden, it was docile. The symbolic import of holding an event like this should not be overlooked; the park is well suited for this type of event. The two parkettes are better suited for family and school gatherings.

I urge you to extend the park permitting process to all three of these parks - Bruce's Beach, 8th Street and Larsen Street. Otherwise, it is a gift of public funds to a select group of private residents. All residents should be able to reserve ALL parks in the city.

Thank you for your consideration.

Regards,
Kim Brant-Lucich
From: Diana Skaar
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Cc: List - City Council; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all City parks in the special events permit process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 12:42:18 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi MB Parks & Recreation Commission and esteemed City Councilmembers, First, I want to thank you for your continued efforts to make MB a beautiful community- centric beach town. From Concerts in the Park at Polliwog, Hometown Fair and the summer volleyball tournaments, there is so much to enjoy in MB.

The reasons stated for continued exclusion of Bruce's Beach echoed the same divisive rhetoric that led to our beautiful beach town being mischaracterized as un-welcoming and non- inclusive to people of color.

I visited Bruce's Beach Park Sunday Feb 27 around 4pm (MB Police was there too) and saw nothing but a friendly gathering of community members and kids enjoying the last Sunday of Black History Month on a beautiful sunny MB day. (see my photo attached) If people have an issue with gatherings like this ... then I think it's all the more reason why Bruce's Beach should NOT be excluded from the City's special events permitting process so that the City can either deny such events if they are deemed disruptive to the neighborhood, or can make the necessary preparations and safety assessments to support such events and mitigate neighborhood impact. This includes staffing, street closures, trash collection and public notice of events .. which the City seems to manage well (ex. Concerts at Polliwog and the 6-man volleyball tourney)
Why not have Bruce's Beach (and the 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes) be included in this *existing* City review process if residents are really concerned and wish to exert some control over potential neighborhood impact?
Other points to consider:

1. Please allow all City parks to be places where families and the community can celebrate special events such as birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, family reunions and cultural celebrations.

2. Without a permitting process, parks can be the site of unauthorized gatherings where city rules are harder to enforce.

3. Including all parks in the current robust permitting process allows for the City to set tailored limits on the type of event, number of participants, date and time, and amplified sound at each park.

4. A permitting process allows City departments to make the necessary preparations and safety assessments to support the event and mitigate neighborhood impact. This includes staffing, street closures, trash collection and public notice of events.

5. It creates an opportunity for the city to collect additional revenue from application fees and billable city services provided for the event.
--
Diana Skaar
(MB Resident)
From: Kimberley Stewart
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all City parks in the special events permit process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 12:41:59 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To whom it may concern,
I am a resident of Manhattan Beach writing in support of including all city parks in the special events permit process.

I am inspired by the recent gathering at Bruce's Beach in which community members and friends gathered to celebrate Black History Month in this important historic location. I myself am biracial and was able to share this with my nephew who is black. The last time he visited me, a woman screamed at him and insisted he was following her and threatened to call the police. We were just walking to the park. Another time when we were walking in the neighborhood and he was a bit ahead of my pace, someone stopped him and interrogated him about what he was doing here and accused him of lying when he said he was with his aunt. I won't bore you with the long list of incidents that have made him feel unwelcome. Just a teen who appears completely normal being followed, questioned, and accused. Mind you, I have nieces who are white who have visited me and under similar circumstances were not once bothered. Why was it assumed they were local but he was not? This weekend was the first time he truly felt that he was 'allowed' to be here. It was a wholesome gathering of people who looked like him, who didn't stare and wonder what he was doing 'in their neighborhood' - instead he felt part of the neighborhood. For me personally, as someone who is biracial but white-passing, it feels great to see acceptance and support in my community. I've also been in circumstances where people don't think I'm local and I can only assume it must be in part to them realizing I am not of the majority population here. But at the event, I felt safe and surrounded by warmth.

I certainly don't expect allowing special events permits at Bruce's Beach to be exclusively accessed by black community members. The above is simply an example of a great event that took advantage of an important space to celebrate community and family and made a big impact on me and my nephew. I am pleased that this event took place, and I hope that allowing more special events in these spaces will only further encourage community events that make sure ALL feel welcome, respected, and celebrated.

Regards,
Kimberley S
From: Birkel, Julia L.

To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all City parks in the special events permit process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 10:37:46 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Parks & Recreation Commission:

I have been a resident of Manhattan Beach for nearly 30 years, and a homeowner since 1995.

Please include all City parks, including Bruce’s Beach, in particular, as part of your special event permit application process.

Bruce’s Beach holds special significance as a statement that we recognize the wrongs perpetrated by our City Trustees 100 years ago, and are committed to making MB a truly welcoming community for everyone.

Considering the City’s racist past, whether the Commission does or does not allow events at Bruce’s Beach sends a message. Let’s send the right one.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Julie Birkel

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From: LAUREN BURTON
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all City parks in the special events review process Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 1:09:51 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I am a 28 year Manhattan Beach resident. I am writing to you to request that you please allow all City parks to be places where families and the community can celebrate special events such as birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, family reunions and cultural celebrations. Without a permitting process, parks can be the site of unauthorized gatherings where city rules are harder to enforce and could adversely affect the resident neighbors. Including all parks in the current robust permitting process allows for the City to set tailored limits on the type of event, number of participants, date and time, and amplified sound at each park. In addition, adjacent neighbors would be notified and could plan appropriately for their families. A permitting process allows City departments to make the necessary preparations and safety assessments to support the event and mitigate neighborhood impact. This includes staffing, street closures, trash collection and public notice of events.

Finally, it creates an opportunity for the city to collect additional revenue from application fees and billable city services provided for the event that may have been lost due to the
pandemic. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Lauren Burton
1216 8th Street
Manhattan Beach, CA
90266

From: Lenora Marouani
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all city parks in the special events permit process Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 3:46:04 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,
my name is Lenora. I am the co-owner of Barsha Wines & Spirits in MB. I wanted to request that all Manhattan Beach parks be included in the special event permit process. I know that Bruce's Beach park is currently excluded from this permitting process, therefore cutting off the opportunity to create more diversity within our beach city. Bruce Beach Park has sentimental meaning and inspiration for the black community. If included in the permitting process, it will be an inclusive and unifying act within our community.

Thank you for listening.

Best Regards,
Lenora
--
Lenora Marouani
The Now Is Woman
TheNowIsWoman.com
The Souk
TheSoukMB.com
Barsha
BarshaLife.com
Manhattan Beach | 917 N. Sepulveda Blvd. MB 90266 | 310.318.9080 Hermosa Beach | 1141 Aviation Blvd. HB 90254 | 424.452.6266 From: Taylor Gamble
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all City parks in the special events review process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 1:54:29 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,

I am a Manhattan Beach resident and I support the removal of the exclusion that currently prevents individuals from requesting special event permits for three public parks in Manhattan Beach. Each park in our beautiful city should be eligible for a special event permit request. Key word: request. I trust the MB Parks & Recreation Commission to carefully review the permit applications for each park and use their best judgement in the approval process. Opening up the option to request a permit for special events at these 3 additional parks will:

Provide additional revenue to the city.

Prevent unauthorized gatherings.

Allow the MB Parks & Recreation Commission to create a tailor specific permitting requirements for each individual park and mitigate neighborhood impact accordingly.

The City’s parks are a valuable asset to the community, and residents should have the opportunity to reserve all parks for appropriate events. Thank you for your consideration.

Best,

Taylor Gamble
From: Jen Jenkins Dohner
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please Include All City Parks in the Special Event Permit Process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 11:19:19 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear MB Parks & Recreation Commission-
Yesterday community members gathered at Bruce's Beach in honor of the last Sunday of Black History Month. The invitation read in part: "This event was inspired by the story of Bruce's Beach which happens to be a historical beach first owned by a black family. 100 years ago, this beach was illegally seized by the city government using wrongful legislation." The event, essentially a large family-style picnic, was free, inclusive, and intended for all ages. Special features included yoga, pace painting, paint & sip, and food trucks. If alcohol was present, it was on a BYO basis.

Two friends drove by the event, one of them snapping a lovely picture of a peaceful park respectfully enjoyed for both its beautiful views and its historical significance. The acknowledgement of our city's own local Black History could not have been more aligned with the intention behind Black History Month itself.

A local resident has raised a call to action in opposition to such gatherings, stating that the park should be renamed to keep it from becoming a "symbol…" of what, she imagines, I'd rather not guess. The symbol that comes to my mind is a Black cultural win in the great battle against erasure of relevant history. Ironic when you consider the perpetuation of the efforts to erase, whitewash and deny that history to this very day. Other communications referred to the event as a "wild party," and took offense to the gathering because "Europe is at War." Oh Please. The persecution and subjugation of various peoples has come in many forms, at many places, and at many times in history and the better recognition of it all would help us avoid such situations as the one presently unfolding in Ukraine. The Annual 6 man and AVP Beach Volleyball Tournaments, the Hometown Fair, weekly Concerts in the Park throughout the summer, the Holiday Pier Lighting, and Fireworks Show are all "wilder parties" than this.

Any disagreement over whether events like these should be allowed is evidence that Bruce's Beach should NOT be excluded from the City's special events permitting process as it currently is. This would allow the City to place limits on such events if they are deemed disruptive to the neighborhood, or make the necessary preparations and safety assessments to support such events and mitigate neighborhood impact. This includes staffing, street closures, trash collection and public notice.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jen Dohner
From: Loli Ramezani
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include All city parks in the special events review process Date: Friday, February 18, 2022 12:06:37 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello Mark & Linda,
1. Please allow all City parks to be places where families and the community can celebrate special events.

2. Without a permitting process, parks can be the site of unauthorized gatherings where city rules are harder to enforce.

3. A permitting process allows City departments to make the necessary preparations and safety assessments to support the event and mitigate neighborhood impact. This includes staffing, street closures, trash collection and public notice of events.

4. It creates an opportunity for the city to collect additional revenue from application fees and billable city services provided for the event.

Best,
Loli
From: Lenora Marouani
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please include all city parks in the special events permit process Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 3:46:04 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Thank you for listening.

Best Regards,
Lenora
--
Lenora Marouani
The Now Is Woman
TheNowIsWoman.com
The Souk
TheSoukMB.com
Barsha
BarshaLife.com
Manhattan Beach | 917 N. Sepulveda Blvd. MB 90266 | 310.318.9080 Hermosa Beach | 1141 Aviation Blvd. HB 90254 | 424.452.6266 From: Amanda Park
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Plese include all Cioty parks in the special events permit process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 12:57:23 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I have been a resident of Manhattan Beach for 18 years. I write this email in support for removal of the exclusion that currently prevents individuals from requesting use of the 3 parks - Bruce's Beach, 8th Street and Larsson Street Parkettes.

As with all of the other parks in MB, the residents and people in the community should be able to enjoy these 3 parks to the same extent as any other park - by applying for a permit and holding the event at the park as permitted. The vocal objection is trying to turn this into a political issue and are worried about events taking place at Bruce's Beach. Including these 3 parks in the permit process ensures the safety of the community, ensures all community members are treated equally by applying for permits to hold events at these parks, and as a side bonus, the city can collect revenue through the application process. Bruce's Beach Park is in a beautiful location and can be a place for the community to truly come together. It can be an example to the rest of the country how this city accepts diversity, that we welcome people of all ethnicity, and ensure all have equal access to this public facility.

Amanda Park
From: Andrew Greskovics
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion at Bruce"s beach and Parkettes Date: Friday, February 25, 2022 2:57:44 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Park and Rec Commissioners,

Bruce’s Beach is crowded on weekends and parking is very difficult. In fact, it is difficult to find parking in this area when there is ‘nothing’ going on.

It’s nice to have others that do not live in the areas enjoy the park, but making the park available to special events, large gatherings, etc. makes no sense.

Thank you,
Andrew

From: Jennifer Honey
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion at Bruce"s beach and Parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 3:28:57 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Park and Rec Commissioners and Liaisons,
Bruce’s Beach and our town’s parkettes are already difficult to use and enjoy. Bruce’s Beach is crowded on weekends, the basketball hoop is in high demand and parking is impossible.

Still, we enjoy the park and walk through it regularly as it is precious open space for sunshine and solitude. We pay property taxes to enjoy that open space and we purchased a home with no backyard very much planning to use Bruce’s Beach at our leisure.

I am very glad to share all of these spaces with tourists, visitors from other towns and my neighbors, but I see no reason to make these spaces available to special events, large gatherings, concert promoters, reservation systems and the like.

These spaces are very much open to and enjoyed by the public. Persons are free to visit and enjoy the park. There is no basis to expand the public’s access to allow special gatherings.

There are plenty of public spaces in our town available by reservation for special events.

Each of those locations has ample parking and dedicated restrooms. Bruce’s Beach and the parkettes have neither. These locations disrupt residential parking already. To expand the use and modify the policy in place will be to voluntarily wade into the mess that followed when physical fitness trainers began using Sand Dune Park for classes. That use was considerably smaller in scope that what a special event modification would permit, but the neighborhoods were overrun with parking problems, trash and early morning/late evening noise and loitering.

Note: Sand dune park has restrooms. There is a reason these spaces have the deisgnation they carry and were located in pockets of residential areas. Those designations had strong bases in logic for limiting special events. It makes no sense to open these areas up to large gatherings; the uses are already loud and crowded. Amplified sound would be untenable.

I see no reason to modify the policy.

Thank you for your time and looking out for our community.

Jennifer Honey

Jennifer M. Honey, J.D., LL.M.

[email protected]
p: 310 545 7579
f: 310 545 5359
Honey & Copp
1300 Highland Ave, Suite 115
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
www.HoneyCopp.com
Certified Legal Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization

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From: Julie Muer
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; [email protected]; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce’s Beach and Parkettes Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 9:21:45 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Please do NOT modify the existing policy that excludes Eighth Street and Larsson Park parkettes and Bruce’s Beach park from the special events permitting process! They are located in heavily residential neighborhoods and will cause great harm to the nearby homeowners as well as others trying to use the parks. There is minimal parking near these three locations which will lead to intense traffic and possible street closures in addition to a shortage of restroom facilities.

The un-permitted event that took place yesterday (2/27) at Bruce’s Beach is a prime example as to why these locations should NOT be allowed to hold large events.

Thank you for your consideration on this important matter! Regards,
Julie Muer
MB homeowner - 25 years
From: Erickson, Neil C.

To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Cc: Michelle and Neil Erickson ([email protected])
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 6:26:26 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

All: I am a long-time resident near Bruce’s Beach and the parkette lots. To open these neighborhood locations to special events, including open parking, would be disruptive to the neighborhood. These locations are not designed for open public events, although they certainly are utilized by many people. I am opposed to changing the current limitations on special events at these congested neighborhood locations. Thanks, Neil

Neil C. Erickson | Partner
Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP | JMBM
1900 Avenue of the Stars, 7th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90067 D: (310) 201-3516 | C: (310) 291-6239 | F: (310) 712-8516 | E: [email protected] VCARD | BIO
This e-mail message and any attachments are confidential and may be attorney-client privileged. Dissemination, distribution or copying of this message or attachments without proper authorization is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify JMBM immediately by telephone or by e-mail, and permanently delete the original, and destroy all copies, of this message and all attachments. For further information, please visit JMBM.com.

From: Shannan Whalen
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Sunday, February 27, 2022 5:11:36 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I would like to urge the Parks & Rec to NOT modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larrson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process, citing their location in heavily residential neighborhoods and the harm that would ensue to those nearby homeowners as well as anyone trying to use the parks due to the noise (particularly if there's amplified sound), the traffic, possible street closures and the shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities.

Thanks,
Shannan Whalen
shannan whalen
[email protected]
310-344-0944
Shannan Whalen
[email protected]
310-344-0944
From: James Harger
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman; Lauren Harger
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 6:10:03 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I have been a resident of Manhattan Beach for 63 years and have used all of our parks as a teenager, adult and parent. Allowing the smaller parks to host large events is not in the best interest of our neighborhoods and community.

So I request the commission to not modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process. Their locations in residential neighborhoods will create unnecessary disturbances to nearby homeowners as well as anyone trying to use the parks due to the noise (particularly if there's amplified sound), traffic, possible street closures and the shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities.

Thank you for your consideration.

James Harger
63 year resident of Manhattan Beach
From: Rhonda Staver
To: List - City Council; List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parketts Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 6:24:38 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I'm compelled to write in an effort to preserve the continued exclusion of Bruce's Beach park and both 8th and Larsson Street parkettes from the special events permitting process. The lack of parking and restroom facilities make these locations undesirable for special events. Additionally, noise, additional traffic and the potential for street closures would impact our quiet neighborhoods. I ask that you do not modify the existing policy. It doesn't make sense for our neighborhoods and community.

Sincerely,
Rhonda Staver
From: Jay Simpson
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 5:05:33 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

P&R should not change the existing policy excluding the Bruce's Beach park and the Eighth Street and Larson Street parkettes. The predictable noise, parking, and traffic problems would create an unreasonable environment for homeowners and limit park visitor access.

Jay Simpson
Manhattan Beach
From: Schumacher
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; List - City Council Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 2:03:07 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Parks and Rec do not modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce’s Beach park from the special events permitting process. These are in residential neighborhoods and that use would harm nearby homeowners with noise, traffic and parking. There is no reason to allow large events in these areas.

Thank you,
Kristine & John Schumacher
Manhattan Beach Residents
From: kathy wafer
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 4:44:23 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I am asking that Parks and Rec not modify the existing policy that excludes the Eight Street and Larsson St. parkettes and Bruce’s Beach park from special events permitting process. They are located in heavily residential neighborhoods and the harm that it would cause to those nearby homeowners as well as anyone trying to use the parks due to the noise, traffic and shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities.

Thank You,
Kathy Wafer
From: Janet Volpe
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce’s Beach and Parkettes Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 12:12:00 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear PR commissioners, Mr. Leyman, and Ms. Robb-
Please do not change the existing policy that excludes the 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes as well as Bruce’s Beach Park from the special events permitting process. Their respective locations are in heavy residential areas, with limited parking and/or no restroom facilities. There has been publicity on an event at Bruce’s Beach tomorrow, Sunday, which if it takes place, invites everyone to bring alcohol and their own music.

Respectfully,
Janet & Domas Vailokaitis
31 year residents of MB
Leadership 2015
Neighborhood Watch
Sent from my iPad
From: Richard MacKenzie
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce’s Beach and Parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 10:59:48 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

As a resident of the neighborhood of Bruce’s Beach, I am already aware of the increased activity and traffic in the area of this Park. Bruce’s Beach has always been an invitation to relax both on the grass and benches, while viewing the ocean that defines Manhattan Beach. Any move to approve or encourage special events, with associated traffic and organized (and disorganized) commotion, will not only distract from it present primary intention, but add to significant neighborhood commotion.. Therefore I am asking the Parks and Recreation not modify the existing policy that excludes Bruce’s Beach park from the special events permitting process.

Thank you
Richard G MacKenzie MD
2312 Alma Avenue
From: Cathy HOBART
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach & Parkettes Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 9:50:06 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Please do not change the current policy that does not allow events at 8th Street Parkette, Larsson Street Parkette & Bruce’s Beach. These locations are surrounded by residential homes. Manhattan Beach is a small community. Please try to protect what is special about our town.

From: [email protected]
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Saturday, February 26, 2022 7:34:58 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I ask Parks & Rec not to modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process, given their location in heavily residential neighborhoods and the harm that would ensue to those nearby homeowners as well as anyone trying to use the parks due to the noise (particularly if there's amplified sound), the traffic, possible street closures and the shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities.

Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
From: jim quilliam
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Friday, February 25, 2022 4:26:50 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I am requesting that Parks & Rec not modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process.

This location is in a heavily residential neighborhood. The disruption and negative impact to those nearby homeowners and the neighborhood would be very harmful. It would also negatively impact anyone trying to use the parks due to the noise (particularly if there's amplified sound), the traffic, possible street closures and the shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities. Please do NOT modify the existing policy.

Thanks Jim Quilliam
Manhattan Beach Resident

From: lauren harger
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Friday, February 25, 2022 12:20:23 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Allowing Large Special Events at Small Neighborhood Parks? No. Way. Absolutely not. Who thought it was a good idea to allow small parks surrounded by homes to be used as venues for large public events involving loudspeakers, congestion, and parking issues, among other disturbances? Not the residents. Not the taxpayers. Then who? I’ll tell you who. This is a thinly-veiled attempt by certain political activists to secure Bruce’s Beach as the future Mecca for Juneteenth celebrations, BLM protests, Black History Month gatherings, and various and sundry Reparations demonstrations and events. Adding Larsson Street Park and 8th Street Parkette was a nice touch to camouflage the real agenda here, but it just adds insult to injury.

For evidence of what is being planned for our small town, look no further than the so-called “Blacckkity Beach Festival” being organized for this Sunday, Feb 27 at Bruce’s Beach park.

The all-day event bills itself as an inclusive gathering to “celebrate being Black to the utmost while doing it on black own soil, Bruce’s Beach. For Us By Us” (emphasis added). If non- resident groups can be so brazen to attempt such large public e-bright events without a permit, what will they do when restrictions are lifted?
Our town has suffered enough at the hands of carpetbagger Kavon Ward, Allison Hales and the Bruce’s Beach False History debacle. I urge Parks & Rec Commissioners to represent the interests of local residents and reject this ridiculous proposal.

Sincerely,
Lauren Harger
35-year resident
From: Terri Warren
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Terri Warren; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb; List - City Council Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 9:45:43 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear MB P&R Commissioners - I am writing to ask that you not modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process. These parks are located in heavily residential neighborhoods and I feel the nearby homeowners as well as anyone trying to use the parks would pay a huge price due to the noise (particularly if there's amplified sound), the traffic, possible street closures and the shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities. There are plenty of other spaces around our town and the surrounding cities that are available for special events so please keep these spaces for enjoyment of smaller groups and individuals.

Thanks for all you do and for your consideration of this request.

Terri and Jeff Warren (& our 4 children)
MB Residents
From: [email protected]
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 12:33:51 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello All,
I have become aware of a proposal to modify the existing policy that currently excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process.

I live 100 feet from Bruce’s Beach. I have lived there for about 25 years and have witnessed the park go through all of its various iterations. The park’s proximity to so many residences makes it particularly unsuitable for organized special events. Its usual use already taxes the neighborhood as it is. There are noise, traffic, parking and safety issues that impact its neighbors frequently now, particularly during high use periods. That would be exacerbated in the case of special events. Further, once the door has been opened to special events, the City will undoubtedly face limitations on its ability to reject applications, some of which potentially may be particularly volatile.

It would be a mistake to allow organized events at Bruce’s Beach park, and I urge you to reject such a change.

Sincerely,
William G. Caras
CpC Management
10350 Santa Monica Bl. #360
Los Angeles, CA 90025
T.310.284.9044 F.284.8115
[email protected]
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it may contain confidential information that is legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this transmission is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. If you have received this transmission in error, please immediately notify the sender. Please destroy the original transmission and its attachments without reading or saving in any manner. Thank you.

From: [email protected]
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: List - City Council; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] retain the special events exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 10:41:19 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To Parks and Recreation Commissioners:

We are totally opposed to any modification of the existing policy that excludes 8th Street and Larsson Street Parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process. These locations are located in heavily residential neighborhoods and should not be subject to the impact of large groups or event type gatherings. This could also impact parking, noise and the Community's utilization of these quiet park areas.

Sincerely,
Stephen and Paula Packwood
From: Judi Alves
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retention of Special Events Exclusion Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 11:55:44 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,
I am writing to you today to ask you to please retain the special events exclusion for Bruce's Beach, the 8th St. and Larsson St. parkettes. Please do not modify the existing policy.

The above areas are extremely dense and I believe holding special events in these 3 areas would create a hardship for not only the homeowners who reside in those areas but anyone traveling in those areas. We are already a congested community and by allowing special events you would be adding to the chaos. I can't imagine the noise that would emanate from allowing this.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Judith Alves
From: Michelle and Neil Erickson
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Policy
Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 8:46:42 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Commissioners, Mr. Leyman and Ms. Robb:

I am writing to ask that you retain the special events exclusion for Bruce's Beach Park, the 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes. Special events should not be allowed at these locations which are all in dense residential neighborhoods and often function as outdoor play space for the residents who live nearby and don't have a front or backyard.

There are already parking issues at each of these locations and anyone who lives nearby would be negatively impacted by the potential increase of traffic and noise.

Again, I ask that Parks and Rec does NOT modify the existing policy which currently excludes 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach from the special events permitting process.

Thank you for your consideration.

Michelle Erickson
2904 Highland Avenue, MB
From: Janet Bogigian
To: Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb; Bruce Greenberg; Suzanne Karger; Ken Weiner; Skylar Grampp; Stephen Doran; [email protected]; List - Parks and Recreation Commission; J.J. Turkmany Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special events policy--8th Street Parkette Date: Monday, February 21, 2022 11:18:39 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

This email regards the Commission's February 28 agenda item reviewing a policy change to allow special events requests at the 8th Street Parkette.

My family has lived at 1731 8th Street for 33 years. We enjoy having the tiny neighborhood 8th Street Parkette across the street from our house. But we are very opposed to opening up the park for reserved special events. I have spoken with several neighbors and all also oppose this.

As explained to me by the City, "special events" requests are made for larger reserved events that require things such as reserved parking and amplified sound.

This park was never designed for or intended to be used for formal, scheduled events of large groups. This tiny park cannot accommodate such special events. Nor should the neighbors be burdened with the noise, traffic, parking, sanitation and security problems such events generate.

Directly to the park's east and west, houses share a chain-link fenced border with the park. At the park's rear, two houses on 6th Street share a chain-link fenced border with the park.

It should be noted that directly across the street from the park are two houses at 1741 and 1747 8th Street. Those properties are owned by longtime resident John Gardner whose deceased father once owned the 8th Street Park property. His father is responsible for this property becoming a public park in the 1960's. Mr. Gardner also strongly opposes this "special events" proposal.

The park should stay as it is—a place for small neighborhood gatherings. There are no bathroom facilities. There is no electricity available. There are no barbecue facilities. There is no parking other than street parking which is frequently occupied by residents. The 1700 block of 8th is regulated by street sweeping signs making parking particularly challenging on Monday and Tuesday. Allowing reserved parking for special events would displace many residents who regularly use street parking.

Given the park's location literally in the middle of a residential neighborhood and sharing borders with single family residences, there are no circumstances where amplified sound would be appropriate.

Finally, our lovely little neighborhood park should remain an always-accessible place for neighborhood gatherings. Access should not be restricted by reserved special events. The park is constantly used by small groups of adults and children for impromptu, informal gatherings. School kids gather after school, mothers and small children meet for play dates, and there are occasional picnics and small birthday parties. This is exactly what the park was designed to be used for.

This is how the official Manhattan Beach website describes the park:
"This lovely parquette is quietly situated between homes in the area and occupies four-tenths of an acre. It has picnic facilities for about 16 people, two picnic tables and two barbecues [no longer true]. There is a wide open space and shaded area for rest and relaxation. It also includes play equipment for small children.

Parquettes are ideal for family picnics and social get togethers; however, no restroom facilities are available. Curbside parking is usually available."
Please allow this unique little gem of a neighborhood park to remain a place that fits the City's description of it. Reject special events requests at the 8th Street Parkette.

From: Connie Harrington
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Subject: Inclusion of all City Parks in the Special Events Permit Process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 12:40:22 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Manhattan Beach's parks are a valuable asset to the community, and MB residents should have the opportunity to reserve ALL parks for appropriate events, such as birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, family reunions or cultural celebrations.

I understand that there is a current process by which the City can review and approve or deny special events being held in most MB parks. But three city parks— Bruce’s Beach, 8th Street and Larsson Street—are excluded from the City’s special events permit review process. WHY? I support including all parks in the Special Event permit review process.

Excluding Bruce's Beach Park from the review process is repeating what originally occurred w the Bruce’s property—excluding “people” from their right to fully recreate YET AGAIN. We’re better than this. Manhattan Beach is better than this.

I’m not a citizen of Manhattan Beach, but I consider myself an honorary citizen, having been the principal of Meadows Elementary School for 22 years. I’ve watched every zoom meeting of the Bruce's Beach Commission and I hope we know too much to repeat our actions of the early 20th century.

Connie Harrington
--
Sent From My iPhone
From: ERIC GRAY
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Use of Bruce"s Beach, 8th Street, and Larsen Street Date: Friday, February 18, 2022 12:35:39 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,
I am writing to oppose expanding the use of these public parks for events. Manhattan Beach has many options for public events, and these three parks were never intended for that purpose, nor are they well suited to support public events. There should be a balance of park use, and some parks should be reserved for family use and quiet spaces.

This expansion is unnecessary and ill advised. Also there is insufficient parking to support these events and it would be a disruption to the community in terms of noise, clean up, and traffic. The existing venues are more than adequate to support public events, the last remaining 3 parks should be excluded from public events.

Eric gray
725 31st Street
From: Erika Joseph on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] 8th Street Parkette Special Events Policy Change Date: Friday, February 25, 2022 9:39:38 AM

From: Janet Bogigian <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, February 25, 2022 9:09 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] 8th Street Parkette Special Events Policy Change

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

This email regards the Commission's February 28 agenda item reviewing a policy change to allow special events requests at the 8th Street Parkette.

As explained to me by the City, "special events" requests are made for larger reserved events that require things such as reserved parking and amplified sound.

For those who are not familiar with the park--and many in Manhattan Beach are not--it is the size of two residential lots located in the middle of a typical east Manhattan Beach residential street of 50' x150' lots. It is bordered on all sides by houses. Directly to the park's east and west, houses share a chain-link fenced border with the park. At the park's rear, two houses on 6th Street share a chain-link fenced border with the park.

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] 8th Street Parkette
Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 8:14:40 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Jimmy Suruki <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 26, 2022 9:43 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Cc: Tina Kim <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 8th Street Parkette
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello - we live next to the 8th Street Parkette and understand there is discussion to allow special events there (along with Bruces Beach and Larson St). We are strongly opposed to this measure as it would create unwanted noise/trash and heavy traffic to an already crowded street which is completely residential. There is also no parking for these types of events. Please do the right thing and not allow this measure to pass. ---------------------------------------
Jimmy Suruki
(818) 601-5010
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruce’s Beach Special Events Policy Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:53:44 AM

From: Joe Knott <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 13, 2022 12:22 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce’s Beach Special Events Policy

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

In response to your residents mailer, I do not believe there should be a change to the current “No events” policy. This small open space currently serves residents and visitors well. Use is afforded without concern for accessibility and without disruption. A change in policy would cause unnecessary congestion and noise in the neighborhood. There are other spaces within MB that are available for event use.

As for the other parklets, I am not familiar with the surrounding areas and the effect any policy change would have.

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruce’s Beach Special Events
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:53:11 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Joe Marron <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 13, 2022 5:06 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Cc: Becky Kendall <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce’s Beach Special Events
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Parks and Rec,
I am opposed to Special Events being allowed at Bruce’s Beach. I live in the area and there is essentially no parking, bathroom facilities or garbage handling capability. I’m also concerned about noise and excessive pedestrian and auto traffic. Unauthorized events held there in 2021 actually made me feel unsafe.

Please let me know if you can define the type of event you are considering.

In summary, it’s a bad idea.

Respectfully,
Dr. Joseph Marron
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruces Beach special events
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 11:25:01 AM

From: Peter Tourigny <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2022 11:25 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruces Beach special events

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

I do not think that special events should be allowed. I assume it would worsen parking which is already terrible. I think it would also increase noise.

--
Peter Tourigny
2512 manhattan ave. mb ca 90266
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Erika Joseph on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruce"s Beach special events
Date: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 5:20:42 PM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 5:07 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce's Beach special events

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Parks and Recreation Commission Members,

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the policy regarding special events at Bruce’s Beach. I own a home at 205 27
th Street, which abuts the park. It’s a beautiful spot to live, but my small yard is often treated as an extension of the park. Visitors sit in my entry to chat or picnic, and many leave their trash behind. Occasionally a package disappears, and once we caught someone urinating on the house, but it’s mostly a steady trickle of small intrusions that peaks on the weekends.

I’ve struggled to find a policy for dealing with park visitors who take up in my yard. It’s a bold subset of people, and I worry about upsetting someone if I make them feel unwelcome. It would be very easy for them to create lasting damage, then or later. As such, I offer a friendly greeting and hope there isn’t too much to clean up at the end of the day.

As you might expect, I’m strongly against any change that brings large crowds to Bruce’s Beach. I acknowledge that most visitors contain their recreation to the park, place their trash in receptacles, and abide by noise ordinances and other policies. But several days a week, and virtually every day of the summer, a small number of people do not. Given the way the park opens up to surrounding homes, Bruce’s Beach is not a good location for special events. The greater the number of visitors at any one time, the more I can expect trash, trespassing, or worse.

I appreciate your attention to these comments.

Be well,

Ladd Lavallee
205 27
th St.

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruce"s Beach
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 2:47:12 PM
Attachments: image002.png

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: John Farrell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2022 2:47 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce's Beach

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To Whom it may concern,
With regard to the special events policy under review for “special events at Bruce’s Beach and associated parklets”, there is no question that this park should be used for special events and any of the local residents needs for the foreseeable future.

I have been visiting this park since the mid 70’s with my family and the park should undoubtedly remain in its current format and be open to everyone to enjoy, period.

That includes events, “special” and otherwise…to continue into perpetuity.

Thank you,

John Farrell
President
JVF Properties, Inc.
9134 Jordan Ave.

Chatsworth, CA 91311
[email protected]

This e-mail (including any attachments to it) is intended solely for the use of the individual(s) of JVF Properties, Inc. named above. It may contain confidential or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete the original message.

This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. www.avast.com
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruce"s Beach
Date: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 7:52:11 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 19, 2022 12:20 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Cc: Lena <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce's Beach
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To whom it may concern-
I wish to express my desire to keep and retain Bruce’s Beach as the wonderful park and small gathering location that it has been for many years. I do not wish to have special events, including large scale gatherings or celebrations held at the park since it’s location is in the middle of and surrounded by a residential neighborhood. There would be noise and insufficient parking at a minimum and would take away from the small park environment. I hope the Commission maintains the current policy and not permit special events at this location.

Thank You.

Joseph P Gregoire Jr
2401 Alma Avenue
MB
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Do NOT Allow Special Events at Larsson Parkette Date: Thursday, February 17, 2022 1:05:54 PM

From: P Casey <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, February 17, 2022 10:44 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Do NOT Allow Special Events at Larsson Parkette

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Commission Members,

The current policy which does not permit special events at Larsson Street Parkette should not be changed.

This location does not have any facilities for large groups, does not have any restrooms, does not have any off-street parking, and is surrounded on three sides by single-family homes. This parkette is less than 8600 square feet in size and was never designed to be a park. It is city property only because it is the highest elevation in Manhattan Beach which used to have a water tank to supply water to the hill section. It continues to be the main pumping station for water supply to homes in Manhattan above 240 feet in altitude.

Thank you for your consideration,
Pat Casey
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Erika Joseph on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Event Policy Bruce"s Beach
Date: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 5:20:36 PM

From: Lukas Mellinger <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 4:57 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Event Policy Bruce's Beach

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Parks and Recreation Commission,

Thank you for asking for my feedback in regard to a change to the special event policy for Bruce's Beach.

In general I welcome the public use of Bruce's beach. It is a beautiful location, brings citizens from all walks of life together and has provided a charming locations for private events with family and friends.

I have been living in the area for over 20 years and have to say that unfortunately the last 2 years with "special event" use of the park have transformed the park to one of the dirtiest in the Southbay at times. The park cleaning crew does their very best to keep up with the littering but it is a constant problem that many visitors of bigger events simply drop their trash wherever they sit or stand. I would encourage you to ask the cleaning crew members to this regard.

Another problem I see is the parking situation. Parking is already a problem and during some of the special events over the last 2 years there was unlawful parking all around the park. On at least 2 occasions I witnessed conflicts between residents and rather aggressive event visitors due to unlawful parked cars blocking driveways and speeding in low speed zones.

I do wonder how the noise and traffic these events would create would impact the neighborhood given the fact of how small the park is and how close hundreds of private homes are. Again, in the past 2 years "cruising cars" during special events have been a noise and safety issue. Speeding, running stop lights and revving engines unfortunately were all too common.

This is a very small park, with very limited parking and small access roads - I just don't see how special events can be safely organized without major involvement of law enforcement.

Maybe valet off site parking and event size limits could solve some problems but I wonder how these would be enforced.

Sincerely,

Sabine Mellinger, MD

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Events at Parkettes
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:53:58 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Susan Walker <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 13, 2022 10:43 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Events at Parkettes
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

This is in response to holding events in three parketts located in MB.

I do feel in Manhattan Beach we have plenty of venues to enjoy the outdoors. We have a beach that has unlimited space, we have four to five parks strategically located throughout the city to enjoy cookouts, games, etc.

Holding events at these smaller venues, my concern is policing these extra parketts and of course bathroom facilities, trash pick up and the noise factor as well.

Please do not approve permits to use these parketts for these special events.

Thank you,
Susan Walker
2704 The Strand
Manhattan Beach
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Events
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:54:50 AM

From: Joan Brown <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 13, 2022 7:19 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Events

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Events of any kind always create parking issues in areas where crowded parking is an ongoing issue. Thus, events at the 3 venues listed should not excede 30 people. Sounds too small? Too bad. Our streets were never designed to accomodate sudden large groups of cars let alone our neighborhoods welcoming large groups of people congregating.

Joan Brown
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Erika Joseph on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Feedback for Special Events at Bruce"s Beach Date: Friday, February 18, 2022 9:27:48 AM

From: Aimee Akhlaghi <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, February 18, 2022 9:18 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Feedback for Special Events at Bruce's Beach

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,
I received a postcard requesting feedback on current special events policy which will be presented to the City Council on March 15th.

As a homeowner near Bruce's Beach, I am opposed
to allowing special events and therefore
advocate that the current policy not be changed. I would like my voice represented during the Feb 28th Parks and Recreation Commission meeting.

Thank you,
Aimee Akhlaghi
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Feedback on special events permits for Bruce"s Beach Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 10:41:08 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: steve thune <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 10:30 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Feedback on special events permits for Bruce's Beach

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

As a home owner and resident of the neighborhood, surrounding Bruce's Beach, I (and my significant other) are STRONGLY AGAINST any proposal to allow permits for "special events" in the park.The park is there for residents and non-residents to enjoy, whether it be for a sunset, personal picnic, exercise, etc. However, over the couple of years, we have seen the park getting much more use. It's great that people can enjoy the wonderful setting.

Unfortunately, this comes at a price for the local residents.

Here are a few of my main concerns:

- Parking! Parking! Parking! Parking is already an issue at Bruce's Beach. Those that can't find a spot circle the neighborhood and take every spot available, which makes it impossible for residents that may have guests. Many times trash is left on the neighborhood street by these visitors. More importantly, is the safety issue. Just a couple of examples....during a recent large gathering at Bruce's Beach, as I was heading down Alma St., a driver came speeding down Alma, going around a turning car and ran through a stop sign. On several occasions, cars have gone the wrong way down Vista Dr. (a one way street), right next to Grand View Elementary.

Please don't misinterpret that I am suggesting more parking should be made available at the park or surrounding area. More parking will only exacerbate the problems, surrounding too many visitors in the neighborhood.

- Additionally, the more we encourage large groups of people to Bruce's Beach, the more the local residents are going to experience unfortunate situations, like one a had a few weeks ago. While I was walking down to the beach on 26th St., I ran into a guy urinating on the sidewalk, right next to the park. This is not what you want to witness in any neighborhood. I'm sure the home owners adjacent to Bruce's Beach can share multiple examples of unpleasant situations.

As you are well aware, the price of real estate is astronomical in Manhattan Beach and the property taxes are the same. I feel extremely fortunate to live in this wonderful city and neighborhood. A major reason I choose to pay the price and remain in this neighborhood (for over 30 years) is for the clean, safe and peaceful environment. I hope the Parks and Recreation Commission can understand why the local residents don't want to turn Bruce's Beach into a place for large special events. Let's strike a balance and keep the neighborhood, like it is, while allowing people to enjoy the peaceful nature of the park own their own time.

Sincerely,

A concerned MB resident

-
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Feedback on special events policy under review Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:53:21 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Pamela Chin <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 13, 2022 3:43 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Feedback on special events policy under review EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear MB Parks & Rec Commissioners,
As a long time Manhattan Beach resident, I urge the commission to keep the current policy of NOT permitting special events at Bruce’s Beach, as well as the 8th St. and Larson Street parkettes. All these locations are in residential areas with limited parking, relatively small in size and special events would cause unwelcome, excessive noise and traffic. The current policy has served the city and its residents well, so let’s keep it.

Thank you for your consideration,
Pamela Chin
Sent from my iPad
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] input on special events at MB parkettes Date: Wednesday, February 16, 2022 1:04:06 PM

From: K H-N <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, February 16, 2022 1:03 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] input on special events at MB parkettes

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Greetings. Thank you for your service to our community. As a resident of 8th Street in MB, I have greatly enjoyed and appreciate having the 8th Street Park in our neighborhood. Even if small, it provides a green escape from all the concrete. However, I am concerned that if special events are permitted, a significant increase in both foot and car traffic would negatively impact our area. I am not sure what "special event" means but with Polliwogg Park being so close, there is plenty of space there to accommodate special events of all sizes. I would not be in favor of allowing special events at 8th Street parkette. Thank you for your attention.

KHN
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] input re: Bruce"s Beach park
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:54:56 AM

From: Jeff Kelber <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 12, 2022 6:04 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] input re: Bruce's Beach park

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello. I've lived on the corner of 26th and Ocean Drive, a block from Bruce's Beach park for over 20 years. I think the park is a beautiful spot for special events. I would like to know, though, what constitutes a special event - a wedding? a concert? I would have thought the Juneteenth event at the park last June would have been a special event, though you say they haven't been allowed as yet. I thought that event was appropriate and went very well.

Thanks for asking for our input.

Sincerely, Jeff Kelber
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Suzanne Karger
To: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] List - Parks and Recreation Commissioners - February 28 Meeting Re 8th Street Park, Larson Street Park and Bruce"s Beach Park - Exemption from Special Permit Process Date: Friday, February 18, 2022 1:53:26 PM
And so the fun begins..........

Suzanne Karger
Parks and Recreation Commissioner
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach ________________________________________
From: Mark Burton <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, February 18, 2022 1:49 PM
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Mark Burton
Subject: [EXTERNAL] List - Parks and Recreation Commissioners - February 28 Meeting Re 8th Street Park, Larson Street Park and Bruce's Beach Park - Exemption from Special Permit Process EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Honorable Parks and Recreation Commissioners:

Thank you for your invaluable public service to our community.

I, and many other MB residents, oppose adding 8th Street Park, Larson Park and Bruce’s Beach Park to the special event permit process.

These parks were excepted for several important reasons. Two are “pocket parks” and one is coastal access park.

These three parks are small parks, nestled within a residential area. All three parks are used by families and their children for quiet enjoyment. And, there is not dedicated parkings for park use. I know of no compelling reason to change the existing policy exempting these parks from the special event permit process, other than a small amount of revenue for the City.

I urge you to exercise the appropriate due diligence by reviewing the prior Council and Commission reports, including any available transcripts, wherein these three parks were exempted from the special event permit process.

Let’s keep Manhattan Beach, Manhattan Beach by continuing to exempt our 8th Street Park, Larson Street Park and Bruce’s Beach Park from the special event permit process.

With kind regards, Mark
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] note regarding special events at Bruce"s Beach Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 8:15:29 AM
Attachments: mb city park letter Feb 26 2022.pdf

From: JD <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 26, 2022 7:27 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] note regarding special events at Bruce's Beach

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello. Please include these comments in your review. Thank you, Joe MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] OPPOSE SPECIAL EVENTS POLICY AT BRUCE"S BEACH Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 1:18:12 PM

From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2022 12:47 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] OPPOSE SPECIAL EVENTS POLICY AT BRUCE'S BEACH

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Regarding the February 28th policy discussion of the Parks and Recreation Commission. I firmly oppose allowing special events.

I live across from Bruce's Park. My personal experience is that allowing special events would be crowded parking and other nefarious activities.

Currently the area is overcrowded and I have difficulty using my own parking spot. It would more prone to vandalism than what it is now.

I had a bad experience as is during the pandemic where people used the park for lunches and dinners, I come home and all my 3 gallon bottles of water are stolen the day they get dropped off and during a weekend I had a hit and run into my new BMW sedan. Having events would add insult to injury. The neighborhood has experienced similar occurrences.

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special events review @ smaller parkettes Date: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 7:51:12 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: JOHN AND JULIE ARGUE <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 20, 2022 1:07 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special events review @ smaller parkettes EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To MB Parks and Recreation Commission:

I’m sending comments per the suggestion by the mailer I received from the City of MB.

As a resident of Manhattan Beach for over 25 plus years I feel there are plenty of existing venues which provide much more space to allow for special events; Polliwog Park, Marine Park, community centers, etc that do not infringe upon the privacy of residents within close proximity of the smaller parkettes like Bruce’s Beach, 8th Street and Larsson Street.

These smaller parkettes should be open to residents and public alike just as they are now without having reserved, special events and should not be considered for generating money for the City.

There are other ways to generate income for the City of MB while keeping the integrity of a small town feel that is open and inclusive to all. I hope the City of MB will continue utilizing the current policy of not permitting special events at Bruce’s Beach, 8th Street, and Larsson Street parkettes.

Respectfully.

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special permits for Bruce’s Beach Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:56:31 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Adah Duncan <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 12, 2022 2:25 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Cc: Hildy Stern <[email protected]>; Steve Napolitano <[email protected]>; Richard Montgomery <[email protected]>; Joe Franklin <[email protected]>; Suzanne Hadley <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special permits for Bruce’s Beach EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Address correction: 2820 the strand.

Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 12, 2022, at 1:55 PM, Adah Duncan <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
>
>The same permit process should apply equally for everyone. All the existing rules including no drugs alcohol or guns, no amplified music, no loud speakers or bull horns or amplified microphones. No animals. No events past sunset. The event organizer in coordination with Manhattan Beach PD and Parks and Rec must provide adequate security, traffic control, parking, portable restroom facilities, and debris cleanup. > Adah Duncan
> 2920 the Strand
> Adah Duncan (TE)
> 2804 Manhattan Ave
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Event Feedback
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:51:16 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Melinda Arentsen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2022 6:46 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Event Feedback

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi there,
Please do not change the current policy regarding special events at Bruce’s Beach, and the Parkettes.

I do not think allowing large events to these locations is the right thing to do. It would be nice to keep just a few things in our town along the lines of the small town charm we all came here for. We’ve got some big events on the beach, and at Polliwog throughout the year. Those locations are great for large events. Let’s keep it that way.

Melinda Arentsen
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at 8th Street and Larsson Street Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 11:24:55 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: GLORIA GUINTO <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2022 11:21 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at 8th Street and Larsson Street EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

What a horrible idea it is to allow the public to rent out our local parkettes. There is no parking available even to the local residents. There’s a reason why current policy does not permit special events. The parkettes are for the neighborhood.

Gloria McInerney
Sent from my iPhone
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce’s Beach Park Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 9:03:09 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Greg Fullmer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 9:02 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce’s Beach Park

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

CONFIDENTIAL AND FOR PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION EYES ONLY

Dear Parks and Recreation Commission,
I strongly oppose any large special events at Bruce’s Beach in the future for large crowds.

This last weekend is an example of what happens with 100s of people descending onto Bruce’s Beach Park. I personally witnessed several men and women urinating on neighbors front doors and garages, roads blocked with too many cars and people parking illegally, garbage everywhere, very very loud music, lots of alcohol, and so much marijuana being smoked that it filled the air for at least a block around Bruce’s Beach Park. This is unacceptable. Bruce’s Beach is not equipped for large gatherings.

Thank you,
L. Greg Fullmer
217 27th Street

Sent from my iPhone
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce"s Beach owner/resident opposed Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 8:45:29 AM

From: Julie Felss Masino <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 8:45 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce's Beach owner/resident opposed

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear City Council
As an eight year owner and resident of north Manhattan Beach (we are one house off of Bruce's Beach) we respectfully request that the current policy of no special events at Bruce's Beach be maintained.

We chose to purchase our home in the north end of Manhattan Beach as it was quieter and away from the center of the city, beach and tourist traffic areas. We would like to see it remain as it was when we purchased our home.

As you are aware, Bruce's beach is small and is a neighborhood green space with no facilities and very limited parking. The weekends, as is, are super congested and we have a hard time getting in and out of our street as many times people are looking for parking around the area and are "waiting" and blocking the one lane down 26th.

Lately many people have taken to hosting non authorized events in the area and this has led to increased garbage being piled up and even more traffic in this small area.

This can not be allowed, there is not room to accommodate the traffic, congestion and garbage. I've seen garbage blowing down the street and we all know that ends up in the ocean or sewers, which is not good. We'd also like to see the food truck that has been parking there on weekends removed as it is leading to more congestion and garbage in the area.

There are plenty of other areas nearby that are set up for events like Polliwog Park or Dockweiler Beach where there is adequate parking and the facilities necessary to support this type of activity.

Please respect our community and do not allow special events at Bruce's Beach, we don't have room for the congestion this will cause.

Thank you
Julie Masino

MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
MB Logo
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce"s Beach Opposition Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 10:11:24 AM

From: Dave Masino <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 10:10 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce's Beach Opposition

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear City Council
We respectfully request that the current policy of no special events at Bruce's Beach be maintained. We have lived in North Manhattan Beach for eight years. We chose to live there because of the reduced noise and traffic away from the center of town. We would like to see it remain as it was when we purchased our home.

The Bruce's Beach area is already very congested due to limited parking in the area. It's been difficult getting in and out of the area and many times the street is blocked due to people waiting for available parking spots. We've seen Bruce's Beach used for unauthorized events recently, resulting in more traffic congestion and garbage piling up. The garbage then blows around the neighborhood and eventually towards the ocean. There is also a food truck parked in the area, further increasing garbage in the area. We'd like to see the food truck removed.

Please consider other areas nearby that are set up for events like Polliwog Park or Dockweiler Beach where there is adequate parking and the facilities necessary to support this type of activity.

Please respect our community and do not allow special events at Bruce's Beach that will only increase congestion in an already congested residential area.

Thank you
Dave Masino
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events in Parks
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:55:27 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Chuck Washburn <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 12, 2022 3:55 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events in Parks

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

We would be in favor of special events at Bruce's Beach (near where we originally lived): it is large, generally unused, and has parking.

For the same reasons we would be opposed to special events at the Larsson Street parkette: it is small, with no dedicated parking.

We are not familiar with the 8th Street parkette.

Chuck and Martha Washburn
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events policy OPPOSE
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:56:42 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Christy Miller <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 12, 2022 1:30 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events policy OPPOSE
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

We oppose the special event policy currently under review to allow City Council to review request for special events at Bruce’s Beach, 8th street and Larsson St parks.

We live adjacent to Bruces Beach Park. Over the last few years, the interest in this park has grown exponentially.

Because of that, the trash, noise, music on the weekends has gotten increasingly bad. This is a small neighborhood park that can not handle traffic as parking is extremely limited. Already, cars park illegally on 27th Street, blocking driveways and making it difficult to back out of driveways. I’ve called traffic control numerous times regarding this. Its a park that the local kids can go to and play basketball, ride a bike and run around on the park hills. We don’t have yards in this part of town, so the park is the only place kids and families can gather to enjoy the outdoors. Years ago, I was told by Parks and Rec that this was a VIEWING park only and no functions were allowed. As a homeowner on the park, events at Bruce’s Beach make no sense. The venue is too small, the terrain too hilly and steep. There are no bathroom facilities. Last year, there was a Juneteenth celebration on the park.

Portable outhouses were brought in bordering the park. It was an eyesore and distasteful for us living on the park.

The music was too loud and don’t appreciate the loud speakers. For those reasons—as well as the peace and security of neighbors —We are not in favor.

Christy and Doug Miller
229 27th Street
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Policy. Larsson Street Parkette input. March 15th meeting Date: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 10:26:22 AM
Attachments: Screen Shot 2020-06-25 at 1.30.40 PM.png

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Kevin Brady <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 10:26 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Policy. Larsson Street Parkette input. March 15th meeting

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi, I would like to offer my feedback to the Special Events Policy concerning events at the Larsson Street Parkette.

I have lived on Larsson street for 20 years. We have enjoyed and used the Larsson Parkette for 20 years and have
witnessed many special occasions in the Park living across the street. Most of these occasions have been very small
events from kids Birthday parties, Easter egg Hunts, Family lunches, etc. We have never witnessed more than 20 people
at one of these tenets as the Parkette is very small.

We are in support of these small Family type events at the Parkette.

WE are totally against any event larger than this type of small event. (25 max)

This is a small residential neighborhood and the available Parking is very limited. Most residents
park in their driveways but many park a 2nd vehicle on the street. We have workers from the Deep Roots Nursery
and the office building on the corner of 2nd street / Sepulveda who park their cars on Larsson and along 2nd Street
during business hours and on weekends.

2nd Street is an extremely busy street and not ideal for Parking as cars constantly speed down the street to the beach.

Also, limited parking and always street is always packed.

There is no restroom or bathroom facilities at the Parkette, If the City allows larger special events at the
Parkette, please explain where all the guests will be able to use a restroom. Currently, we have witnessed many
people, with adults and children using the bushes and back area of the Parkette as a bathroom.

We have had conversations
with Park guests, nannies and others in regards to this matter.

Please keep the Parkette as it was intended to be used and enjoyed… a small neighborhood Parkette!

Any Special Events permitted that are larger In number will not only add to the increased Parking issues, trash, additional noise
and no bathrooms will create bigger Issues for the Parks and Rec. Department and the City.

Thanks you,

Kevin Brady
200 Larsson Street
MHB

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Policy
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 9:30:52 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Karen Knott <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2022 9:31 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Policy

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

As usual, there is a lot of misinformation floating around about the “Specials Events” policy review. In order to fully understand the issues, I would like to be provided with the following:

1. What (precisely) is the current special events policy for all parks? (Send code sections
please). What (precisely) is the current special events policy for Bruce’s Beach Park, the 9th Street and Larsson Street parkettes? Where does the existing policy say that special events may not be permitted at Bruces, 9th Street and Larsson?

2. Please outline in detail the changes that are being proposed. Has the City Council always had the authority to “review requests for special events" or is this part of the “changes” that are proposed?

I would rather receive this information directly from the City of MB - than from the gossip on the streets.

Thank you.

Karen Knott
2407 Manhattan Avenue
MB
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events
Date: Thursday, February 17, 2022 1:06:02 PM

From: Anthony Pessino <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, February 17, 2022 11:59 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To Whom It May Concern:

This email is in response to the invitation for comment on the review of special events at Bruce's Beach. I offer no opinion on the review of 8th Street or Larsson Street parkettes.

I have serious concerns permitting special events at Bruce's Beach for a number of reasons.

First, the parking in the area is inadequate to support any special events. It can barely handle the weekend beach traffic in Winter! For example, when the blue wave phenomena occurred in Spring 2020, the area was overflowing with cars and general disruptions due to the increased traffic. Permitting special events would have a very similar effect, and greatly impair the quiet enjoyment of the surrounding blocks.

Second, considering the public profile of this park in particular, any additional attention is not a wise decision in my opinion. The recent moves have been extremely controversial and permitting special events will likely cause the City to make potentially politically charged decisions on who can/cannot plan special events. Again, this may cause unwarranted additional attention to the area, which has already caused a negative impact on the value of properties in the adjacent area (I spoke with Stran Hill Properties about this factor).

For these reasons in particular, I strongly voice my objections to permiting any special events.

Thank you,
Anthony Pessino
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: Comment on special events policy
Date: Monday, February 14, 2022 7:54:09 AM
MB Parks and Rec
Parks & Rec
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
City of Manhattan Beach, CA
Office Hours: M - Th 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app www.manhattanbeach.gov/reachmanhattanbeach -----Original Message-----
From: Josephine Fleming <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 13, 2022 10:29 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Comment on special events policy
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi
I live on Highland Ave and received a postcard inviting comments about the possible change of special events policy. I will keep it sweet and short. I am against allowing special events at the Bruce’s Beach.

Traffic on Highland is congested as it is. Brice’s beach is a rare, beautiful, quiet spot in our town that needs to be kept that way. Attracting large crowds will be noisy, and frankly I don’t know where all the cars will go. I will move out of the area if this creates more stress for my living.

Thanks.

Sent from my iPhone
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: NO SPECIAL EVENTS AT BRUCES PARK AND LARSON"S STREET PARKETTES Date: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 1:49:21 PM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: michelle aslan <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 1:48 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]>; MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] NO SPECIAL EVENTS AT BRUCES PARK AND LARSON'S STREET PARKETTES

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

We do not need streets clogged with people circling endlessly for parking. We do not need knavish noise, illicit drinking and drugs. We do not need to constantly check if our belongings are still there, or to see if our garage is open and an invitation for theft. We do not want to keep our windows shut on a hot summer day because of a raucous event at the park that disturbs us. We are already disturbed in July because of all of the fireworks going off at all hours of the night! We want our children safe while playing in the front of our homes, without ominous strangers walking by. We want to continue the stability and predictability of what we already have, without the city trying to take it away, like they did with Bruces' Park.

It seems the beach is not a big enough public space for you, with all of its available parking, its access to restaurants, restrooms, and other amenities. Now you want to go into the quieter part of town, where people pay big money to live, and bring all of your bru-ha-ha, and the calamity and recalcitrant behaviors that invade the beach, to try to make some kind of statement. The city just has too much money!
From: Erika Joseph on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: Please say "No" to Events and Alcohol at Bruce"s Beach Park Date: Friday, February 25, 2022 7:40:38 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Ian McLagan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, February 24, 2022 6:23 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Cc: Steve Napolitano <[email protected]>; Joe Franklin <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please say "No" to Events and Alcohol at Bruce's Beach Park

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Parks & Recreation;

This note was earlier sent to the City Council and I’m following-up with you and thank you for the post card requesting comments.

As a nearby resident to Bruce’s Beach, I’ll share that the park at Bruce’s Beach is a highly inappropriate place for groups to gather due to multiple reasons and should remain highly restricted:

1. This is tiny public park with limited room to spread out. Any one group can easily over-run the park such that other people either cannot enjoy a wonderful sunset, run their dogs or play hoops with their children.

This is not a park for events of any kind as that naturally “excludes” everyone else from enjoying this tiny slice.

2. We’re not affected, but the residents surrounding the park don’t deserve any noise.

The Sand Section is primarily is a community of “environmentally friendly open windows” and events equal “closed windows” which is not what we want for this city.

3. Out of town people seemingly don’t know about the bathrooms at the bottom of the hill and we already routinely see people “squatting” in the bushes when we visit the park with our dogs (on leash). I’m confident that your grounds crews can back this up.

Please poll the people whose houses border on the park. We know a few of them and they can tell stories.

Any future events will result in further desecration of the park (pun intended).

4. We have already witnessed abuses of parking with illegal “No Parking” cones and signs being placed ahead of rallys in 2021.

Any event of more the 10 people impinges on other park visitors and the neighborhood as a whole.

Thank you again for your consideration.

Event/Rally’s should remain highly restricted and can be handled much better at larger public parks and recreation areas.

Regards,
IM

Ian McLagan
2400 Ocean Drive
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
m. 310.874.3468
t. 310.546.1069

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: Special events
Date: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 11:35:24 AM
Attachments: image001.png

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Mike Meena <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 11:35 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special events

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

We have a house just above Bruce’s Beach and I would love to see events there and in other places. Live music and anything for kids, teens young and old adults will help remove the stuffiness of some of the people on the Manhattan Beach area. The town needs this after the Pandemic!

www.AugustaFinancial.com www.MikeMeena.com If the above box did not appear the rest of my info is below:

Mike Meena
Augusta Financial
25129 The Old Road, Suite 350, Santa Clarita, CA 91381
Phone 661-260-2970 Fax 661-554-7121
Email - [email protected]

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: Special events at parks
Date: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 7:38:59 AM
Attachments: Outlook-v0xbk1x4.png

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Mori Biener <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 21, 2022 4:47 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special events at parks

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

These parks are small and surrounded by homes. I would not be for special events as they create a lot of noise, parking issues and perhaps theft in the immediate area. So I would be against it as I live 2 houses away from the 8th St. park. If you feel a desperate need to do this, which I don't know why you would as this is a quiet, family oriented community not an event venue, I would like to see each and every home owner surrounding the activity be asked if they are agreeable to each specific event and have a right to vote it down. Change is not always good. In this case it's not.

MORI BIENER
Associate Broker, CRS, GRI
310.418.9188 mobile
DRE #01322320
2501 N Sepulveda Blvd | Manhattan Beach | CA 90266
[email protected] | SouthBayHomeBroker.com

From: Lisa Ristani
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Cc: Suzanne Hadley; Hildy Stern; Steve Napolitano; Joe Franklin; Richard Montgomery Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Oppose - Special Event Eligibility @ Bruce"s Beach / 8th Street & Larson Street Parks Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 9:25:27 AM
Resending with the emails for MBCC members.

Thank you
On Sunday, February 27, 2022, 08:37:43 PM PST, Lisa Ristani <[email protected]> wrote:

To Parks & Rec & MBCC:

Please see below for my email dated 1/31/22 opposing a change to the city's special event policy to include permitting special events at Bruces's Beach, 8th Street & Larson Parks. It looks like this decision now falls under Parks & Rec, but I am also including MBCC since this proposed change was originally on MBCC 2/1/22 agenda. I object amending the cities Special Event Policy to include Bruces Beach / Larson & 8th Street Parks.

Today (Sunday, Feb 27, 2022) driving Highland to the north end of Manhattan Beach to assist my elderly mother I was confronted with some type of large-scale event at Bruce's Beach. The event created driving obstructions on Highland and the surrounding streets of Bruces Beach. Cars stopped. Cars parked illegally on the streets. Nowhere did I see any traffic or event control or parking plan. What if an emergency vehicle needed to get through to Bruce's Beach or to neighboring areas?
What I got stuck in the middle of today makes it more evident than ever that none of these neighborhood parks, including Bruce's Beach, are equipped for Special Events.

Questions:
1) Was today's event at Bruce's Beach permitted by the City of Manhattan Beach or Manhattan Beach Parks & Rec? If so, was alcohol permitted by the City? 2) Who proposed to the MBCC 2/1/22 agenda to add Special Events to the three (3) neighborhood parks: Larson Park, 8th Street Part, and Bruce's Beach? Thank you
Lisa Ristani
MB Resident
From: Lisa Ristani <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, January 31, 2022 8:42 AM
To: List - City Council
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Oppose - Mega Events @ Bruce's Beach / 8th Street & Larson Street Parks

CAUTION: This Email is from an EXTERNAL source. Ensure you trust this sender before clicking on any links or attachments.

MBCC
I oppose changing the city's special event policy to include Bruces Beach, 8th Street & Larson Street parks. I oppose large gathering in the middle of residential neighborhoods which results in more traffic, more parking issues, loud noise, potential for increased crime just to name a few.

Thank you
Lisa Ristani
MB resident 50+ years / homeowner
From: Anthony
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special Events
Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 12:40:22 PM
Thank you very much for the response! It’s much appreciated.

To underscore my concerns with special events at this park (in general), the location of this park is not suitable for heavy traffic flow in my assessment. See the attached picture that I took on my drive home yesterday afternoon. It caused a backup on Highland, throughout the day, and increased traffic in adjacent residential areas such as Vista St, where I noticed a number of cars driving the wrong direction.

Also, as mentioned, the parking situation is not suitable for large gatherings. Numerous cars were parked in red zones (see attached pictures). I am not aware of any ticketing, but wasn’t near the park but for a few instances so I’m sure missed Parking Enforcement. This occurred around the entire park, and adjacent areas, especially with the presence of food trucks.

Finally, I should mention that increased traffic brings unwarranted trash, not unlike the public areas in the City during large events. There were overflowing trash bins and trash in the street after this event (an example from today near my home below). Considering the proximity to residential homes, it is a more sensitive issue as I’m sure you can understand, especially with street sweeping only once a week.

Thank you again for your attention to my concerns. Hope this additional information is helpful for your and the City Council’s review.

Sent from my iPhone
On Feb 28, 2022, at 11:38 AM, Linda M. Robb <[email protected]> wrote:

Good morning Mr. Pessino,
Thank you for your email and feedback. I can assure you that the event that occurred on Sunday was not permitted and the organizers did not reach out to the City prior to the event. Your feedback was forwarded to the Parks and Recreation Commission. It will be reviewed tonight by the Commission and then will go back to the City Council on March 15 th.

Thank you and best regards,
Linda Robb

From: Allyssa Weippert <[email protected]> On Behalf Of MB Parks and Rec
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 8:15 AM
To: Linda M. Robb <[email protected]>
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special Events

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT ANALYST
(310) 802-5403
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Anthony <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, February 26, 2022 8:50 AM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Special Events

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello,

It has come to my attention that a large event is planned for Bruce’s Beach this Sunday, February 27th. Please see below for the link to the eventbrite invitation.

Has this event been sanctioned by the City? It was my understanding special events were not permitted at Bruce’s Beach? If so, does the City have plans to respectfully shut down this event?

Kindly advise as a number of neighbors expressed interest.

Thank you,
Anthony

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/271909467537?aff=efbneb
Sent from my iPhone

On Feb 17, 2022, at 11:58 AM, Anthony Pessino
<[email protected]
> wrote:

To Whom It May Concern:

This email is in response to the invitation for comment on the review of special events at Bruce's Beach. I offer no opinion on the review of 8th Street or Larsson Street parkettes.

I have serious concerns permitting special events at Bruce's Beach for a number of reasons. First, the parking in the area is inadequate to support any special events. It can barely handle the weekend beach traffic in Winter! For example, when the blue wave phenomena occurred in Spring 2020, the area was overflowing with cars and general disruptions due to the increased traffic. Permitting special events would have a very similar effect, and greatly impair the quiet enjoyment of the surrounding blocks.

For these reasons in particular, I strongly voice my objections to permiting any special events.

Thank you,
Anthony Pessino
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Review-Bruce"s Beach Date: Tuesday, March 1, 2022 7:59:41 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: james upchurch <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 4:37 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events Review-Bruce's Beach

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

To The Parks and Recreation Commission,

My name is James Upchurch and I live at 2719 Manhattan Ave one block from Bruce’s Beach Park. I understand that you will be discussing adding Bruce’s Beach Park to the list of MB locations that can be permitted for use.

I am strongly against this change for a number of reasons.

1. The traffic around Bruce’s Beach is already congested during daylight hours and particularly on weekends enjoying good weather. I have seen numerous near misses of cars with cars, with bikes and most importantly pedestrians. There is no safe ingress and egress for foot traffic into the park area other than utilizing the existing crosswalks.

2. The park is currently being well utilized by many people from within and outside Manhattan Beach. Those who bring their family, friends and neighbors to enjoy a sunset or nice afternoon relaxing on hillside would be negatively impacted by “planned events”. When you examine the topography of BBP, it’s obvious that there is very little “flat” space for any scheduled gathering, it is just not made for it. Any permitted gatherings would monopolize what little flat space there is.

How will an event organizer effectively monitor participation by “non-invited” guests? Or is there a requirement that everyone and anyone can attend?? I can already see the confrontation “I have a permit so you can’t be here!” Oh brother that will be a mess.

3. There is “No” available parking capacity for a permitted event. On a weekend of good weather, we already require parking attendants to monitor the beach pay parking lots directly to the West of BBP. There is nowhere to put additional cars in the area and I fear event goers would just park wherever they can.

4. There are no bathrooms at BBP other than down on the Strand, I don’t know how you can remedy that. Portable toilet facilities are not a good answer.

All this being said, I would prefer that Bruce’s Beach be subject to the City Permitting Rules and Regulations if there in fact is no enforcement of non-permitted gatherings. I am assuming the Blacckkity Beach Festival held yesterday was not permitted given there is no permit process for Bruce’s Beach Park. I wasn’t here to join or observe in the event so I can’t comment on the impact to the neighborhood. Hopefully there was some objective observation of the event that will be shared in your meeting this evening. Was there any attempt to break up the festival? If everything was calm and well mannered I certainly understand not creating a problem when one doesn’t exist. At the same time, what if two or more groups schedule non-permitted events simultaneously? Chaos will reign and we all know how that can sometimes evolve.

So in conclusion, the City needs to enforce and shut down non-permitted gatherings otherwise they will continue without regard to the rules and laws of the City, or put Bruce’s Beach and the other venues into the Permit process but with a few suggestions-

1. Put the Permitting Process in place for a 24 month period with an automatic sunsetting after that time absent a new City Council vote to extend the permitting requirements. Basically let’s try it on but have an AUTOMATIC Termination after the permitting test period. Make this the same for all three “Parkette” venues. Evaluate and if it’s gone well then Council can vote to extend the period.

2. There must be transparency in the permitting process and a robust notification system to the residence within the neighborhood of each Parkette. Contact information should be provided to all nearby residents in order to timely report any negative parking or other situations resulting from a permitted event.

3. Utilize “modified” permitting requirements which reflect the small size of the venues in question along with their limited if any parking and facilities capacity. You can’t allow under any circumstances an event which sells alcohol, food, etc. with crowd sizes anywhere near what is allowed under the current guidelines. There has to be a limit in size as well as frequency. How about no more than two events per month during the summer season and no sales of alcohol under any circumstances. We have Hometown Fair for that and look how controlled that environment is. There is no way to control alcohol in a Bruce’s Beach setting.

4. Do residents of Manhattan Beach have any preference in to permitting process? If not, should they?

Good luck in you deliberations. One of life’s great gifts is the ability to “try” things and then make changes as necessary to improve the outcomes. Thanks for the contribution of your time, efforts and good intentions on all of our behalf's.

Cheers,
James Upchurch
2719 Manhattan Ave

From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce"s Beach owner/resident opposed Date: Tuesday, March 1, 2022 7:56:17 AM

MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

PARKS & REC
(310) 802-5448
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
From: Nickey Berens <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 5:14 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Special Events at Bruce's Beach owner/resident opposed

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear City Council
I request that the current policy of no special events at Bruce's Beach be maintained.

I purchased my home over 2 years ago, 2513 Bayview Drive, just two houses from the park, because of the serine and beautiful area, which made it feel like a quiet retreat outside the congested downtown.

Bruce's Beach is becoming more and more overcrowded due to limited parking and increased events, which makes it more difficult getting in and out of the area. I've seen Bruce's Beach used for unauthorized events recently, resulting in more traffic congestion and garbage piling up. Loud events have no place in our quiet residential community, and it’s hard to comprehend what our lives will be like if these events become a regular occurrence.

Please consider other nearby locations that are set up for events like Polliwog Park or Dockweiler Beach where there is adequate parking and the facilities necessary to support these types of activities. Respect our community and do not allow special events at Bruce's Beach that will only increase congestion in an already congested residential area.

Thank you
Nicole Berens
From: Laura Kiely
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Allow Bruce’s Beach special events permits Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 3:41:47 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
> Dear Commissioners,
> I’ve been a resident in Manhattan Beach since 1994. My husband, 2 children, and I currently live in Downtown Manhattan Beach.
> We support allowing special event permit requests for Bruce’s Beach Park. >
> We understand the concerns about the very small size of Larsen Parkette located on a small residential street, but Bruce’s Beach Park is different.
> It’s larger, located on busy Highland, and has designated public parking adjacent to the park. Bruce’s Beach Park can accommodate large gatherings.
>
> In fact, I attended an event there last summer that was a wonderful occasion celebrating the Black community.

Families gathered. Joyful music played. Art was exhibited. The uplifting work of local non profits was highlighted.

It was a fantastic experience!
>
> But I wonder if the community’s needs would be better served to have the City involved to control logistics effectively. Some oversight and control for special events as required through a permit process would go a long way to assuage residents’ concerns about noise, traffic, and trash. >
> Please allow requests for special event permits at Bruce’s Beach park. >
> Thank you for your consideration.
>
> Best,
> Laura Kiely
> Manhattan Beach resident since 1994
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
From: Allyssa Weippert on behalf of MB Parks and Rec
To: Linda M. Robb
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Bruce’s Beach special events policy Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 3:25:09 PM

From: Rachel Knopoff <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2022 3:17 PM
To: MB Parks and Rec <[email protected]> Cc: Russ Dickerson <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bruce’s Beach special events policy

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear City Council,

My husband Russ and I are strongly opposed to a proposed policy change that would allow special events at Bruce’s Beach.

I originally purchased my home (now our home) at 2516 Manhattan Avenue 21 years ago, just one house away from the park. I was drawn to the area because of the quiet park and the lack of through-traffic, which made it feel like a peaceful oasis outside of the congested downtown area.

Recent unauthorized events have shattered that peace, bringing amplified sound (loud speeches and loud music), a raucous and sometimes drunken crowd, and lots of trash. This was our quiet sanctuary, and it’s now being disrupted on an ever more frequent basis. Loud events have no place in our quiet residential community, and it’s hard to fathom what our lives will be like if these events become a regular occurrence.

It’s a terrible idea, and we are strongly opposed.

Respectfully,
Rachel Knopoff & Russ Dickerson
MB Logo MB PARKS AND REC

From: Heidi Rayden
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission
Cc: Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Permits/Bruce Beach
Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 2:27:38 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Parks & Rec Commission,
As a tree section resident , I am writing to express my concern over the potential permit modification for Bruce Beach Park.

The park infrastructure & location (so close to homes & densely populated residential dwellings) with no infrastructure to support large gatherings ….is not suited for large events. At minimum has anyone consulted with the homeowners around the perimeter of the park? Shouldn’t they have a say as tax paying residents? The park is open to ALL for quiet enjoyment …why the sudden push for large events? Polliwog Park has 18 acres & set back from homes & can easily accommodate ….

Our Mayor tried to sneak this in on a recent CC agenda item and was met with great resistance..it was removed & punted to parks & rec. …please consider all voices when you make your decision.

Thank you,
Heidi Rayden Tobias
Sent from my iPad
From: Diana Skaar
To: Suzanne Hadley
Cc: Richard Montgomery; City Clerk; List - City Council; Linda M. Robb; Mark Leyman Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Please include all City parks in the special events permit process Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 2:25:29 PM
Attachments: Screen Shot 2022-02-28 at 1.56.24 PM.png
Hi Councilmember Hadley,
I appreciate your quick response. I believe you have certain facts incorrect, and I have some follow-up questions for you. Please see in-line in blue below.

On Mon, Feb 28, 2022 at 1:44 PM Suzanne Hadley <[email protected]> wrote:

Thank you for your email, Diana. I am in favor our keeping our parkettes and Bruce’s Beach out of the normal permitting process due to their uniquely small nature and locations deeply embedded within residential communities. These small areas have inadequate parking, bathroom facilities, trash receptacles and areas for noise dissipation to make then suitable for anything but individual or small-group gatherings. I am not in favor of changing this long-standing city policy.

If these parks in questions are not appropriate for special events then wouldn't the City's special events permitting process address this and deny such events? Why not consistently apply the process to all parks
. You have not explained how it hurts MB to include
such parks in this process, or provided information on why this "long-standing city policy" exists in the first place for these 3 parks but not others.

The event yesterday was estimated at 250-300 people. Crowds of hundreds can and have been accommodated at Polliwog Park on the east side and Live Oak Park on the west.

I did not do a headcount, but I included an image of what I saw on Sunday at 4pm: a number of community members and families gathered for a beautiful picnic day at the park. The number of people at the park didn't look problematic to me, and you will see that there was lots of open grass space -- see my photo attached). I didn't see a crowd control problem at the park. Of course traffic and parking was increased in the area. Why would the City not want to include Bruce's Beach (and the 2 parkettes) in the existing process if such an event was deemed appropriate, so that the City can better control the impact to surrounding neighborhoods?
It’s possible council will change the policy. I am only one vote. The community will have a chance to weigh in on this suggestion. I’m glad the mayor took it off consent (where it was not an item that was “routine and customary”) and put it on general business for vigorous public discussion. You may know that homeowners around BB have lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in equity value due to the controversy, crowds, disputed ownership, etc. around Bruce’s Beach. If your family owned a home on 26th St., HIghland Ave or 27th St. neighboring the park, I would vigorously defend your property rights.

With respect I also disagree that enforcing our laws is “un-welcoming and non-inclusive to people of color.” That sounds like the soft bigotry of low expectations. Everyone is equal before the law.

Please do not mischaracterize my statement. I did not say that enforcement of our laws leads to an MB that is “un-welcoming and non-inclusive to people of color.” Let me copy what I initially wrote so you can re-read it carefully:

I'm writing to you today because I was shocked to read some of the e-Comments from the last City Council meeting regarding an agenda item that would include
Bruce's Beach (and the 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes) from the City's existing special events permitting process. The reasons stated for continued exclusion of Bruce's Beach echoed the same divisive rhetoric that led to our beautiful beach town being mischaracterized as un-welcoming and non- inclusive to people of color.

The organizers were told in advance that this event was not allowed for many reasons:

No permits for gatherings are allowed currently at BB. Nonetheless they moved forward with a large event without a permit. Illegal.

The event was one that required tickets and an entrance fee. Illegal on both counts.

INCORRECT: Please see attached screenshot that shows that the event was FREE Food trucks were invited and at least one did not have the required CMB business license. Illegal.

Alcohol was advertised and served openly in BB. Illegal in all our parks without a permit.

The event was described as BYOB (which I do not condone), but also I believe you are mischaracterizing (hopefully not intentionally) when you say "Alcohol was advertised and served openly in BB"
Amplified music was played. Illegal without a permit.

A personal BBQ was utilized. Illegal in all MB parks.

I don't want any sort of park event to happen illegally ... but I do expect our City to enable residents and community members to go through a special events permitting process so that such events, if they serve a benefit to the community, can take place safely and not be deemed "illegal."
I’m not sure why anyone would be in favor of enforcing the law for some folks and not for others. That seems to me to be the essence of discrimination. “Rules for thee but not for me” is not how I wish our city to be governed. We’ll see what happens.

I'm not saying that some laws should be applied to some folks and not to others. Where are you coming to that conclusion? As I stated above: I don't want any sort of park event to happen illegally ... but I do expect our City to enable residents and community members to go through a special events permitting process so that such events, if they serve a benefit to the community, can take place safely and not be deemed "illegal." However, by your argument, why are some parks included in the City's special events permitting process and others (like Bruce's Beach) are excluded? Why would the City require permits to host birthday parties in parks and even insurance to host block parties ... but not apply the same due process to Bruce's Beach (and the other 2 parkettes)?
Warmly,
Suzanne
MB Logo SUZANNE HADLEY

COUNCILMEMBER
310-779-8183
[email protected]
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH 1400 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Office Hours: M-Th 8:00 AM-5:00 PM | Fridays 8:00 AM-4:00 PM | Not Applicable to Public Safety Reach Manhattan Beach Here for you 24/7, use our click and fix it app Download the mobile app now
On Feb 28, 2022, at 12:42 PM, Diana Skaar <[email protected]> wrote:

EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi MB Parks & Recreation Commission and esteemed City Councilmembers, First, I want to thank you for your continued efforts to make MB a beautiful community-centric beach town. From Concerts in the Park at Polliwog, Hometown Fair and the summer volleyball tournaments, there is so much to enjoy in MB.

I'm writing to you today because I was shocked to read some of the e- Comments from the last City Council meeting regarding an agenda item that would include Bruce's Beach (and the 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes) from the City's existing special events permitting process. The reasons stated for continued exclusion of Bruce's Beach echoed the same divisive rhetoric that led to our beautiful beach town being mischaracterized as un-welcoming and non- inclusive to people of color.

I visited Bruce's Beach Park Sunday Feb 27 around 4pm (MB Police was there too) and saw nothing but a friendly gathering of community members and kids enjoying the last Sunday of Black History Month on a beautiful sunny MB day. (see my photo attached)
If people have an issue with gatherings like this ... then I think it's all the more reason why Bruce's Beach should NOT be excluded from the City's special events permitting process so that the City can either deny such events if they are deemed disruptive to the neighborhood, or can make the necessary preparations and safety assessments to support such events and mitigate neighborhood impact. This includes staffing, street closures, trash collection and public notice of events .. which the City seems to manage well (ex.

Concerts at Polliwog and the 6-man volleyball tourney)
Why not have Bruce's Beach (and the 8th Street and Larsson Street parkettes) be included in this *existing* City review process if residents are really concerned and wish to exert some control over potential neighborhood impact? Other points to consider:

1. Please allow all City parks to be places where families and the community can celebrate special events such as birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, family reunions and cultural celebrations.

2. Without a permitting process, parks can be the site of unauthorized gatherings where city rules are harder to enforce.

5. It creates an opportunity for the city to collect additional revenue from application fees and billable city services provided for the event. --
Diana Skaar
(MB Resident)

From: Gary Senser
To: List - Parks and Recreation Commission; Mark Leyman; Linda M. Robb Subject: [EXTERNAL] Retain Special Events Exclusion for Bruce"s Beach and Parkettes Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 2:20:46 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Commissioners,
As long time Manhattan Beach resident I respectfully ask that Parks & Rec not modify the existing policy that excludes the Eighth Street and Larsson Street parkettes and Bruce's Beach park from the special events permitting process, citing their location in heavily residential neighborhoods and the harm that would ensue to those nearby homeowners as well as anyone trying to use the parks due to the noise (particularly if there's amplified sound), the traffic, possible street closures and the shortage of nearby parking and restroom facilities. Thank you in advance!
--
Gary Senser

BOTELLO & SENSER TEAM

RE/MAX ESTATE PROPERTIES
310-383-2779 | LIC 01903493
"Luxury is being surrounded by the people you love in an environment that reflects and comforts you. The highest form of luxury will always be to have happiness within you and surrounding you" - Paulo Bacchi, Artefacto
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Manhattan Beach City CouncilMarch 15, 2022

Manhattan Beach City Council
March 15, 2022