McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: John Dea
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2022 8:47 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Landmark Nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Ave.
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Councilmember Jess Rivas, District 6 Councilmember Steve Madison, and District 7 Councilmember Andy My name is John Dean and I am a board member of Pasadena Heritage. I live in Pasadena, a city known as a leader in preservation of its history and people.
John Van de Kamp was in every sense of the word, "one of the best Pasadena had to offer." He was a long-time resident, he attended local schools graduating from John Muir High School, he was an accomplished attorney, and a highly regarded political figure who was dedicated to local and regional issues. Van de Kamp's record of service is unmatched having served as Attorney General for the state of California, Los Angeles County District Attorney, the first Federal Public Defender for the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, Central District of California, and more. A complete examination of his life reveals an extraordinary human being by any measure. John Van de Kamp lived at 801 S. San Rafael Avenue, and this residence was more than just a home. It was were he had an office, and welcomed distinguished visitors and prominent local, regional and national figures. The house should be recognized as a local landmark in honor of his distinguished career and his contributions to the community.
I fully support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Avenue as a Pasadena Landmark. Landmark status would not prevent future owners from making alterations or additions to the house, but would mark the property as a special place in his honor now and for the future. I urge you to honor John Van de Kamp's legacy in this most appropriate way.
Sincerely,
John Dean
03/21/2022
1 Item 12
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Cathy Phelps
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2022 11:10 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Landmark Nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Ave.
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Dear Members of the City Council,
My name is Catherine Phelps and I am a former Board Member and Chair of Pasadena Heritage, as well as a former Member and Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission. I live in Pasadena in a Landmarked house which was designed by Frederick L. Roehrig. I am currently a member of the Pasadena Heritage Advocacy Committee. My views about this Landmark designation are refined by my six years on the Historic Preservation Commission. It is vitally important to landmark houses associated with persons of importance to the current history of Pasadena, as well as its past history. Pasadena recognizes many houses for their style or their architect, but do not honor individuals often enough. It is important to recognize the individuals who had a positive impact on Pasadena, as well as the state of California. Without honoring our history, Pasadena becomes just another suburb.
John Van de Kamp was a long time Pasadena resident who was dedicated to local and regional issues. As Attorney General, he is one of the most accomplished political figures from Pasadena, where he advocated for civil rights, environmental justice, and consumer protections. During the height of his success, he lived at 801 S. San Rafail Avenue, where he also kept a home office. Over the years, he hosted many distinguished visitors and prominent local, regional, and national figures in this house. The house should be recognized as a local landmark in honor of his distinguished career and his contributions.
I support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael as a Pasadena Landmark. Landmark status would mark the property as a special place in John Van de Kamp's life and in Pasadena's history. Please honor John Van de Kamp's legacy in this most appropriate way.
Thank you for enhancing the history of Pasadena.
Sincerely, Catherine Phelps
03/21/2022
1 Item 12
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Tom Marble
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2022 10:22 AM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse; Suzuki, Takako
Subject: Van de Kamp Landmark Proposal
Attachments: Van de Kamp letter 101821.pdf
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Dear Members of the City Council,
Attached is my letter in support of the landmarking of the Van de Kamp home at 801 S. San Rafael. It was sent before the previous City Council meeting considering this motion; my hope is that it can be reintroduced for the meeting on Monday.
Thank you,
Tom
Tom Marble, Vice-Chair of Advocacy, Pasadena Heritage.
Tom Marble Architecture
www.tommarble.com
03/21/2022
Item 12
tom marble
architecture
October 18, 2021
City of Pasadena Historic Preservation Commission
175 N. Garfield Avenue, 2nd Floor
Pasadena, CA 91101
Dear Commissioners,
I write in support of the nomination of the Van de Kamp house at 801 S. San Rafael, Pasadena for landmark designation.
John Van de Kamp stands as an important model for the "local boy done good," attending John Muir High before going on to Darmouth undergrad and then Stanford Law. He followed that with a distinguished career as the District Attorney for Los Angeles County and as Attorney General for California. Upon leaving his political career, he returned home to Pasadena and remained committed to the Pasadena community for the remander of his life.
As an architect, I truly appreciate the home he shared with his wife Andrea as a strong example of the Monterey Colonial style; in my mind it has always contributed to the character of that stretch of San Rafael. I am less convinced it needed a garage in the front yard and hedge blocking its impressive façade -- which is why I am determined that landmark status is necessary to preserve both the memory of one of our most accomplished citizens and to celebrate the house itself as integral part of the neighborhood fabric.
Thank you,
Tom Marble, AIA
027 Paige Stree
os Angeles. CA 9803
T: 626.617.3896
E: [email protected]
Tom Marble Architecture tommarble.com
RECEIVED
Nina Chomsky
Pasadena, CA 2022 MAR 18 PM |: 23
March 18, 2022
Pasadena City Council
Re: City Council Meeting 3/21/2022; Agenda Item 12; Appeal of Landmark Status of 801 South San Rafael; John Van de Kamp House
Mayor Gordo and Councilmembers,
I am writing in my individual capacity to SUPPORT the Staff Recommendation for Landmark designation for the residence at 801 S. San Rafael Ave., the home of John Van de Kamp. The house at 801 South San Rafael Avenue clearly meets Criterion "B" for designation as a landmark pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code because of its association with the life of a person who is significant in the history of the City - John Van de Kamp.
John Van de Kamp was a long-time Pasadena resident, an accomplished attorney, and a highly regarded political figure (California Attorney General) who also was dedicated to local and regional issues, including support for numerous local community organizations and our public schools. As Attorney General of the State of California, he is one of the most accomplished political figures from Pasadena. He advocated as Attorney General for civil rights, and also was an early advocate for environmental justice, and consumer protections. He became a highly admired political leader and advocate for these issues. During the pinnacle of his success, he lived at 801 S. San Rafael Ave, where he also kept a home office. Over the years, the house also served as a place to host many distinguished visitors and prominent local, regional, and national figures. The house should be recognized as a local landmark in honor of John Van de Kamp's distinguished career and his contributions to Pasadena as well as California.
Like so many others in Pasadena, I personally admired John Van de Kamp's political, professional and community achievements and accomplishments. Further, he achieved so much significance in the history of Pasadena while being a person of great character, intelligence, and quiet, effective leadership. For example, I was pleased to learn about John Van de Kamp's efforts and support for the Memorial to Jackie Robinson and his brother Mack that sits in the civic gardens across from City Hall, including raising funds to complete and install the Memorial. The Memorial is a significant work of art that is
03/21/2022
Item 12
more than just "busts" -- it is a thoughtful, thorough, historically based, and complex representation of the brothers and their place in both Pasadena and American history.
The only time I ever spoke personally and privately to John Van de Kamp was in connection with the Memorial. He spoke at a community event, and we happened to leave at the same time and walked together to our parked cars. On the way, he further discussed with me and clarified for me his commitment to the Memorial and its meaning to him and to the City. I remember his inspirational comments that day very clearly. He died shortly thereafter.
Based on the whole Record before you, i urge you to support the Staff Recommendation to approve Landmark status designation for the residence at 801 S.
San Rafael Ave., the home of John Van de Kamp, on the basis that the house meets Criterion "B" for designation.
Thank you for considering my comments.
Sincerely,
Nina Chomsky
Nina Chomsky
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Mei-Lee Ney <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2022 3:08 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Landmark Nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Ave.
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Mayor Victor Gordo and Members of the City Council
100 North Garfield Avenue
Pasadena, California 91101
I am writing to encourage you to grant Landmark status to 801 S. San Rafael Ave. due to the longtime ownership of John and Andrea Van de Kamp. John was an extremely important figure in California history and did much himself to preserve his beautiful home, plus bringing the gardens back to sustainability. It would be a real tribute to him and his accomplishments for our state and our community to grant his last home landmark status.
Thank you for considering it.
Sincerely,
Mei-Lee Ney
03/21/2022
Item 12
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Suzanne Marks
Sent: Saturday, March 19, 2022 10:36 AM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Landmark nomination 801 s San Rafael
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Dear Members of the City Council,
My name is Suzanne Marks and I am the chair of the Pasadena Heritage Board. I am concerned about Pasadena is its historic neighborhoods, sense of place, and commitment to history.
John Van de Kamp was a Pasadena hero, a long-time resident, accomplished attorney, and highly regarded political figure who was dedicated to local and regional issues. As Attorney General, he is one of the most accomplished political figures from Pasadena, where he advocated for civil rights, environmental justice, and consumer protections. During this pinnacle of his success, he lived at 801 S. San Rafael Ave, where he also kept a home office. Over the years, the house also served as a place to host many distinguished visitors and prominent local, regional and national figures. The house should be recognized as a local landmark in honor of his distinguished career and his contributions.
I support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael as a Pasadena Landmark. Landmark status would not prevent future owners from making alterations or additions to the house, but would mark the property as a special place in his honor now and for the future. I hope you can honor John Van de Kamp's legacy in this most appropriate way.
Thank you,
Suzanne Marks
Chairperson of Pasadena Heritage
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03/21/2022
Item 12
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Todd Hays
Sent: Saturday, March 19, 2022 11:21 AM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: regarding Agenda item #12, March 21st - 801 South San Rafael CAUȚION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. Learn more.... https://ww2.cityofpasadena.net/2022%20Agendas/Mar_21_22/Agenda.asp Dear Mayor and Council,
I write to you today to oppose the action before you regarding 801 South San Rafael.
As a lifelong resident of Pasadena, a past President of the Pasadena Foothills Association of Realtors, a former Board Member of Pasadena Heritage, and an avid preservationist who has restored numerous historic properties - one which is now in the National Register, I am saddened to see historic preservation used in such a misguided way.
This is not the stunning home where Batchelder created and installed his tile. This is not a Greene & Greene home where they once lived and drew their remarkable craftsman masterpieces. And make no mistake, this isn't about past heroics. This home is before you because a small group of neighbors are upset because this property owner didn't do what these neighbors wanted them to do. This property owner followed the rules, got permits, exercised their fundamental bundle of rights and is now being punished.
Is this the kind of historic preservation message you want to send? Allowing Pasadena Heritage to weaponize historic preservation in this way would set a harmful precedent and be counterproductive. It would set back years, an effort so many of us have fought for. It would, in fact, be destructive and have little to do with the rich heritage of Pasadena.
Historic preservation should be done thoughtfully - it should benefit everyone, not just the entitled few. Please do not make a mockery of historic designation, it is too important.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Todd Hays
03/21/2022
1 Item 12
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Claire Bogaard
Sent: Saturday, March 19, 2022 2:11 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Landmark Nomination of 801 S. San Rafael
Attachments: William Bogaard-Written Testimony-801 S San Rafael Ave copy.pdf; C Douglas Kranwinkle-Written Testimony-801 S San Rafael Ave.pdf
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Claire W. Bogaard
Pasadena, California 91105
19 March 2022
The Honorable Victor Gordo and
Members of the Pasadena City Council
100 North Garfield
Pasadena, California 91101
RE: Designation of 801 South San Rafael Avenue as a Landmark Dear Mayor and Councilmembers:
1 03/21/2022
Item 12
Today, 1 am writing in support of the application of Pasadena Heritage to have the property located at 801 South San Ratael Avenue declared eligible for designation as a Landmark under Criterion B based on its association with its former long-time resident, John Van de Kamp.
My husband, Bill, and I knew and worked with John Van de Kamp for more than 50 years. When our family moved to Pasadena in 1970, among the first neighbors we met were Harry and Georgie Van de Kamp and their son, John. We have always remained friends with the family and often we have been in awe of John's many talents and accomplishments. During John's most active years from 1987 to 2017, he and his wife, Andrea, and their daughter, Diana, lived at 801 South San Rafael Avenue.
We believe that this property at 801 So. San Rafael Avenue clearly meets the requirements of Criterion B as a landmark pursuant to the Pasadena Municipal Code because of its association with the life of a person who is significant in the history of Pasadena, Southern California and the State of California.
John spent much of his life in the field of public service. He served as Assistant United States Attorney, Federal Public Defender, Los Angeles County District Attorney and the California Attorney General. He also served as a volunteer in numerous ways. For example, John served with the Norton Simon Museum, Skid Row Development Corporation, the California Conservation Corps, the Pasadena Education Foundation and West Pasadena Residents Association. For more than 30 years, John and I worked on the Restoration Committee at St. Andrew's Church here in Pasadena.
John and his family often hosted events on their property and frequently their guests included distinguished persons, including Governor Brown, Senator Dianne Feinstein, Senator Barbara Boxer and Senator Cranston and many others.
John's Funeral was held at St. Andrew's Church here in Pasadena and the Church was filled. Our family members were very moved to see the large number of local, State and National leaders who attended the Funeral Service.
Through the years, John also assisted with numerous fund-raising efforts, including the Rose Bowl and the Jackie and Mack Robinson Memorial across from City Hall. It was no surprise in 2017 when the Pasadena City Council renamed the La Loma Bridge in honor of John Van de Kamp.
Truly - John Van de Kamp will go down in history as one of our great leaders. I respectfully urge the Pasadena City Council to recognize 801 South San Rafael Avenue as an historic Landmark in honor of John Van de Kamp - a truly great leader for our City of Pasadena and for our State of California. 2 Sincerely yours,
Weir in. Bogwande
Claire W. Bogaard
PS For your additional information, I am attaching two letters submitted earlier in support of the designation of 801 S. San Rafael Avenue as a Landmark.
3 RECEIVED
2022 MAR 21 AM 8:42
Bill Bogaard
CITY OFFENDENA
Pasadena, CA 91105-2825
January 16, 2021
Susan Mossman, Executive Director
Andrew Salimian, Preservation Director
Pasadena Heritage
651 South Saint John Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91105
Dear Sue and Andrew,
As you requested, I am pleased to confirm in this letter certain information regarding John Van de Kamp, a lifelong resident of Pasadena, and believe that his home at 801 South San Rafael Avenue meets the criteria to be declared eligible for landmark status as a Pasadena Landmark under Section 17.62.040 of the Pasadena Zoning Code.
Based on my nearly 50 years of friendship and community and social interaction with John in Pasadena, there is no doubt in my mind that this property meets the requirements of Criterion B as being "associated with the lives of persons who are significant in the history" of Pasadena, Southern California, and the State of California.
For a full statement of the facts and circumstances of John's residence in the South San Rafael Avenue property, reference is made to the Landmark Nomination submitted by Pasadena Heritage for the John K. Van de Kamp House. John and his wife, Andrea, acquired the house in 1987 and, with their daughter Diana, made it their family home from then until John's death in 2017.
When my family and I moved to Pasadena in 1970, one of the first families we met were Harry and Georgie Van de Kamp and their son, John, 03/21/2022
Item 12
who were neighbors three doors away. From that point on, we had the privilege and pleasure of knowing and socializing with John Van de Kamp and his family, and standing in awe of his many talents, energy and accomplishments. His interests and activities, his responsibilities and relationships, his good judgment and positive impact were truly extraordinary.
In a word, he was a classic "Renaissance man"!
In the domain of public service, he served as Assistant U.S. Attorney, Federal Public Defender, Los Angeles County District Attorney, and California Attorney General, frequently taking courageous and principled positions on difficult issues facing California. His landmark cases included antitrust, mergers, legal compliance, and the environment.
In the pursuit of community service, frequently as a volunteer in the public interest, he served with the Norton Simon Museum, Skid Row Development Corporation, the California Conservation Corps, the California Historical Society, the Pasadena Education Foundation, St. Andrew Church in Pasadena, and the fundraising for the Jackie and Mack Robinson Memorial at Pasadena City Hall.
John was frequently called upon to deal with problems that seemed to have no solution, but required the utmost of intelligence, integrity, good judgment, and impeccable reputation. Throughout his long and distinguished career, he was dedicated to Pasadena, its many institutions, and its tradition of civic engagement and public service. At the time of his death, the Los Angeles described him as "a towering political figure" and a person who "lived for the values of justice and opportunity that define the State of California".
Among those who saluted John at the time of death were Warren M.
Christopher, former U.S. Secretary of State, Governor Jerry Brown, Xavier Becerra, California Attorney General, Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer, U.S. Judge Stephen Trott, Mickey Kantor, former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and many others. It is clear to me that during his lifetime he was the best known public and political figure in the City of Pasadena, and a source of great pride among the people of this great city.
John Van de Kamp's home at 801 South San Rafael Avenue for 30 years is surely an eligible landmark in Pasadena and should be recognized as such.
If there is any way I can be helpful in regard to this historic property, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Very truly yours,
dice Bogead
RECEIVED
2022 MAR 21 AM 8:42
Pasadena, CA 91103
January 15, 2021
Ms. Susan Mossman, Director
Mr. Andrew Salimian, Preservation Director
Pasadena Heritage
Pasadena CA 91105
Dear Ms. Mossman and Mr. Salimian:
I write in support of the application of Pasadena Heritage to have the property located at 801 South San Rafael, Pasadena 91105 (sometimes referred to as "the Property") declared an eligible historic resource based on the fact that it was the long-time residence of John K. Van de Kamp, a very distinguished legal, political and business leader of Pasadena, Los Angeles County and the State of California. John and his wife, Andrea, acquired the Property in 1987 and, with their daughter, Diana, resided in it as the Van de Kamp family residence until John's death in 2017.
John was a personal friend. My wife and I met John and Andrea before they married We were introduced at a dinner party hosted by John's parents, Harry and Georgia Van de Kamp. Georgia, herself a force of nature, was an extremely active and effective leader in the Pasadena area, traits which she passed on to John. We became close friends of John and Andrea over the years, playing tennis together and dining in one another's homes frequently. I assisted John in his campaigns for Los Angeles County District Attorney and California Attorney General. He served with distinction in both of those offices and was highly respected nationally. (As an aside, we had as a visitor to our home about 10 years ago former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson who greatly admired John and asked to meet him; I took Governor Richardson to the Property where he and John talked about national affairs for hours.)
After his service as California Attorney General, John turned his focus to Pasadena, the town in which he had been raised, attended schools and lived while serving as an Assistant US Attorney and then the first Federal Public Defender. It was a frequent occurrence for John and Andrea to host events at the Property attended by very distinguished guests. We had the pleasure of being there and meeting, among others, both Governors Edmund G. Brown Senior and Junior, then San Francisco Mayor and now US Senator Dianne Feinstein, former US Trade Representative Micky Cantor and California Treasurer Jesse Unruh. The Property was a well- known site of high-level political gatherings. When John died in 2017, his funeral attendees included a Who's Who group of local, state and national political and governmental leaders. 03/21/2022
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In addition to his political elder statesman activities while residing at the Property, John became increasingly involved in significant local matters. He was instrumental in guiding the Pasadena Education Foundation, chairing its advisory board, meeting with and providing guidance on numerous occasions to the Superintendent of Education and assisting in raising funds to improve Pasadena public schools. He was personally active in the annual Principal for a Day Program which he encouraged me and many others to support. John was also a close advisor to Rachael Worby, the founder and continuing leader of Mus/ique, now a widely acclaimed cultural success in Southern California. Ms. Worby was a frequent dinner guest of the Van de Kamps at the Property.
Finally, while residing at the Property, John was a distinguished business leader. He was for many years the full-time Chairman of the Board of Lawry's Foods, a prominent international restaurant and specialty foods company.
Although this is largely intended to be about John K. Van de Kamp's prominence while residing at the Property, I would be remiss if 1 did not mention that John's wife, Andrea, was also an active and effective leader in the community during that same time period. Among other activities, she was of central importance in helping the City of Pasadena raise funds to restore a different landmark property, The Rose Bowl.
In short, the Property had a very distinguished period during the residence of John K.
Van de Kamp and his wife, Andrea.
Very truly yours
C. Douglas Kranwinkle
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Lynn Kolberg
Sent: Saturday, March 19, 2022 4:44 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Cc: Andrew Salimian; Sue Mossman
Subject: Landmark Nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Ave.
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Dear Members of the City Council,
My name is Lynn Kolberg and I am a former Board Member, current Advocacy Committee Member and former staff member of Pasadena Heritage.
I support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael as a Pasadena Landmark as the former residence of John Van de Kamp, our Attorney General for several years.
During the peak of his success he also kept a home office at the residence. He hosted many distinguished visitors and prominent local, regional and national figures. As an advocate for civil rights, environmental justice and consumer protections, his legacy deserves this added recognition of his home as "the room where it happended."
Landmark status would not prevent future owners from making alterations or additions to the house, but would mark the property as a special place in his honor now and for the future. I hope you can honor John Van de Kamp's legacy in this most appropriate way.
Sincerely,
Lynn Kolberg
03/21/2022
1 Item 12
McMilian, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Ben Saltsman
Sent: Sunday, March 20, 2022 9:10 AM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Landmark Nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Ave.
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Dear Members of the City Council,
My name is Ben Saltsman and I am a Board Member of Pasadena Heritage. I cherish Pasadena's historic and vibrant neighborhoods, sense of place, and commitment to history.
John Van de Kamp was a Pasadena hero, a long-time resident, accomplished attorney, and highly regarded political figure who was dedicated to prominent state, local and regional issues. As Attorney General of California, he has long been recognized as one of the most accomplished political figures from Pasadena. He was a unique and groundbreaking leader for civil rights, environmental justice, and consumer protections. During the height of his success and prominence, he lived at 801 S. San Rafael Ave, where he also kept a home office. Over the years, the house also served as a place to host many distinguished visitors and prominent local, regional and national figures. The house should be recognized as a local landmark in honor of his distinguished career and his contributions.
I therefore support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael as a Pasadena Landmark. Landmark status would not prevent future owners from making alterations or additions to the house, but would mark the property as a special place in his honor now and for the future. I hope you will honor John Van de Kamp's legacy in this most appropriate way.
Sincerely,
Ben Saltsman
03/21/2022
1 Item 12
RECEIVED STEVEN A. PRESTON & JANET WHALEY
2022 MAR 21 AM 8:42 Pasadena, California 91104
By E-Mail to
[email protected]
March 20, 2022
Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
City of Pasadena
100 North Garfield Avenue
Pasadena, California 91101
Subject: Proposed Landmark Designation | 801 S. San Rafael Avenue Dear Mayor Gordo and Members of the City Council:
We are writing today in support of landmark status for the Van De Kamp residence on San Rafael Avenue. We are active members of Pasadena Heritage, and own the Ker- Mahan House, a local landmark structure in Garfield Heights.
This Monday, Pasadena Heritage's landmark nomination for the Van de Kamp Residence goes before the City Council. We hope you will join us in supporting this landmark designation. Here are some of the reasons we support this nomination:
• John Van de Kamp was a Pasadena hero, a long-time resident, accomplished attorney, and highly regarded political figure who was dedicated to local and regional issues. As Attorney General, he is one of the most accomplished political figures from Pasadena, where he advocated for civil rights, environmental justice, and consumer protections.
• During this critical period, he lived at 801 S. San Rafael Ave, where he also kept a home office. Over the years, the house hosted many distinguished visitors, prominent local citizens, regional and national figures. The house should be recognized as a local landmark in honor of his distinguished career and his contributions.
• Landmark status would not prevent future owners from making alterations or additions to the house, but would mark the property in his honor now and for the future. I hope you can honor John Van de Kamp's legacy in this most appropriate way.
03/21/2022
Item 12
Mayor and City Council | Landmark Designation, 801 S. San Rafael Ave. 2 March 20, 2022
The distinctive character of Pasadena is a testament to its sense of place and commitment to history. The significance of this house's association with a leading figure in Pasadena, Southern California and the state merits consideration as a local landmark.
We support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael as a Pasadena Landmark, and request that the Council affirm that designation.
Very truly yours,
Stevend.Pilestov
For Steven A. Preston and Janet Whaley
Copy: Council Member John J. Kennedy, c/o Susan Porras, [email protected] Susan Mossman, Executive Director, Pasadena Heritage
Andrew Salimian, Preservation Director, Pasadena Heritage
RECEIVED
Date: March 20, 2022
To: Mayor Victor Gordo and City of Pasadena Councilmembers 2022 MAR 21 AM 8:42 From: Ann Burckle
Ch*"
Re: Landmark nomination of 801 South San Rafael Avenue, Pasadena After reviewing the documented support for the Landmark nomination of the above referenced property, I ask, "What would John Van de Kamp do?"
My objection with regard to this Landmark effort is founded in the tacit disrespect of the rights of ownership of real estate. There is contingent impact to Landmarking a property as it interrupts the "Bundle of Rights" associated with real estate ownership. Protection of a property that was designed by a notable architect is one thing. However, Landmarking action by a third party source, could provide punitive financial results for the homeowner. This is wrong.
Until recent years, I was an active and contributing member of Pasadena Heritage (Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Education Committee Chair, Craftsman Weekend Committee Chair, financial donor, developer/contributor of several of the historic tours as well as a tour guide). In addition, I have nearly 40 years experience in the real estate field.
With this in mind, I do love the historic nature of the City of Pasadena. Certainly, John Van de Kamp Is part of this historic fabric, and he has been honored, in perpetuity, with the renaming of the La Loma Bridge.
However, noting his legacy with regard to the law in California, he was a champion for the rights of the individual. The method of attaining Landmark status of this property is contrary to the full rights of ownership by the property owners, thereby impacting their individual rights of ownership.
I bet John Van de Kamp would not be an advocate for this Landmark action, considering these circumstances.
Please do not approve the Landmark action for 801 South San Rafael Avenue. 03/21/2022
Item 12
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: George Penner -
Sent: londay, March 21, 2022 8:08 AN
To: ublicComment-AutoRespons
Cc: George Penner
Subject: 801 S. San Rafael Avenue
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From: George Penner
Re: 801 South San Rafael Avenue, Pasadena
I am respectfully writing to you as a proud citizen of Pasadena, a 17 year South San Rafael Avenue resident, and an architectural purist and preservationist - having honorably served as a Pasadena Heritage Board Member for six years.
I believe and endorse the protection of landmarking appropriate structures, based on their architectural significance.
However, any single family property designation, homeowner cooperation must be considered. This process should never be done retroactively, in a vacuum, against city staff recommendations and most importantly, against the wishes of any homeowner.
To my knowledge, the landmarking of a single family home in Pasadena without approval of the homeowner has never been done.
If 801 South San Rafael Avenue is landmarked in this manner, I believe the result could potentially have wider implications, such as:
Reducing property owner rights.
•
• Discouraging current homeowners from undertaking renovations and improvements of their property.
Impact property values negatively.
Limit new residents' consideration of Pasadena due to its inconsistencies around the permitting and approval process.
.
• Increased liability for nondisclosure of a potential unforeseen "future" landmark designation for multiple parties, including:
• current homeowners considering selling, real estate brokerages and their agents, organizations such as Pasadena Heritage, and even the City of Pasadena itself. 1 03/21/2022
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If there is a desire to landmark more single family homes, one suggestion would be to establish an independent commission that would carefully evaluate Pasadena's entire inventory of homes, their architectural significance, and their contribution to the overall design fabric of our city. Once a property has been identified as potentially landmark worthy, the homeowner would be notified and would have the ability to provide input and agreement. Then a complete list could be made public - providing complete transparency and objectivity.
The permits at 801 South San Rafael were approved by highly trained and experienced city staff. Twice they recommended against landmark designation. I support their decisions.
We all treasure the amazing architecture in Pasadena. But more importantly, we need to treasure the individuality of our incredible neighbors, friends and residents.
Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
George Penner
--
George Penner
Chief Executive Officer
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[email protected]
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200 S Los Robles Ave. Suite 100
Pasadena, California 91101
dppre.com historicallydeasypennerpodley
*I have not verified any of the information contained in those documents that were prepared by other people. You will never receive wire instructions or changes to previously provided wire instructions from me or my team. NEVER WIRE FUNDS PRIOR TO CALLING THE ESCROW OFFICER AT THE PHONE NUMBEF PREVIOUSLY PROVIDED TO YOU.•
2 RECEIVED
Roxanne E. Christ 2022 MAR 21 AM 8:43
Pasadena, CA 91105
C. *
March 21, 2022
Dear Mayor Gordo and City Council Members,
I live next door to the former Van de Kamp residence and support the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael Avenue for landmark designation.
My reason for supporting the nomination is simple: it meets the landmark designation criteria.
I believe that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) abused its discretion by denying the nomination on the basis that John Van de Kamp has only been dead for 5 years instead of, say, 50 years. I also believe the HPC's reasoning sets a dangerous precedent that could result in the degradation if not destruction of many homes that qualify for landmark status whose "significant person" owners only recently died.
As a neighbor and someone extremely familiar with this property and its development, I believe the following information may also be relevant to your consideration:
Deborah Rachlin Ross and Rodney Ross, who originally opposed Pasadena Heritage's nomination and continue to do so, no longer own 801 S. San Rafael or live there.
My understanding is that last year, before the Historic Preservation Commission hearing on this matter, Deborah Rachlin Ross and Rodney Ross sold the entity into which they had transferred ownership of the house and that the new beneficial owners of this entity are its current residents David and Grace Chang.
According to the records of the California Secretary of State, as of October 13, 2021, This Old House LLC relocated to New York and replaced Deborah Rachlin as its Managing Member with Alan Wohl. Mr. Wohl is a partner at Mazars USA, LLP, a tax and accounting firm. At the same time, it changed its business purpose from developing real estate to investing in real estate. See Exhibit A.
These changes to This Old House LLC coincided with Mr. and Mrs. Rachlin moving out of the home and the Chang family moving in. Mr. and Mrs. Chang relocated from New York.
In other words, Deborah Rachlin and Rodney Ross, bought the house from Mrs. Van de Kamp and moved in, transferred the house to an LLC, filed an opposition to the home's landmark designation nomination, then sold the interests in the LLC and moved out. They no longer 03/21/2022
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appear to have any legal or beneficial ownership interest in the home and appear not to have had any since as far back as October 13, 2021, if not earlier.' Moreover, This Old House LLC is for all practical purposes an entirely different entity than the one that filed the opposition to this nomination. It is now located in New York, not California.
It is now in the business of real estate investing, not development. And, critically, it has new owners and a new managing member and new governing documents.
So, as a threshold matter, I question whether the respondent in this appeal has standing. For that matter, I wonder whether they had standing at the time of the Historic Preservation Commission hearing. Although the Planning staff evidently did not research or brief this issue as this information may not have been forthcoming or readily available, I believe that "standing" is a non-waivable threshold legal matter which the Historic Preservation Commission may have, in this case, critically overlooked.
Sincerely,
Relento
Roxanne Christ
* Because of a loophole in Proposition 13, transferring the interests in an LLC that holds title to a house (rather than transferring ownership of the house itself) can allow a new owner to avoid a property tax reassessment.
Exhibit A
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Exhibit A
RECEIVED PA
2022 MAR 21 AM 8: 43
RESIDENTS
SOCIATION
C.::
I MINIL
March 20, 2022
Mayor Victor Gordo
Members of the City Council
City of Pasadena
VIA EMAIL
Honorable Mayor Gordo and Councilmembers:
RE: Council Meeting of 21 March 2022, Agenda Item #12, Appeal of Landmark Status of 801 South San Rafael Ave., John Van de Kamp House WPRA strongly supports the staff recommendation for the residence located at 801 South San Rafael Avenue to be designated as a City of Pasadena Landmark. This Monterey Colonial home where Mr. Van de Kamp resided during the most productive and notable period of his remarkable career indubitably meets 'Criterion B' under the Pasadena Municipal Code standards.
John Van de Kamp was the best of Pasadena. His accomplishments-both locally and statewide-are numerous and substantial. He dedicated his life to serving his community, region, and state. He believed in kindness, respect, and fairness in all his dealings. His integrity, humility, and quiet leadership was an inspiration to us all. He lived at 801 South San Rafael Avenue during the ascendancy and apogee of his career, often working in his home office. He welcomed countless prominent persons-of local, regional, and national repute--and crafted in that office potential laws to further consumer protections, civil liberties, and the protection of the environment.
We at the WPRA were extremely fortunate to have Mr. Van de Kamp as a fellow board member. During his long and much-valued tenure on the WPRA Board, he was invariably gracious, knowledgeable, generous, and each of us felt privileged to be working with him.
It is now incumbent upon Pasadena to commemorate and honor the legacy of one of our most distinguished sons by recognizing the importance of the residence where he lived and realized so many of his achievements and his public service. WPRA urges the
WEST PASADENA RESIDENTS' ASSOCIATION
POST OFFICE BOX 50252 • PASADENA, CA 91115
03/21/2022
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Council to support this nomination, and to approve designating his home as a Landmark under Criterion B.
Thank you for your consideration and affirmative vote.
Respectfully,
Dan Beal, President
For the Board of Directors
C: Takako Suzuki, Field Representative, District 6
Sue Mossman, Pasadena Heritage
The WPRA is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the quality of life in southwest Pasadena. We have over 1,000 paid members.
WEST PASADENA RESIDENTS' ASSOCIATION
POST OFFICE BOX 50252 - PASADENA, CA 91115
Iraheta, Alba
To: Robles, Sandra
Subject: RE: 801 S San Rafael Ave
-
From: Andrea Van de Kamp <
Date: March 20, 2022, at 1:07:00 PM PDT
To: Cynthia Kurtz
Subject:801 S San Rafael Ave
Dear Mayor Gordo and Pasadena City Council members,
I am aware that my former home at 801 S. San Rafael Avenue has been nominated and is still under consideration for landmark status. My understanding is that the Historic Preservation Commission voted against this nomination on the basis that the home does not qualify and that this decision was based in part on the fact that my husband, John Van de Kamp, died only five years ago.
I wholly endorse the nomination of 801 S. San Rafael for landmark status. I believe the home does qualify and that the Commission's decision that it does not should be overturned. My late husband, John was a person of importance for the reasons detailed in the Pasadena Heritage nomination materials.
John's many accomplishments and contributions included serving as a two term LA County District Attorney and California Attorney General-two of the most important public offices in the state, if not country.
On a personal note, I remember well the many political and arts world events we held at our home over the years for all manner of public figures, including from the world of politics: Congress members Adam Schiff and Barbara Boxer, former governors Pat Brown and Jerry Brown (and family), former U.S. Trade Representative Mickey Kantor, former ambassador to Germany John Emerson and many, many others. The home served as political salon, wherein John and I often hosted bipartisan dialogues that often found their way into sound public policy. John was unmatched at getting people of different views together, talking and finding common ground.
From the arts world, we hosted artists Chuck Arnoldi and Klaus Oldenburg, architect Frank Gehry, novelist and performer Fanny Flagg, executive and UC Regents Chair Sherry Lansing and director Billy Friedkin and many others. Some of these events were held while I chaired the Board of the Los Angeles County Music Center. I was, by the way, the first woman to do so since Dorothy Chandler herself. Along with then mayor Richard Riordan and philanthropist Eli Broad, I co-chaired the committee which raised the money to build the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and we hosted many of its benefactors and musicians at our home.
So, from the arts world to business to politics, 801 S. San Rafael was where our family's and primarily John's work happened.
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And, of course, 801 S. San Rafael was our treasured family home for 30 years. Having grown up and lived in Pasadena all his life, John was dedicated to Pasadena's governance and culture. Next to God, country and family, John loved Pasadena more than anything.
Importantly, this nomination is not, as I understand it, aimed at constraining any current or future use of the house. Nor is it an effort to unwind changes already made.
Rather, it is about whether the house qualifies and whether the Commission's decision was correct. The principle of this matter is important. John stood, and I stand, for upholding important principles. John would have agreed that Pasadena's commitment to historic preservation and its unique culture are more important than ever.
I think the house qualifies for landmark status and that the Historic Preservation Commission's decision that is does not was incorrect. I urge you to overturn it.
Sincerely,
Andrea L. Van de Kamp