Santa Monica City Council
May 9, 2023

Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles Emergency Eviction Prevention Services: On May 11, 2022, City Council authorized staff to enter into an agreement with LAFLA to

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provide immediate support to expand their capacity to respond to Santa Monica renters who are facing eviction (Attachment H). LAFLA hired additional support staff to manage clerical duties, meeting calendars, client communications, intakes, and administrative assistance for clients to complete benefits and assistance applications, freeing up attorneys to focus on legal work. LAFLA has since increased their capacity through these funds and has served 450 unduplicated Santa Monica residents on 479 active and closed housing cases at FY 22/23 midyear, compared to 352 unduplicated Santa Monica residents on 385 active and closed housing cases for the same time period in FY 2021-22, representing a nearly 28% increase in clients assisted. This increased capacity was especially critical as wide-scale rental assistance programs ended and tenants faced gaps in the moratorium protections. As additional moratorium protections are being lifted, community need will only increase, and as such these services will continue through HOME-ARP funds.

Senior Housing Task Force: Led by Community Services Department (CSD) staff, the interagency Senior Housing Task Force has met continuously via teleconference to help vulnerable senior households maintain stable housing and avoid falling into homelessness. The Task Force participants include the CAO, Code Enforcement, Rent Control, Santa Monica Police and Fire Departments, and non-profit providers including WISE & Healthy Aging, St. Joseph Center, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, and the Community Corporation of Santa Monica. In 2022, the Task Force was expanded to include persons with disabilities of all ages, and the Disability Community Resource Center became an active participant. The group convenes byname case conferencing meetings to develop and implement coordinated action plans to promote health, safety and housing stability for at-risk seniors. In FY2021-22, the Task Force coordinated services for 30 senior households at-risk of homelessness.

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Pillar 2: Addressing the behavioral health needs of vulnerable residents:

Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDTs): As referenced previously in this report, the City continues to invest in MDTs which are staffed by licensed medical and behavioral health clinicians who can deliver immediate and intensive services to people on the street while they wait for shelter placement. The MDTs are managed by The People Concern and include the Homeless Multi-Disciplinary Street Team (HMST) and City + County + Community Team (C3). In 2022, these teams collectively made 10,454 contacts with people experiencing homelessness, provided 833 clients with direct medical or psychiatric services, and placed 59 clients into interim or permanent housing. These teams work collaboratively with the SMPD HLP Team to discuss and address the needs of the City’s most high need people experiencing homelessness.

The wait for housing can be long; MDTs provide services to support people experiencing homelessness where they are and while they wait. In support of this mission, Council has supported the addition of a third C3 Team to start in FY 2023-24.

The two C3 Teams currently operating cover the beach and downtown area; the additional team would cover the balance of the City.

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Success Story
Pictured here is a client with a history of generating 911 calls who was first engaged by the C3 Team in Tongva Park in
September 2021. After overcoming many barriers, including serious medical issues and substance abuse, and being
served by several city departments and contracted providers, he received an EHV and moved into his own apartment in
Santa Monica in December 2022. Here he is seen holding the keys to his new unit!
Community Response Unit: During the FY 2021-23 biennial budget process, Council approved funding for the SMFD to pilot a Community Response Unit (CRU) as a priority project to address homelessness. The CRU is a two-person “peak hour” alternative response unit for low acuity 9-1-1 calls targeting vulnerable populations, including people experiencing homelessness. The CRU works in collaboration with other City staff, especially the Housing and Human Services Division (HHSD) of the Community Services Department and the HLP Team, regional agencies, and nonprofits to provide linkages to local and regional resources for housing and supportive services. Their ability to provide in-depth care and participate in collaborative meetings with partners allows other first responders and emergency room resources to be freed up for higher acuity emergency calls.

In 2022, 18% of all 9-1-1 calls for the SMFD involved people experiencing homelessness. The CRU responded to 288 calls for service, 211 of which were people experiencing homelessness, provided 202 service referrals, kept Fire Engines in service 172 times, and transported 16 patients to a Psychiatric Urgent Care.

Additionally, the CRU collaborated with other service providers in the case management of 47 people experiencing homelessness and 50 vulnerable adults who are housed. During the pilot period, SMFD identified many community benefits to the program, as well as opportunities to further enhance services.

Ideally, the CRU Program would consist of an EMS Battalion Chief/Homeless Liaison, a 40-hour civilian case manager, and a 24-hour staffed CRU. This would enable the

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Department to provide a higher level of service to the community with 24-hour response capabilities and effective follow-up through a dedicated case manager. The Department recognizes the current budget’s funding limitations but hopes to implement the recommended enhancements when funding becomes available.

Until funding to implement the full program becomes available, the Department is proposing to reallocate funds currently dedicated to the CRU to add an EMS Battalion Chief and a contracted case manager which are included in the FY2023-25 Proposed Budget. This proposal will maximize future response capabilities and take a more proactive approach to providing care to our most vulnerable populations.

Creating an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division Chief/Homeless Liaison aligns with the City and Council’s approach to addressing homelessness and will serve as the homeless liaison between SMFD and other City Departments, regional partners, and non-profits. The EMS Chief/Homeless Liaison will also provide better resources, follow-up, and advocacy for our most vulnerable populations and will also prevent housed Santa Monica residents from becoming homeless. The EMS Battalion Chief will be responsible for addressing the changing needs of EMS by evaluating community paramedicine, Mobile Integrated Health Care, changing LEMSA requirements, issues with ambulance capacity and shortages, an increasing number of low acuity calls, and rising ambulance patient offload times impacting units' inability to return to service in a timely manner.

The Fire Department would also like to contract with a service provider to have a dedicated case manager to work with high utilizers of the 9-1-1 system. The firefighters assigned to the CRU have done a great job servicing their clients by providing an alternative 9-1-1 response, on-scene assistance, and navigation to appropriate services. However, the rapidly growing list of clients and their specialized needs has exceeded their capacity and expertise. In addition, limits in the scope of practice for EMTs and Paramedics preclude the CRU from making home visits outside of a 9-1-1 call, further limiting their ability to follow up with patients. Lastly, the case

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coordination they often find themselves performing makes it challenging to remain available to respond to other calls for service.

Adding an EMS Battalion Chief and a dedicated case manager will ensure that the Fire Department can quickly adapt to the evolving needs of the community while maintaining a sustainable and resilient EMS response model.

Therapeutic Transport Program: The City has executed an agreement with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to implement a pilot program to launch a therapeutic transport van, staffed with DMH personnel in the City of Santa Monica. DMH’s Therapeutic Transport Program will co-respond to incoming emergency calls related to, or presumed to involve, non-combative, medically stable individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. The program also offers a supportive and expedited alternative to the transportation needs of acute mentally ill clients requiring additional care. The program is designed to relieve first responder resources to focus on other health and safety priorities. The City has committed $464,000 to fund the program with the hopes of implementing 24/7 DMH Team coverage.

DMH revised the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City to ensure both SMFD and SMPD personnel may request the DMH resource to augment their community response. LA County declared a State of Emergency on Homelessness on January 11, 2023 which allowed DMH to have the authority to approve the MOU and pilot program internally without the final approval of the Board of Supervisors. Santa Monica also expedited MOU approval under the authority of the local emergency proclamation. DMH is still working to confirm the staffing for local teams. The City will be ready to implement the program in the community as soon as DMH has secured staffing for Santa Monica’s program. It is the City’s intent to deploy the DMH team locally as soon as possible, even if 24/7 coverage is not attainable at the program’s onset.

The City’s Office of Emergency Management’s (OEM) dispatch center will be responsible for dispatching the Therapeutic Transport Van to field first responders.

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OEM is also actively coordinating with the 3-1-1 team to provide enhanced customer service to residents calling with non-emergent issues pertaining to homelessness.

Opportunities for collaboration are designed to ensure dispatchers are able to focus on emergent issues and 9-1-1 phone calls, while giving residents and businesses the best resources. 3-1-1 and OEM’s call taking teams are stretched in terms of staffing and call volume and are trying to streamline processes to better manage staff time on these matters.

Alternatives to Incarceration: As detailed earlier in this report, the HLP Team works closely with the CAO’s Criminal Division on the implementation of the ATI Program.

ATI’s purpose is to divert individuals from the criminal justice system and connect them with mental health and substance use disorder support systems.

Behavioral Health Feasibility Study: In October 2022, the City entered into a contract with Initium Health to lead the Behavioral Health Feasibility Study to assess the needs of all populations in Santa Monica including those experiencing homelessness. Initium Health is currently in phase one of a three phase study which includes: facilitating a community engagement process, developing a behavioral health strategy and operational/financial feasibility assessment for a behavioral health center, and conducting a behavioral health center feasibility assessment. The Community Engagement Process started in January 2023 and will solicit feedback from various stakeholders including city departments, commissions, community members, consumers, neighborhood associations, private and public health and human service providers, and members of the City Council. Initium Health will host three Community Listening Sessions in May 2023 which will align with “Mental Health Awareness Month” and be held during the day and evening and in different parts of the City to ensure comprehensive community feedback.

Harm Reduction Syringe Services Program: The Harm Reduction Syringe Services Program (SSP) is a California Department of Public Health (CDPH) authorized and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) funded Harm Reduction Program which supplies resources and education for people who use intravenous

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drugs to prevent overdose deaths and transmission of communicable diseases, increase engagement with other health and social services, and improve public safety.

Venice Family Clinic (VFC) is the SSP provider on the Westside and provides services in Santa Monica once a week for three hours day in places where people experiencing homelessness are most in need. While the State prohibits cities from banning County funded providers to operate an SSP within its borders, cities can contact the County if it has issues with how, when, and where an SSP operates, and the County is obligated to consider those issues. In July 2022, representatives from City departments including the CAO, CMO, CSD, SMFD, and SMPD met with representatives from DPH and VFC to discuss the SSP and community concerns about operating in parks including Reed Park. During this meeting, the City representatives offered several alternative options including an indoor location within the City, an outdoor location near but not in Reed Park, or in a mobile clinic. On September 13, 2022, the City Council approved transmitting a letter requesting that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors support and assist the City of Santa Monica in relocating the SSP from its parks and open spaces to a service rich environment that aligns with the City’s Four Pillar Strategy to address homelessness.

On March 29, 2023, the City was informed that the SSP program would transition to a mobile van model operated by VFC once a week for three hours a day and serve Palisades, Reed, and Tongva Parks. The City will continue to monitor impacts and outcomes as DPH works with VFC to implement this new approach. DPH indicated that it would be open to input from the City regarding alternative locations.

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Pillar 3: Maintaining equitable access to safe, fun, and healthy open spaces:

Homeless Liaison Program: As noted above, much of the HLP work centers around ensuring that parks, public roadways and alleyways, and other public spaces remain safe for all to enjoy. The HLP and other police personnel such as Public Service Officers, Community Service Officers, and Patrol Officers are in public spaces on a daily basis, contacting and engaging individuals in a constitutionally appropriate manner, to ensure that public spaces are safe for all to use and enjoy and are devoid of criminal activity. In November and December, HLP coordinated resources with CSD, Public Works, and social service providers to address growing concerns about quality-of-life issues in and around Tongva Park. Over the course of four weeks, HLP contacted several individuals in the park and provided outreach, and when necessary, enforcement of applicable municipal and state laws. On a number of occasions during these weekly operations, personnel from the Salvation Army assisted people experiencing homelessness with direct transport to housing and substance abuse assistance services outside of Santa Monica. During the month-long operation, 29 unique people experiencing homelessness were engaged:
• 76% were engaged in the park one time and 24% were engaged in the park more than once. The majority of the people experiencing homelessness in the park were not “anchored” there.

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• 52% had no documented service interactions in local or county databases, meaning they have never accessed homeless services, 40% of whom were from another state, and 13% of whom were from another country. • 90% were over 25 years old, with the oldest being 67, and 69% were male.

Shelter, Treatment & Empowerment Program: The CAO’s
Criminal Prosecution Unit is also actively working to
reinvigorate its Homeless Community Court. This longstanding Santa Monica program has seen fewer and fewer participants over the last several years due to
legislative changes in misdemeanor prosecution. In order to keep up the program, the Criminal Prosecution Unit
has applied for grant funding to create a communitybased court program called Shelter, Treatment & Empowerment Program (STEP). HOME-ARP funds will also be used to support STEP. This once-a-month program would be hosted in the City rather the current location of the Airport Courthouse which is located 12 miles outside of the City and would be easier for the unhoused and even low-income population to access. Not only is the Criminal Prosecution Unit looking to bring the Court closer to the City, but it is hoping to hire a full-time Housing Navigator who is responsible for helping remove barriers to housing. This could range from finding residential treatment beds, getting consistent access to medication, assistance in applying for housing vouchers, as well as making sure eligible participants attend their court sessions. The goal of the new program is to use the Housing Navigator as the center piece in helping to remove barriers for those who are unsheltered.

Mariposa Landscaping: HLP works with
Public Works contractor Mariposa
Landscaping who responds in real time to
work with HLP on deconstructing makeshift
shelters and removing debris and litter. Here

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are two photos depicting HLP and Mariposa Landscaping working together to ensure public spaces remain safe and clean.

Encampments: It is important to
note that, if someone calls 911 to
report someone sleeping in an alley
or a person sitting at a bus bench
with several bags, the call is coded
by dispatch as an encampment.

However, such situations do not
meet the HUD definition of an
encampment which is tent cities,
homeless settlements, and
homeless camps. As previously noted in this report, SMPD responded to over 1,800 calls for service related to encampments. Regardless of whether or not the people experiencing homelessness were within an established encampment or camp facility pursuant to the legal confines of Johnson v. City of Grants Pass, SMPD responds to address the community concerns, initiate outreach, begin documentation, and when applicable, enforce local and state laws in a constitutional manner.

Park Improvements: Public Works maintains the City’s 28 parks, public spaces and the 245-acre beach. Groundskeepers, maintenance workers, and custodial staff tend to these spaces including facilities such as bathrooms, showers, and drinking fountains. Recent projects to elevate the public space experience include fencing around the signature Moreton Bay Fig Tree in Tongva Park, and the removal of superfluous seating in Tongva Park as well to reduce incidents of camping and vandalism.

DTSM Parks Ambassadors: The Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM) Ambassadors provide hospitality and maintenance services in the Downtown Santa Monica business assessment zone, and in 2017 expanded their service areas to include Tongva and

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Palisades Parks. Based on the success of the program, in 2019, the City expanded the agreement to add Parks Ambassadors at Reed Park. While not specifically a homeless-based service, all Ambassadors receive specific training on de-escalation, engaging people experiencing homelessness and providing referral information to local/regional social service agencies. DTSM’s Quality of Life (QOL) Ambassadors possess enhanced skills/training and work collaboratively with the City’s outreach teams and first responders to effectively engage people experiencing homelessness while addressing disruptive and unsafe behavior in the downtown area. In line with the City’s commitment to ensuring a clean and safe Santa Monica, Council continued funding for the DTSM Parks Ambassadors through the FY 2022-23 biennial budget. In calendar year 2022, DTSM Ambassadors provided 801 social service referrals, 215 referrals in the downtown area, and 586 in the parks. The results of a recent Request for Proposals for park-based ambassador services, and associated recommendations to continue the program, will be presented to Council on May 23, 2023.

Homeless Support Team: Included in the proposed FY2023-2024 budget is a new pilot program through Public Works called the Homeless Support Team (HoST). Over the past several years, calls from Police, Fire or the City’s 3-1-1 system to Public Works to clean and address homeless encampment or debris-related issues has increased significantly. The escalating need for Public Works staff to assist in these matters draws staff and supply resources away from core duties to maintain public spaces and has the net effect of diminishing the quality of the City’s public spaces, including the beach, parks, public facilities, and other public spaces in the right of way.

The HoST would provide dedicated resources separate from traditional field staff to address encampment “hot spots” with Police and Fire assistance and respond to 3-1-1 requests for homeless-related issues. A key benefit of implementing HoST is that it would allow the other several hundred staff members in Public Works to solely focus on their core duties and elevate the maintenance of the public domain. The team’s geography would cover the entire city. Core duties would be to address waste and debris generated by people experiencing homelessness.

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The HoST would work 5 days per week, similar to many of the Public Works field divisions. Staff is currently developing a staffing schedule that can best service the residents and the city’s peak visitor times, which typically includes at least one weekend day.

West Coast Care Foundation: The West Coast Care Foundation (WCC) currently has a contract for daily homeless outreach services within the areas of the beach and Pier for a total of 25 hours per week or a total of 1,300 hours. WCC develops action plans and provides referrals, case management, Project Homecoming resources, and follow-up services for 250 program clients per year. As the contract expires on June 30, 2023, staff will present a short-term extension for Council consideration in the context of the biennial budget process.

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Pillar 4: Strengthening regional capacity to address homelessness:

End of Line Issues: The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority (Metro) currently has an End of Line policy in which trains and buses are cleared of all riders when they are taken out of service at the “end of line”. This is done to ensure trains and buses are empty before they are returned to secure rail and bus yards for cleaning and maintenance. Santa Monica has four westbound E Line (Expo) trains and four Metro Bus Lines (4, 20, 33, and 720) that discharge all passengers at the end of the line in downtown Santa Monica. On October 20, 2022, the Metro Board of Directors directed their staff to evaluate Metro’s End of Line policy and its impacts on communities such as Santa Monica with a station at the end of the line.

The Santa Monica Department of Transportation (DoT) has been working diligently with City staff and other affected agencies to produce solutions to mitigate the consequences of Metro’s End of Line policy. The issue was discussed in Metro’s General Manager’s Group and DoT staff challenged the members to look at the problem through a wider lens. DoT staff emphasized that transit systems must do more than just push the situation onto local cities and the county departments dedicated to the issue. After that meeting, City/DoT staff held a conference call with City of Long Beach staff to identify problems shared by both communities with the influx of unhoused riders deboarding at Metro end of the line stations late at night.

The City sent the Metro Board of Directors a letter dated December 16, 2022 which asked Metro to evaluate policies and practices that may enable riders to stay onboard rail and bus lines until they are forced to disembark at the end of the night. The City requested to actively engage in Metro’s evaluation process and offered to provide data related to the local impacts that arise when unhoused riders are discharged

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every night. The letter explained that the City’s local infrastructure is insufficient to serve every person experiencing homelessness in the City or the region. The City cannot absorb the inflow of unhoused passengers discharged onto the Downtown Santa Monica Metro Station every night between midnight and 1:00 am.

On January 26, 2023, the Metro Board of Directors received an update on staff’s work regarding the End of Line policy. After consulting with peer transit systems across the country, staff discussed a variety of ideas to improve the situation. The Board approved a motion to ask staff to come back with a full-service homeless outreach plan for all 13 end of the line stations which includes meeting with the impacted cities as part of the process. Metro staff will return to the Board in April 2023 with more results.

Westside Cities Council of Governments: The City is an active member of the Westside Cities Council of Governments (WSCCOG) which engages in regional and cooperative planning and coordination of government services and responsibilities to assist the cities of Beverly Hills, Culver City, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, the City of Los Angeles (Districts 5 and 11) and the County of Los Angeles (Districts, 2, 3 and 4). The City participates in the WSCCOG Homelessness Working Group and receives funding via the Innovations Fund for homeless prevention and housing efforts the grant for which ends on June 30, 2023. Beginning July 1st, WSCCOG will provide funding via a multi-year Local Solutions Fund. In addition to securing and distributing funding to members to address housing and homelessness, the WSCCOG is working on a Westside Regional Behavioral Health Center Feasibility Work Plan. While similar in title, this is distinct from the previously referenced Initium Health led Behavioral Health Feasibility Study but could complement the City’s efforts to address the behavioral health needs of its housed and unhoused populations.

Westside Coalition: The City is a member of the Westside Coalition which is an alliance of 75 organizations, public agencies and faith communities committed to working collaboratively on issues of housing, hunger and health through service coordination, public education and advocacy. In addition to attending the General

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Meetings, the City provides trainings for members the most recent of which was focused on the Eviction Moratorium.

Los Angeles City Council District 11: As referenced earlier in this report, Santa Monica is surrounded by the City of Los Angeles and specifically Council District 11 (CD11) which elected Traci Park in November 2022. Consequently, there are opportunities for the City to engage and work with Councilmember Park and her team.

Los Angeles County Supervisorial District 3: Similar to the relationship building with CD11, City leadership is engaging with Lindsey Horvath who represents Supervisorial District 3 (SD3) and was also elected in November 2022. Although Santa Monica is an independent city within SD3, it is affected by county related policies and procedures and benefits from having a strong rapport with regional leaders.

Regional Investments: In addition to strengthening relationships with new local and regional leaders, Santa Monica may also benefit from increased investments by the City and County of Los Angeles. Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles has declared a State of Emergency on Homelessness and quickly implemented the Inside Safe Program to move people living in encampments into motel rooms and ultimately permanent housing. If these efforts are successful in resolving encampments along Santa Monica borders, and reducing the number of unsheltered people in Los Angeles, Santa Monica may benefit from fewer unsheltered people coming into the City. In addition, the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative recently announced an unprecedented $609.7 million to address homelessness. As the City and County of Los Angeles scale up services and housing and address entrenched encampments on shared borders, Santa Monica hopes to see a residual positive impact. Historically, the majority of the Westside’s interim and permanent housing and services for nonVeterans experiencing homelessness have been in Santa Monica. It is hopeful that, with a more proactive and productive regional response, there will be less of a regional demand on local services.

Costs Related to Addressing Homelessness

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In November 2022, the City’s Internal Auditor, Moss Adams LLP, completed a City of Santa Monica Homelessness Study (Attachment K). The study developed a methodology to account for direct and indirect City costs related to homelessness.

The report noted actual expenditures for FY 2020-21 at $42.5 million. Costs included $12.9 million in direct expenditures on homelessness services and programs and an estimated $29.6 million of general services costs that are attributed to the impacts of homelessness. The $12.9 million ($9.1 million in the General Fund) in direct costs include grants provided to service providers through the City’s Human Services Grants Program (HSGP), and City programs including the HLP Team, Project Homecoming, the CRU, the Homeless Community Court and Library Service Officers.

The $29.6 million in general services costs approximates $25.4 million in public safety costs based on the number of calls for service attributed to homelessness (16.6-18% of all calls), and $4.2 million in Public Works homelessness-related cleaning, custodial, trash pickup and other maintenance of City facilities and infrastructure.

Appendix D of the Moss Adams Homelessness Study report includes a full breakdown of costs by program and funding source (Attachment K). The City will continue to use the same methodology to determine costs in future years.

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Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness
As referenced at the beginning of this report, on February 14, 2023, the City Council voted unanimously to declare a Local Emergency on Homelessness, joining other local jurisdictions including the City of Los Angeles, County of Los Angeles, Culver City, and the City of Long Beach in declaring that more is needed to prevent and address homelessness. Doing so enables the City of Santa Monica to:
• Advocate for additional funding and resources at the county, state, and federal level, positioning the City to receive and deploy new resources as they become available.
• Remove barriers to building affordable housing, including use of anticipated Housing Trust Fund resources to incentivize affordable housing production. • Encourage partners in our region to urgently address the crisis of homelessness.
• Streamline hiring for critical staff positions that are critical to preventing and ending homelessness.

In the last three months, the City has used the Emergency Declaration to fast-track a number of critical efforts:

City Attorney’s Office
The CAO used the Emergency Declaration to expedite the City’s grant application process. The CAO recently completed a Bureau of Justice Administration grant that will help cover the cost of the new program called STEP Court. This 4-year $550,000 grant would allow the CAO to fund a full-time Housing Navigator to help people experiencing homelessness, who come in contact with the criminal justice system, remove barriers to housing. The CAO also used this expediated process to apply and receive a $50,000 grant from the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. This grant will

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be used to help start a Retail Theft Diversion program that will focus on thefts in the City’s downtown area.

Community Services Department:

Using Housing Trust Funds and State funds and leveraging the Emergency Declaration, the City recently made a loan commitment to CCSM for the construction of a future affordable housing development located at 1342 Berkeley Street targeted to young adults (ages 18-24) and low-income households. The Declaration allowed staff to modify the limits set forth in the Housing Trust Fund Plan and Housing Trust Fund Guidelines and quickly make the necessary loan.

In 2021, HUD awarded $2,220,124 in onetime funding to the City of Santa Monica through HOME-ARP. To access HOME-ARP funding, the City developed a HOMEARP Allocation Plan proposing use of HOME-ARP funds for eligible activities benefiting qualifying populations, as defined in HUD’s September 2021 notice regarding requirements for the Use of Funds in the HOME-ARP Program (Attachment Q). HUD approved the City’s plan in March 2023, allowing staff to move forward with using these funds to implement programs and services. The Emergency Declaration is crucial to administering the funds in a “fast-track” manor, as it removes the requirements of time-intensive procurement processes and allows staff to work directly with local service providers to launch programming and get critical services to the community. These funds will be used to modify an existing agreement with LAFLA in order to continue the RTC Program along with existing eviction prevention services.

In addition, these funds will support the CAO’s new STEP Court, and CAO staff are developing a plan with Exodus, a regional mental health and substance use service provider, to start delivering services.

Staff will enter into new agreements with the County of Los Angeles for continued and expanded operation of the C3 Teams and with The People Concern for the continued operation of the HMST under the provisions of the Emergency Declaration. Included in

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this report are requests to authorize staff to enter into contracts associated with the continued operation of the C3 Team and HMST.

Additionally, staff will extend the term of an existing contract with Dorothy Berndt, LCSW. Ms. Berndt provides assistance to formerly homeless voucher holders to stay housed by reconnecting people to supportive services, and/or to coordinate with services agencies, mental health agencies, and case workers. This crucial homelessness prevention work is unfortunately in high demand due to the pandemic and subsequent economic gyrations in the larger market, and challenges among vulnerable tenants. Authorization to execute the modification is included in this report.

Human Resources Department
The provisions of the Emergency Declaration have been applied to place individuals into acting appointments to rebalance workloads in support of addressing and preventing homelessness. The additional flexibility offered will be valuable over the next 12-24 months, particularly as it relates to the ability to extend temporary assignments, place employees in acting assignments who do not meet the current minimum qualifications and provide additional flexibility with regard to the development and certification of eligibility lists.

Office of Emergency Management
The Emergency Declaration expedited a City staff review of an MOU with DMH to implement a pilot program to launch a Therapeutic Transport Van. DMH was able to utilize the Local Emergency for Homelessness that the LA County Supervisors passed on January 10, 2023 to expedite the review and approval of the MOU at the County level.

Santa Monica Police Department
SMPD will leverage the Emergency Declaration to activate new rental cameras. In effect, it will help SMPD obtain the systems more efficiently through a Mobile Camera Deployment Program to help address the issue of homelessness.

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Staff recommends that the Council extend the term of the City’s Emergency Declaration. The crisis of homelessness is far from over as evidenced by the 2023 Point-in-Time Count results. While this report recounts the significant investments the City is making to prevent and address homelessness, more progress is needed in addressing the emergency. The provisions of the Emergency Declaration allow for fast-tracking critical interventions. The continuation of the local emergency will allow the City to quickly and flexibly address the crisis; coordinate with local and regional partners to protect health and safety and mitigate the effects of homelessness; expedite procurement, contracting, and deployment of supplies and services; advocate to and seek relief from regional, state, and federal representatives; prioritize, streamline, accelerate, and expedite use of City resources and processes; expedite and fill essential staff positions, and more. These actions will allow the City to maintain the momentum detailed in this report as well as scale up investments. Staff will report key performance indicators of progress in addressing the emergency in the 2024 Annual Report on Homelessness.

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Next Steps
Moss Adams Recommendations
On March 11, Council authorized the development of a strategic plan to address homelessness, funded on a one-time basis using Measure CS funds. The preparation of a comprehensive Homelessness Strategic Plan (HSP) will build on the City’s Four Pillars framework to set clear policy direction, promote alignment across City stakeholders, and support regional efforts. The HSP will lay out a coordinated and systemic vision for the expansion of the homelessness response system, measurable outcomes and goals, and accompanying strategies. The process to develop the HSP will incorporate Santa Monica’s community partners, people with lived experience of homelessness, service providers, city agencies, and public and private sector partners to align around a clear vision, set of outcomes, and investments. With this plan, the City seeks to increase continuity in an inherently shifting policy environment; improve focus on measurable objectives; and increase internal alignment and regional coordination; all towards the goal of preventing, ending, and addressing homelessness in Santa Monica. Contract award and programming of funds will occur along with the adoption of the FY2023-25 Budget.

Measures CS and GS
The City has the opportunity to expand services addressing homelessness over the next biennial period using two new funding streams, Measure CS and Measure GS, approved by Santa Monica voters in November 2022. The new on-going revenue streams that will be generated through Measures CS and GS will provide the infusion of funds necessary to develop a comprehensive HSP and accelerate the City’s work on addressing homelessness, producing and preserving affordable housing, preventing homelessness, and maintaining clean and safe public spaces.

Initial efforts will be focused on expending Measure CS funds to develop the HSP and to implement investments prioritized in May 2022, with a plan for Measure GS to follow. On March 11, Council considered and supported a set of uses for Measure CS funds directly related to homelessness that were presented by staff in the May 2022

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Update on Local Efforts Addressing the Regional Homelessness Crisis (Attachment H), were included in descriptions for potential use of Measure CS funds leading up to the November 2022 election, were affirmed as high priority recommendations presented by the City’s internal auditor in its November 2022 Homelessness Study (Attachment K), and further confirmed as best uses for these funds by the Council at its March 11, 2023 discussion of priorities. Among the Measure CS funded initiatives addressing homelessness are:
• Preparation of a comprehensive Homelessness Strategic Plan (HSP) with onetime funds (Recommendation 1, Homelessness Study); • Expansion of the City’s homeless multidisciplinary outreach teams’ work beyond the Downtown and Beach area (Recommendation 18, Homelessness Study);
• Redesign of the SAMOSHEL interim housing program to accommodate 24/7 intakes, giving additional options for after-hours intake and facilitating SMPD transports for people experiencing homelessness and non-urgent behavioral health issues (Recommendation 15, Homelessness Study);
• Expansion of the Police Department’s Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) (Recommendation 15, Homelessness Study). Given current vacancy in the Police Department and the lengthy recruitment and training period for the new positions, the Police Department anticipates allocating funds towards the Directed Action Response Team (DaRT), which addresses matters of public safety in the Downtown, Pier and Beach, and to technology upgrades enhancing safety;
• Expansion of public space maintenance investments, including enhancements to ensure higher-risk cleanup activities are performed safely, using an additional, specialized team and higher frequency cleanup efforts focusing on encampments (Recommendation 10, Homelessness Study).

Programming of the funds will occur along with the adoption of the FY 2023-25 Biennial Budget. The Measure CS Advisory Committee will advise the City Manager in

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the programming of these incremental tax revenues before each year’s budget adoption.

Measure GS will provide resources to produce and preserve affordable housing and prevent homelessness at a scale far beyond the City’s current administration of rental assistance programs, disbursement of Housing Trust Funds to support affordable housing projects, and programs to prevent homelessness. Such a significant level of investment presents a ground-breaking opportunity for the City to embark on implementing the recommendations laid out in the Homelessness Study. The volatile nature of this revenue source, especially in its first year, the level of planning that must occur, and the timing of the lawsuit points to a longer horizon for the programming of these funds. However, planning and organizational adjustments can begin as early as FY 2023-24 for what will likely be a multi-year Measure GS implementation strategy. *There is currently a reverse validation action that seeks to invalidate Measure GS.

Because there is no pending request to stay the implementation of the tax, the tax will go into effect on March 1, 2023. The lawsuit may take several months to resolve; as a result, any tax collected and spent by the City would be considered a contingent liability until resolution of the lawsuit.

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Past Council Actions
Meeting Date Description
5/8/17
(Attachment A)
Council received Information Item: Local Homeless Efforts in a Regional Context
3/26/19
(Attachment B)
Council received Annual Homelessness Report and approved the Four-Pillar Strategy
2/23/21
(Attachment C)
Council received Annual Homelessness Report, affirmed City’s existing strategies to address homelessness, affirmed continuation of MDT’s/Parks Ambassadors, and identified priorities for FY21-23 biennial budget process
5/26/21
(Attachment D)
Council reviewed and commented on the FY2021-23 proposed biennial budget, which included $500,000 a year for two years for emergency needs for vulnerable Santa Monicans
9/3/21
(Attachment E)
Council received Information Item: Update on Homelessness Strategies
1/6/22
(Attachment F)
Council received Information Item: Overview of Homeless Outreach and Hygiene Services
2/8/22
(Attachment G)
Council authorized the City Manager to execute a second modification to agreement #10929 with Moss Adams to complete a homeless services delivery audit and Human Services Grants Program grantee monitoring
5/11/2022
(Attachment H)
2022 Annual Update to Council on Homelessness
2/14/2023
(Attachment I)
Declaration of a Local Homelessness Emergency
3/11/2023
(Attachment J)
2023 Council Workshop identifying Addressing Homelessness as a priority for FY 2023-2025 and providing direction on key investments and actions.

Environmental Review
Approval of the Annual Interdepartmental Homelessness Report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines, which states that CEQA does not apply, “where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment”.

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Financial Impacts and Budget Actions
In order to account for and expend FY2022-23 Westside Cities Council of Governments (WSCCOG) Innovation Funds, the following budget changes are required. Future year funding is contingent on Council budget approval.

FY 2022-23 Budget Changes
Establish Revenue Budget Appropriate Funds
Account Number(s) Amount Account Number(s) Amount
20400001.405630 $337,500 20400001.556480.21023 $225,000 20400001.556480.21025 $112,500
Total $337,500 Total $337,500
Staff seeks authority to approve funding from the General Fund, Community Development Block Grant Fund, Miscellaneous Grant Fund, and Special Revenue Source Fund to award contracts listed below.

Contract Request
FY 2023-24
Budget
Request
Amount
Future Years
Amount Vendor Department/CIP Account #
Total Contract
Amount
$1,260,000 $3,780,000 County of Los
Angeles
Housing and Human
Services/552010 $5,040,000
$600,000 $1,800,000 The People
Concern
Housing and Human
Services/552010 $2,400,000
$100,000 $300,000 Exodus Recovery Housing and Human
Services/552010 $400,000
Staff seeks authority to approve funding from the Miscellaneous Grant Fund to increase the amount of Contract 11265 with Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles for the Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel programs.

Contract/Agreement/Purchase Order Modification Request
Agreement #
Current Authorized
Amount
FY 2023-24
Budget
Modified Request
Amount Dept/CIP Account #
Total Revised
Contract Amount
11265 $200,000 $2,100,000 Housing and Human
Services/552010 $2,300,000

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Staff seeks authority to approve funding from the Housing Authority Fund to increase the amount of Contract 10705 with Dorothy Berndt, a California-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to connect at-risk tenants voucher program tenants with local support services to maintain housing stability.

Contract/Agreement/Purchase Order Modification Request
Agreement # Current Authorized
Amount
FY 2023-24 Budget
Modified Request
Amount
Dept/CIP Account # Total Revised
Contract Amount
10705 $265,000 $200,000 Housing and Human
Services/552010 $465,000
Staff will incorporate any budget actions into the City’s FY 2023-25 Biennial Budget.

Future year funding is contingent on Council budget approval.

Prepared By: Achee Stevenson, Senior Human Services Analyst Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:

A. Attachment A: May 8, 2017 Information Item
B. Attachment B: March 26, 2019 Staff Report
C. Attachment C: February 23, 2021 Staff Report
D. Attachment D: May 26, 2021 Staff Report
E. Attachment E: September 3, 2021 Information Item
F. Attachment F: January 6, 2022 Information Item
G. Attachment G: February 8, 2022 Staff Report
H. Attachment H: May 11, 2022 Staff Report
I. Attachment I: City of Santa Monica Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness
J. Attachment J: March 11, 2023 Council Workshop
K. Attachment K: Moss Adams Homelessness Study

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L. Attachment L: HUD 2022 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report to Congress
M. Attachment M: LAHSA 2022 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count Results N. Attachment N: City of Santa Monica Camping Ordinance O. Attachment O: Ellis Act
P. Attachment P: January 11, 2022 Staff Report
Q. Attachment Q: September 13, 2022 Staff Report
R. Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness
S. Written Comments
T. ITEM11.A.Written Comments
U. PowerPoint Presentation

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1 City Council Meeting: May 9, 2023 Santa Monica, California

EXTENSION OF THE PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

SANTA MONICA DECLARING A LOCAL EMERGENCY ON HOMELESSNESS WHEREAS, Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 2.16 empowers the City Manager, as the Director of Emergency Services (“Director”), to request that the City Council proclaim the existence or threatened existence of a local emergency if the City Council is in session;
WHEREAS, the Director has found that it is vitally important to cooperate with other regional agencies to address threats to public health and safety in the City of Santa Monica (“City”) due to the homelessness crisis in the region, which continues to grow, leading to deplorable living conditions and illness and deaths of unhoused and unsheltered persons in the region;
WHEREAS, based on the most recent Homeless Count data from 2022, 582,462 people were experiencing homelessness in the United States, 171,521 in California, 69,144 in Los Angeles County, and 807 in Santa Monica;
WHEREAS, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) conducted a point in time count in March 2022 and estimates that approximately 800 individuals experiencing homelessness were sheltering at the rail and bus rapid transit stations on any given night, and Metro’s current End of Line policy requires deboarding of all passengers and belongings at the end of the line when trains go out of service, resulting in an inflow of unhoused passengers at a time when sufficient resources are not available;

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Packet Pg. 1198 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 2 WHEREAS, homelessness is a complex regional issue that cannot be solved by or ignored by any single community, and the City has an extensive history of deep investments and coordinated efforts with other agencies to prevent and address homelessness;
WHEREAS, in May 2022, the City Council reaffirmed addressing homelessness as a top community priority; the City’s continued strategic investments, with a focus on permanent solutions, have helped to stem the increase in homelessness locally as demonstrated by the 2022 Homeless Count results; nevertheless, the impacts of homelessness are felt sharply on our streets;
WHEREAS, a 2019 report by the California Policy Lab found that 46% of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness reported experiences of trauma or abuse that caused or contributed to their homelessness; further, surveys found that 84% of unsheltered people had physical health conditions, 78% had mental health conditions, and 75% had substance abuse conditions; these challenges are worse for people of color and other marginalized groups who face additional hurdles to accessing housing, healthcare, and employment;
WHEREAS, the City has made investments in each of these areas, as well as advocated at the regional and state level to address homelessness on the scale being experienced in the Los Angeles region;
WHEREAS, it is critical that the City continues to keep our public spaces safe for everyone through enforcement of our local laws;
WHEREAS, the City has implemented a diverse set of strategies to identify the most vulnerable on our streets, repeatedly engage them to establish trust and address

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Packet Pg. 1199 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 3 their needs, connect them with appropriate medical and behavioral health services, and move them into housing while working closely with first responders to keep our community safe;
WHEREAS, the City’s coordinated interdepartmental efforts have historically relied on close collaboration with an emphasis on prioritizing resources for the most vulnerable chronically homeless individuals and judiciously enforcing applicable laws to promote public health and safety, while acknowledging that City resources alone are insufficient to address the region’s pressing crises of homelessness, affordable housing1, systemic racism2 and behavioral health3;
WHEREAS, the City adopted and continues to implement a strategic approach for preventing and addressing homelessness in March 2019, including:

1. Preventing housed Santa Monicans from becoming homeless and increasing affordable housing opportunities;

2. Addressing the behavioral health needs of vulnerable residents;

3. Maintaining equitable access to safe, fun, and healthy open spaces;

4. Strengthening regional capacity to address homelessness; and WHEREAS, conditions evidencing the ongoing crisis of homelessness include the following:
1 California Housing Partnership (2021). Los Angeles County 2021 Affordable Housing Needs Report. https://chpc.net/resources/los-angeles-county-housing-need-report-2021/ 2 Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (2018). Report and Recommendations of the Ad Hoc Committee on Black People Experiencing Homelessness.
https://www.lahsa.org/documents?id=2823https://www.lahsa.org/documents?id=2823-report-andrecommendations-of-the-ad-hoc-committee-on-black-people-experiencing-homelessnessreportand-recommendations-of-the-ad-hoc-committee-on-black-people-experiencing-homelessness 3 California Policy Lab (2019). Health Conditions Among Unsheltered Adults in the U.S. https://www.capolicylab.org/health-conditions-among-unsheltered-adults-in-the-u-s/

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Packet Pg. 1200 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 4 1. An increasing number of calls-for-service to the Police Department attributed to people experiencing homelessness. In 2021, the Police Department received 18,564 calls-for service and in 2022, the Police Department received 19,946 callsfor-service.

2. An increasing number of calls-for-service to the Fire Department attributed to people experiencing homelessness. In 2021, the Fire Department received 2,672 calls-for service and in 2022, the Fire Department received 3,017 calls-for-service.

3. An increasing number of encampments. In 2021, the Police Department responded to 1,630 encampments and in 2022, the Police Department responded to 1,879 encampments.

4. An increase in the number of public death cases attributed to individuals experiencing homelessness. In 2022, the City responded to 20 public death cases.

5. An increase in the number of outdoor fires and arson that resulted in the Fire Department responding to 393 fires in 2022, a 26% increase compared to 2021.

6. An increase in the amount of general debris, encampments and vandalism. An estimated $4 million of the Public Works Department annual maintenance budget is utilized in service of providing facilities and amenities such as clean restrooms, showers, and clean drinking water for the homeless population, as well as cleaning public spaces (beach, parks, Downtown and public right of way) that are heavily utilized by people experiencing homelessness. On average, the Public Works Department estimates that approximately 20-40 concentrated areas of congregation by unhoused residents are serviced weekly.

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Packet Pg. 1201 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 5 7. According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, approximately 207 people a day are rehoused at the same time as 227 become homeless.

WHEREAS, in November 2022, Moss Adams completed a comprehensive study of the City’s homelessness response and prevention efforts and developed a series of recommendations as to how the City can optimize its efforts to address homelessness; WHEREAS, the City is experiencing elevated levels of vacancy throughout the organization and when combined with the staffing shortages that are experienced throughout the County, and inflexible civil service rules, the City struggles to fill positions expeditiously. This hampers the City’s ability to create the necessary organizational capacity to effectively and efficiently implement the programs and services that are needed to address homelessness;
WHEREAS, the City of Culver City, County of Los Angeles, City of Los Angeles, and City of Long Beach, among others in the State, have each declared or proclaimed a local emergency to address homelessness;
WHEREAS, the City is located in Service Planning Area 5 (SPA 5) and falls under the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) Continuum of Care (CoC); WHEREAS, the City is committed to creating new housing opportunities, preserving existing affordable housing, and helping residents keep their housing in Santa Monica. Along with rent control, inclusionary zoning, and the programs of the Housing Authority, allocation of resources from the Housing Trust Fund is one of the key drivers of preserving housing affordability levels in Santa Monica through production of new units and preservation of existing ones;

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Packet Pg. 1202 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 6 WHEREAS, a declaration of local emergency on homelessness would enable the City to:

1. Communicate to local, regional, state and federal partners that the City considers homelessness a regional crisis, warranting the deployment of additional resources;

2. Position the City to receive additional county, state, and federal resources to address the homelessness crisis. More resources are needed and could be deployed for the following:
a. Expanding multi-disciplinary outreach teams to connect individuals experiencing homelessness to local and regional services and housing; b. Providing enhanced supports, including rental assistance, for individuals that are rent burdened to prevent homelessness;
c. Increasing the supply of affordable housing and permanent supportive housing in the City through partnerships with local and regional entities; d. Enhancing public works resources to address the impacts of homelessness, which can be dangerous work that requires specialized training and equipment;
e. Enhancing the City’s public safety response to address impacts of homelessness; this cuts across both police and fire departments that are impacted in multiple ways, including arson, medical calls, etc.; and f. Expanding collaborative solutions that provide valuable services, programs in the areas of mental health, medical support and street medicine, and substance abuse.

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Packet Pg. 1203 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 7 3. Support the City’s work to address behavioral and mental health needs of residents and those experiencing homelessness;

4. Support regional homelessness and prevention planning and strategy through the Westside Cities Council of Governments and Los Angeles County;

5. Streamline and expedite any and all City processes and approvals concerning development, deployment of resources, employment, contracting, grant approvals, receipt, and budgeting, and community activities to assist in expediting services and housing for people who are at-risk of or experiencing homelessness or to address local impacts of homelessness; and

6. Allow the Director to take any and all actions authorized under Chapter 2.16.

WHEREAS, the City is experiencing elevated levels of vacancy throughout the organization, and when combined with the staffing shortages that are experienced throughout the County, and inflexible civil service rules, the City struggles to fill positions expeditiously. This hampers the City’s ability to create the necessary organizational capacity to effectively and efficiently implement the programs and services that are needed to address homelessness;
WHEREAS, Los Angeles is experiencing a massive workforce shortage, the ripple effects of COVID-19 hiring freezes and diminished workforces, which has led to understaffing and problems hiring and retaining staff due to the demands of the work of addressing and preventing homelessness, leading to delays in implementing programs, as reported by the Press Telegram, which cited the delay in implementation of Santa Monica’s therapeutic transport van as an example, the Los Angeles Times, and documented in the Moss Adams report;

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Packet Pg. 1204 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 8 WHEREAS, the City’s efforts to prevent and address homelessness are Council’s top priority, a cross-functional concern, the responsibility of the entire organization, and the Council and community desire a clean and safe Santa Monica. However, the City is experiencing elevated levels of employee vacancy throughout the organization and when combined with the staffing shortages that are experienced throughout the County, and strict civil service rules, the City struggles to fill positions expeditiously, if at all. This hampers the City’s ability to create the necessary organizational capacity to effectively and efficiently implement the programs and services that are needed to address and prevent homelessness and support a clean and safe Santa Monica; WHEREAS, Moss Adams recommended that the City appropriately match staff capacity and resources with community expectations related to homelessness prevention and response. The community’s expectations for additional investments in preventing and addressing homelessness and maintaining public safety were conveyed through the passage of Measure CS and Measure GS in November 2022, which will generate new funding sources specifically for an expansion of City personnel, services, and programs to prevent and address homelessness and maintain a clean and safe community; WHEREAS, on February 14, 2023, the City adopted a Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness (the “Proclamation”) due to the homelessness crisis in the region, which continues to grow, leading to deplorable living conditions and illness and deaths of unhoused and unsheltered persons in the region; WHEREAS, the conditions that existed at the time the Proclamation was adopted continue to persist, and, therefore, the City Council wishes to extend the adopted Proclamation through May 31, 2024, to increase City services and programs to address

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Packet Pg. 1205 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 9 and prevent homelessness, maintain public safety, and maintain a clean and safe community.

NOW THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that a local emergency on homelessness exists in the City of Santa Monica; IT IS FURTHER PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that during the existence of this local emergency the powers, functions, and duties of the emergency organization of the City shall be those prescribed by state law, and by ordinances, proclamations, and resolutions of the City;
IT IS FURTHER PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that the Director shall be empowered to seek, receive, budget, and expend all potential funding sources that may be used to address the homelessness crisis;
IT IS FURTHER PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that the enactment of Emergency Recruitment and Hiring protocols to expedite staffing essential to respond to urgent situations requiring immediate services to protect persons at-risk and experiencing homelessness from life-threatening harm and the public safety and welfare. This entails, with the approval of the City Manager and advice of the Human Resources Director and City Attorney in each case, the deferred or suspended implementation of certain sections of the City Charter and Santa Monica Municipal Code relating to competitive examinations; eligibility lists; and temporary, limited, as needed, and regular appointments, on a case-by-case basis limited to job classifications that address the homelessness emergency as described in this Proclamation, including Charter section 1100 and Municipal Code sections 2.04.060, 2.04.080, 2.04.140, 2.04.180, 2.04.200,

2.04.210, 2.04.250, and 2.04.270. This may allow, as may be necessary, for example, and without limitation:

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Packet Pg. 1206 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 10 1. Making changes to certain job specifications to reflect the current nature of the work or departmental structure without prior Personnel Board approval to expedite service delivery;

2. Appointing a probationary employee to serve in an acting role within a higher classification;

3. Appointing an employee who does not meet all minimum qualifications to serve in a temporary position to provide services to address and prevent homelessness or free up staff capacity elsewhere to address and prevent homelessness;

4. Over hiring (two or more employees in one position) to allow an employee who has resigned with a date certain to transfer knowledge and train their successor, whether that successor is a permanent or temporary employee.

IT IS FURTHER PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that the continuing local emergency be regularly evaluated by the City Council, by referencing actions and key performance indicators of progress in addressing the emergency, which include but are not limited to:

1. Regulatory relief from other jurisdictions and within Los Angeles County agencies to create flexibility to address the crisis;

2. Enactment of an Emergency Procurement Protocol to enable expedited retention of vendors/contractors and acquisition of supplies and services for the provision of services, shelter, and housing to protect persons at-risk and experiencing homelessness from life threatening harm;

3. Coordination with the County of Los Angeles, City of Los Angeles, and LAHSA to address homeless encampments at our shared borders;

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Packet Pg. 1207 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 11 4. Coordination with Metro regarding their evaluation of their End of Line Policy to mitigate the impacts on Santa Monica when passengers are forced to exit their trains when they go out of service;

5. Coordination with CalTrans to protect the health and safety of the community due to the accessibility of CalTrans right-of-way and encampments that occur on CalTrans right-of-way, especially along the embankments of Interstate-10;

6. Coordination with Los Angeles County to expedite the deployment of the Therapeutic Transport Van that will provide a much-needed resource to respond to persons experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis;

7. Advocacy to regional, state and federal legislative representatives and agencies, including but not limited to the County of Los Angeles, LAHSA, the California Housing and Community Development Department, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, the California Department of Social Services, the California Health and Human Services Agency, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to directly allocate resources to the City of Santa Monica to support increased outreach and behavioral health services, emergency response assistance, and production of affordable and permanent supportive housing;

8. Continued deployment of resources to address homeless encampments that pose a threat to health and safety or risk of fire hazard, block the public right-away, or are within 500 feet of sensitive receptors;

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Packet Pg. 1208 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 12 9. Continuation of support of renter’s rights and tenant protections through the City’s Rent Control and Tenant Protection Ordinances; and prioritize evaluation and implementation of revisions and/or extensions to the City’s existing eviction moratoriums;

10.Continuation of public communication and messaging to educate and engage the public about homelessness and the City’s efforts to address homelessness, and engage the unhoused population in the dialogue about the City’s efforts to address homelessness;

11.Evaluation of traffic safety related impacts on unhoused individuals and implementation of mitigation measures to prevent pedestrian related deaths among persons experiencing homelessness;

12.To optimize the City’s work to address homelessness, complete an evaluation of the Moss Adams Homelessness Study and prioritize the implementation of recommendations that align with available local, county, state, and federal resources;

13.In order to maximize Housing Trust Fund resources, complete an evaluation of existing and anticipated Housing Trust Fund resources to determine the ability to make specific resources available quickly while the City pursues longer-term initiatives on City-owned land pursuant to the Housing Element;

14.Streamline, accelerate, and expedite processes which implement Councilapproved policy in the 2021-2029 Housing Element regarding City-owned land identified for affordable housing, such as issuing requests for proposals to identify development teams with demonstrated capacity to design, finance, construct, and

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Packet Pg. 1209 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 13 operate affordable housing and execute agreements and ground leases with selected development teams. The selection of any development teams involving City-owned land would be subject to Council approval;

15.Leverage Housing Trust Fund resources and streamline, accelerate, and expedite the process to review and approve loan commitments for affordable housing developments that serve Santa Monicans who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, or Santa Monica residents and workers. On a case-by-case basis, staff may modify or waive the requirements for process, participation, approvals, and limits set forth in the Housing Trust Fund Plan and Housing Trust Fund Guidelines as well as require additional qualifications for projects such as size, target population, and location in order to achieve the production of affordable housing and permanent supportive housing.

IT IS FURTHER PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that a copy of this Proclamation be forwarded to the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, to be forwarded to the Director of California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, requesting that the Director find it acceptable in accordance with State law; and that the Governor issue a proclamation declaring an emergency in Los Angeles County; that the Governor waive regulations that may hinder response and recovery efforts; that recovery assistance be made available under the California Disaster Assistance Act; and that the State expedite access to State and Federal resources and any other appropriate federal disaster relief programs.

IT IS FURTHER PROCLAIMED AND ORDERED that this Proclamation of Local Emergency shall take effect immediately and that widespread publicity and notice shall

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Packet Pg. 1210 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on 14 be given of this Proclamation throughout the City; and that this Proclamation shall expire on May 31, 2024, unless repealed or extended by Council.

ADOPTED this ____ day of _____, 2023
By: _________________________
David White
City Manager
Approved as to form: Attest:
__________________________ __________________________
Douglas Sloan Denise Anderson-Warren
City Attorney City Clerk

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Packet Pg. 1211 Attachment: Attachment R: Extension of the Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness [Revision 1] (5578 : Update on From: Marc L. Verville
To: Santa Monica City Council Members
Date: 8 May 2023
Re: SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness Summary
In reviewing this update (the “Report”) within the context of other City-issued background information, the report describes the nature of Santa Monica’s homeless crisis as deriving from a highly transient homeless demographic driven by in-migration from other parts of Los Angeles city and Los Angeles County. The report makes the case that the City has very few policy options at its disposal to manage either the in-migration or the consequences of the behavioral issues that define this expanding demographic.

Meanwhile, the Point-In-Time (PIT) count data we do have shows the sheltered total and share of the homeless population declining to 26.5% in 2023 from a high of 58.9% in 2012. The unsheltered total and share are increasing to 73.5% in 2023 from 41.1% in 2012. The total number of unsheltered is 2.16x the level it was in 2012.

Combined with the facts that there have been no families and children in the unsheltered counts and that the behavioral issues noted below affect the unsheltered population and the scenario that is evolving is highly destabilizing. Yet, there is no analysis of why this hugely impactful change is occurring.

Data Issues
The Report also highlights the difficulties in effectively addressing the issues in this crisis that result from the lack of complete or reliable data. This critical data issue was the noted in the November 2022 Moss Adams’ Homeless Study [17] and drove at least 5 (26%) of the 19 observations in the Report.

Homeless Counts and Scope of Outreach – Quantifying the Issue The Point in time (PIT) counts appear to understate the number of homeless individuals that flow through the city when compared to the City’s own Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). The PIT counts could be as low as 20% of the total number of individuals that flow through the city in a year when compared to the years in which the City’s HMIS (aka the Wellsky Community Services system ) was fully functional.

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May 9, 2023

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May 9, 2023

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Packet Pg. 1212 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness

The scope of outreach is confusing since the Report notes that City policy is focused on a small subset of the migratory total of persons experiencing homelessness through its Santa Monica Priority Population (SMPP) register. The City does not state what the number of SMPPqualified persons being managed are within the context of the PIT count totals.

Unsheltered Behavioral Challenges
The Report inexplicably omits any discussion of the behavioral profile of the unsheltered homeless population even though that profile is fundamental to understanding the challenges this crisis presents. The City does outline the unsheltered behavioral issues in its homeless emergency proclamation as “…84% of unsheltered people had physical health conditions, 78% had mental health conditions, and 75% had substance abuse conditions.”. [16] The unsheltered demographic continues to dominate the overall growth in the homeless PIT counts going back to 2009.

Housing and Homelessness
While the Report boldly states that “Homelessness is fundamentally a housing problem” [21], the Report fails to demonstrate any linkage between the highly migratory nature of the Santa Monica-specific homeless population, and its behavioral and financial profiles, as against the City’s stated core initiatives that revolve around affordable housing production. The assertion is a simple axiomatic statement. Affordable housing production is already a state mandate (with its own serious issues).

Homelessness Prevention
As regards to “homelessness prevention”, the Report fails to define the specific risk factors being addressed in the “prevention”. In addition, the Report does not address the affordable unit allocation framework and issues that contradicts the stated link between affordable housing production and “homelessness prevention”. Rent burdening has been a previously defined risk factor for preventing homelessness. Yet, the City has stated that “It is not possible to estimate the number of rent-burdened people who may become unhoused.” [4] That is precisely because the risk of a housed individual becoming unhoused is very low since becoming unhoused is not the first alternative that housed individuals and households look to. [22]
In attempting to force a link between Santa Monica’s homelessness crisis, concepts of “preventing homelessness” and affordable housing production, the Report follows the Moss Adams’ study methodology of simply applying a generic solution based on conventional

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wisdom to a completely unrelated situation. The use of this inappropriate methodology was one of the key reasons that I voted “No” to the acceptance of the Moss Adams Report as the Vice Chair of the City’s Audit Subcommittee on November 28, 2022.

Funding and Resource Allocations
In dealing with resource allocations, the Report focuses on initiatives to secure additional funding but does not discuss the effectiveness of existing funding or how much of the additional funding will reach the street-level issues. In its discussion of expenditures (as detailed below), the Report continues to conflate housing-related expenditures with the homeless programs.

Critical street level resources appear to be declining despite the discussion of new funding. For example, the Report discusses the effectiveness of the SM Fire Department’s Crisis Response Unit (CRU) [18] and then notes that funding is not available to fully staff the unit. The existing funding is proposed to be reallocated to administrative roles, taking the resource off the streets. This conclusion is reached even though another critical crisis transport-related initiative from LA County, the Therapeutic Transport Program, has had deployment to Santa Monica endlessly delayed since first approved in 2020. [19] The Report mentions but does not address the fact that while (a corrected) $8.7 million is the total direct funding of homeless initiatives, $29.6 million of scarce Fire, Police and Public Works resourcing is being siphoned off to manage the effects of the unrestrained in-migration of a behaviorally challenged population. [20] Without a focus on controlling in-migration, the allocation of these critical resources to the growing homeless crisis will only expand, reducing their effectiveness in all other areas of the city.

Conclusions
The Report describes a complete disconnect between the origins, nature and trends of the homeless crisis and the initiatives it is pursuing. A continuing focus on irrelevant solutions within a context of deficient or non-existent data distracts City staff from identifying and targeting the core issues driving our ongoing (and growing) crisis. It also contributes to a misdirected sense of action with the heightened risk of significant misallocation of very scarce resources.

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Without any significant and substantial attempts to control in-migration, and with declining data available to assess the evolving situation, there is no ability to assess the resources required to manage the situation.

Moreover, the Report provides no definition of success and therefore success criteria against which to measure, and therefore design, relevant programs.

As such, this Report paints a picture of a focus on policies designed for other purposes such as meeting the arbitrary RHNA allocations and is therefore unrelated to managing the on-theground homeless crisis. The Report also describes the emphasis on increasing funding receipts but does not translate that into expanded street-level initiatives. Instead, the existing directlyapplicable street-level point policies have substantial administrative burdens that render the expenditures less than effective, in an underfunded environment. Estimating the actual share of each program dollar that gets to the street would be a very worthwhile exercise for the city to conduct.

This Report indicates that the trajectory of the City’s homeless crisis will only get much worse without a fundamental change in focus.

Review of the annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness The update addresses the following areas:

A. Review of the City’s Four Pillar Approach
B. The Regional Context
C. The Local Homeless Service System
D. Roadmap to Permanent Housing
E. Homeless Point in Time Count Results 2023
F. Four Pillars Update (p24)
G. Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness (p46)
H. Next Steps
A. Review of the City’s Four Pillar Approach
See Item F

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B. The Regional Context
The Regional Context summarizes the situation in Santa Monica as a jurisdiction that is unable to exert any control over the in-migration of the highly mobile homeless demographic as a result of its being an enclave within LA City Council District 11 (CD11) which includes Venice.

The situation is then amplified by unilateral LA County transit and services policies that concentrate in-migration of homeless demographic into the city and then incentivize the duration of the stay in the city by concentrating in Santa Monica the provision of substance abuse service centers (the Harm Reduction Syringe Services Program (SSP)) [14] in Santa Monica’s few high-community-value open park areas.

Acknowledging the essentially highly mobile nature of the demographic, the City prioritizes people experiencing homelessness who have a history of living or working in Santa Monica, rather than “passing through” or “recently arrived to” Santa Monica (the Santa Monica Priority Population [SMPP] criteria).

As such, City policy is being acknowledged to address a very small subset of the migratory total of persons experiencing homelessness. The City does not state what the number is of SMPP-qualified persons that are being actively managed.

The missing items in this “Context” section are:

1. The City has not indicated how many of the 2023 PIT homeless count’s 926 individuals qualify as SMPP participants.

2. There is no discussion of what happens to those (likely the vast majority) that are NOT SMPP participants.

3. There is no quantification of the impact of LA Metro’s unilateral End of Line policy decision to convert its rail and bus vehicles into a mobile shelter system. Separate sources indicate that almost 60 homeless individuals are disembarked into SM each evening from the train alone. [13] An additional unknown number are disembarked from the four Metro Bus Lines (4, 20, 33, and 720). All End of Line disembarkations occur in downtown Santa Monica. [9]

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There is no mention of the City delegating it’s responsibility to effectively manage its relationship with LA Metro to the SM neighborhood groups by asking a neighborhood group leader to help by “sending a letter to Metro” objecting to this End of Line practice.

4. While State law prohibits cities from controlling these County Syringe Services Programs (SSP) within city limits, there is no discussion of options for the city to regain leverage over of these operations through some other negotiated means.

C. The Local Homeless Service System
This section starts off by enumerating the factors that limit the City’s agency and includes an unrelated reference to preventing homelessness. Again, there is no discussion of the reach of these initiatives. Do they apply only to those that meet SMPP criteria or is it the entire demographic?
This entire discussion creates complete confusion as to the City’s ability to quantify the problem and direct solutions.

1. The City notes that “Preventing someone from becoming homeless is much less expensive and resource intensive than housing someone once that person is homeless.” Yet, the City has also stated that “It is not possible to estimate the number of rentburdened people who may become unhoused.” [4] Therefore, the city has no idea what risk (if any) it is addressing.

2. In discussing the processes of Interventions, Engagement, Assessment, Stabilization, Verification, Applications, there is no discussion of the capacity of the process to handle the total number of homeless or the share of those qualifying under SMPP. It is not clear that there are even enough resources to manage the SMPP-qualified individuals.

There is also no reference to the PIT count totals in relation to these processes.

3. In the assessment discussion, the City notes that individuals are “…entered into the HMIS and, if so, whether they are currently connected to a service provider.” Moss Adams has noted that “…there is no integration of data across the HMIS, Police, and Fire, (and) the data that can be reported is likely to be duplicated, which in turn impacts the accuracy of performance reporting and monitoring.” [6]

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Even if the data is entered, Moss Adams’ noted in their Report that the City had not restored 3 critical homeless-related data analyst and management positions were eliminated in budget cuts. [7]
Even if the positions are restored, the usefulness of the data is highly questionable since the City has noted that “…in 2021, a major regional nonprofit provider that is not required by federal or local funding to use HMIS moved off of HMIS and onto their own system.” [5] Without integration, this fragmentation of the information has compromised any remaining usefulness of this database.

4. The City notes that it is severely limited in enforcement options due to recently decided case law, District Attorney discretion and Sherriff Department discretion, all of which are beyond the City’s control. No mention is made of alternate strategies to address the issues facing the residents and visitors.

D. Roadmap to Permanent Housing
This section starts with a reference to the Moss Adams’ report asserting that “adequate levels of affordable housing and permanent supportive housing are the most critical components to homelessness prevention and resolution.” It goes on to list the city sites targeted for affordable housing development.

This statement was treated by Moss Adams as axiomatic, without any linkage to the specific issues facing Santa Monica. In discussions with Moss Adams, it was clarified that the statement was based on generic “Best Practices.” [7] This generic policy statement was not otherwise related or linked to the specific issues driving the homeless crisis in the city of Santa Monica.

There is no definition of what the risk factors are for “preventing homelessness” nor is there any linkage as to how affordable housing (which is income-based) is relevant to the existing migratory homeless population in the city.

With only very rare exceptions does the city’s homelessness crisis have anything to do with the city’s housing situation, despite strenuous attempts to link the two.

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1. While the Report notes that the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) estimates approximately 207 people a day are rehoused at the same time as 227 become homeless, there is no indication of what these statistics represent (e.g., previously housed homeless losing shelter) or any linkage to what is happening in Santa Monica.

2. While not defined in this Report, other City pronouncements have defined a key risk metric of potential homelessness as rent burdening, defined as a household paying more than 50% of income on rent.[6] There is no mention of such households accessing more affordable rental accommodations in locales other than Santa Monica, as would be the normal course. Thus, the actual correlation of rent burdening, as defined, to actual homelessness is therefore entirely speculative and unsupported.

In response to a direct question, the City noted that “It is not possible to estimate the number of rent-burdened people who may become unhoused.” [4]

3. The City has no idea how many residents may even be “rent burdened” by its own definition [11] and therefore has no idea what the linkage there is, if any, between a “rent burdened condition” and the city’s homeless demographic.

4. The actual scale of “rent burdened” households among the city’s 46,700 households appears to be incredibly small and therefore manageable with targeted City financial programs. The City notes in the Report that “The HOME Program alleviates the rent burden of 30 participants who may otherwise have ended up homeless.” [14] A program specifically tailored to provide rent supplements to those with rent burdens greater than 50% of income generated approximately 531 qualified applicants. [11]

5. Rent burdening is not specifically included in the City’s enumerated Affordable Housing access priority levels. Given the 8,931 applicants to the City’s Below Market Housing (BMH) program at 06-30-2022 [8], the City has effectively eliminated affordable housing as an option to the very “rent burdened” demographic it identifies as facing the worst possible housing outcome – homelessness.

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Packet Pg. 1219 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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6. Even if the City wanted to include residents that are “rent burdened” as the top priority in its BMH program prioritization, it could be legally precluded from doing so since it could be construed as a form of indirect discrimination based on race (depending on the interpretation of the city’s demographics). This issue has also gone unaddressed.

7. There is no mention of how many (if any) of the existing affordable housing applicants are homeless individuals living in interim housing. As of 06-30-2022, there were 8,931 active applications for openings in the city’s 4,578 affordable units. [23]

8. The $42.5 million in “Costs Related to Addressing Homelessness” includes $33.9 million in indirect costs, housing subsidies and staff administrative costs. Actual direct expenditures on homelessness initiatives are $8.6 million [12]

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Packet Pg. 1220 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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E. Homeless Point in Time Count Results 2023
The Point-in-Time count discussion paints a picture of very high transiency. The city has noted that “a significant portion of the people experiencing homelessness are here temporarily”…reflecting “the transient nature of homelessness.” [4] The demographic profile described by the statistics and the issues raised by the data are at compete odds with the assumptions of an essentially static population that the city’s housing and service initiatives require to be effective on an individual city level.

While there is no mention in the Report about the spike in homeless counts that accompanied the opening of the Metro rail line in 2016, there is a clear step change (+27%) in the counts pre (2016) and post (2017) the start of the Metro Line in May 2016. The 2023 PIT homeless count increased by 119 (15%) individuals since 2022. [2] The chart below summarizes the 2022 count within the context of the last 14 years.

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Packet Pg. 1221 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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1. The Report describes a highly transient demographic and admits that it has no idea how many (if any) are just passing through or are long term. The City notes that:
“As stated before, Santa Monica’s boundaries are porous, and the city is the “end of the line” for Metro’s bus and rail lines. There is a daily influx and outflow of people. Some people who were counted in January were likely passing through Santa Monica or recently arrived. Others may have been here for years or decades.” [24]

2. Given the very high levels of transiency in this homeless demographic, using only PIT counts significantly masks actual number of homeless individuals that flow through the city in any given year. As an indicative measure for years 2018, 2019 and 2020, where the City’s HMIS was fully operational [5], the PIT counts represented between 14% and 19% of total unique homeless individuals interacting with City services (see chart below).

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3. Even with a maintained HMIS system during those years, the City notes that the numbers are not entirely reliable since there were significant deficiencies in the data (see C.3. above). That said, the magnitudes are indicative of the underlying trends.

4. Current visibility into the level of transiency has been further obscured by the decision of a major regional nonprofit provider moved off of HMIS and onto their own system.

This has prevented the City from supplying relevant HMIS-sourced statistics for 2021 and 2022. [5]

5. The Report does not address the distinct underlying trends in the PIT counts between the sheltered and unsheltered components that can be used as directional indicators:

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5. Unhoused individuals increased by 73 (12%). These increases occurred despite a countywide eviction moratorium being in place since 2020 (and ending on 04-23-2023), eliminating loss of housing as a causal factor.

6. The 11% decrease in overall homelessness in 2022 as compared to 2020 was noted as being driven by “the significant reduction in the local shelter capacity”. [3] This rational does not align with the fact that the unhoused population count was flat during those periods, at 601 in 2020 and 608 in 2022. If the demographic was not preponderantly transient, the lack of shelter would have driven up the unhoused counts. There is no discussion of shelter capacity, despite the dramatic declines in the sheltered population (see chart below)

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Packet Pg. 1224 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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7. The Report does not address why the share of unsheltered individuals has been steadily climbing since 2010.

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8. The Report does not address why the total number and share of Sheltered of individuals has been declining since 2012.
a. Are the number of shelter beds declining?
b. Are other jurisdictions taking a greater share of the shelter beds available? c. Is the number of homeless families and children declining?

9. The Report notes that “as in previous years, no families or unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness were observed during the street count” [1] This observation is made without reference to the fact that the sheltered count has been in general decline since 2012, indicating that the homeless demographic is trending towards individuals, with anecdotal evidence indicating that it is almost exclusively male.

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Packet Pg. 1226 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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10. The Report notes that the 11% decrease in overall homelessness in 2022 as compared to 2020 was noted as being driven by “the significant reduction in the local shelter capacity”. [3]
It’s not clear that is a causal factor since there has been an ongoing decline in the sheltered homeless population since 2009 (see chart above). The Report is silent on both this trend and its cause. Have shelter/institution beds been in overall decline during the entire period?

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Packet Pg. 1227 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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F. Four Pillars Update
In this section, the City covers the “Four Pillars” listed as:
• Preventing housed Santa Monicans from becoming homeless and increasing affordable housing opportunities;
• Addressing the behavioral health needs of vulnerable residents; • Maintaining equitable access to safe, fun, and healthy open spaces; and • Strengthening regional capacity to address homelessness.

The entire discussion surrounding preventing homelessness and increasing affordable housing continues to revolve around an axiomatic assumption of housing initiative applicability to this city’s homeless crisis. As described above, no demonstrable link has been established by the City related to the Santa Monica-specific homeless crisis. Even the discussion around the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles’ (LAFLA) Emergency Eviction Prevention Services simply assumes a link to preventing homelessness. It does not contemplate tenant relocation to other, less expensive locales as a personal tenant solution option.

The Report, and the external data cites above, supports the opposite conclusion – that there is no link. Therefore, this constant refrain by the City linking the housing policies to the homeless crisis appears to be entirely opportunistic, in support of a completely separate agenda.

In the section dealing with “Addressing the behavioral health needs of vulnerable residents”, the story is of under-funding and ineffective programs. Consequently, the discussion is focused on process rather than outcomes.

Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDTs) section: We learn that The People Concern (TPC) made 10,454 contacts in 2022 of homeless individuals. We have no idea what the number of unique individuals contacted was or if they are all from SM. Of these contacts, only 59 individuals obtained interim or permanent housing.

Community Response Unit: This a pilot program of 2 SMFD individuals who have direct contact with the homeless population to expedite movement off the street. This unit was supposed to lead to a fully staffed 6-8 person team. Instead, the unit looks to be disbanded for lack of funds with the existing funding being reallocated to administrative uses.

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Therapeutic Transport Program: This is a promised mental health van from LA County that has been promised since October of 2020 but has yet to materialize. [15] In the section titled “Strengthening regional capacity to address homelessness”, the regional agencies are discussed but there is no discussion of their policy risks to SM or of any SM strategy to more effectively deal with the issues.

In the section “Costs Related to Addressing Homelessness”, the City notes direct expenditures of $12.9 million [12] which is, in reality, only $8.7 million with the difference being inclusion of more housing-related expenditures that are unrelated to direct homeless initiatives. This is in a city with a budget of around $600 million. Even then, there is no discussion of how much of the $8.7 million actually gets to the streets and how much is absorbed in program administration.

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Packet Pg. 1229 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Evaluation of SM City Council 9 May 2023 Agenda Item 11.A.

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References
[1] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.22
[2] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.21
Santa Monica Housing Element 2022, Appendix I Table 11 (Page 147) https://www.santamonica.gov/media/Housing-Element-Update-2021-to-2029/Final%20Draft%20Appendix%20I%20Final%20AFH%20Clean.pdf [3] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.21
[4] Responses to Questions Regarding the Homelessness Study Brought Forth by Audit Subcommittee Member Verville at the November 28, 2022 Audit Subcommittee Meeting https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Responses%20to%20Questions%20Regarding%20the%20Homelessness%20Study.pdf [5] Public Records Request of January 13, 2023., Reference # R020564-011323 [6] City of SM Homelessness Study – Final (Moss Adams) – Updated 11-30-2022 p67 https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Departments/Council/Audit_Comm/City%20of%20Santa%20Monica%20Homelessness %20Study%20FINAL_Update%2011.30.22.pdf
[7] City of SM Homelessness Study – Final (Moss Adams) – Updated 11-30-2022 p58 https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Departments/Council/Audit_Comm/City%20of%20Santa%20Monica%20Homelessness %20Study%20FINAL_Update%2011.30.22.pdf
[8] City of SM Homelessness Study – Final (Moss Adams) – Updated 11-30-2022 pgs 65 & 66 https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Departments/Council/Audit_Comm/City%20of%20Santa%20Monica%20Homelessness %20Study%20FINAL_Update%2011.30.22.pdf
[9] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.42
[10] Not used.

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[11] No Reliable Data to Support Key Housing Number – SM Lookout 02-14-2023 https://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2023/February2023/02_14_2023_No_Reliable_Data_to_Support_Key_Housing_Number.html [12] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.45
City of Santa Monica Homelessness Study – Final (Moss Adams) – Updated 11-30-2022 Appendix D
[13] LA Metro survey: About 600 homeless riders exit nightly when train service ends | LA Daily News 04-29-2023
https://www.dailynews.com/2023/04/28/la-metro-survey-about-600-homeless-riders-exit-nightly-when-train-service-ends/ [14] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.35
[15] SMCC 2021-02-08 - Item 8.A. - Efforts to Address Homelessness - CRU & DMH - Staff Report 4430 (Snapshot-32313)
Santa Monica City Council Meeting: February 23, 2021 Agenda Item: 8.A. http://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=None&MeetingID=1261&MediaPosition =&ID=4430&CssClass=
[16] Proclamation of the City Council of the City of Santa Monica Declaring a Local Emergency on Homelessness issued on February 14, 2023
https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=1353&MediaPosition=&ID =5596&CssClass=
[17] City of SM Homelessness Study – Final (Moss Adams) – Updated 11-30-2022 Observations #2, #3, #6, #12, #19 pgs 7-11
https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Departments/Council/Audit_Comm/City%20of%2 0Santa%20Monica%20Homelessness%20Study%20FINAL_Update%2011.30.22.pdf [18] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.32

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[19] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.34
[20] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.45
[21] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.6
[22] Predicting and Preventing Homelessness in Los Angeles - CalPolicyLab SEP 2019 p.5 https://www.capolicylab.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Predicting_and_Preventing_Homelessness_in_Los_Angeles.pdf [23] City of SM Homelessness Study – Final (Moss Adams) – Updated 11-30-2022 p.66 https://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Departments/Council/Audit_Comm/City%20of%2 0Santa%20Monica%20Homelessness%20Study%20FINAL_Update%2011.30.22.pdf [24] Annual Interdepartmental Update on Addressing Homelessness SMCC 05-09-2023 Item 11.A. (Snapshot-41059) p.22

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Packet Pg. 1232 Attachment: Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Kelsey NaPier <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:10 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Public Comment on City Council Homelessness Topic

EXTERNAL
Dear City of Santa Monica,
Publicly traded companies produce quarterly earnings reports for their shareholders.  Reporting clear metrics, trends, goals, and progress towards these goals helps investors understand how the company is performing.

Homelessness has been declared a state of emergency.  Would you consider hosting monthly updates, similar to shareholder reports, to directly address homelessness in Santa Monica?  Our city is not safe and we need clearly defined and quantifiable updates as taxpayers.  Please consider Instagram live as a tool.  Josh Green, the Governor of Hawaii, effectively used instagram to communicate daily covid updates during the pandemic, and they are not home to “Silicon Beach”!
The city of Santa Monica’s instagram has 28.6k followers, yet it rarely posts.  We need transparent and easily accessible information on digital platforms updating Santa Monicans on the homeless crisis and the efforts of our elected representatives to address these critical issues, as soon as possible.

Here is a link to Governor Josh Green’s Instagram:

Governor Josh Green (@govjoshgreen) •
Instagram photos and videos
instagram.com
Thank you,
Kelsey NaPier
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ITEM 11.A.

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11.A.t
Packet Pg. 1233 Attachment: ITEM11.A.Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) From: Cathie Lamm
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: NO MORE MONEY TO HOUSE DANGEROUS ADDICTS‼‼‼‼
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 10:48:33 AM

EXTERNAL
Question: Do you think the homeless on our streets are there because they were local residents whose rent was raised $150? (Of course not)
Are you concerned that a lot of the homeless arrested are career felons from out of state with warrants? (You should be)
Do you think these are people from other counties and states who have problems with addiction and mental health? (Absolutely)
And if you think that's the case, do you think that just sticking them in housing without treating their underlying conditions is going to solve their problems? (It won’t) Please wake up and start doing what is right! Stop wasting our tax money on something that doesn’t work, hasn’t worked and will not work!
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023

11.A.t
Packet Pg. 1234 Attachment: ITEM11.A.Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Other Office Locations:

Ron Olson Justice Center, 1550 W. 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 East Los Angeles, 5301 Whittier Blvd., 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90022 Long Beach, 601 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802
South Los Angeles, 7000 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90003 Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
1640 5th St., Suite 124
Santa Monica, CA 90401
May 9, 2023

VIA E-MAIL
[email protected]
Mayor Davis and City Council
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: May 9, 2023 City Council Special Meeting – Agenda Items 11.A and 11.B Specifically Item 11.A(7): Authorization for City Manager to Execute First Modification to Agreement with LAFLA for the Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel programs; and, Item 11.B: HSGP Funding Recommendations Dear Mayor and City Council,
I write on behalf of the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (“LAFLA”), and the low-income residents of Santa Monica we serve every day. LAFLA’s Santa Monica community office has served residents for nearly 30 years and seeks to continue its hard work going forward. We offer free legal assistance and representation in: (i) housing disputes and eviction cases; (ii) applications for domestic violence restraining orders and family law orders; and (iii) access and maintenance of public benefits. To that end, we support the staff recommendations in Items

11.A(7) and 11.B.

Item 11.A(7): Funding for Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel Programs According to the Judicial Council of California, “Eviction is one of the most urgent civil law issues for low-income individuals and families.” We agree. As you know, Santa Monica residents are at greater risk of homelessness and housing insecurity than ever before. Between the Right to Counsel program and our HSGP housing work, we have seen a nearly 28% increase in unduplicated Santa Monica residents assisted with housing cases from January 1, 2022 to January 1, 2023. We only see that number increasing in the future.

Further, a study by Stout Risius Ross, LLC (Stout) found that in the County of Los Angeles, 97% of tenants with unsealed eviction cases were unrepresented, as opposed to only 12% of landlords.

Stout’s analysis of court-assigned case outcomes for unrepresented tenants indicated that 94% of ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023

11.A.t
Packet Pg. 1235 Attachment: ITEM11.A.Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) May 9, 2023
2 unrepresented tenants had a high likelihood of experiencing disruptive displacement through the eviction process.

We seek to stem the tide of disruptive displacement to the benefit of tenants and their families, as well as the community as a whole. The City of Santa Monica is in a unique position of having both the resources to address the plight of unrepresented tenants, as well as the practical ability to implement such a program. The continued funding of the Santa Monica Right to Counsel program should be an example to the rest of the county.

In the last 12 months of the Right to Counsel program, in cases where we have provided representation in the unlawful detainer litigation, roughly 70% of tenants have remained in their housing, with the other 30% granted some combination of additional time, a waiver, a sealed record, or a soft landing in new housing. Indeed, representation in unlawful detainers is homelessness prevention, and the program has been successful.

As such, we appreciate the counsel’s consideration of this funding, and its commitment to address the ongoing homelessness crisis. We support the recommendation of staff in Item

11.A(7) as part of a larger strategy to address homelessness and housing insecurity in Santa Monica.

Item 11.B: HSGP Funding Recommendations – Community Office and Domestic Violence Clinic in Santa Monica Courthouse
The LAFLA community office has been a fixture in Santa Monica for nearly three decades. In addition to the vital litigation work addressed above, this HSGP funded program also engages in a large amount of pre-litigation prevention work, finding solutions so tenants and their landlords never have to go to court in the first place. While these attorneys also engage in plenty of unlawful detainer litigation (alongside the Right to Counsel program), there is an emphasis on problem-solving and engagement to avoid litigation where possible.

We further support the staff recommendation to continue funding our long-running domestic violence clinic in the Santa Monica courthouse. The need to protect domestic violence survivors continues to grow. Studies have shown that intimate partner violence increased during the pandemic, even if reporting of that violence did not. However, more survivors are seeking protection as restrictions and the pandemic has lessened. As of January 1, 2023, we saw a nearly 35% increase in Santa Monica residents who received legal services from the DV Clinic compared to the same time in 2022.

LAFLA provides this vital assistance to survivors of domestic violence, as well as support in divorce, custody, and child support cases in a manner most convenient for the client, whether that be through Zoom or in-person assistance. This blended model allows us to serve traditionally hard-to-reach clients and provides the widest access to survivors seeking protection from domestic violence.

ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023

11.A.t
Packet Pg. 1236 Attachment: ITEM11.A.Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) May 9, 2023
3 Finally, HSGP also funds our benefits work for Santa Monica residents. LAFLA provides advice and support regarding government benefits such as Social Security, SSI, Food Stamps, and CalWORKs. Especially in light of the economic hardships experienced by so many due to COVID-19, keeping residents connected to these benefits is essential to their well-being.

Conclusion
All of these services are part and parcel with LAFLA’s holistic treatment of our clients, recognizing their issues are multi-faceted and often require more than one type of support to resolve. Accordingly, we support the recommendations of staff with regard to the Right to Counsel program in Item 11.A(7) and the HSGP funding outlined in Item 11.B.

Very truly yours,
Kevin F. Mitchell
Managing Attorney
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023

11.A.t
Packet Pg. 1237 Attachment: ITEM11.A.Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) From: Tara Barauskas
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 11A - 5-9-23
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:44:06 AM
Importance: High

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and Members of the City Council,
I’m writing to express my support for the efforts the City has made, as outlined in Item 11A. The City of Santa Monica has demonstrated its commitment to diversity and inclusiveness over many decades, by providing strong support for the production and preservation of affordable housing. The people that live in Community Corp. housing provide workforce to many important jobs in the community that simply pay less – for example, grocery store workers, construction workers, hospitality and retail workers, people who work in schools and childcare. Without affordable housing such as we and other organizations provide, there would not be the possibility for many of these families to live in Santa Monica and they would need to live hours away. Without affordable rents, some of these households would likely be homeless, and some of our residents have been homeless and now are stably housed. We appreciate the efforts of the City to address homelessness through a variety of means, including an array of services, as well as supporting the production of long-term, permanent housing for people of modest means. This is a long-term strategy to prevent homelessness and is critically important in our collective goals of making sure everyone has a dignified, safe place to live. Thank you to the City leadership and staff who makes this work possible.

Tara
Tara Barauskas, LEED AP
Executive Director
Community Corporation of Santa Monica
1423 2nd Street, Suite B
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 394-8487 ext. 133
[email protected]
www.communitycorp.org
I acknowledge with respect and gratitude the Tongva, Kizh, and Chumash Peoples on whose traditional territory I live and work.

ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.A.

May 9, 2023

11.A.t
Packet Pg. 1238 Attachment: ITEM11.A.Written Comments (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Update on Homelessness
City Council Meeting - May 9, 2023

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1239 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Introduction
Message from the
City Manager
2 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1240 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) What does it take to get someone off the street?
3 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1241 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 4 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1242 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 15% Increase in People Experiencing Homelessness
5 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1243 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Greater Increase in Shelter Count than in Street Count
6 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1244 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Increase in
Downtown
but Decrease
in Beach
Areas
7 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1245 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Four Pillar Approach
8 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1246 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 9 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1247 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 1
– Key Activities
10 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1248 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 1 - Next Steps / Investments
• Las Flores – 73 units
• 1819 Pico – 48 units
• The Laurel – 57 units
• Little Berkeley – 13 units
• 1318 4th Street – at least 100 units
• 20 affordable units in market rate buildings
• Continue LAFLA Right to Counsel and
Eviction Prevention with HOME-ARP dollars
11 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1249 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 12 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1250 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 2
– Key Activities
13 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1251 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 2 - Next Steps / Investments
14 • Third C3 Outreach Team
• Continue MDTs
• Therapeutic Transport Van
• EMS Battalion Chief and CRU case
manager
• SAMOSHEL 24/7 capacity
• Initium Phase 1 Community Engagement
Process

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1252 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 15 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1253 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 3
– Key Activities
16 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1254 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 3 - Next Steps / Investments
• Shelter, Treatment, & Empowerment
Program (STEP)
• Homeless Support Team (HoST)
• HLP Team expansion
• 3-1-1 Responsive Outreach Team
17 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1255 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) 18 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1256 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 4 - Key Activities
19 Review of Metro’s
End of Line Policy
Requests for
Additional Services
from Metro
Ongoing
Discussions

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1257 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Pillar 4 - Next Steps / Investments
• Requests of Metro
• Los Angeles County
Homeless Initiative
Local Solutions Fund
20 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1258 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Declaration of Local Emergency
21 Expedited Grant Applications
Expedited MOUs to Pilot New
Programs
Continued & Expanded Programs
Fast Tracked Funding
Made Affordable Housing Loan
Commitments
Rebalanced Workloads

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1259 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Where we go from here:
22 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1260 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Next Steps
23 • New affordable and PSH developments
• Continue Right to Counsel Program
• Continue Eviction Prevention Assistance
• Additional C3 Outreach Team
• Continue Multidisciplinary Street Teams
• Implement Therapeutic Transport Program
• New CRU Case Manager and EMS Battalion Chief
• Redesign SAMOSHEL for 24/7 intakes
• Behavioral Health Feasibility Study Community Engagement • Create Shelter, Treatment, and Empowerment Program (STEP) • Pilot Homeless Support Team (HoST)
• Expand HLP Team
• Launch 3-1-1 Responsive Outreach Team
• Requests of Metro
• Increase in County Local Solutions Fund

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1261 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Next Steps – Moss Adams Recommendations
24 Create Homelessness
Strategic Plan
Expand HLP Team
Expand C3 Outreach Team
Redesign SAMOSHEL
for 24/7 Intakes
Pilot Homelessness
Support Team
Invest in Affordable Housing

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1262 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) For Council
Consideration:

Recommended
Actions
25 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1263 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Staff Recommends that the City Council:

1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.

2. Review and comment on the 2023 Annual Interdepartmental Homelessness Report and provide staff with guidance on implementing next steps.

3. Extend the Proclamation of Local Emergency on Homelessness through May 31, 2024, unless repealed or extended by Council, due to the ongoing crisis of homelessness as evidenced by the 2023 increase in the Point-In-Time Count.

4. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with the County of Los Angeles for operation of the City + County + Community (C3) Homeless Outreach Teams. This award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to Sections 2.24.250 (i) and 2.24.240 (a) of the Santa Monica Municipal Code (“SMMC”) and is for a term of four years at a total amount not-to-exceed $5,040,000, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval. 26 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1264 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Staff Recommends that the City Council:

5. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with The People Concern for operation of the Homeless Multidisciplinary Street Team (HMST). This award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to SMMC Sections 2.24.250 (i) and 2.24.240 (a) and is for a term of four years at a total amount not to exceed $2,400,000, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.

6. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with Exodus Recovery for the Services, Treatment & Empowerment Program (STEP). This award is made as an exception to the competitive bidding process pursuant to SMMC Sections 2.24.250 (i) and 2.24.240 (a) and is for a term of 4 years at a total amount not-to-exceed $400,000, with future year funding contingent on Council budget approval.

7. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a first modification to agreement #11265 (CCS) in the amount of $2,100,000 with Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles for the Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel programs. This proposed modification would also extend the term through June 30, 2027, resulting in a five-year amended agreement with a new total amount not-to-exceed $2,300,000, with future year funding contingent upon Council budget approval.
27 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1265 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Staff Recommends that the City Council:

8. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a first modification to agreement #10705 (CCS) in the amount not to exceed $200,000 with Dorothy Berndt, a California-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to connect at-risk voucher program tenants with local support services to maintain housing stability. This proposed modification would extend the term through June 30, 2025, resulting in a seven-year amended agreement with a new total amount not-to-exceed $465,000, with future year funding contingent upon Council budget approval.

9. Authorize budget changes as outlined in the Financial Impacts & Budget Actions section of this report. 28 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1266 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Success Story: Joseph
Generated multiple
911 calls
Served by C3 Team,
Clare Matrix, HLP Team,
and HMST
Has a history of physical
and substance use
issues
Moved from Palisades
Park into housing with an
Emergency Housing
Voucher
29 11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1267 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) Questions

11.A.u
Packet Pg. 1268 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5578 : Update on Homelessness) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: May 9, 2023
Agenda Item: 11.B
1 of 23
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Danielle Noble, Acting Director, Community Services Department, Housing and Human Services
Subject: 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendations
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Adopt a finding of no possibility of significant effect pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines

2. Approve the FY2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) funding recommendation (Attachment A)

3. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute grant agreements for the FY2023-27 HSGP (Attachment A)
Summary
The City of Santa Monica’s Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) is a key component of the City’s overall efforts to support the Santa Monica community and provide services that keep vulnerable residents healthy, stable, and housed by providing funding to non-profit service providers in Santa Monica. The HSGP is administered through the Community Services Department’s (CSD) Housing and Human Services Division (HHSD) and funds an array of social service safety-net programs for vulnerable and underserved individuals and families in Santa Monica.

On August 24, 2022, City Council approved the proposed FY 2023-27 HSGP Funding Guidelines and directed staff to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the next fouryear FY 2023-27 grant funding cycle (Attachment B). On September 28, 2022, the City

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released the FY 2023-27 HSGP RFP to solicit applications from eligible service providers for the FY 2023-27 funding cycle (Attachment C). The City received a total of 31 program proposals by the January 18, 2023 deadline. Grant requests totaled approximately $11.6 million. The City’s proposed FY 2023-24 HSGP budget includes $7.920 million in resources from the General Fund. Staff has also identified onetime and recurring supplemental funds that can be leveraged into $2.225 million in additional annual funding. Combined, these resources total $10.146 million in annual funding for the FY 2023-27 HSGP.

The HSGP program proposals that will be recommended for funding are responsive to a broad range of community needs, include existing and new services, and advance City Council priorities. Once approved, funding would be available beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 and may be renewed for an additional three-years contingent upon available funding, effective program performance, ability to meet existing and emerging priority community needs, and Council budget approval.

Staff recommends that Council approve funding for the FY 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program in the amount of $10,145,594 for FY 2023-24, which incorporates budgeted general funds as well as other supplemental funding sources, as detailed in Attachment A.

Background
This background section provides an overview of the milestones leading up to City Council’s HSGP funding decisions for FY 2023-27 and reviews the guiding principles that have defined HSGP services and responses to community needs over the history of the grants program. In response to community feedback and Council direction, City staff implemented several enhancements to the RFP process to further support community participation and transparency in decisions leading up to the grant funding recommendations presented in this report.

There has been an eight-year lead-up to the production of the FY 2023-27 HSGP portfolio; a timeline that diverges from the City’s typical approach to funding HSGP in

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four-year increments and was due to a set of unprecedented events. Details are as follows:
• The current HSGP grant cycle started in FY 2015-16, when Council approved four-year grants for 22 local non-profits (June 23, 2015) at an annual funding level of $8,165,812.
• In FY 2018-19, Council adopted the Framework for a Sustainable City of Wellbeing and departments worked City-wide to align goals and outcomes. o The Community and Cultural Services Department (the pre-cursor to the Community Services Department) worked with an external consultant to engage the community in structuring HSGP performance measures and outcomes to fit the adopted framework.
o On January 22, 2019, Council granted a two-year extension to the FY 2015-19 HSGP grant cycle to allow time for meaningful community input in advance of a planned Fall 2020 RFP release.
• RFP development halted in early 2020 with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as staff shifted to focus on emergency response, working with HSGP grantees to pivot local services to respond to pandemic needs, and launching two new programs—the Virginia Avenue Park Food Pantry and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Both the City and local agencies adapted to respond to local needs and re-prioritize and deliver essential services during a time of limited resources while facing an uncertain future. • In June 2020, Council adopted a budget for FY 2020-21 that reduced the previously proposed City budget by nearly 25%, including a decrease of over 12% to the HSGP, resulting in a $1.035M cut to local services to vulnerable populations (see June 23, 2020 staff report).
• As a result of these pandemic-related programmatic and fiscal impacts, on January 26, 2021, Council approved and directed an additional two-year extension to the HSGP funding cycle and set new dates for the next HSGP funding cycle for July 1, 2023 thru June 30, 2027.
• These two-year extensions also align the HSGP funding cycle with the City’s biennial budget process.

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The City is on track to begin the next HSGP funding cycle in July 2023. The extended timeline outlined above has not impacted the guiding principles that shape the scope and focus of the Human Services Grants Program. The FY 2023-27 HSGP RFP cycle builds on the guiding principles outlined below, responds to feedback from the community, and aligns with City Council priorities reaffirmed in March 2023.

HSGP Guiding Principles
The following guiding principles, as outlined in the August 2022 staff report to City Council, shape the scope and focus of the grants program:
• Multi-year funding: The City commits to a four-year funding cycle to support program stability and continuity of care, which directly benefits community members. Contractual performance outcomes are closely monitored by City staff and updated annually to ensure follow-through in program delivery. • Defined Santa Monica Program Participants (SMPP): HSGP funds are focused on serving Santa Monica Program Participants while the City expects agencies to also leverage regional resources to support the well-being of these defined community members. City funding fills gaps in services for SMPP when non-City funding is not available or insufficient.
• Depth of Services Versus Breadth of Services: The grants program focuses on holistic programs that can provide deep levels of support and robust comprehensive services to a smaller number of highly vulnerable individuals who are SMPP. This translates into more intensive services over a longer period, as opposed to providing light-touch, short-term interventions to more people. • Serving Multiple Populations: The HSGP has long sought to preserve the diversity of Santa Monica residents by supporting marginalized and underserved community members. The program prioritizes services across multiple populations including seniors, people with disabilities, youth and their families, low-income households, and people experiencing homelessness. In 2022,

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Council approved a 40% cap on funds allocated to programs serving one specific population.
• Leveraging Non-City Resources: The HSGP stipulates a minimum 30% cash match requirement, meaning City funds can only be used to cover up to 70% of the cost of services to SMPP and agencies must secure non-City funding for the balance of those costs. City staff also focus on securing external funding sources to support the HSGP portfolio in addition to the City Council approved general fund allocation.
• Enhancing Transparency, Accountability, Collaboration: City staff closely monitor and support agencies to succeed in delivering their programs to the community. In response to feedback from community stakeholders, staff are further increasing public insight into this work, have actively applied these themes in the development of the FY 2023-27 HSGP funding cycle, and continue to evolve HSGP processes to advance these three priorities.

Grounded in these principles, the FY 2023-27 HSGP funding cycle is responsive to community and Council feedback on population needs and service priorities, and areas for process improvements in the administration of the HSGP portfolio. As already mentioned, the HSGP portfolio aligns with Council direction to focus on priorities that address the critical issues and resource needs impacting the Santa Monica community.

Discussion
Section 1 >> Release and Promotion of RFP
On August 24, 2022, City Council approved the funding and evaluation guidelines for the FY 2023-27 HSGP and directed staff to issue the RFP to solicit applications for the FY 2023-27 funding cycle (Attachment B).

The 2023-27 HSGP RFP was released on September 28, 2022 on the City’s OpenGov Procurement Portal alerting over 5,400 registered vendors about the open solicitation for social service program proposals. Announcement of the RFP was widespread with an initial media alert sent to 27 local and regional outlets on September 28th. Coverage

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also included multiple announcements in SaMoNews, which reaches over 47,000 individuals. At the same time, staff sent email blasts announcing the RFP opening to Citywide distribution lists including Santa Monica boards, commissions, community groups, and neighborhood associations. Information was also included in multiple City Manager weekly updates to Councilmembers to help get the word out to their networks of stakeholders and constituents. Staff secured communications support from Southern California Grantmakers to promote the RFP in their e-newsletter which reached over 2,500 people and organizations in the social services grants space directly and was featured on SoCal Grantmakers’ social media channels. Staff continued to send monthly email blasts to the Citywide distribution lists through January 2023. These emails informed recipients of the following: October 2022 Bidder’s Workshop, addendums posted to OpenGov, Q&A and technical assistance sessions hosted by HHSD staff, reminders of the final January 18, 2023 deadline as well as calls for the community to apply and participate on the HSGP Proposal Review Panel.

Section 2 >> Creation of HSGP Proposal Review Panel
In response to community requests and Council direction to strengthen the community’s role in producing HSGP funding recommendations, staff partnered with the We Are Santa Monica Fund (WASMF) Advisory Board to conduct an open solicitation for qualified individuals to participate in the review of HSGP Proposals. The City promoted the opportunity to apply and participate on the review panel in communications announcing the availability of the HSGP RFP to the local and regional community (described in Section 1). The WASMF extended the statement of interest deadline by three weeks to create more time for people to respond to the opportunity to serve the community (see Attachment D -Statement of Interest). The WASMF established an ad hoc committee to review all Statements of Interest and selected 42 people to serve on the HSGP Proposal Review Panel. Selected panelists included subject matter experts in service provision for a variety of vulnerable populations; current and former members of Santa Monica boards, commissions, and community groups; City staff from multiple departments; persons with lived experience as consumers of services; and

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representatives from related fields including public policy, social services, and non-profit management.

Section 3 >> RFP - Responding Agencies & Programs Proposed Responding Agencies: The City received 31 program proposals from 24 agencies by the January 18, 2023 RFP application deadline. Grant requests totaled approximately $11.6 million. Proposals also included a commitment to provide $19.9 million in matching funds, totaling to $31.5 million in proposed funding to serve SMPP. Of the 24 applying agencies, seven are new applicants to the City’s HSGP funding process. The combination of proposals for new and existing programs serves the full range of Santa Monica’s HSGP priority populations, including people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness, seniors, youth and families, and other underserved populations.

Continuity of providers is important and demonstrates how the City has intentionally invested in and cultivated its portfolio of homegrown providers and supported their transformation from new to established partners over the years. These providers have roots within the community and understand community needs. Further, community members know they can depend on HSGP-funded organizations and services across multiple phases of their lives. Seven new organizations also submitted HSGP proposals, showing that the process was inclusive to new organizations addressing critical community needs. It is promising to see a mix of new agencies proposing to serve the community alongside long-standing HSGP grantee agencies.

Programs Proposed: Out of 31 proposals received, a total of 15 are new programs.

Program proposals serve the full range of Santa Monica’s HSGP priority populations.

See Attachment E for the complete list of programs proposed. Staff reassigned the SMPP primary population selected for Venice Family Clinic and Haven Neighborhood Services to ‘Underserved Population Not Otherwise Specified’. Both programs selected ‘Youth & Families’ as their primary SMPP population in the program funding application.

Given both programs support people across the lifespan in diverse household makeups,

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the ‘Underserved Population Not Otherwise Specified’ category better captures the range of the populations served. This adjustment also ensures that staff use the correct inputs to calculate the percentage of funds allocated to each SMPP group, and that no group receives more than 40% of the portfolio’s funding allocations.

Section 4 >> Review Panel Evaluation Process & Results
As directed by City Council in August 2022, in parallel with the HSGP RFP, an RFP was released to identify an independent facilitator to support the HSGP Review Panel’s completion of the proposal evaluation process. Elizabeth Anderson Consulting was selected to complete the project.

The independent facilitator was fully responsible for assigning proposals to each member of the Review Panel. These assignments were made based on the details provided in each panelist’s statement of interest. In the statement of interest, applicants to the panel were asked to disclose any potential conflict(s) of interest related to their participation in the review and scoring of HSGP proposals. The Santa Monica City Attorney’s Office reviewed disclosures and provided guidance on which proposals should not be matched with particular reviewers in order to avoid conflict of interest. In the process of matching panelists with proposals, the City’s independent facilitator layered the City Attorney’s guidance with each panelist’s stated area of expertise, including their knowledge of the needs of specific populations, program and system design, and experience with administration and oversight. Once the proposals were allocated across the Review Panel, a collective effort enabled each proposal to be reviewed and scored by five different Review Panel members. The Audited Financials submitted with each proposal were reviewed and scored by a qualified staff member in the City’s Finance Department.

The independent facilitator supported Review Panel members beginning with the distribution of proposal assignments through the formal recording of reviewers’ scores in OpenGov. Support for the panel members included a virtual training workshop hosted on Zoom, virtual office hours, and one-on-one coaching via email and phone. The focus

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of this training and support was to help reviewers evaluate the contents of each proposal (program plan, program budget, and supporting documentation) in accordance with the Council-approved HSGP RFP standardized evaluation criteria and scoring guidance (Attachment C). Review Panel members were also provided the program and fiscal monitoring reports of currently funded agencies as well as the Moss Adams Report on HSGP Grantee Monitoring to factor into their analysis of program proposals and agency capacity.

Each proposal was assessed across nine evaluation criteria related to program and fiscal categories, worth a total of 150 possible points. Each proposal’s five reviewer scores were then averaged to produce one overall score, which served by proxy as a determination of the program proposal’s level of qualification for HSGP funding. When ranked from high to low, the final program scores reported to staff by the City’s independent facilitator show a large gap between 76% and 67.33%, which created a natural funding boundary separating the most qualified applicants. All proposals that scored above 75% were considered for funding. By establishing the cutoff at 75%, two agencies that are new to the HSGP portfolio are included in staff’s funding recommendation. The Review Panel’s ranked HSGP program proposals are provided in Attachment E Review Panel Ranking of HSGP Program Proposals.

In the next section, staff present funding recommendations for City Council consideration. The Review Panel’s scoring (Attachment E) is the primary factor driving recommendations. All proposals that scored above 75% were considered for funding.

Program proposals that received scores below 75% are not recommended for HSGP funding. The following table reports the HSGP Review Panel’s average scores across the nine evaluation criteria for programs recommended for funding compared to averages of those not recommended for funding.

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Table 1. HSGP Review Panel’s Average Scores
Scoring Area Total
Points
Average Score of
Programs
Recommended for
Funding
Average Score of
Programs Not
Recommended for
Funding
Community Need 10 9.19 (91.9%) 6.80 (68.0%)
Description of Services 10 9.12 (91.2%) 6.14 (61.4%)
Access to Services 10 8.87 (88.7%) 6.74 (67.4%)
Program Evaluation 20 16.95 (84.8%) 11.74 (58.7%)
Organizational Capacity 15 13.26 (88.4%) 8.83 (58.9%)
Policies & Procedures 15 12.46 (83.1%) 9.29 (61.9%)
Past Performance 30 24.32 (81.1%) 9.63 (32.1%)
Program Budget 30 26.92 (89.7%) 18.09 (60.3%)
Audited Financial Stmts. 10 8.67 (86.7%) 3.00 (30.0%)
Total Proposal Score 150 129.74 (86.5%) 80.26 (53.5%)
Section 5 >> Funding Recommendations for FY 2023-27 HSGP Portfolio The City’s proposed FY 2023-24 HSGP budget includes $7.920 million in resources from the General Fund. Staff has also identified onetime and recurring supplemental funds that can be leveraged into $2.225 million in additional annual funding throughout the four-year funding cycle. By combining these funds, Council can allocate a total of $10.146 million annually to fund the HSGP portfolio for FY 2023-27. Supplemental funds include:
• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for Public Services, • Early Childhood Contributions from Development Agreements, • Opioid Settlement Funds,
• State and Federal appropriations for Behavioral Health strategies; and • Local Measure CS funds for homeless initiatives.

Additionally, agencies will bring a minimum of 30% in matching funds dedicated to SMPP, further increasing the value of the portfolio.

HSGP investments directly align with Council priorities and many programs proposed deploy resources and services to the community that accelerate multiple Council priorities simultaneously. For example, senior services programs help prevent

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homelessness, expand community and cultural offerings, advance racial equity and promote social diversity. Money management and employment programs advance homeless prevention, cultivate economic recovery at the household level and advance racial justice and social equity goals.

The total amount of funding requested for programs that scored above 75% is $11.045 million, which exceeds the amount of funds available for the Human Services Grants Program by $900,000. While the Review Panel scores serve as the foundation, staff have considered community needs and City Council Priorities to produce the FY 2023- 27 HSGP funding recommendations presented in Table 2 below. Staff provide insight into how these funding recommendations were produced through the following incremental steps:

The first step in the staff funding recommendation is to consider funding all proposals that scored above 75%; the following proposals, however, scored above 75% but are not recommended for funding:
• Providence Saint John’s (PSJ) Child & Family Development Center – ‘Preschool Wellness Consultation’ ($428,323): The Providence Saint John’s Child & Family Development Center (CFDC) is a current and longtime recipient of HSGP funds.

During negotiations of the 2022 Amendment to the Development Agreement between the City of Santa Monica and PSJ, one mutually agreed upon condition was that PSJ would maintain the CFDC’s HSGP-funded Child Youth Development Project (CYDP) without further use of City funds, thereby freeing up resource capacity within the City’s portfolio to fund additional services while ensuring that CFDC programs continued to benefit Santa Monica youth and families. Funding the proposed CFDC program in place of CYDP would eliminate this benefit. Additionally, awarding HSGP funding to PSJ would cause the Youth and Families category to closely approach and potentially exceed the 40% cap on funds allocated to a specific population (notably, approximately 25% of proposed HSGP funding is already allocated to early childhood programs within the Youth & Families category). In consideration of the above, while the proposed Preschool Wellness Consultation Program provides valuable services

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to the community, staff does not recommend allocating HSGP funds to the program.
• Cancer Support Community Los Angeles (CSCLA) – ‘Santa Monica Women and ‘Older Adults and Seniors’ ($182,000 total): While CSCLA’s programs provide valuable supports and other health and wellness services that positively impact the lives of people affected by cancer, program eligibility based on this qualifying health condition limits the potential impact in the community. Further, while the services seek to benefit a vulnerable population, the program design does not fully align with HSGP guiding principles to focus HSGP dollars towards serving low-income households. In an environment where funding must be allocated to meet many competing priorities, staff recommends allocating HSGP resources to populations with the highest need.

The second step in the staff funding recommendation is to (a) set a baseline level of investment in all programs recommended for funding at a sufficient level that allows programs to operate as intended, and (b) reserve some funds for additional allocations to programs that address known service gaps and priority needs among the community’s most vulnerable members. After extensive deliberation, staff determined that it is possible to accomplish both objectives by setting a baseline allocation of 85% of the requested grant amount across all programs recommended for funding. This adequately funds all programs, with outcomes to be adjusted appropriate to reflect the level of funding.

The third step in the staff funding recommendation is to allocate the remaining funds to select programs that address known service and resource needs among the community’s most vulnerable members and address needs that emerged during COVID-19. All programs recommended for funding above 85% of their requested grant amount are grantees within the current HSGP portfolio. The Review Panel rated these program proposals an average score of 87%. Additionally, staff considered eight years of insights on the impact and performance of these programs gleaned from program monitoring work during the current funding cycle. Staff recommends increasing the allocations to the following programs to further advance Council priorities:

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• Meals on Wheels West Delivering More than a Meal: Fund at 100% grant ask.

This program addresses food insecurity and social isolation in low-income, homebound households whose vulnerabilities have been underscored during the COVID-19 pandemic. These households are also facing reductions to CalFresh benefits and rising food costs. This program also supports housing retention among our most vulnerable residents which aligns with the Council priority of addressing homelessness.
• St. Joseph Center Youth Resource Team (YRT): Fund at 100% grant ask. YRT serves as the system hub for collective impact to support highly vulnerable youth ages 11-24 years old. YRT is a currently funded program and proposes to serve some of the most at-risk older youth in the HSGP portfolio. YRT consistently operates with a waitlist of youth referred to the program, which indicates that there is a critical and growing need for this unique service in the community.

Additional funding supports the program’s capacity to enroll more youth in services which aligns with Council priorities on safety, connectedness, equity and preventing homelessness.
• The People Concern 24/7 Samoshel Interim Housing Program: Fund at 100% of grant ask to advance the City’s priority to Address Homelessness. This proposal will expand Samoshel’s hours of operations towards a 24/7 model which City Council and multiple City departments have identified as an unmet need and priority. The HSGP funding allocation to support the implementation of this model, when combined with $800,000 in local Measure CS funds, will provide an interim housing resource option for first responders to offer people experiencing homelessness on a 24/7 basis.
• The People Concern Housing Retention Program: Fund at 100% grant ask. Prior experience of homelessness is a key predictor for returning to homelessness.

Additional funding to this program bolsters the City’s homeless system capacity for housing retention and protects the City’s other investments in intensive programs that help people end their episode of homelessness. • Westside Food Bank Emergency Food Distribution: Fund at 100% grant ask. The Westside Food Bank is a critical backbone of the local food pantry system. Its

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capacity to distribute food enables local programs to address food insecurity in vulnerable households throughout the City. The cost of wholesale food has increased significantly and granting additional funding supports the Food Bank’s role as the primary supplier to meet local demand for basic food support. This program also supports housing retention among Santa Monica’s most vulnerable residents which aligns with the Council priority of addressing homelessness. • WISE & Healthy Aging Care Management / Adult Day Health Programs: Fund at 95% of grant ask. Demand for services to support the Santa Monica senior population continues to grow as the population increases in size and diversity of needs. Older adults are also the fastest growing age group falling into homelessness making targeted case management critical to help Santa Monica seniors connect with benefits and resources that that strengthen their ability to retain housing. Adult day services are also a critical program in the continuum of care for older adults with increasing rates of dementia and cognitive decline. This program connects to Council priorities to prevent homelessness, expand community and cultural offerings, and promote social diversity. • WISE & Healthy Aging Club WISE and WISE Diner: Fund at 93% of grant ask.

Demand for services to support the Santa Monica senior population continues to grow as the population increases in size and diversity of needs. Club WISE supports the socialization and community connections among older adults who have experienced increased isolation since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional funding for WISE Diner offsets increasing meal costs and combats food insecurity faced by low-income senior households. This program connects to Council priorities to prevent homelessness, expand community and cultural offerings, and promote social diversity.

The RFP asked applicants to indicate the primary population they intend to serve on each program proposal in line with Council direction to cap funding at 40% for each priority population. Assigning each program in the current HSGP portfolio to one population served is challenging because most programs serve a range of populations, and individuals with intersectional identities (e.g., a senior with a disability who is also

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experiencing homelessness). Notably, while funding for programs primarily serving people with disabilities is low, this population is also well-supported through other programming with broader priority populations.

The staff recommendation allocates funding across SMPP as follows, maintaining a balanced portfolio across target populations (i.e., not investing more than 40% of the portfolio in any given single population):
• 26% People Experiencing Homelessness
• 2% People with Disabilities
• 18% Seniors
• 17% Underserved Population Not Otherwise Specified
• 37% Youth & Families
Table 2. FY 2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Agency Program Amount
Chrysalis SM Employment Center $ 282,783
CLARE MATRIX Help Empower Linkage Program $ 340,240
Connections for Children SM Early Education $ 1,492,043 Disability Community Resource Ctr. Independent Living $ 205,285 Family Service of Santa Monica Integrated Mental Health $ 671,472 Growing Place Marine Park Child Dev. Center $ 212,500
*Haven Neighborhood Services Beyond the Bank $ 115,600
Hospitality Training Academy SM Jobs Initiative $ 109,907 JVS SoCal SM Youth Employment $ 170,190
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles Community Legal Services $ 696,873 Meals on Wheels West Delivering More than a Meal $ 61,850 Santa Monica College Pico Partnership $ 226,971
*Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative Youth Mental Health & Wellness $ 147,042 St. Joseph Center Older Adults Health and Wellness $842,060 St. Joseph Center Youth Resource Team $ 768,631
The People Concern 24/7 Samoshel Interim Housing $ 2,082,488 The People Concern Housing Retention $ 200,000
Venice Family Clinic Comprehensive Care $ 255,000
Westside Food Bank Emergency Food Distribution $ 175,000 WISE & Healthy Aging Care Management / Adult Day
Programs $ 560,671
WISE & Healthy Aging Club WISE and WISE Diner $ 528,988

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Total: $10,145,594
(*) Agency not currently funded by HSGP
Section 6 >> Projected Community Impact & Connection to City Council Priorities Outcomes are a key tool in assessing the impact that programs have on the community.

Given the essential role that outcomes play in the grants program, the City adopted the new HSGP Program Evaluation Framework based on community input collected through an extensive engagement process. The HSGP evaluation framework provides uniformity across agencies and programs to clearly measure and report performance, while also allowing flexibility for HSGP programs to be nimble and innovative in the way they address the community’s most pressing needs.

The HSGP Program Evaluation Framework focuses the HSGP portfolio on three priority areas of impact:
(1) Lifelong Learning,
(2) Stability, and
(3) Health & Wellness.

This grant cycle is the first time the HSGP outcomes framework will be implemented.

The framework creates visibility in the HSGP portfolio’s impact as a system and enables insight into how each agency’s program drives towards shared outcomes that reflect community and Council priorities, along with the HSGP community impact areas of Lifelong Learning, Stability, and Health & Wellness. Notably, the top two goals addressed in this portfolio are increasing economic wellbeing and increasing the number of households who receive appropriate supports to maintain stable, quality housing.
(Below, see ‘Number of proposals supporting the Santa Monica community’) Community Impact Area
Lifelong Learning
Santa Monica residents have access to and succeed in education and training Goals

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A B C D
Improve key
academic transitions
from pre-k through
college
Improve school
experience
Improve childcare
and early learning
access
Increase adult and
community education
Number of proposals supporting the Santa Monica community towards these goals 5 5 6 1
Community Impact Area
Stability
Santa Monica residents are socially and economically secure Goals

A B C D E
Increase the number of
vulnerable households
who receive appropriate
supports to maintain
stable, quality housing
Increase the number
of vulnerable
households who
access interim and
permanent housing
solutions
Increase
economic
wellbeing
Increase
parent/
caregiver
support
Increase access
to affordable
transportation
Number of proposals supporting the Santa Monica community towards these goals 8 3 10 3 0
Community Impact Area
Health & Wellness
Santa Monica residents are physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy Goals

A B C D
Improve behavioral
health
Improve physical
health
Improve food security Improve connections
between Santa
Monica residents and
their community
Number of proposals supporting the Santa Monica community towards these goals 7 4 3 7
In addition to the community impact areas above, the proposed HSGP grantee program outcomes align with and advance Council priorities (adopted March 11, 2023):
(1) Addressing Homelessness,
(2) Clean & Safe Santa Monica,
(3) Cultivate Economic Recovery & Expand Community & Cultural Offerings, (4) Racial Justice, Equity & Social Diversity, and

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(5) Sustainable & Connected Community.

Additionally, demand for behavioral health services is a concern and need that has been expressed by members of the community and Council. Multiple programs proposed either address behavioral health needs directly or enhance protective factors that support behavioral health and wellbeing.

Section 7 >> FY 2023 – 27 HSGP Grant Cycle Performance Management Performance management is a priority for HHSD, in alignment with community and Council emphasis on agency and program accountability. This section describes HHSD’s proposed protocols for performance management of the FY 2023-27 HSGP portfolio including progressive performance accountability for programs that do not deliver services as planned. Performance management will include reporting to the public at regular milestones during the four-year funding cycle and incorporating changes that reflect the recommendations from the Moss Adams Report on HSGP Grantee Monitoring and Process Review presented to the City Council Audit Subcommittee on February 21, 2023 (Attachment F) to enhance the HSGP system.

Activity 1: Regular Public Reporting on Program Performance • Continue public posting of year-end program and fiscal status reports for each funded program in the HSGP portfolio. Programmatic reports provide information on services provided, success stories, changes to the program, challenges, and progress towards contracted outputs and outcomes. Fiscal reports document actual expenditures based on the contract budget. Reports can be viewed at https://santamonica.gov/human-services-grants-program-reports. • Introduce a year-end status assessment of fiscal/programmatic performance that is reported publicly in the year-end posting above. Full details about the status assessment are described in Activity 2 below.

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Activity 2: Enhance program performance accountability
Staff intend to implement more progressive performance improvement expectations to support each agency’s focus on the HSGP service outcomes and funding commitments they have made to the Santa Monica community. The status of each program’s performance at year-end will be publicly reported (per Activity 1). Additionally, staff will leverage a progressive set of expectations to escalate the consequences of repeated inadequate performance related to service outcomes and/or budget management. This approach communicates to the agencies that the City values all the organizations in the HSGP portfolio and relies on funded programs to deliver services as intended to Santa Monica Priority Participants (SMPP). Agency programs that reach and exceed outcome goals are highly valued; agency programs that demonstrate year-over-year challenges in delivering services are addressed.

All agency programs will begin the FY 2023-27 grant cycle ‘In Good Standing’.

Programs will retain this status unless there are causes for HHSD to place the program on probation and require submittal of a performance improvement plan. HHSD staff assess and evaluate both fiscal and programmatic performance biannually per the City’s program monitoring process.
• Fiscal monitoring: HHSD analysts monitor each programs’ utilization of the annual grant budget and will request funds be returned if the program did not spend the entire HSGP grant amount or the year-end report shows a cash match value less than zero percent (meaning HSGP funds paid for non-SMPP participants). Analysts also monitor programs for the annual level of cash match allocated to the program; as established in the HSGP RFP eligibility criteria, programs must bring 30% or more cash match to the HSGP funded program. If the program brings less than a 30% cash match, that is cause for instituting a performance improvement plan. Additionally, a significant or high-risk finding identified during a fiscal monitoring engagement is another cause for instituting a performance improvement plan. Year-over-year challenges in this area is cause for probation.

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• Program monitoring: HHSD analysts monitor each program’s progress towards the outcome indicators established at the beginning of the funding cycle. The outcome indicators measure the program’s progress towards the goals selected from the HSGP Program Evaluation Framework – Lifelong Learning, Stability, and Health & Wellness. Analysts monitor for failure to meet a minimum performance threshold of 75% progress towards primary performance indicators.

Failure to reach 75% is cause to institute a performance improvement plan.

Repeat failure is cause for probation and returned funds or adjustment to the next year’s grant funding level commensurate with the performance anticipated by the program. Additionally, a significant or high-risk finding identified during a program monitoring site visit is another cause for instituting a performance improvement plan.

In summary, return of unspent funds, failure to meet the 30% cash match requirement, significant or high-risk findings during fiscal or program monitoring, or failure to reach 75% progress on the program’s primary performance indicators are all causes for a program status to change from ‘In Good Standing’ to ‘Probation’. The standing of each program will be publicly reported at year-end. This information will be available during the review process for the next HSGP RFP cycle.

Table 3 below organizes the information presented in Activity 1 and 2 as a progressive program performance accountability framework.

Table 3. HSGP Program Performance Accountability Framework Causes for Programs to Return Funds Status
(A) Did not spend entire HSGP grant amount; agency returns unspent funds
(B) Negative Cash Match - Year-end budget report shows Cash Match value less than 0%; agency returns funds to bring Cash Match up to 0%
Placed on Probation
Required to submit a
Performance
Improvement Plan
Performance Issues Resulting in Probation Status
- Did not meet minimum program outcome threshold on program’s primary indicators
Placed on Probation

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- Returned unspent funds (A or B above)
- Did not meet simple Cash Match (0-30%)
- Significant/high risk finding from a Fiscal or Program Monitoring Required to submit a
Performance
Improvement Plan
If a program continues to show cause for probation and/or fails to meet the goals set forth in a performance improvement plan, City staff may take corrective action, up to and including reducing the grant amount for the next program year or terminating the grant agreement. As City staff works to administer and implement the HSGP Program Performance Accountability Framework, staff may make adjustments as necessary in order to improve the efficiency and efficacy of the framework. Unused and returned grant funds will be re-programmed by HHSD. This re-allocation can be done through a simple Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) or through an existing Council-approved HSGP grantee doing similar work or serving the same population. These options enable the HSGP to be nimble and creative during the funding cycle.

Section 8 >> Preparing for the FY 2027-31 HSGP RFP
City staff will begin preparation for the FY 2027-31 HSGP RFP as follows:
• Fall 2025: Begin community outreach and engagement to solicit feedback on the design of the HSGP RFP and evaluation criteria;
• Fall 2026: Request City Council approval of the HSGP RFP and evaluation criteria;
• Fall 2026: Release HSGP RFP to the community and promote throughout the region;
• Fall 2026: Recruit HSGP Review Panel;
• Winter 2027: Provide one month period for Review Panel evaluate proposals; • Spring 2027: Present HSGP funding recommendations to City council; • Spring 2027: Conduct contract negotiations and execute contracts prior to go-live date July 1, 2027;
• Summer 2027: Council formally approves the HSGP with the 2027-29 Biennial Budget.

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Next Steps
Following approval of the FY 2023-27 HSGP, City staff will begin contract negotiations with approved programs. These contracts will include up to five parking permits for use by agency staff or volunteers for each City-funded program that provides community outreach and/or in-home services. Notably, because most programs will receive less funds than originally proposed in the RFP, program budgets and outcomes will be adjusted to reflect the awarded funding amount.

Final HSGP funding awards will be included in the FY 2023-25 budget and considered during budget adoption in June 2023. The FY 2023-27 HSGP funding cycle will start July 1, 2023. As programs begin operations in July 2023, City staff will work with agencies to ensure existing programs continue smoothy and new programs are introduced to the community.

Environmental Review
Approval of the FY 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines, which states that CEQA does not apply, “where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. The funding recommendations are for administrative programs. Therefore, it can be seen with certainty that the funding recommendations in the program would not result in adverse physical impacts on the environment, and as such, is categorically exempt from CEQA.

Financial Impacts and Budget Actions
There is no immediate financial impact or budget action as a result of the recommendations in this report. The total amount of recommended funding for the FY 2023-24 HGSP is $10,145,594. Staff will incorporate any budget actions into the City’s FY 2023-25 Biennial Budget.

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Prepared By: Marc Amaral, Administrator
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:

A. Attachment A_2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
B. Attachment B: August 24, 2022 Staff Report (Web Link) C. Attachment C: OpenGov Procurement Platform HSGP RFP (Web Link) D. Attachment D_HSGP RFP Review Panel Statement of Interest E. Attachment E_ Review Panel Ranking of FY 2023-27 HSGP Program Proposals1
F. Attachment F: February 21, 2023 Audit Subcommittee Agenda Packet (Moss Adams HSGP Monitoring Report)
G. ITEM.11.B.Written Comments
H. PowerPoint Presentation

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ATTACHMENT A
FY 2023-27 HUMAN SERVICES GRANTS PROGRAM - FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS Agency Program Grant Ask
FY 2023-24
Award
Recommendation
Funding Source FY 2023-24
Funding
FY 2024-25
Funding
Chrysalis SM Employment Center $ 332,686 $ 282,783 General Fund 282,783 $ 287,287 $ CLARE MATRIX Help Empower Linkage Program $ 400,282 $ 340,240 General Fund - $ 5,419 $ Opioid Settlement 150,440 $ 150,440 $
CDBG 189,800 $ 189,800 $
Connections for Children SM Early Education $ 1,755,345 $ 1,492,043 General Fund 1,156,793 $ 1,180,557 $ Early Childhood Contribution 335,250 $ 335,250 $
Disability Community Resource Center Independent Living $ 241,512 $ 205,285 General Fund 205,285 $ 208,555 $ Family Service of Santa Monica Integrated Mental Health $ 789,967 $ 671,472 General Fund 671,472 $ 682,166 $ Growing Place Marine Park $ 250,000 $ 212,500 General Fund 212,500 $ 215,884 $ Haven Neighborhood Services Beyond the Bank $ 136,000 $ 115,600 General Fund 115,600 $ 117,441 $ Hospitality Training Academy SM Jobs Initiative $ 129,302 $ 109,907 General Fund 109,907 $ 111,657 $ JVS SoCal SM Youth Employment $ 200,224 $ 170,190 General Fund 170,190 $ 172,901 $ Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles Community Legal Services $ 819,850 $ 696,873 General Fund 696,873 $ 707,972 $ Meals on Wheels West Delivering More than a Meal $ 61,850 $ 61,850 General Fund 61,850 $ 62,835 $ Santa Monica College Pico Partnership $ 267,025 $ 226,971 General Fund 226,971 $ 230,586 $ Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative Youth Mental Health & Wellness $ 172,991 $ 147,042 General Fund 147,042 $ 149,384 $ St. Joseph Center Older Adults Health and Wellness $ 990,659 $ 842,060 General Fund 842,060 $ 855,471 $ St. Joseph Center Youth Resource Team $ 768,631 $ 768,631 General Fund 768,631 $ 780,873 $ The People Concern 24/7 Samoshel Interim Housing $ 1,282,488 $ 2,082,488 General Fund 157,488 $ 29,983 $ SAMHSA (Federal Appropriation) 1,125,000 $ 375,000 $
DHCS (State Appropriation) - $ 907,488 $
Measure CS (Operations) 600,000 $ 600,000 $
Measure CS (Capital) 200,000 $ - $
The People Concern Housing Retention $ 200,000 $ 200,000 General Fund 200,000 $ 203,185 $ Venice Family Clinic Comprehensive Care $ 300,000 $ 255,000 General Fund 255,000 $ 259,061 $ Westside Food Bank Emergency Food Distribution $ 175,000 $ 175,000 General Fund 175,000 $ 177,787 $ WISE & Healthy Aging Care Management / Adult Day Programs $ 589,025 $ 560,671 General Fund 560,671 $ 569,601 $ WISE & Healthy Aging Club WISE and WISE Diner $ 571,595 $ 528,988 General Fund 528,988 $ 537,413 $ $ 10,434,432 $ 10,145,594 $ 10,145,594 $ 10,103,996
FUNDING SUMMARY BY SOURCE FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25
General Fund $ 8,078,506 7,920,104 $
General Fund Adjustment $ (532,488) (375,000) $
Opioid Settlement $ 150,440 150,440 $
CDBG $ 189,800 189,800 $
SAMHSA (Federal Appropriation) $ 375,000 1,125,000 $
DHCS (State Appropriation) $ 907,488 - $
Measure CS (Operations) $ 600,000 600,000 $
Measure CS (Capital) $ - 200,000 $
Early Childhood Contribution $ 335,250 335,250 $
$ 10,145,594 $ 10,103,996

11.B.a
Packet Pg. 1292 Attachment: Attachment A_2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations [Revision 1] (5579 : Approve Attachment: D
Review Panel Statement of Interest
Human Services Grants Program FY2023-27
All individuals interested in participating in the HSGP RFP review panel completed the statement of interest on the following page. Each statement was reviewed by an ad hoc committee formed by the We Are Santa Moncia Fund advisory board.

The We Are Santa Monica Fund is a partnership between community donors, the California Community Foundation, and the City of Santa Monica. The Fund provides grants to local nonprofit organizations to support the local economy, advance equity, improve physical and environmental health, and offer resources and emergency relief.

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 1293 Attachment: Attachment D_HSGP RFP Review Panel Statement of Interest (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Human Services Grants Program
2023-27 HSGP Proposal Review Panel
Statement of Interest Instructions
The We Are Santa Monica Fund (WASMF) is a partnership between community donors, the California Community Foundation, and the City of Santa Monica. The Fund provides grants to local nonprofit organizations to support the local economy, advance equity, improve physical and environmental health, and offer resources and emergency relief. As part of the 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program Request for Proposals (HSGP RFP), City staff is partnering with the WASMF Advisory Board to conduct an open solicitation for qualified individuals to participate in the review of HSGP Proposals.

The HSGP Proposal Review Panel will include subject matter experts in service provision for youth and families, people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness, seniors, and other underserved populations, generally. Subject matter experts will understand the needs of individual vulnerable populations as well as nonprofit operations and/or service delivery, including the use of evidence-based best practices. Additional panelists may include other stakeholders, such as City staff, individuals serving on Santa Monica boards, commissions, community groups, or neighborhood associations, and include those with lived experience as consumers of services. Panelists may also include representatives from a diverse group of related fields, including public policy, social services, financial and assurance services, philanthropy, non-profit management, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

The 2023-27 HSGP RFP is scheduled to close on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, with reviewers set to score proposals during the month of February 2023. Prospective reviewers must be prepared to commit at least 10-15 hours to the scoring process for individual proposal review and review panel group discussion. By submitting a Statement of Interest, prospective reviewers agree to provide their time on a volunteer basis, and without compensation.

All individuals interested in participating in the HSGP RFP review panel must complete the Statement of Interest form on the following pages. In order to be considered, completed forms must be submitted to [email protected] by 6PM on Mon, November 14, 2022. Statements of Interest will be reviewed by a sub-committee of the WASMF advisory board in order to determine which individuals are seated as panelists.

Please visit https://www.santamonica.gov/human-services-grants-program for updates.

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 1294 Attachment: Attachment D_HSGP RFP Review Panel Statement of Interest (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Human Services Grants Program
2023-27 HSGP Proposal Review Panel
Statement of Interest
Personal Information
Name:

Email: Phone:

Occupation: Employer:

Optional Demographic Information
Race/Ethnicity: Gender:

Age: Sexual Orientation:

Disability Status: Veteran Status
Professional and Personal Experience

1. Please share any relevant experience, skills, or qualifications in the following areas:
a. Personal and/or professional experience with underserved or marginalized populations (including, but not limited to, people experiencing homelessness, early childhood, youth and families, seniors, and people with disabilities).

Response:
b. Experience with non-profit operations and management or administrative oversight of social services (including service on non-profit boards, City of Santa Monica boards, commissions, or City Council).

Response:
c. Lived experience as a consumer of services* (including as a person who is or was formerly homeless; person who has experienced mental illness and/or substance abuse; person who is low-income and/or disabled; person who is or has been enrolled in a Santa Monica social service program).

Response:

2. Please describe your interest in participating in the Santa Monica HSGP RFP process as a scorer/rater and your connection to Santa Monica, if any.

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 1295 Attachment: Attachment D_HSGP RFP Review Panel Statement of Interest (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Response:

3. Please disclose any potential conflict(s) of interest related to your participation in the review and scoring of HSGP Proposals for City funding. The purpose of requesting this information is to identify, disclose, and manage any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest to protect the integrity of the review and selection process. We seek to identify such conflicts that may influence reviewers to use their position for financial benefit, private gain or advantage, or other personal purposes.

A conflict of interest here is defined as any formal or informal relationship with nonprofits or organizations that may apply for HSGP funding which may reasonably compromise one’s ability to fairly carry out any assigned duties as a reviewer. Conflicts may be actual, potential, or perceived and may relate to financial or nonfinancial interests in potential applicant organizations. Financial interests may include, but are not limited to, the actual or contingent possibility of any monetary or proprietary benefits or gain of any sort that has or may be received from such organizations. Nonfinancial interests may include, but are not limited to, receipt of gifts, board membership, officer positions, employment positions, volunteer service, and participation in or receipt of direct program services involving such organizations. Conflicts may also include related interests by close relatives (wife, husband, registered domestic partner, son, daughter, mother, father, brother, or sister).

The City may request additional information if your response is unclear or incomplete.

Response:

I certify that the information I have provided is true and correct to the best of my abilities. I certify that, if selected, I will commit to the necessary time required to complete the scoring and rating process.

Signature Date

11.B.d
Packet Pg. 1296 Attachment: Attachment D_HSGP RFP Review Panel Statement of Interest (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants)

11.B.e
Packet Pg. 1297 Attachment: Attachment E_ Review Panel Ranking of FY 2023-27 HSGP Program Proposals1 [Revision 3] (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 1 Xavier Mota
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:00 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Resident input 5/8/23

EXTERNAL
As residents we need to know what you are building: NOISE daily impact is not ok in a town with such high taxes and rent.

We want to be informed of any  construction of buildings.

We also do not want any more projects approved as there is too much being rebuilt as is. Gutting a place and starting over because rents so high business can’t keep up.

We disagree with any the excessive buildings going up.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1298 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Monica Mirch
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 11:11:07 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

This issue is important to me personally because I was born and raised in Santa Monica. I understand that high quality early childhood education is a lifelong gift that not only prepares our children for the world, but also makes life more exciting and enjoyable! Growing Place is a pivotal community institution and should continue to receive Santa Monica Human Services Grant Program funds. My niece and nephew are currently enrolled and have benefited tremendously from Growing Place.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Monica Mirch
Santa Monica Resident Since 1991
--
Monica Mirch
310-433-3364
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1299 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Sarah Spencer Boyer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:49:23 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program (HSGP).

As a member of this community [resident of SM, recipient of a HSGP, advocate for early childhood], I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families success.

Research has shown time and again that investing in education is the best way to insure long term improvement in a community. Please invest in our future.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Sarah Boyer
SM Resident
640 Raymond Ave
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1300 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Kristin Lee
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 11:13:38 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are challenging, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

As a member of the Growing Place community for over three years, and a resident of Santa Monica for the last 11 years, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families' success.

As a family of two working parents with two young children, Growing Place Marine Park is exactly the program we were looking for to assist in supporting our children, while allowing us to continue our careers and provide for our family. We could not imagine a more enriching, caring, thoughtful, safe, and inclusive environment for our children during these critical years of development. The Growing Place community has been welcoming and allowed us to establish and build meaningful relationships with educators, administrators, and other families.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Dr. Kristin Lee
Santa Monica Resident and Growing Place parent
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1301 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Brian Abers
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 9:58:49 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers, I would like to express my appreciation for your hard work and dedication to meeting our community's needs, especially in the face of difficult funding decisions. I am writing to express my strong support for the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program, specifically for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica.

As a parent with a child enrolled at Growing Place and as a board member, I have personally witnessed the positive impact of investing in early childhood programs on our community's strength and growth. Providing access to early childhood programs, such as infant care and tuition subsidies, not only ensures families' economic security and overall well-being but also aligns with council priorities. Ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed is vital to our future success.

Once again, I would like to express my gratitude for your leadership and dedication to our community and urge you to support the funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

Sincerely,
Brian Abers
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1302 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Jonathan Wong
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 11:27:04 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the City of Santa Monica's continued funding for the Growing Place Marine Park through the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP).

I am a resident of Santa Monica in the Pico neighborhood as well as an employee of a Santa Monica-based company. My family benefited directly from the city's support of Growing Place Marine Park, where both of my children were cared for until they graduated and transitioned to SMMUSD schools.

My wife and I both have demanding full-time jobs and there was no way we could have continued to earn a living (or live in Santa Monica at all) without the year-round, full-day care that Growing Place provided for us. I dropped my children off every morning with a happy heart knowing that they would be cared for in a loving and nurturing environment by a truly professional staff.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is often limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This is doubly true in the aftermath of the pandemic, when so many providers were forced to shut down and were not able to recover. We also learned just how important reliable childcare is the ability for parents (especially mothers) to stay in the workforce. I truly believe that our community's economic recovery will depend on the availability of childcare for working families.

That means each and every spot for an infant or toddler means another working parent (most often women) who is able to return to work. By casting your vote in support of the HSGP for Growing Place Marine Park, you're casting a vote for the future of our community.

Thank you,
Jonathan Wong
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1303 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Marilyn Hagelberg
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 5:29:04 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding the Santa Monica community's funding priorities. I'm sure these decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting the Santa Monica community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

As a parent whose daughters attended early childhood programs when they were young and now a grandparent of 2 young children that participate in the Growing Place's ECE program, I wholeheartedly believe that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring the success of our children and their families. Both my children flourished in their early childhood programs and I believe that set them up for success once they transitioned to grade school and beyond. It's now the next generation's turn to be able to participate in the wonderful program Growing Place provides.

I feel so lucky that my grandson is currently participating in Growing Place's ECE program.

He is learning so much, not just things like his colors and ABCs but to interact with others, have empathy, communicate and express his feelings and thoughts in a constructive manner.

These skills are so critical to children growing up in today's world.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Marilyn Hagelberg
Grandma to a very special SM family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1304 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Marilyn Hagelberg
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 5:29:04 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding the Santa Monica community's funding priorities. I'm sure these decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting the Santa Monica community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

As a parent whose daughters attended early childhood programs when they were young and now a grandparent of 2 young children that participate in the Growing Place's ECE program, I wholeheartedly believe that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring the success of our children and their families. Both my children flourished in their early childhood programs and I believe that set them up for success once they transitioned to grade school and beyond. It's now the next generation's turn to be able to participate in the wonderful program Growing Place provides.

I feel so lucky that my grandson is currently participating in Growing Place's ECE program.

He is learning so much, not just things like his colors and ABCs but to interact with others, have empathy, communicate and express his feelings and thoughts in a constructive manner.

These skills are so critical to children growing up in today's world.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Marilyn Hagelberg
Grandma to a very special SM family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1305 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Daniel Spilatro
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 2:50:13 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am emailing you to express my support for The Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Daniel & Adrianna Spilatro (and our 8 month old daughter Ripley) Santa Monica Residents
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1306 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Daniel Spilatro
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 2:50:13 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am emailing you to express my support for The Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Daniel & Adrianna Spilatro (and our 8 month old daughter Ripley) Santa Monica Residents
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1307 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Monica Mirch
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 11:11:07 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

This issue is important to me personally because I was born and raised in Santa Monica. I understand that high quality early childhood education is a lifelong gift that not only prepares our children for the world, but also makes life more exciting and enjoyable! Growing Place is a pivotal community institution and should continue to receive Santa Monica Human Services Grant Program funds. My niece and nephew are currently enrolled and have benefited tremendously from Growing Place.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Monica Mirch
Santa Monica Resident Since 1991
--
Monica Mirch
310-433-3364
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1308 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) I am writing you this letter on behalf of the Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI). I believe this organization is deserving of this grant because it provides much needed mental health resources and support to youth at SMMUSD. As I’m sure you are aware, mental health issues are on the rise especially among youth. The service SEWI provides is detrimental to mitigating these issues and helping youth achieve their full potential.

Long before I became a staff member for SEWI, I was the director of one of the youth serving organizations that had the good fortune of partnering with SEWI through its Masters in Social Work (MSW) intern program. I experienced first hand the impact of MSW interns at our site.

They provided our youth with not only crisis intervention support but also respite from whatever struggles they were having and the opportunity to speak to a caring adult. When you run a program that sees on average 200 youth per day and you are not always fully staffed, having MSW interns be able to give our youth one on one attention was crucial to the success and the well being of the youth we served.

Years later, when I was at a crossroads in my career, it only made sense that SEWI would be the path I chose. I’m a strong advocate for mental health support for our youth which SEWI does without fail but what sets them apart from the rest in my opinion is that they also work with the staff, educators and family of the youth they serve to ensure that its a holistic approach to mental health support.

If you choose to award a grant to SEWI, they will expand their services and serve more youth at SMMUSD. At a time where more and more youth have reported feeling depressed or anxious, it only makes sense to support SEWI in serving more youth. I believe SEWI can exceed your expectations and continue to flourish with your assistance.

For these reasons, I hope you consider The Social and Emotional Wellness Initiative for this grant.

Sincerely,
Jessica Rubecindo-Shioda
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1309 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Debra Benson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Alex
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

We are expressing our support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As residents of Santa Monica and working parents, we urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
 Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
 Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
 Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Best,
Debra Benson & Alex Norman
Santa Monica residents
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1310 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jack Feichtner <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am wriƟng to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a 10‐year resident of Santa Monica and a member of the workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

Childcare is essenƟal for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a criƟcal role in the development of young children, providing them with early educaƟon and socializaƟon opportuniƟes that are essenƟal for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiƟng lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low‐income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality childcare. This includes invesƟng in early childhood educaƟon and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioriƟze childcare as a criƟcal infrastructure component of our community.

InvesƟng in childcare supports working families, promotes early educaƟon, and ensures that all children and families in our community can thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communiƟes growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Jack Feichtner, AIA
Parent, Resident, and Project Architect
DFH Architects, LLP
1544 Twentieth Street
Santa Monica, CA 90404




















www.dfhaia.com
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1311 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Kemper Donovan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City.

As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
 Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
 Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
 Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community My husband and I have been a part of the GP community for seven years now, and we will be for at least another three—a full decade of Growing Place helping us to raise our two daughters with intention and compassion and a commitment to excellence. We could not be more proud to be a part of the community, or feel more strongly that GP must continue to receive City funding to perform its crucial role in the greater Santa Monica community.

The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Kemper Donovan
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1312 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 2 ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1313 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jennifer Driscoll <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:18 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

The value that the Growing Place brings to Santa Monica is immeasurable. So many of our youngest citizens have grown up in their care. The quality of the programs they have developed and the educators they have on staff is higher than I have seen at any other early childhood care programs.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Jennifer Driscoll
Santa Monica resident, mother to 2yr and 4yr old students at the Growing Place Marine Park ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1314 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Suzy Foster <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:27 PM
To: councilmtgitems; HumanServices Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; David White Cc: Jesse Munoz; Pauline McPeake; Cecilia Carrillo
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a Santa Monica resident, thank you for your hard work regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program (HSGP).

As a member of this community with a two-year old enrolled at The Growing Place Marine Park, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families' success. My son, Indy, has been lovingly cared for and creatively educated at The Growing Place since October 2021. In that time, we have seen incredible growth in his physical and social development through The Growing Place's creative, varied and intentional learning opportunities. As parents, we have benefited greatly from The Growing Place's guidance and strong community of support.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investment in families and young children aligns with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff and thank you in advance for continuing to fund worthy programs applying to the HSGP.

Respectfully,
Suzy Foster
Resident and Parent
511 Hill St., #204
Santa Monica, CA 90405
323-301-9158
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1315 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Sarah Stegemoeller <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:48 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: 11.B FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing in support of the staff Human Services Grants Program funding recommendations for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica, and urge you to adopt the same.

As former chair and member of the Santa Monica Commission on the Status of Women and a resident of Santa Monica for more than twenty years, I have been proud to live in a community that has long been on the forefront of championing and investing in early childhood education.

The Childcare Master Plan and other city policy documents and stated priorities have long recognized that access to early childhood programs ‐ particularly infant care and tuition subsidies ‐ ensures families’ economic security and overall well‐being. Moreover, investing in families and young children is essential to ensuring that every child in our community can thrive and succeed.

Please support these longstanding aims by adopting the staff recommendations for funding.  Help keep our Santa Monica families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Sarah Stegemoeller
Santa Monica Resident and former chair and member of the Santa Monica Commission on the Status of Women

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1316 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Sassa Chaleva <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:03 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica/workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low‐income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community.

Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Chrysanthi Chaleva Ntina
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1317 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Georgios Evangelopoulos <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica/workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low‐income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community.

Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Georgios Evangelopoulos
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1318 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jeanne Le <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B
Attachments: Agenda Item 11B.pdf

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I'm writing to express my strong support for the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI) and urge the council to consider providing grant funding to this vital non-profit organization. As a member of this community, I've seen firsthand the positive impact that SEWI's work has had on the lives of young people throughout Los Angeles County.

In recent years, mental health challenges have become more prevalent among youth, especially with the added stress of the pandemic. It's crucial that we support organizations like SEWI that provide free mental health services to those who may not have access to care otherwise. By bridging the gaps in mental health care, SEWI provides vital support for our young people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Moreover, SEWI's work with educators and staff is essential for creating a supportive and healthy environment for our youth. By training teachers and staff on social and emotional wellness topics, SEWI is helping to build a community of caring adults who can better support and serve our young people.

SEWI's mission to promote social and emotional wellness is more important than ever before. Their work to support our community's youth is essential, and I strongly urge the Santa Monica City Council to consider providing SEWI with the grant funding they need to continue their important work. With your support, SEWI can continue to make mental health care more accessible to the young people in our community. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Le
‐‐   To help protect your privacy,
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ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1319 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I'm writing to express my strong support for the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI) and urge the council to consider providing grant funding to this vital non-profit organization. As a member of this community, I've seen firsthand the positive impact that SEWI's work has had on the lives of young people throughout Los Angeles County.

In recent years, mental health challenges have become more prevalent among youth, especially with the added stress of the pandemic. It's crucial that we support organizations like SEWI that provide free mental health services to those who may not have access to care otherwise. By bridging the gaps in mental health care, SEWI provides vital support for our young people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Moreover, SEWI's work with educators and staff is essential for creating a supportive and healthy environment for our youth. By training teachers and staff on social and emotional wellness topics, SEWI is helping to build a community of caring adults who can better support and serve our young people.

SEWI's mission to promote social and emotional wellness is more important than ever before. Their work to support our community's youth is essential, and I strongly urge the Santa Monica City Council to consider providing SEWI with the grant funding they need to continue their important work. With your support, SEWI can continue to make mental health care more accessible to the young people in our community. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Le
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1320 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Tina Wiatrak <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:31 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica/workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to all.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Tina Wiatrak
Teacher at Growing Place for 23 years, California Mentor Teacher for 12 years, 38 year resident of Santa Monica. Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1321 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Anne Holmes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:48 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Anne
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B - SEWI
Attachments: Hughes Family Public Comment - SEWI SM City Council Meeting (May 2023).pdf

EXTERNAL
Hello,
Please see below and a copy attached of our Public Comment for:

Agenda Item 11.B ‐ SEWI
The continued services of SEWI are desperately needed in SMMUSD for so many students. There continues to be a tremendous increase in the number of students who are struggling with their mental health, and those struggles are different for everyone. The first place a child/student should be able to seek and receive help/guidance, if they are unable to talk to a parent or caregiver, should be at their school campus.

Our daughter has always been a student of SMMUSD since Kindergarten but left the district at the end of her sophomore year, in 2022. She was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety.

Unfortunately, she was unable to receive the help she needed at school, due to there not being enough services available for all children.

After leaving SAMOHI, we enrolled her in an online school as this was our best option for her, as she physically could not attend in‐person school due to her anxiety and went through some very dark days due to her depression. Near the end of last year, she attended a daily PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program), which was a daily commute for her of more than an hour away from Santa Monica for almost 4 months. I strongly believe if she had received, the services she needed earlier in her sophomore year, she may still be a student at SAMOHI.

All children need access to these types of services whenever needed. There should always be a door open for them to walk through and say “I need help! I am feeling……”. The doors/services on all school campuses need to be expanded and more help available for all students! SEWI are the ones who can provide this!!
Thank you.

The Hughes Family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1322 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 5/8/2023
Agenda Item 11.B - SEWI
The continued services of SEWI are desperately needed in SMMUSD for so many students. There continues to be a tremendous increase in the number of students who are struggling with their mental health, and those struggles are different for everyone. The first place a child/student should be able to seek and receive help/guidance, if they are unable to talk to a parent or caregiver, should be at their school campus.

Our daughter has always been a student of SMMUSD since Kindergarten but left the district at the end of her sophomore year, in 2022. She was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, she was unable to receive the help she needed at school, due to there not being enough services available for all children.

After leaving SAMOHI, we enrolled her in an online school as this was our best option for her, as she physically could not attend in-person school due to her anxiety and went through some very dark days due to her depression. Near the end of last year, she attended a daily PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program), which was a daily commute for her of more than an hour away from Santa Monica for almost 4 months. I strongly believe if she had received, the services she needed earlier in her sophomore year, she may still be a student at SAMOHI.

All children need access to these types of services whenever needed. There should always be a door open for them to walk through and say “I need help! I am feeling……”. The doors/services on all school campuses need to be expanded and more help available for all students!
SEWI are the ones who can provide this!!
Thank you.

The Hughes Family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1323 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jennifer Cowan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 7:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing on behalf of Santa Monica’s youngest residents and working families who are supported by the City’s Human Services Grants Program (HSGP). I urge Council to accept and further increase City staff's recommendations so that all recommended HSGP proposals are fully funded.

Connections for Children (CFC) – along with other non‐profit service providers – ensure the safety net for our City’s vulnerable and underserved residents. City resources are directed to support low‐income Santa Monica residents who may not otherwise have access to Federal and State‐funded programs.

With HSGP funding, CFC helps Santa Monica families secure child care subsidies necessary for them to participate in the workforce, continue their education, and maintain housing. The program also benefits local child care providers, as program enrollment and tuition rates impact their economic sustainability.

We have seen first‐hand how the needs of the City’s young children and families have increased since the HSGP was initiated. However, funding for the HSGP has not risen proportionally. This lack of resources significantly limits our ability to sufficiently address emerging and existing community needs.

The FY 2023‐27 HSGP proposals reflect the current cost for non‐profit service providers to adequately address community needs while sustaining our own operations. For example, CFC’s funding request was to serve 200 vulnerable children. Funding only 85% of CFC’s “grant ask” means that we will be serving at least 30 fewer children each year.

Connections for Children is grateful for the support the City has historically provided Santa Monica’s children and families. Continued investments in early childhood are critical to advancing Council’s priorities of Equitable & Inclusive Economic Opportunity, Racial Equity and Social Diversity, and Sustainable and Connected Community. We stand ready to partner with City Council, staff, and community stakeholders to address the expanded needs of our residents, but we cannot achieve our collective goals without sufficient resources.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Cowan
Executive Director
Connections for Children
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1324 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: fai fong <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers, I'm writing in urging you to continue to support the City staff's funding recommendation for the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP).  Growing Place has been the heart of the Santa Monica Community in its offering of the best early childhood education around.  Our children who are now successful young students in Santa Monica High School, I truly believe that these individuals with great curiosity and creativity have been enriched by their invaluable experiences at Growing Place.  We had some of the best support staff and teachers we've experienced anywhere.   Please continue to fund and make Growing Place the unique learning environment and allow families of different economic means this opportunity for their children.

Thank you for all you do!
Fai Fong
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1325 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Steven Soo <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 11A FY2023-2027 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City.

As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
 Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
 Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
 Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community My wife and I are both working parents and it would be impossible for us to participate in the workforce without the high quality care that Growing Place has provided to our daughter. She started in the infant room and is scheduled to start kindergarten next year. It is a testament to the amazing teachers and staff at Growing Place that she loves going to school every day and has developed into a confident and curious learner.

The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Steven Soo
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1326 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Sharrie Wunder
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: agenda item 11.B support of SEWI for HSGP funding Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:59:45 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing to express my support for the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative’s (SEWI) proposed increase in mental health services for the students of Santa Monica. The need for more mental health and wellness support for our youth is irrefutable. SEWI’s model of services (individual and group counseling, intern training in best practices for youth and support of educators and staff) is highly effective as evidenced by youth engagement and positive feedback. Their ability to create an environment in which seeking mental health care is de-stigmatized and their exceptionally responsive and personalized practices engage youth in a manner not often seen. With the award of this grant, SEWI will increase their reach, to provide 2,700 hours of counseling services a year, to 500 students. With your support, SEWI will make mental health care more accessible to youth in Santa Monica by providing services on-site and free of charge.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sharon Wunder
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1327 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Jenn Roth Krieger
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FUNDING FOR HUMAN SERVICE BUDGET - TUES MAY 9
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 8:21:39 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that Meals on Wheels (MOW) West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around. I urge you to fund them adequately in the Human Service Budget before you for approval on May 9.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Roth Krieger
839 Yale Street, Santa Monica
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1328 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Jill Fischer
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jen Kappelman
Subject: Funding for Meal on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 4:28:27 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council members,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica (every week for over 14 years) and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around. I see first hand and every week the difference my service and these meals make. It’s so important to the recipients and the entire community. I sometimes make monetary donations, and I know that some of my fellow volunteers do the same, but I know so much more is needed. Not only is the food delivery of service, but I know that my attention to their needs is also valuable to them. Whether it’s taking out their trash, sharing a funny storing or just discussing the weather, sometimes I’m certain that if I didn’t deliver their food and spend a few minutes chatting with them, they wouldn’t eat anything that day nor have any communication with a human being.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help. I recently read that loneliness is the equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day as it pertains to the health of senior citizens. So it isn’t only the food they are served but the ancillary services as well.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.I urge you to support and would greatly appreciate the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Jill Fischer
Real Estate Broker
Beverly & Company Luxury Properties
15301 Ventura Blvd. B315
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
818.231.9207 mobile/text
Broker License #00907458
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1329 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: shahira tadross
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding for Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 10:08:43 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans, and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization with strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

This year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s doors. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor.

Most of them live alone.

As volunteers, we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen, and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Thank you, Shahira Tadross
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1330 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding of Meals on Wheels - Westside
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:34:14 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.”
Warm regards,
Heidi
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1331 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Ted Winterer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Item 11-B, 5/9/23, HSGP Funding: Support
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:43:40 AM

EXTERNAL
For inclusion in the public record.

Thank you.
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Ted Winterer <[email protected]>
Date: Sun, May 7, 2023 at 4:37 PM
Subject: Re: Item 11-B, 5/9/23, HSGP Funding: Support
To: Gleam Davis <[email protected]>, Lana Negrete <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, Christine Parra <[email protected]>, Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>, Phil Brock <[email protected]> Cc: David White <[email protected]>
Mayor Davis Honorable Councilmembers,
I am writing to you on behalf of Community for Excellent Public Schools (CEPS), advocates since 1999 for our children and their education.

First, I'd like to thank the Council for your earlier decision at your budget study retreat to support children and youth (and their families) and for the planned partial restoration of library, after-school, at-school and park-based programs.

As for the HSGP, these funding measures are of great importance to CEPS. Our mission statement includes this aspiration: "3. To identify and support issues that will support education and public schools, including early childhood education, after-school programs, and post-secondary public education."
Consequently, we are grateful City staff has identified additional funds for a network of nonprofits with expertise in different areas serving different populations, yielding a comprehensive safety net for Santa Monicans with a wide variety of needs. City support leverages expertise, dollars, and collaboration and provides for a range of services that would most likely otherwise not be available to your constituents. Agencies and programs included in the HSGP recommendations that are most aligned with CEPS include Connections for Children, The Growing Place, Family Service of Santa Monica, St. Joseph Center, Santa Monica College. Hospitality Training Academy and JVS SoCal.

HSGP provides services for those in our community who are most disadvantaged and/or most challenged, including young children, school-aged children, youth, their families, and struggling young adults. Post-pandemic, many of these challenges are greater, such as isolation-related mental health problems for youth. We believe the staff recommendations align with council priorities and community needs.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1332 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Consequently, we at CEPS urge you to adopt the staff recommendation to increase funding for the HSGP and to allocate 85% of requested dollars to the approved agencies.

And, of course, if additional funds become available please consider fully funding some of the requests by these nonprofits.

Regards,
Ted Winterer, on behalf of myself, CEPS co-char Nicole Faries and the CEPS volunteers. --
Ted Winterer
Realtor @Compass, 2115 Main Street Santa Monica
DRE #02047989
--
Ted Winterer
Realtor @Compass, 2115 Main Street Santa Monica
DRE #02047989
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1333 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Nilla Elizabeth Watkins
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Letter from our Executive Director - Chris Baca Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 5:32:24 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Nilla Watkins
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1334 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Ryoko Takata
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Human Services budget
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:21:25 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Ryoko Takata
Ryoko Takata
EVP, Watt Ventures
Watt Companies
PH \ 310.314.2560 FX \ 310.460.4112
[email protected]
Save a tree: Consider the environment before printing this email.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1335 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) This e-mail transmission and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it are the property of Watt Companies, Inc. and/or one or more of its related entities, and may contain information which is proprietary, confidential and/or legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby instructed that any disclosure, copying, printing, 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 by telephone or return e-mail and delete the original transmission and its attachments without reading or saving in any manner. Nothing contained in this e-mail transmission may be construed to bind the individual sender, Watt Companies, Inc., its subsidiaries, related entities, nor their officers, directors, shareholders, members, managers, employees, agents, or any of them, to any contractual term, promise or condition of any kind. 200X_Disclaimer
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1336 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Christie Smith
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Human Services Budget
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 8:41:32 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Yours sincerely,
Christie Smith
Pacific Palisades
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1337 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Scott Pappas
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Human Services budget
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:51:09 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and personally see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Best,
Scott Pappas
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1338 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Thompson, John A
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Include funding for Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:45:37 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
John A. Thompson
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1339 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) This email originated outside of Sempra. Be cautious of attachments, web links, or requests for information.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1340 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Mary Hewitt
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Letter to Santa Monica City Council Re: SEWI
Date: Wednesday, May 3, 2023 6:10:02 PM
Attachments: Outlook-1wxe0tgk.png
Kollab Youth Letter to Santa Monica City Council - SEWI 05-03-2023.pdf

EXTERNAL
Hello,
Please accept our letter of support for the SEWI organization for grant funding.

Thank you!
Best in youth!
Thank you,
Mary
Mary Hewitt
CEO
Kollab Youth Workforce Development
[email protected]
310.303.2869
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1341 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Angela Tortu
To: councilmtgitems
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:44:22 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Angela Tortu
Sent from my magical phone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1342 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Ron Hamady
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:24:03 PM

EXTERNAL
To Whom it May Concern,
I know you’re going to be spraying money around.

This is an organization with whom you should generous.

I donate my time. Do your share!
Ron H
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1343 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Nello Torri
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 4:51:14 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Kate Torri
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1344 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Michael Kauffman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: meals on wheels funding
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:58:02 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
michael & andi kauffman
1243 18th st
santa monica pm
Envoi de mon iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1345 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Heather Baroff
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels funding!
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 4:00:06 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Heather Baroff
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1346 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Debbie Alexander
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels Funding!
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 12:14:22 PM

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Deborah Alexander
1066 Corsica Dr.

Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
(310) 422-9334
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1347 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Belen Briz
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MEALS ON WHEELS FUNDING
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 5:03:15 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.”
Thank you very much!!
Belén Briz
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1348 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Rob Sherman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels West Today!
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 11:51:08 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
TODAY
MOW West will deliver more than 210,000 nutritious meals this year to people’s doors. We are serving more people than at the height of the Covid pandemic, which was at that time record breaking for us.

That's what's happening today. And we've been at it a long time. For nearly 50 years Meals on Wheels has been serving seniors, veterans, people with living with disabilities and other homebound people in Santa Monica.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and is Top 10 in the new City of Santa Monica Review Panel Ranking.

MORE THAN A MEAL
In addition to serving delicious nutritious meals our volunteers and staff perform Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We make referrals to other social service agencies with an emphasis on physical and mental health.

Five years ago, in response to the growing number of unhoused people in Santa Monica, Meals on Wheels West started our Food & Shelter program which serves people formerly experiencing homelessness.Once formerly unsheltered people are housed, we deliver healthy nutritious meals, in-person and we add phone Wellness Checks including referrals to social services that help maintain stability and keep people off the street.
26% of MOW West’s clients are formerly unhoused people.

STRONG COMMUNITY CONNECTION
MOW West has strong community support MOW West and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I am writing to urge you to support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
Rob Sherman, treasurer, board chairman emeritus
--
Rob Sherman
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1349 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 310-463-1046 mbl
shermanmarketing.net
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1350 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: lou La Monte
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MEALS ON WHEELS WEST
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 9:12:06 AM

EXTERNAL
As a Former Malibu Mayor and Councilmember, I have been involved with MEALS ON WHEELS West for years and I now
serve on the Board of this wonderful organization.

For nearly 50 years Meals on Wheels has been serving seniors, veterans, people living with disabilities and other homebound people in Santa Monica. MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and is Top 10 in the new City of Santa Monica Review Panel Ranking.

This year MOW West will deliver more than 210,000 nutritious meals to people’s doors. We are Delivering More Than a Meals to more people than we did at the height of the Covid pandemic.

Our volunteers and staff perform Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We make referrals to other social service agencies with an emphasis on physical and mental health.
26% of MOW West’s clients are formerly unhoused
people. Once formerly unsheltered people are housed, we deliver healthy nutritious meals, in-person and phone Wellness Checks including referrals to social services that help maintain stability and keep people off the street.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted
Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to please support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1351 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Lou La Monte
MOW West Board Member
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1352 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: David Brodie
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 10:06:46 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello Councilmember Brock.

I’m reaching out on behalf of Meals on Wheels West, which I serve as a board member. MOW West has has served LA’s coastal communities since 1974, last year alone delivering over 200,000 meals. Our client list has grown significantly over the last three years, with 26% of our clients being formerly unhoused, and 21% are veterans or their spouses. Meals on Wheels West has developed innovative programs to help address both of these issues, including Food and Shelter and Supporting Veterans on the Homefront. As our list of clients grows, and as the cost of food continues to rise, we need support to continue meeting these challenges.

I hope that the Santa Monica City Council can continue to work as a partner with MOW West, and I urge you to support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
David Brodie
Editor // Director // Creative Director
[email protected]
310-586-0600
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1353 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: chris pirrone
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 9:54:21 PM

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I volunteer and deliver meals to people in Santa Monica. I see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Thanks
Chris Pirrone
17th street 90402
Santa Monica homeowner and resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1354 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Catherine Bodnar
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels, a critical need for so many.

Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:36:05 PM

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
For the last five years, I have been delivering meals on wheels in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you for your consideration, sincerely, Catherine Bodnar, Pacific Palisades Sent from my iPad
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1355 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Scott Zimmermann
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jen Kappelman
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 3:20:36 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of our clients. I have been delivering food for more than 10 years.

MOW does the following, among other things:: 1/ gets sustenance to clients; 2/ clients get interaction with the outside world; 3/ they know that someone cares about them. Almost all of my clients live alone I am proud to be associated with MOW.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Scott Zimmermann
322 10th Street
Santa Monica
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1356 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: J Renshaw
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:48:41 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Jeannine Renshaw
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1357 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:35:15 PM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you!
Geoff Taylor
CEO/Founder
The EB-5 Investor Portal
Office: 844.754.9225
WhatsApp: +1
818.262.8176
Schedule a call with me
This communication is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice or an offer or solicitation for the purchase of any financial instrument. You should consult with a qualified immigration attorney as part of the ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1358 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) EB-5 process.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1359 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Kevin Khalili
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 4:33:25 PM
Importance: High

EXTERNAL
Hello there,
For nearly 50 years Meals on Wheels has been serving seniors, veterans, people with living with disabilities and other homebound people in Santa Monica.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and is Top 10 in the new City of Santa Monica Review Panel Ranking.

This year MOW West will deliver more than 210,000 delivering nutritious meals to people’s door. We are Delivering More Than a Meals to more people than we did at the height of the Covid pandemic.

The volunteers and staff perform Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We make referrals to other social service agencies with an emphasis on physical and mental health.

Five years ago, in response to the growing number of unhoused people in Santa Monica, Meals on Wheels West started our Food & Shelter program which serves people formerly experiencing homelessness.
26% of MOW West’s clients are formerly unhoused people.

Once formerly unsheltered people are housed, we deliver healthy nutritious meals, inperson and phone Wellness Checks including referrals to social services that help maintain stability and keep people off the street.

MOW West has strong community support MOW West and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
Kevin Khalili
Chief Executive Officer
Alliance Hospitality Group
10850 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 510
Los Angeles California 90024
T. 310-474-8633 x106
F. 310-388-0967
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1360 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1361 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Harriet Madsen
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:35:06 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you!
Harriet Madsen
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1362 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Tognozzi, Elissa
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:43:01 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I have been a resident of Santa Monica for 43 years. I have seen many changes over the years and I was one of those highly critical over what appeared to be lack of action with regard to the homeless and people struggling with poverty. That opinion changed when I began volunteering for Meals on Wheels. I was encouraged to find out how many people were being assisted by the city, including providing housing and food. I have seen first hand how many meals are delivered and the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them housebound.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help. MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll
I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you for your consideration.

Elissa Tognozzi
1122 6th St., Apt 201
Santa Monica, CA 90403
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1363 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:55:15 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Eitan Feldman
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1364 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Wendy Dembo
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:51:10 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s doors. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer, we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen, and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow up. MOW staff makes referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Best,
Wendy Dembo
Santa Monica resident and voter
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1365 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Sylvia McNitt
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW support
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:58:34 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sylvia Mcnitt
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1366 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: David Reed
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW West makes life better for SM seniors
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 8:35:42 AM
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Get BlueMail for Desktop
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1367 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Lisa Arnold
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:35:20 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Lisa Arnold
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1368 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Nello Torri
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:46:49 PM

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1369 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Keith Weitzenhoffer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOWW
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:27:07 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Keith W.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1370 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Catherine Bodnar
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please consider all the people that are benefited by Meals on wheels Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:33:55 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
For the last five years, I have been delivering meals on wheels in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sent from my iPad
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1371 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Mary Ellen
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please continue to fund Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:38:48 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Chris Baca
Executive Director
(310) 394-5133 x4
[email protected]
1823-A Michigan Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90404
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1372 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Nancy Stark
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please support Funding for Meals on Wheels West Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 6:05:12 AM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Nancy Stark
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1373 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: ruth laurent-kocher
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Support Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:37:17 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
RUth Kocher
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1374 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Christopher Camp
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Support Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:28:33 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Chris Camp
Santa Monica Resident for more than 10yrs
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1375 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Anjuli Kronheim Katz
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis
Subject: Re: Human Services Grants Programs
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 11:38:04 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I urge you to continue prioritizing funding for early childhood programs and to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

As a new parent of an almost 9 month old, I support the staff recommendation of an award of 85% of the agency ask for (among others) Connections for Children, the Growing Place, and Family Service of Santa Monica, the three HSGP agencies most involved in directly serving young children and their families. More would be great as well!
Thank you,
Anjuli Kronheim Katz
Former Santa Monica Housing Commissioner
--
Anjuli Kronheim Katz
Cell: 484-213-4811
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1376 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Nomad1800
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: re: Meals on Wheels West
Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 5:07:01 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Chris Baca
Executive Director
(310) 394-5133 x4
[email protected]
1823-A Michigan Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90404
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1377 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Erin Angerer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 1:36:56 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program (HSGP).

As a member of this community and a parent to a toddler who attends the Growing Place, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families success.

My partner and I moved our family to Santa Monica in 2016 in large part because of the support we saw at the local level for early childhood education. We are now deeply committed to this community.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Erin Angerer
Santa Monica Growing Place Family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1378 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Larry Birstock
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support for Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:53:31 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Larry Birstock
2607 26th St
Santa Monica, CA 90405
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1379 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Flores, Clive
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support Funding of Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:23:03 PM
Attachments: image001.png

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Clive Flores
Clive Flores Inclusion, Diversity & Equity Business Partner Pronouns: She/Her E: [email protected] P: (310) 426-4883 L: Los Angeles, CA I use the Atkinson Hyperlegible font from the Braille Institute for email. It provides increased legibility for people with low vision. If you haven’t installed it on your machine, Outlook substitutes another font. |
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1380 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Emma McKillop
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support Funding of MOW West
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 11:38:44 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.
--
*Please note my new email address
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1381 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Amanda Hough
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support funding of MOW West
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:23:50 AM
Attachments: image001.png

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West
Amanda Hough
Associate Director, Digital Strategy
RPA Advertising
2525 Colorado Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90404
T 310-633-6055
rpa.com
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1382 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) ____________________________
This email may contain information that is confidential or is otherwise the property of RPA or its clients. Any use of this information for purposes other than that for which it was intended, including forwarding the information to unauthorized parties or using the ideas or materials contained in this email, may violate U.S. or foreign laws, and is prohibited. If you received this message in error, please let the sender know and delete the message immediately.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1383 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Mindy Owens
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support the funding of MOW West!
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:58:27 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
A volunteer for MOW West
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1384 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Tracey Gronemeyer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: We Need Meals On Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:48:52 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Tracey Gronemeyer
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1385 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Joseph Acevedo
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:30:47 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1386 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 10:20:42 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers: I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program. High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities: * Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource. Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Adam Popichak
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1387 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Adrian S
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:11:04 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am emailing you to express my support for The Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! A majority of Santa Monica residents are renters, this financial assistance helps lots of families who are struggling to pay for childcare.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Adrianna W. Spilatro
818-744-0587
View My Profile
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1388 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Emily Ann
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:50:26 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Emily Ann
Resident and Parent
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1389 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Elaine Barringer, PhD
1725 Ocean Ave. #410
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(213) 926-2059
[email protected]
May 8, 2023
Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main St
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendations
Dear Council Member,
This letter is regarding funding for the St. Joseph Youth Middle School Support Team. As a parent living in Santa Monica, I have witnessed the impact of the pandemic on the youth in our community. The past three years have been difficult for my child who was 15 years old when the pandemic struck. We, like many families, have faced unique challenges. With school closures, modified classroom settings, extracurricular activities canceled, and social gatherings prohibited, many young people struggled to find ways to stay engaged and connected. This struggle has wounded the mental health and wellbeing of the young person in my family, as he and his peers seem to have been derailed over the course of the pandemic.

The St. Joseph Youth Middle School Support Team has played a critical role in supporting us through these crippling times and works throughout the community to help our youth get back on track.

By supporting the St. Joseph Youth Middle School Support Team, the Santa Monica City Council can help ensure that our youth have access to the resources and support they need to recover from these challenging times.

I sincerely hope the Council offers to contribute to this critical effort.

Sincerely,
Elaine Barringer
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1390 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Bay
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:45:09 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Greg Behar
Santa Monica Resident
1655 Oak St
Santa Monica
CA 90405
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1391 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Alisa Bizzul
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:25:09 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program, to sustain its programming for young children and families in our City.

I’ve lived in Santa Monica for over 20 years, I work at Growing Place, and my children attended Growing Place, so I know firsthand the value this school provides to the community.

I also know how difficult it is to find childcare a parent can trust and rely on, both from personal experience and from the many inquires we receive at Growing Place.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Best regards,
Alisa Bizzul
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1392 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Juan Bustamante
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:48:14 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1393 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Cecilia Carrillo
To: Glynna Grimala
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:01:27 AM

EXTERNAL
Thank you so much, Glynna!
Wish me luck today!
On Mon, May 8, 2023 at 9:40 PM Glynna Grimala <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica/workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

I am a single, working mother. Both my children have attended The Growing Place and I can honestly say the reason we’re not only surviving but thriving is thanks to the incredible education and support we receive at the Growing Place.

The staff and teachers are the most impressive group of educators I have had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with. My two sons have been cared for and prepared for their next steps because of the Growing Place. Additionally, I have been able to keep my job and support my family because my children have child care.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1394 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Glynna Grimala
Santa Monica Resident
--
Cecilia Carrillo
Director | Growing Place, Marine Park
1406 Marine Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-392-9737
For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1395 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) ChangeLives.org

Downtown Los Angeles
522 S. Main St.

Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 806-6300
Orange County
290 S. Anaheim Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 204-3000
San Fernando Valley
13545 Van Nuys Blvd. Ste. 1
Pacoima, CA 91331
(818) 794-4200
Santa Monica
1853 Lincoln Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 401-9400
May 8th, 2023
Santa Monica City Council Members
City Hall
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, California 90401
Re: Council Meeting on May 9th, 2023 – Agenda Item 11.B.

Dear Mayor & Councilmembers:

I am writing today in reference to Item 11.B. on the Council’s agenda for May 9th, 2023, “2023‐27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendations.”  We would like to thank the Council and the City for your ongoing support of the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP).  We support staff’s recommendations for funding in the FY2023‐27 cycle.

We appreciate the inclusion of funding for jobs programs and employment services.  We are thankful to see the support for services supporting economic stability and wellness for vulnerable members of our community.  Providing employment services to City residents fills a critical need and we thank you for that investment.

Founded in 1984 and having opened in Santa Monica in 1994, Chrysalis’ mission is to serve people navigating barriers to the workforce by offering a job‐readiness program, individualized supportive services, and paid transitional employment.

We empower our clients on their pathway to stability, security, and fulfillment in their work and lives.

Chrysalis has been focused on working with some of the most vulnerable members of our Santa Monica community through these challenging times, including individuals experiencing homelessness and those impacted by the criminal justice system.

We appreciate the City’s ongoing funding for the Human Services Grant Program.  We are committed to doing our part to support vulnerable local residents, to provide qualified candidates to local businesses, and to be a partner of the City for years to come.  If you have any questions or concerns, I can be reached at [email protected].

Thank you,
Mark Loranger
President & CEO
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1396 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 12:54:32 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
- James Clark
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1397 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Manuel Contreras
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:18:53 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Manuel Contreras
Parent of child at Growing Place Marine Park
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1398 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Kemper Donovan
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:32:40 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Kemper Donovan
Santa Monica Resident and Parent
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1399 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Melissa Dooley
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 3:00:20 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

The Growing Place has been close to our hearts for over 6 years. My son, Ryder(6) who is now at Franklin, and my daughter, Marley(3) who is a current student spent much of their young lives with the Growing Place, and it has been such an incredible blessing to our family. My husband, Drew, has served on the board of directors and we could not speak more highly of the mission, the benefits and the value to the Santa Monica community.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Melissa Kaspers
Santa Monica Resident, Mother of 2, Santa Monica-based entrepreneur ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1400 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1401 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Mary 9, 2023
The City Council of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[email protected]
RE: Item 11.B. 2023-2027 Human Services Grants Program Funding Recommendations
Dear City Councilmembers,
JVS SoCal is honored to be a recommended funding recipient for the Human Services Grants Programming to fund our Santa Monica Youth Employment program.

JVS SoCal has been building better lives, one job at a time by empowering individuals to achieve dignity and economic independence through sustainable employment for 93 years. We have been fortunate to partner with the City of Santa Monica to provide our Santa Monica Youth Employment Program (SMYEP) for at least 13 of those years.

We have operated the SMYEP in partnership with the staff at Virginia Avenue Park (Park). We receive participants from the Park and we provide services on-site, and we place youth in their first jobs in various programs at the Park. We not only receive referrals from Virginia Avenue Park, but from Olympic High School, Santa Monica High School and the City’s Youth Resource Team. Furthermore, many of the youth we serve introduce their friends, parents and other family members to the youth and adult services JVS SoCal has available through the West Los Angeles America’s Job Center we operate.

It is a successful program and partnership, so we respectfully as for the City Council to support staff’s recommendation.

Sincerely,
Jeff Carr
CEO
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1402 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Frisco Fayer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:24:20 AM

EXTERNAL
I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program.

As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities.

Sincerely,
Frisco
Law & Mediation Office of Frisco Fayer
{website}
100 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700
Santa Monica, CA
(310) 917-1074
CONFIDENTIALITY: This message may contain privileged information for the specified recipient(s) only. Unauthorized disclosure, copying, distribution, or use is prohibited. If received in error, please contact us by phone or email and delete the message. Thank you.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1403 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Maria Franco
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 6:01:10 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As an employee and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the wellbeing of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community I have taught at Growing Place Marine Park for over 12 years. In those twelve years, I have partnered with over 150 Santa Monica parents and nurtured over 200 of our youngest Santa Monica residents.

The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Maria Franco
Santa Monica Childcare Workforce
Sent from my iPhone
For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1404 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1405 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Alison Havel
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SM CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: 11.B FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 5:05:19 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program (HSGP).

As a resident of Santa Monica and parent of two kids in our public schools, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families' success. The education and support that my daughter received through both The Growing Place and Lincoln Child Development Center (part of SMMUSD) led her to get access to critical early intervention services for occupational therapy and social skills. Today, she is a successful, independent sophomore at Santa Monica High School, but I know she wouldn't be where she is without the programs we were able to access starting at age three. We initially found The Growing Place through a referral from Connections for Children, and that I why I currently volunteer as a Board Member for that organization. ALL CHILDREN, regardless of income, deserve to have access to quality child care and early childhood education opportunities that my children had. The grant that the City of Santa Monica provide to the Growing Place at Marine Park and to Connections for Children through HSGP helps make these high quality programs available to residents of our city.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff. Thank you in advance for your consideration with regards to the funding recommendation for the HSGP.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Alison Havel
22-year resident of Santa Monica
Parent of two students at JAMS and SAMOHI
Board Member and Fund Development Chair, Connections for Children Former Board Member, The Growing Place
Board Member, Santa Monica Education Foundation
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1406 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Garrett Bradford
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 6:40:24 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Garrett Bradford
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1407 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Glynna Grimala
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:40:46 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica/workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

I am a single, working mother. Both my children have attended The Growing Place and I can honestly say the reason we’re not only surviving but thriving is thanks to the incredible education and support we receive at the Growing Place.

The staff and teachers are the most impressive group of educators I have had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with. My two sons have been cared for and prepared for their next steps because of the Growing Place. Additionally, I have been able to keep my job and support my family because my children have child care.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1408 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Sincerely,
Glynna Grimala
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1409 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Jessica Reynaga
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jennifer Cowan
Subject: Public Comment: Agenda Item 11, B
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 4:47:14 PM
Attachments: image001.png

EXTERNAL
Hello,
As the Director of Programs at Connections for Children, I would like to submit the following comment on behalf of one of our child care providers, Celia Fisher, who provided permission for this statement to be shared:
“My name is Celia Fisher, and I have been the Director of Beach Moms Child Development Center at 1720 Broadway Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404 since it first opened on December 24th, 2012. We recently celebrated our 10-year anniversary. Before opening this center, I spent eight years as a Family Child Care Provider. Had it not been for Connections for Children (CFC), I wouldn’t still be doing this work. I am submitting this public comment to ask the City Council to fully fund Connections for Children’s HSGP request.

I started out as a client with CFC. I met Martha (CFC Subsidized Program Manager) and Connie (CFC Emergency Child Care Bridge Navigator) when I utilized the subsidy program service for my kids while working at Los Angeles Unified School District. Back then, I was working and studying at Santa Monica College (SMC) at the same time. Those were hard nights, but I got through it thanks to CFC.

My cousin, Shelly Crawford, was working at CFC at the time. She worked in the Resource and Referral Department and helped parents find child care across the city. Shelly was the one who suggested that I start my family child care business. I was part of the pilot group of quality support coaching through Los Angeles Universal Preschool (LAUP). That’s what got me prepared to open my own center. I eventually moved across the street from SMC, and during that time, a family child care provider who lived across from me helped me take care of my kids.

CFC made it possible for me to provide service to families in the subsidized program; this was important to me because it’s where I came from. 90% of my enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic came from CFC’s subsidized program. When everything else was shut down, CFC allowed me to stay employed, pay my bills and my employees. I wouldn’t have made it through the pandemic otherwise.

Being a subsidized program provider also encouraged me to be an active member of my ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1410 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) community. I am now on the Board of Directors for the City of Santa Monica’s Chamber of Commerce. I am starting to grow a passion for supporting other small businesses in the area and am proud to represent people of color on the Board. We have to be there and be present as a voice for our community.

The trainings, subsidized program, and support I received through CFC from staff like Sharon (CFC Professional Development Coach) and Sonia (CFC Resource & Referral Program Supervisor) really helped develop me as a leader and a business woman. This is why I urge the City Council to fully fund Connections for Children’s HSGP request.

Sincerely,
Celia Fisher
Director of Beach Moms Child Development Center”
Thank you,
-----
Dr. Jessica Reynaga, EdD, MSW
Director of Programs
5901 W. Century Blvd., Suite 400
Los Angeles, CA 90045
P: (310) 452-3325, Ext. 226
F: (310) 452-3984
www.connectionsforchildren.org
You can make a difference for our youngest learners by donating today! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1411 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Holli C
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:25:23 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality child care services to families in our city.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Holli Clark
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1412 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Jenny Hu
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:01:55 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the City of Santa Monica's continued funding for the Growing Place Marine Park through the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP).

I am a resident of Santa Monica in the Pico neighborhood and my husband is an employee of a Santa Monica-based company. I am a healthcare professional. My family benefited directly from the city's support of Growing Place Marine Park, where both of my children were cared for until they graduated and transitioned to SMMUSD schools.

My husband and I both have demanding full-time jobs and there was no way we could have continued to earn a living (or live in Santa Monica at all) without the year-round, full-day care that Growing Place provided for us. I dropped my children off every morning with a happy heart knowing that they would be cared for in a loving and nurturing environment by a truly professional staff.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is often limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This is doubly true in the aftermath of the pandemic, when so many providers were forced to shut down and were not able to recover. We also learned just how important reliable childcare is the ability for parents (especially mothers) to stay in the workforce. I truly believe that our community's economic recovery will depend on the availability of childcare for working families.

That means each and every spot for an infant or toddler means another working parent (most often women) who is able to return to work. By casting your vote in support of the HSGP for Growing Place Marine Park, you're casting a vote for the future of our community.

Thank you,
Jenny Hu
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1413 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Josie James
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:54:00 AM

EXTERNAL
TO: SM CITY COUNCIL ([email protected])
SUBJECT: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica and in the Santa Monica workforce I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

My family would not have been able to work or live in Santa Monica without the Growing Place establishment. It is so difficult to find qualified help for full time working families that will help prepare our children both educationally and emotionally for the people they will become. We would not have financially made it without a program such as Growing place between the cost of living and the cost of child care as well as the hours we needed it.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1414 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Sincerely,
Jo Anna Provencher
Parent, Santa Monica Resident and Santa Monica work force member ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1415 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Kabir Chopra
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:43:28 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
--
Kabir Chopra
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1416 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Other Office Locations:

Ron Olson Justice Center, 1550 W. 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 East Los Angeles, 5301 Whittier Blvd., 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90022 Long Beach, 601 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802
South Los Angeles, 7000 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90003 Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
1640 5th St., Suite 124
Santa Monica, CA 90401
May 9, 2023

VIA E-MAIL
[email protected]
Mayor Davis and City Council
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: May 9, 2023 City Council Special Meeting – Agenda Items 11.A and 11.B Specifically Item 11.A(7): Authorization for City Manager to Execute First Modification to Agreement with LAFLA for the Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel programs; and, Item 11.B: HSGP Funding Recommendations Dear Mayor and City Council,
I write on behalf of the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (“LAFLA”), and the low-income residents of Santa Monica we serve every day. LAFLA’s Santa Monica community office has served residents for nearly 30 years and seeks to continue its hard work going forward. We offer free legal assistance and representation in: (i) housing disputes and eviction cases; (ii) applications for domestic violence restraining orders and family law orders; and (iii) access and maintenance of public benefits. To that end, we support the staff recommendations in Items

11.A(7) and 11.B.

Item 11.A(7): Funding for Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel Programs According to the Judicial Council of California, “Eviction is one of the most urgent civil law issues for low-income individuals and families.” We agree. As you know, Santa Monica residents are at greater risk of homelessness and housing insecurity than ever before. Between the Right to Counsel program and our HSGP housing work, we have seen a nearly 28% increase in unduplicated Santa Monica residents assisted with housing cases from January 1, 2022 to January 1, 2023. We only see that number increasing in the future.

Further, a study by Stout Risius Ross, LLC (Stout) found that in the County of Los Angeles, 97% of tenants with unsealed eviction cases were unrepresented, as opposed to only 12% of landlords.

Stout’s analysis of court-assigned case outcomes for unrepresented tenants indicated that 94% of ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1417 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) May 9, 2023
2 unrepresented tenants had a high likelihood of experiencing disruptive displacement through the eviction process.

We seek to stem the tide of disruptive displacement to the benefit of tenants and their families, as well as the community as a whole. The City of Santa Monica is in a unique position of having both the resources to address the plight of unrepresented tenants, as well as the practical ability to implement such a program. The continued funding of the Santa Monica Right to Counsel program should be an example to the rest of the county.

In the last 12 months of the Right to Counsel program, in cases where we have provided representation in the unlawful detainer litigation, roughly 70% of tenants have remained in their housing, with the other 30% granted some combination of additional time, a waiver, a sealed record, or a soft landing in new housing. Indeed, representation in unlawful detainers is homelessness prevention, and the program has been successful.

As such, we appreciate the counsel’s consideration of this funding, and its commitment to address the ongoing homelessness crisis. We support the recommendation of staff in Item

11.A(7) as part of a larger strategy to address homelessness and housing insecurity in Santa Monica.

Item 11.B: HSGP Funding Recommendations – Community Office and Domestic Violence Clinic in Santa Monica Courthouse
The LAFLA community office has been a fixture in Santa Monica for nearly three decades. In addition to the vital litigation work addressed above, this HSGP funded program also engages in a large amount of pre-litigation prevention work, finding solutions so tenants and their landlords never have to go to court in the first place. While these attorneys also engage in plenty of unlawful detainer litigation (alongside the Right to Counsel program), there is an emphasis on problem-solving and engagement to avoid litigation where possible.

We further support the staff recommendation to continue funding our long-running domestic violence clinic in the Santa Monica courthouse. The need to protect domestic violence survivors continues to grow. Studies have shown that intimate partner violence increased during the pandemic, even if reporting of that violence did not. However, more survivors are seeking protection as restrictions and the pandemic has lessened. As of January 1, 2023, we saw a nearly 35% increase in Santa Monica residents who received legal services from the DV Clinic compared to the same time in 2022.

LAFLA provides this vital assistance to survivors of domestic violence, as well as support in divorce, custody, and child support cases in a manner most convenient for the client, whether that be through Zoom or in-person assistance. This blended model allows us to serve traditionally hard-to-reach clients and provides the widest access to survivors seeking protection from domestic violence.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1418 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) May 9, 2023
3 Finally, HSGP also funds our benefits work for Santa Monica residents. LAFLA provides advice and support regarding government benefits such as Social Security, SSI, Food Stamps, and CalWORKs. Especially in light of the economic hardships experienced by so many due to COVID-19, keeping residents connected to these benefits is essential to their well-being.

Conclusion
All of these services are part and parcel with LAFLA’s holistic treatment of our clients, recognizing their issues are multi-faceted and often require more than one type of support to resolve. Accordingly, we support the recommendations of staff with regard to the Right to Counsel program in Item 11.A(7) and the HSGP funding outlined in Item 11.B.

Very truly yours,
Kevin F. Mitchell
Managing Attorney
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1419 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: mike morrell
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1:20:43 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
> ϻɪĸє
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1420 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Alvaro Moya
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:51:22 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1421 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Karen Page
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:07:19 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely
Karen Page
--
Karen
424-435-9150
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1422 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Christine Peng
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B - public support
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:56:01 AM

EXTERNAL
Greetings City Council of Santa Monica,
This message is written in full support and celebration of SEWI - the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative. It is my understanding that SEWI has been nominated to receive a city grant to expand their mental health and wellness work throughout schools in the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. This would be a phenomenal act of love for the youth and families served by the SMMUSD. SEWI makes amazing impacts with young people of all ages in all areas of Los Angeles County, and having such a broad presence in Santa Monica will ensure that SEWI's beautifully constructed programs can help more of our young people change their lives for the better!
Thank you for having Santa Monica's best interests in mind and approving SEWI's funding.

We as a community will all be better for it!
Sincerely,
Christine Peng
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1423 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Rachel
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1:53:14 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Rachel Witenstein
Santa Monica Resident & Parent
Santa Monica Business Owner, Camp Cosmo
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1424 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Jessica Reynaga
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jennifer Cowan
Subject: Public Comment: Agenda Item 11, B
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1:02:56 PM
Attachments: image001.png

EXTERNAL
Hello,
As the Director of Programs at Connections for Children, I would like to submit the following comment on behalf of one of our subsidy clients, Maribel Jimenez, who provided permission for this statement to be shared:
“My name is Maribel Jimenez and I am a parent that receives subsidy funding from Connections for Children. I am submitting this comment to ask the City Council to fully fund CFC’s HSGP funding request.

Connection for Children really helps families in our community. They are so caring, understanding and always willing to help. They have helped me so much. I really feel they understand the needs you are going through and they help you out. I have to say David was my go-to person even when he wasn’t in charge of my child’s file or case I would call him for any concern and he was always so quick to answer or return my call. I had to change my son to a different school due to his present diagnosis and David guided me on what to do, who to call for a switch of school, and to top it off, when I apologized for always calling him he assured me it was not a problem and to call with any questions. He said, that if he wasn’t able to help me, he would guide me to the right person, and he did. I don’t know how to thank this program and staff. Having your child diagnosed with a disability and trying to get him help and finding places are very overwhelming. Paying for day care just adds more stress; I am soooo thankful that CFC helped me out and got a bit of stress off my back. Amazing service. I could go on and on about how much more they helped my child and me but just want to say I’m blessed to be able to be part of this program.

Again, I ask the City Council to fully fund Connections for Children’s HSGP request so they can continue to help more families like mine.

Sincerely,
Maribel Jimenez”
-----
Dr. Jessica Reynaga, EdD, MSW
Director of Programs
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1425 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) 5901 W. Century Blvd., Suite 400
Los Angeles, CA 90045
P: (310) 452-3325, Ext. 226
F: (310) 452-3984
www.connectionsforchildren.org
You can make a difference for our youngest learners by donating today! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1426 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Brittany Rogers
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:13:40 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Best,
Brittany Rogers, SM resident and business owner
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1427 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Teri Rawson
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B 2023-2027 Human Services Grants Program Funding recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 7:00:05 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello,
I’d like to add my voice in support of the Growing Place Marine Park campus. I have taught at Marine Park for over seven years. The community of families that depend on the MP campus are an integral part of the overall Santa Monica community. Please keep this valuable, quality educational source in tact for the many children who thrive there.

Thank you,
Terilyn Rawson
Childcare Workforce
Sent from my iPhone
--
*For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.*
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1428 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Mike Terranova
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11B- HSGP
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 12:04:49 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council:

Please support staff’s proposed guidelines to the HSGP. Our city is home to over 4,500 residents under the age of 5 years, and the services they and their families receive through HSGPs are critical to their wellbeing and ability to thrive. Your support helps secure a better future for our city’s youngest residents.

Mike Terranova
Sunset Park Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1429 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Shelby Scott
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: I volunteer for Meals on Wheels
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 6:19:05 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Lauren Scott
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1430 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Adrianna Whitehead
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:00:20 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am emailing you to express my support for The Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! A majority of Santa Monica residents are renters, this financial assistance helps lots of families who are struggling to pay for childcare.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Adrianna W. Spilatro
818-744-0587
View My Profile
Sent from Outlook
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1431 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Mackensie Yore
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:40:29 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program to sustain its programming for young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this critical program, to ensure it is accessible and affordable for the working parents who power this city.

Full-day, high-quality early childcare is essential for working families. The high quality of care available in Santa Monica is the reason we moved here and is the primary reason we would stay; HSGP support allows greater access to Growing Place's program and expands the income range of families able to attend. Investing in and expanding access to high-quality early childcare yields sound economic returns, increases gender and income equity, and builds the Santa Monica of tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Mackensie Yore
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1432 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Tracy Yen
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:18:37 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, raising three young children, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality child care services to families in our city.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Tracy Lochran
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1433 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) From: Annel Zavala
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:43:44 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a previous resident of Santa Monica and current part of the workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality child care services to families in our city.

As a Santa Monica native from a low-income household. I clearly remember my parents' constant struggle to make ends meet. I disciplined myself in school to ensure that I would grow up and serve the Santa Monica community I love so much. I became an Early Childhood Educator because I know the value of a child’s first developmental years. I chose Growing Place Marine Park because it strives to serve low-income Santa Monica residents.

I urge the council to continue to fund Growing Place Marine Park to support low income families’ access to high quality care.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1434 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Sincerely,
Annel Zavala
Santa Monica Childcare Workforce
Annel Zavala
Co-lead Teacher | Growing Place, Marine Park
1406 Marine Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-392-9737
For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

11.B.g
Packet Pg. 1435 Attachment: ITEM.11.B.Written Comments (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) FY 2023
-27
Human Services
Grants Program
Funding
Recommendation
Santa Monica City Council
May 9, 2023

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1436 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) RFP Release & Review Panel Scoring
Staff Funding Recommendation
Grantee Performance Management
Next Steps
Agenda 11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1437 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) RFP Release and Review Panel Development
RFP Release
Review Panel
Development
Released in September 2022 to community members,
news outlets, and vendors.

Staff partnered with the We are Santa Monica Fund
Advisory Board to recruit 42 Review Panelists.

Independent contractor, Elizabeth Anderson Consulting,
was hired to facilitate the review panel process.

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1438 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Review Panel Scoring
See Attachment E for complete list of review panel scoring results. 31 proposals received
from 24 agencies
5 panelists scored each
proposal, scores were
averaged to produce
one final score
Proposals scored above 75%
were considered for funding
Proposals scored below 75%
are not recommended for
funding
<
>

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1439 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Staff Funding Recommendation: HSGP Funds
$7.92 Million General Funds
$11.6 Million
$2.225 Mill.

Restricted
Supp. Funds
Available
Funding
Requested
Funding
$10.146 million total available funding

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1440 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Staff Funding Recommendation: Steps Taken
Step 1
Fund all proposals that scored above 75% with the following exceptions:
• Providence Saint John’s ‘Preschool Wellness Consultation’ • Cancer Support Community Los Angeles’ two program proposals – (1) ‘Santa Monica Women’ and (2) ‘Older Adults and Seniors’

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1441 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Staff Funding Recommendation: Steps Taken
Step 1
Fund all proposals that scored above 75% with the following exceptions:
• Providence Saint John’s ‘Preschool Wellness Consultation’ • Cancer Support Community Los Angeles’ two program proposals – (1) ‘Santa Monica Women’ and (2) ‘Older Adults and Seniors’
Step 2
Set a baseline level of investment in all programs recommended for funding at 85% of the requested grant amount
%

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1442 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Staff Funding Recommendation: Steps Taken
Step 1
Fund all proposals that scored above 75% with the following exceptions:
• Providence Saint John’s ‘Preschool Wellness Consultation’ • Cancer Support Community Los Angeles’ two program proposals – (1) ‘Santa Monica Women’ and (2) ‘Older Adults and Seniors’
Step 2
Set a baseline level of investment in all programs recommended for funding at 85% of the requested grant amount
Step 3
Fund programs above 85% that advance Council priorities and address known needs among the community’s most vulnerable members %

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1443 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Programs
Recommended
for Funding
Above 85%
Staff Funding
Recommendation
See table in Attachment A.

Agency Program Amount
Chrysalis SM Employment Center $ 282,783
CLARE MATRIX Help Empower Linkage Program $ 340,240
Connections for Children SM Early Education $ 1,492,043 Disability Community Resource Center Independent Living $ 205,285 Family Service of Santa Monica Integrated Mental Health $ 671,472 Growing Place Marine Park Child Dev. Center $ 212,500
Haven Neighborhood Services Beyond the Bank $ 115,600
Hospitality Training Academy SM Jobs Initiative $ 109,907 JVS SoCal SM Youth Employment $ 170,190
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles Community Legal Services $ 696,873 Meals on Wheels West Delivering More than a Meal $ 61,850 Santa Monica College Pico Partnership $ 226,971
Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative Youth Mental Health & Wellness $ 147,042 St. Joseph Center Older Adults Health and Wellness $842,060 St. Joseph Center Youth Resource Team $ 768,631
The People Concern 24/7 Samoshel Interim Housing $ 2,082,488 The People Concern Housing Retention $ 200,000
Venice Family Clinic Comprehensive Care $ 255,000
Westside Food Bank Emergency Food Distribution $ 175,000 WISE & Healthy Aging Care Management / Adult Day Programs $ 560,671 WISE & Healthy Aging Club WISE and WISE Diner $ 528,988 Total: $10,145,594

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1444 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Staff Funding Recommendation: Balanced Portfolio
2%
26%
18%
17%
37%
$10.146 Million
Total Available Funding
Additional
Underserved
Populations
17%
People
Experiencing
Homelessness
26%
Youth &
Families
37%
Seniors
18%
People with
Disabilities
2%

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1445 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Funding
Recommendation
by Primary
Population
People Experiencing
Homelessness
Youth & Families
People w/ Disabilities
Seniors
Additional
Underserved
Populations
Agency Program Amount
CLARE MATRIX Help Empower Linkage Program $ 340,240
The People Concern 24/7 Samoshel Interim Housing $ 2,082,488 The People Concern Housing Retention $ 200,000
Connections for Children SM Early Education $ 1,492,043 Family Service of Santa Monica Integrated Mental Health $ 671,472 Growing Place Marine Park Child Dev. Center $ 212,500
JVS SoCal SM Youth Employment $ 170,190
Santa Monica College Pico Partnership $ 226,971
Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative Youth Mental Health & Wellness $ 147,042 St. Joseph Center Youth Resource Team $ 768,631
Disability Community Resource Center Independent Living $ 205,285 St. Joseph Center Older Adults Health and Wellness $842,060 WISE & Healthy Aging Care Management / Adult Day Programs $ 560,671 WISE & Healthy Aging Club WISE and WISE Diner $ 528,988 Chrysalis SM Employment Center $ 282,783
Haven Neighborhood Services Beyond the Bank $ 115,600
Hospitality Training Academy SM Jobs Initiative $ 109,907 Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles Community Legal Services $ 696,873 Meals on Wheels West Delivering More than a Meal $ 61,850 Venice Family Clinic Comprehensive Care $ 255,000
Westside Food Bank Emergency Food Distribution $ 175,000 Total: $10,145,594

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1446 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Demographics of Recommended Agencies
Gender
45%
Majority Female
Boards
72%
Majority Female
Executive Teams
83%
Majority Female
Program Management
Race/Ethnicity
17%
Majority BIPOC
Boards
45%
Majority BIPOC
Executive Teams
77%
Majority BIPOC
Program Management

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1447 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Community Impact & Council Priorities
Residents have access to &
succeed in education & training
Residents are physically,
mentally, & emotionally healthy
Residents are socially
& economically secure
Lifelong Learning Stability Health & Wellness
Impact areas also advance Council priorities.

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1448 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Grantee Performance Management: Public Reporting
Introduce year-end
assessments of
program and fiscal
performance
Continue to publicly
post year-end
program and fiscal
status reports
Status reports are posted online
santamonica.gov/human-services-grants-program-reports

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1449 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Grantee Performance Management: Assessment
All programs begin the grant cycle
in good standing.

Good
Standing
Probation can result in a:
• Performance Improvement Plan
• Grant reduction
• Termination of grant agreement
Probation Program
Status

11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1450 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) Fall 2022: Identified review panel and released RFP (9/28/22).

Winter 2022/23: Closed RFP (1/18/23) and began review process.

May 9, 2023: Council to consider funding recommendation; staff begins negotiating new HSGP grant agreements following Council approval.

May 23, 2023: Council holds annual Budget Study Session; approved HSGP funding is incorporated into the Proposed FY 2023-25 Biennial Budget.

June 27, 2023: Council adopts the FY 2023-25 Biennial Budget; staff begins executing new HSGP grant agreements following Budget Adoption.

July 1, 2023: Begin new funding cycle.

Next Steps 11.B.h
Packet Pg. 1451 Attachment: PowerPoint Presentation (5579 : Approve Awards for 2023-27 HSD Grants) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: May 9, 2023
Agenda Item: 11.C
1 of 7
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Douglas Sloan, City Attorney, City Attorney's Office, Administration Subject: Consideration of a Settlement Agreement between the City of Santa Monica and WS Communities, LLC and its affiliates (“WS”), consistent with the City’s 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Housing Element for applicants that have asserted eligibility for processing under the “Builder’s Remedy” provision of the Housing Accountability Act (“HAA”), California Government Code section 65589.5(d)
Recommended Actions
Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Adopt a finding that no subsequent environmental review is required pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines:
a. CEQA Guideline §15378(b) and (c); Pub. Res. Code § 21065 b. CEQA Guideline § 15061(b)(3)
c. CEQA Guideline § 15168, 15162

2. Approve the Settlement Agreement between the City of Santa Monica and WS, the owners of the following properties: 1437 6th Street, 601 Colorado Avenue, 1518-24 7th Street, 1443 Lincoln Boulevard, 3030 Nebraska Avenue, 2901 Santa Monica Boulevard, 1415-27 5th Street, 1557 7th Street, 1238 7th Street, 1925 Broadway, 1433-37 Euclid Street, 1238-42 10th Street, 1007 Lincoln Boulevard, and 1038 10th Street.

Discussion
On May 9, 2023, the Santa Monica City Council will consider approval of a Settlement Agreement with WS, the owners of the following properties: 1437 6th street, 601 Colorado Avenue, 1518-24 7th Street, 1443 Lincoln Boulevard, 3030 Nebraska Avenue, 2901 Santa Monica Boulevard, 1415-27 5th Street, 1557 7th Street, 1238 7th Street, 1925 Broadway, 1238-1242 10th Street, 1007 Lincoln Boulevard, 1038 10th Street. The Settlement Agreement addresses the status of thirteen pending applications filed by WS to develop housing under the provisions of the Builder’s Remedy statute of the HAA

11.C
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(Government Code Section 65589.5(d)) (the “BR Projects”). See Attachment A. The City and owners disagree on the applicability of the Builder’s Remedy statute.

On April 11, 2023, the City Council adopted the ordinances necessary to implement the certified Housing Element, in conjunction with the Housing Element Environmental Impact Report (EIR) [SCH No. 2020100575] that was certified by Council on October 12, 2021, with an Addendum to the EIR approved on October 11, 2022. Consequently, the parties have elected to settle various disputes involving the BR Projects and unrelated litigation. Specifically, the parties have agreed to settle pending litigation against each other pertaining to the City’s leasing ordinance (requiring leasing periods of no less than one year) and alleged violations of consumer and tenant protection laws by the City against certain of the WS affiliates. The Settlement Agreement provides financial benefits for three recently displaced tenants of 1242 10th Street and guarantees them the right to return. The Settlement Agreement would also authorize the transfer of 20 deed-restricted affordable units from 1560 Lincoln Blvd to 1038-42 10th Street.

The Settlement Agreement also includes a completely optional component that the City is under no obligation to pursue and that provides reciprocal benefits to the parties independent of the other provisions of the Settlement Agreement discussed above.

Under the optional provisions, the City may adopt an ordinance that contemplates WS’s use of the ministerial development process already authorized in the Housing Element implementing ordinance adopted on April 11, 2023 in conjunction with the following local incentives that would allow (i) a 15% inclusionary requirement for the development of off-site affordable housing units, giving the owners more flexibility to pool off-site affordable housing units into one 100% affordable housing project to satisfy off-site inclusionary requirements for multiple market-rate projects, (ii) the grant of State density bonus waivers and concessions for the market rate projects as if the off-site units were provided on-site, and (iii) an increase in the Downtown Community Plan maximum parking requirement from 0.5 to 1.0 spaces. If adopted, these incentives would further facilitate the owners’ voluntary use of the ministerial development process previously authorized in the April 11, 2023 ordinance rather than the Builder’s Remedy.

11.C
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As part of the Settlement Agreement, the owners’ have the option to suspend the BR Project applications, and, instead, file thirteen new multi-family housing projects that would qualify for ministerial approvals under the ordinances implementing the certified Housing Element adopted on April 11, 2023 with the additional incentives authorized by the State Density Bonus Law and, potentially, the local incentives discussed above if the City Council elects to ultimately adopt the ordinance. If WS elects to file the ministerial administrative approval applications in lieu of the Builders Remedy projects the City would process the new applications on an expedited basis. The thirteen BR Project applications would be permanently withdrawn if the ministerial approvals are granted. The BR Project Applications for 1038 10th Street, 1238-42 10th Street, and 1007 Lincoln Blvd would be withdrawn without replacement applications. The BR Project Application for 1433-47 Euclid Street would remain outside the Settlement Agreement and proceed through the discretionary review process.

The overall result is that WS will utilize the Housing Element implementing ordinances with expedited processing rather than the Builder’s Remedy statute to develop housing, and the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element. Additionally, three tenants will have the right to return to their units with financial compensation.

Environmental Review
The Settlement Agreement is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Sections 21000 et seq. [“CEQA”] and 14 Cal. Code of Regulations Sections 15000 et seq. [“CEQA Guidelines”]) because it is not a “Project” pursuant to CEQA Section 21065 and 21080 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.

Under these provisions, a “Project” under CEQA involves agency action that has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.

11.C
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The Settlement Agreement involves neither a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. First, the resolution of litigation does not cause any direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect environmental impacts, nor does providing tenant benefits including financial benefits or the right to return. Second, the transfer of the deed restriction for the 20 Affordable Units from 1560 Lincoln Blvd to 1038-42 10th Street would not involve any changes to the number of units provided or result in any new construction and would only cause the deed restriction to be recorded against a different existing residential property. Therefore, no direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect environmental impacts would result from recording the deed restriction for a different property. Third, the Settlement Agreement’s expedited processing mandate would have no possible environmental implications and is merely a procedural and administrative benefit associated with the ministerial process already adopted for certain housing projects as part of the Housing Element Update related ordinances. Thus, nothing in the Settlement Agreement would increase potential development intensity or capacity or result in any foreseeable direct or indirect environmental impacts.

Finally, the optional ordinance would also not result in direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect environmental impacts. At this time, the adoption of the ordinance is optional and therefore speculative and subject to the discretion and independent judgement of City decision makers. Even if the City ultimately adopts the ordinance, the Settlement Agreement requires consistency with the 6th Cycle Housing Element.

Based upon this analysis, the following findings are made to support the determination that the Settlement Agreement is not a Project and therefore not subject to CEQA:
1) Pursuant to CEQA Guideline Section 15378(b) and (c); CEQA Section 21065, the Settlement Agreement is not a Project because it contemplates a process for approving housing projects that are already subject to ministerial approvals and proposed at intensities already permitted through the Housing Element and analyzed under the Housing Element EIR and Addendum; settles litigation, provides tenant benefits, and transfers affordability covenants from one site to another. The Settlement Agreement only establishes processing parameters, does not contemplate increased

11.C
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development rights, and does not confer any benefits that have either a direct or indirect effect on the environment.

In addition, even if the Settlement Agreement is considered subject to CEQA, it is subject to the commonsense exemption under CEQA Guideline §15061(b)(3). The commonsense exemption under CEQA applies where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. As described above the Settlement Agreement would not result in any direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect environmental impacts.

Additionally, the following findings are also made to support the determination that the Settlement Agreement is exempt from CEQA:
2) Pursuant to CEQA Guideline §15061(b)(3) the approval of the Settlement Agreement does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment because it contemplates a process for approving housing projects that are already subject to ministerial approvals and proposed at intensities already permitted through the Housing Element and analyzed under the Housing Element EIR and Addendum; settles litigation, provides tenant benefits, and transfers affordability covenants from one site to another. The Settlement Agreement only establishes processing parameters, does not contemplate increased development rights, and does not confer any benefits that have an effect on the environment.

Based upon this analysis, the following findings are made to support the determination that no subsequent environmental review is required:
3) CEQA Guideline § 15168; 15162 based on a determination that the Settlement Agreement is consistent with implementation of the 2021-2029 6th Cycle Housing Element, which actions were analyzed in the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) [SCH No. 2020100575] that was certified by Council on October 12, 2021 with an Addendum to the EIR approved on October 11, 2022.

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a) No substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the previous EIR and Addendum due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects. In this case, there are no changes to the project.
b) No substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous addendum due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects. In this case, no substantial changes have occurred.
c) There is no new information, which was not known and could not have been known at the time of the previous EIR and Addendum that the project will have significant effect not discussed in the EIR and Addendum.

Based upon these findings, it has been determined that no further environmental documentation is required for approval of the Settlement Agreement.

Past Council Actions
Meeting Date Description
October 11, 2022 Adoption of Resolution Amending the 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Housing Element to the City’s General Plan and Approval of Addendum to the Final Environmental Impact Report for the 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Housing Element
February 22 and
February 28, 2023
Study Session on Implementation of 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Housing Element Programs
March 21, 2023 and
April 11, 2023
Adoption of a finding that various amendments necessary to implement the City’s Certified 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Housing Element were analyzed as part of the 2021-2029 6th Cycle Housing Element Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and
Addendum, and no further review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is required.

11.C
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7 of 7
First and Second Reading, as required: Adoption of
ordinances for amendments to the LUCE, DCP, BAP, and
Zoning Ordinance, LUCE designation map, and Zoning
Districting Map, LUCE designation map, and Zoning
Districting Map implementing Certified 6
th Cycle (2021-2029)
Housing Element programs.

Effective Date of Action
The Settlement Agreement would take effect immediately upon execution of the document by all parties.

Financial Impacts and Budget Actions
There is no immediate financial impact or budget action necessary as a result of the recommended action.

Prepared By: Susan Cola, Assistant City Attorney
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:

A. Attachment A - Project List
B. October 11, 2022 City Council Meeting (Web Link)
C. February 22, 2023 City Council Meeting (Web Link)
D. February 28, 2023 City Council Meeting (Web Link)
E. March 21, 2023 City Council Meeting (Web Link)
F. April 11, 2023 City Council Meeting (Web Link)
G. ITEM.11.C.Written Comments
H. PowerPoint Presentation

11.C
Packet Pg. 1458
Attachment A
List of Pending Builder’s Remedy Applications Owned by WS Communities LLC Pending Builder's Remedy Projects
Owned by WS Communities LLC,
May 2023
Site Size (sf) Total
Proposed
Units
Affordable
Units
# of
Stories
Proposed
Project
FAR
Preliminary
SB330
Application #
Formal
(Development
Review Permit)
Application #
Preliminary
Application
Submittal
Date
Formal
(Development
Review Permit)
Application
Submittal Date
1925 Broadway 30,000 405 81 18 10.91 22ENT-0259 23ENT-0031 10/7/2022 2/28/2023 1007 Lincoln Blvd 7,500 95 19 15 n/a 22ENT-0268 23ENT-0066 10/13/2022 4/7/2023 1038 10th St 7,500 95 19 14 n/a 22ENT-0269 23ENT-0065 10/13/2022 4/7/2023 1238-1242 10th St 15,000 200 40 18 n/a 22ENT-0266 23ENT-0055 10/11/2022 3/29/2023 1433 Euclid St*** 15,000 200 40 18 10.48 22ENT-0267 23ENT-0022 10/11/2022 2/10/2023 1518-1524 7th St 22,500 200 40 11 6.34 22ENT-0249 23ENT-0041 9/30/2022 3/9/2023 1441-1443 Lincoln Blvd 15,000 170 34 16 9.32 22ENT-0251 23ENT-0009 9/30/2022 1/16/2023 2901 Santa Monica Blvd 19,125 190 38 12 6.45 22ENT-0256 23ENT-0051 10/6/2022 3/24/2023 3030 Nebraska (aka 3000 Nebraska Ave) 142,721 1601 321 15 6.55 22ENT-0257 23ENT-0050 10/6/2022 3/24/2023 1238 7th St 7,500 75 15 10 4.125 22ENT-0258 22ENT-0312 10/7/2022 12/9/2022 1433-1437 6th St 15,000 170 34 16 8.1 22ENT-0247 22ENT-0319 9/30/2022 12/22/2022 1425 5th St (aka 1435 5th St) 37,500 375 75 13 6.35 22ENT-0255 23ENT-0056 10/6/2022 3/29/2023 1557 7th St (aka 707 Colorado Ave) 22,500 200 40 16 6.28 22ENT-0254 23ENT-0028 10/6/2022 2/23/2023 601 Colorado Ave 22,500 200 40 15 8.1 22ENT-0248 23ENT-0012 9/30/2022 1/19/2023 Total 4176 836
***Project owned by WS Communities LLC and not subject to the Settlement Agreement between the City of Santa Monica and WS Communities LLC.

11.C.a
Packet Pg. 1459 Attachment: Attachment A - Project List (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Beatrice Felix
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:11:44 PM

EXTERNAL
All our elected leaders,
Santa Monica residents want to understand the ramifications of this settlement and want the Council to understand them BEFORE approving any settlement. Please do not rush this through and continue to choke our city with unbrideled growth at the expense of your constituents and to line the pockets of developers. It's already out of hand - let's get things under control.

Let's recognize that this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

Its impacts will be far reaching for generations.

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Beatrice Felix
Thomas Hartman
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1460 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Sil Richardson
To: Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: : City Council mtg. 5/9: Item 11C - SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REGARDING BUILDER"S REMEDY Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:42:33 PM

EXTERNAL
> Members,
>
> I live on 2nd Street in the Wilmont neighborhood and I support and hope you vote yes on the settlement agreement with WS Communities. I appreciate that the agreement has 1038 10th Street, 1238-42 10th Street and 1007 Lincoln Blvd being withdrawn for BR projects and will not have replacement applications. >
> I still am concerned about the other 10 WS Communities projects and STRONGLY REQUEST that the council have city staff outline for these buildings that would qualify for ministerial approval what would be maximum height and FAR, maximum number of units possible, number of affordable units and parking allowed for all these projects BEFORE voting on the settlement.
>
> Finally, as a member of a community with over 80% rental units, I want the city to ensure that the 20 deedrestricted affordable units between transferred from 1560 Lincoln Blvd. to 1038-42 10th Street DO NOT DISPLACE ANY RENT CONTROL RESIDENTS. The worst thing we can do is lose rent-control units/residents to displacement because of the builder's remedy debacle. > Thank-you,
>
> Silvana Richardson
>
> The city council meeting that has this settlement agreement for discussion >
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1461 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

From: Brian (3ribG) <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:44 PM
To: Gleam Davis <[email protected]>; Phil Brock <[email protected]>; Christine Parra <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Oscar de la Torre <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]> Cc: David White <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]>; David Martin <[email protected]>
Subject: FW: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11‐C Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11‐C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

EXTERNAL
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1462 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website
at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Here's SMCLC's letter:

Brian P Juarez -
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1463 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 3 ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1464 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

From: CHERI DICKINSON <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:53 PM
To: Gleam Davis <[email protected]>; Phil Brock <[email protected]>; Christine Parra <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Oscar de la Torre <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]> Cc: David White <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]>; David Martin <[email protected]>
Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11‐C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

EXTERNAL
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1465 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward.It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Cheri Dickinson
2268 22nd st
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1466 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Tricia Crane <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:08 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose 11-C - Staff Administrative Item to Settle Builder's Remedy projects

EXTERNAL
To: City Council
From: Northeast Neighbors
Re: OPPOSE Agenda Item 11-C, Council meeting of May 8, 2023 Dear City Council,
The Board of Northeast Neighbors supports the SMCLC letter to Council (below) expressing grave concerns about the Staff recommendations in Agenda Item 11-C.

We share the views and advice of SMCLC that Council should not allow any settlement with WS to be pursued without first engaging in a rigorous exploration and explanation to the community of what the impact will be as well as what alternatives may be pursued.

Thank you.

Tricia Crane, Chair
and the Board of Northeast Neighbors
May 8, 2023
To: City Council
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1467 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its “builder’s remedy” project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a “builder’s remedy” statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder’s remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega development agreement - the biggest one in the city’s history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/buildersremedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1468 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 3 6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It’s impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State’s requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable? Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City’s website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC’s predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it’s in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it’s anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1469 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Hadley, Richard <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:10 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Opposition to Staff Administrative Item 11-C

EXTERNAL
I am RICHARD HADLEY (I am a resident of the city of Santa Monica, CA) Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

THANK you.

RICHARD HADLEY
-----
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1470 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:19 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Administrative Item 11-C re BUILDER'S REMEDY

EXTERNAL
Re: Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects The council must take whatever action is necessary to maintain local control and require all projects including WSC’s to CONFORM COMPLETELY TO THE REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED IN THE EXISTING ZONING CODE.

Erik Lerner, Architect
25 Village Parkway
Santa Monica CA 90405
310 729 4597
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1471 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Nikki F <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:19 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
I stand with the Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City to oppose Staff Administrative item 11- C.

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to the questions raised by SMCLC in their letter of May 8, 2023.

Regards,
Nikki C. Fernandez
1138 16th St, Apt. 6
Santa Monica, CA 90403
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1472 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Philip Schwartz <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:29 PM
To: Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; Kristin McCowan; Kevin McKeown Fwd; Sue Himmelrich; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; councilmtgitems
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Against Agenda Item 11-C

EXTERNAL
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1473 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Signed
Philip D Schwartz, Treasurer
909-911 Arizona Ave HOA
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1474 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Ed Harker <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:38 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council, City Clerk et al,
I agree very strongly, passionately, with this letter below from SMCLC objecting to your settlement allowing 'builder's remedy'.

Please don't give the developers free reign on the size or design of their properties. They are here to make huge windfall profits, not to improve either our city or our state. Play hardball when negotiating what percentage of units will be affordable housing.

Thank you,
Ed Harker
SM resident since 1984
see below:

Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition.

Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html
In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1475 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Victor, Diana, Sherrill and Jeff
The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC)
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1476 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Daniel Galamba <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:52 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Daniel Galamba
Subject: City Council Meeting May 9, 2023: Please Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
I urge you to oppose Staff Administrative Item 11‐C until critical information is provided and the public can weigh in on this proposed settlement.  This settlement doesn’t say what would be built under this agreement including each project’s size, height, and number of units and how it would differ from the over 4000 units and up to 20‐story projects originally filed.  Residents want to understand the ramifications of this settlement and want the Council to understand them before approving any settlement.  There is lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in on any proposed settlement.

Last Fall residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these Builders Remedy projects.   In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed.  Furthermore, these Builder Remedy projects may not be valid because the State extended the deadline for the City to have their plan approved to October 15, 2022 and the City met this extended deadline.  Therefore, Builder Remedy applications before October 15, 2022 are not valid and should not be approved.

WSC is using the Builders Remedy to ramrod their projects through when their applications are not valid to begin with.

At this point it's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built.  Is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how?  How much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3 of the required new housing be affordable?  WSC is asking to City to approve a pig‐in‐a‐poke when their Builders Remedy applications aren't valid to begin with.  Please don't do this.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Dr Daniel Galamba
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1477 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Noma Boardmember <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:53 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Phil Brock; councilmtgitems Cc: David White; [email protected]; David Martin; Susan Cline; [email protected]; Zina Josephs; [email protected]; Tricia Crane Subject: Subject: NOMA Opposes item 11-C

EXTERNAL
To help protect y
Micro so ft Office p
auto matic downlo
picture from the
NOMA Board’s Opposition to Item 11‐C on May 9, 2023 Council Agenda

Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members,

The Board of the North of Montana Neighborhood Association writes to support the letter of the Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City and also to OPPOSE Staff Administrative Item 11‐C and its recommendation for our City to settle 13 massive WSC “Builder’s Remedy” projects based on the absence of the most elementary information on the settlement:

 The staff report lacks fundamental information necessary for even a rudimentary assessment of the settlements, including the number of units that would be subject to expedited, ministerial  review while waiving environmental review, the sizes of the units, heights of the buildings and how many units are affordable vs. market rate.  We note that under RHNA about 2/3rds must be affordable. We also note that the proposed future review of these massive projects apparently would be without public engagement and no necessary guardrails are disclosed.  The staff report fails to discuss the impacts and burdens on our already stretched City of these additional projects, such as on water, police, fire, traffic, and size of staff.  Lacking all of this vital information the public has been deprived of any meaningful input as to this item.

We urge the Council not to approve this item and that the settlement agreement be made public as well as the necessary facts for both the Council and the public to have meaningful input. These projects are so large and would likely have such an important impact on our City that nothing less is appropriate.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1478 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 NOMA Board
smnoma.org
[email protected]
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1479 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: gayle harbor <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:04 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1480 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward.It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Sincerely,
Gayle Harbor
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1481 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:31 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Builders REmedy with WSC - 11C
From: GARY <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:27 PM
To: Gleam Davis <[email protected]>; Phil Brock <[email protected]>; Christine Parra <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Oscar de la Torre <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; David White <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]>; David Martin <[email protected]>
Subject: Builders REmedy with WSC

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Et Al,
I urge you to reconsider this very nebulous agreement with WSC over 14 properties of theirs.

Building thousands of apartments will only add more congestion to already crowded areas. And this agreement raises more questions than it answers.

Sincerely,
Gary Gurner
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1482 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Brenda Anderson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:36 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder's remedy projects

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I strongly object to the inclusion of Item 11‐C that is represents a settlement with a developer that would not say what is to be built under the agreement.  You must be more open about what the proposed agreement includes and how it will affect our City.  Your own City Attorney hired outside counsel who advised that the City Council should give a high priority to keeping the public informed about proposed developments.  This item does just the opposite.  It has the appearance of trying to sneak something into approval without the opportunity for residents to weigh in.

Please direct Staff to give details about exactly what they are advising so residents will know, too.

Brenda Anderson
475 24th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1483 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Tatiana Khmilinina <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:13 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin; Yakov Zelkin Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in

EXTERNAL
To the members of the City Council:

Want to urge the City Council to hold off on a settlement with the developer until it clearly states:
- what would be built under this agreement
- how it would differ from the over 4000 units and up to 20-story projects originally filed - what our City will look like if this settlement is approved - why it's in the interests of the City to approve it
- when these expedited projects would come online
The residents need to understand the ramifications of this settlement and want the Council to understand them BEFORE approving any settlement.

Thank you,
Tatiana Khmilinina and Yakov Zelkin
310-800-8222 / 310-800-5500
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1484 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jack Fry <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:31 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Staff Administrative Item 11-C

EXTERNAL
I have read the letter that the Santa Monic Coalition for a Livable City as submitted to the City Council, and I am in total agreement with the concerns expressed in that letter.

How can the proposed housing to be built be accepted by the council when no numbers of housing units, especially affordable housing units are given?
How can the council approve such a plan when no estimates of effects on our infrastructure are included? Elements of our infrastructure are already under stress with the amount of daily influx of traffic which currently clogs our streets causing what should be a 20 minute drive to complete an errand take an hour or more.

How can the council approve a proposal that fails to specify how many units, how many stories, actual locations of projects are being planned?
To protect the best interests of Santa Monica residents, the council must reject this proposal until a more detailed version is forthcoming.

Jack F. Fry
2423 23rd Street
Santa Monica, CA
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1485 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jennifer Perito <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:31 PM
To: Gleam Davis
Cc: Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Builder's Remedy Settlement

EXTERNAL
To The City Council of Santa Monica,
I’m writing to STRONGLY OBJECT to the staff recommendation that the City Council approve a settlement of the 13 “builder’s remedy"
project sites throughout the city of Santa Monica!!
As a 50 year resident of Santa Monica, I am flabbergasted that the city would even consider these behemoth projects that have absolutely no place in the skyline of our beautiful city. The very nature and charm of SM would be dealt a devastating blow if these buildings are allowed to be
built. The environmental impact of these monstrous projects would be virtually incalculable, not to mention the harm it would visit on those
who live in the immediate vicinities. Our city is already experiencing historic congestion ‐ how in the world can it possibly absorb the addition
of this many additional units?!
The City Council must protect our beloved city and its citizens from the disastrous effects of rampant, ill‐conceived over‐ development ‐ if we don’t, we risk losing the unparalleled beauty that is Santa Monica.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Perito
1231 9TH ST (#6)
Santa Monica, CA 90401
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1486 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Selena Linkous <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:54 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

EXTERNAL
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1487 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1488 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Leslie Lambert <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:58 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar De La Torre; Phil Brock; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis
Subject: Item 11C

EXTERNAL
I encourage the City Council to approve the Settlement Agreement between WS Properties and the City, which is included on your May 9, 2023 Agenda as Item 11C. I am writing as an individual rather than as a representative of the Planning Commission.

I support this action because it will expedite the production of new housing in Santa Monica. Execution of this Settlement Agreement will provide much needed housing opportunities for new and existing residents and will also contribute to the City's meeting its RHNA goals in a timely manner, It is very important to understand that the twelve INDIVIDUAL WS Properties projects could submit twelve new project applications on June 1 and get exactly what they are asking for in the Settlement Agreement. Specifically, new sections

9.39.020 and 9.39.040 of the amended Zoning Ordinance fully entitle "Streamlined Housing Projects", on sites of less than one acre in size, to processing through the Administrative Approval process. This new ZO language becomes effective on June 1, 2023 and is in furtherance of Program 1A of our certified Housing Element. Program 1A requires amendment of the ZO to ensure by right processing of housing projects that are code compliant. (Modifications per the ZO do not disqualify a project from being considered code compliant.) Again, all twelve WS Properties' projects are code compliant,on parcels less than an acre in size, and are therefore "Streamlined Housing Projects". They will therefore be eligible for Administrative Approval on June 1.

It is my understanding that the only departure from the standard Administrative Approval process is the Settlement Agreement's provision that these twelve projects be expedited by the City rather than going through the 12‐18 month entitlement process. I would hope that we are all supportive of expediting entitlement review and getting housing in the ground sooner rather than later.

In my opinion, the Settlement Agreement is a win‐win situation for the City. It will result in building housing faster as well as demonstrating a good faith effort to comply with the Housing Element. I am frankly confused by objections raised by members of the community since WS Properties already will have the rights set forth in the Settlement Agreement on June 1.

Thank you for your consideration and your commitment to Santa Monica.

Leslie Lambert
.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1489 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Customer Service <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 6:59 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; [email protected]; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; [email protected]; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin
Subject: RE: Oppose Staff Admins. Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder's remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

EXTERNAL
The proposed settlement with WS Communities will have a BIG impact on Santa Monica residents for GENERATIONS to come.

I have lived here 45 yrs., and I cannot BELIEVE how this city is being destroyed. We might as well be living in NY.

Last yr., this developer filed applications for 14 projects under "builders remedy" statute to build OVER 20 stories high and over 4000 units city wide.

There was MUCH opposition. Residents urged the city to get outside council and OPPOSE these projects.
https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-117-22.html
City attorney retained outside council who advised there were good LEGAL grounds to CONTEST the filings once FORMAL APPLICATIONS were filed, and to keep Council and public informed.

In SPITE of this, last Thursday, city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for TOMORROW'S Council meeting as thought it were just a ROUTE ITEM.

BUT this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would GREENLIGHT the construction of 1,000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement-the BIGGEST ONE IN THE CITY's HISTORY! There needs to be a high degree of DISCLOSURE asa to WHAT is BEING BUILT and what the REAL-LIFE BENEFITS and BURDENS to the community will be implemented. There needs to be a more OPEN and TRANSPARENT process and sufficient NOTICE than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an Administrative Item to an ALREADY PACKED Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is SERIOUSLY DEFICIENT. It OMITS critical information that is necessary for the Council AND THE PUBLIC to weigh in to determine if the settlement is in the INTERESTS of SANTA MONICA BEFORE approving it.

KEY DEFICIENCES in the staff report include:

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1490 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 1. Stating that "the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City's regional housing needs, as planned in its certified"Housing Element" without giving the actual numbers., including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include EXEDITED processing, MINISTERIAL review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what exactly will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units), in comparison to the builder's remedy numbers posted on the City's website at:
https:://http://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18 stories)would remain a builder's remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without
explaining what this means (is the City reserving it's legal right to disapprove it?); amd

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

ABSENT THIS CRITICAL INFORMATION, THE COUNCIL SHOULD NOT MOVE FORWARD.

It is impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built-is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable? Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder's remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total HEIGHT, NUMBER of units and AFFORDABLE units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are RELYING upon the CITY COUNCIL to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City's best interest before approving it.

This is even MORE important here, given the well-known HISTORY of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please DO NOT MOVE FORWARD with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will LOOK LIKE if t his settlement is approved, WHY it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and WHEN it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Ruthann Shanley, Scott Shanley, Sarah Shanley
45 yrs. resident of Santa Monica
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1491 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Sterling Long-Colbo <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 7:12 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose builder's remedy

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) www.SMCLC.net Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11‐C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10‐17‐22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one‐off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega‐development agreement ‐ the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real‐life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1492 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 2 Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;
Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;
Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years; Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders‐remedy;
Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18‐stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and
Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built ‐ is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well‐known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1493 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 3 Thank you.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1494 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 7:28 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Vote NO on 11C

EXTERNAL
Hello City Council,
Please vote no on agenda item 11C, which would green light a tremendous amount of development without sufficient transparency, information, public input, or equitable planning.

I also object to the fact that this agreement will allow so‐called inclusionary housing units to be located offsite. This is an ongoing problem in Santa Monica that undermines the creation of affordable housing that would otherwise affirmatively further fair housing. We can do better.

Thank you for your attention and consideration.

Very best wishes,
Michelle Gray
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1495 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Jessica Wilkins <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 7:34 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

EXTERNAL
Please oppose!
Jessica Wilkins
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1496 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Gina Novish <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:02 PM
To: Caroline Torosis
Cc: [email protected]; councilmtgitems
Subject: Vote No on Builder’s Remedy

EXTERNAL
Please vote no on the Builder’s Remedy. As a long‐time resident living near the new building housing the Trader Joe’s at the corner of Wilshire and 23rd Street, I can tell you how invasive, congested, destructive and dangerous the neighborhood is now that it is there. It absolutely changed the character of the neighborhood.  Building without concern for the residents of the city changes the character of Santa Monica is irresponsible. Please vote NO tomorrow.

All the best,
Gina Nowysz Reichardt
Sent from space
[email protected]
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1497 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Rosvita Rauch <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in

EXTERNAL
To Our Elected Leaders
Santa Monica residents want the opportunity to fully understand the ramifications of this settlement and want the Council to understand them BEFORE approving any settlement. Please do not rush this through and continue to choke our city with unbridled growth at the expense of your constituents and to line the pockets of developers. It's already out of hand - let's get things under control.

Let's recognize that this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site.

WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units. Its impacts will be far reaching for generations.

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like IF this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you,
Rosvita Rauch
(used with permission of Beatrice Felix)
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1498 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Katharine Dreyfuss <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:20 PM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose item 11-C

EXTERNAL
Dear Council members and colleagues,
I am writing to urge that you refuse to settle for WSC's "Builder's Remedy" Projects until crucial information omitted in the staff report has been provided, and sufficient time has been allowed for the public to weigh in on this complicated proposition. You are already receiving, so I will not repeat, the public's detailed complaints about the specific omissions in the staff's glib overview of the actual plans. Please acknowledge that the residents of your city need much more clarity about these proposed developments before you sign off on them on our behalf.

Thank you for your open‐minded and conscientious attention to my request.

Sincerely,
Katharine Dreyfuss
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1499 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: lmarreola <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:21 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: ITEM 11-C May 9 2023

EXTERNAL
We oppose staff's administrative Item 11‐C.we agree with Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City letter to City Council dated May 8,2023
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1500 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Joan Moschovakis <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:56 PM
To: Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Builders Remedy

EXTERNAL
To the City Council:

There is a lot of uncertainty (and a lot of ignorance) among Santa Monica residents about how our city will be transformed if thousands of units of housing are soon to be built willy‐nilly using Builders' Remedy.  Well‐constructed five‐story apartment buildings on the main streets may enhance our city, provided they include sufficient on‐site parking.  Duplexes and triplexes on large residential lots make sense. Granny flats and ADUs, which used to be officially unrentable, are now (at last) legal to rent. Certainly we need more affordable housing.

But isolated 10‐ or 15‐story apartment buildings would be eyesores, anywhere in town, given that our commercial and residential buildings are mostly one‐to‐three stories high.   Please give us the details, and then give citizens a week or two to think about just what WSC will build under the proposed settlement, before you sign off on it.

Thank you,
Joan Moschovakis
721  24th Street
Santa Monica, 90402
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1501 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: EvanHandler.com <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: NMS/WS Communities settlement

EXTERNAL
To: Santa Monica City Council
I am a recent Santa Monica resident and business owner, a current patron of numerous businesses, and a parent of a student at a Santa Monica private school. It has just come to my attention that a meeting will be held on May 9th to consider a potential settlement between the city and NMS/WS Communities. It is troubling that so little notice has been given to the public about this proposed settlement. I am writing to urge the Council to postpone consideration of this settlement until more residents, business owners, workers, as well as other affected parties, have sufficient time to assess the potential impacts of the settlement on their lives, their businesses, and their children’s schools.

In fact, my understanding is that it was the city’s failure to be in state compliance under the builder’s remedy provision that has allowed discussion of any development to even occur. The negative results of this failure should not fall to the city’s residents, businesses, and school children to bear (nor should the city invite the negative publicity that would result from failing to give those parties adequate time to assess, and give feedback about, any proposed settlements). I again urge the City Council to postpone consideration of this settlement so that further education, investigation, and discussion can occur.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Evan Handler
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1502 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Ann Hoover <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:12 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Cc: David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin; Susan Cline; Anuj Gupta Subject: 05-09-23 Council Meeting - Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers:

I echo every concern expressed in the Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City's letter to you and accordingly oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to the many issues such a settlement raises for our community and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you -
Ann Bowman
Resident 26+ years
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1503 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: Laura Baril <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: New Roads Development

EXTERNAL
We would like to ask the city to  postpone consideration of the settlement between the City and NMS/WS Communities New Roads could be impacted by the development next door, we would like you to reconsider postponing of the settlement until the school and the broader community have sufficient time to assess the potential impacts of the settlement.

Thanks,
Laura Baril
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1504 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) 1 Xavier Mota
From: David Abramis <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:26 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Iris Souza
Subject: Postpone consideration of settlement between the City and NMS/WS

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members:

We are homeowners and residents of the City of Santa Monica and we are very concerned about your plans to consider approval of a settlement between the City and NMS/WS Communities on 5/9/2023.  In particular, we are quite unclear about how the New Roads school would be impacted by the development next door.

We're sorry for the last‐minute nature of this email, but we only just found out about this.  We wish we could attend your meeting to make our voices clear, but work and childcare prevent our attendance ‐‐ so this email will have to suffice.

Bottom line, we need more time to assess the potential impacts of this settlement.  Please, at minimum, hold off on your approval.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
David Abramis and Iris Souza
2642 33rd St.

Santa Monica, CA 90405
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1505 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: MARY ANN KELLOGG
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Mary Ann Kellogg; Tony Whitman
Subject: Approve the settlement agreement between the city of Santa Monica and WS Communities, LLC and its affiliates WS under”Builders Remedy”
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 7:29:14 PM

EXTERNAL
Subject: Approve the settlement agreement between the city of Santa Monica and WS Communities, LLC and its affiliates WS under”Builders Remedy” To whom it may concern,
Our family is thrilled to see that the SM City Council supports a settlement with WS communities, LLC by putting an end to the pursuit of constructing 2 new 14 story apartment buildings at 1038 10th St. and 1007 Lincoln Boulevard. We believe that this decision will have a positive impact on the Wilmont neighborhood as well as the wider Santa Monica community.

Thank you for your support in this matter and for your ongoing commitment to making Santa Monica a wonderful place to live.

Sincerely,
Mary Ann Kellogg
Tony Whitman
Sent from my iPad
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1506 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: John Murdock
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]; Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City Subject: BR proposed Settlement? Item 11.C
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 12:49:13 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers:

I have reviewed the Staff Report for the "consideration of a settlement" with WS, and do not find the actual text of the Settlement Agreement attached anywhere. All we have is a summary of the proposed terms, which are vague in the extreme. It is hard to determine what benefit the city gets and equally as hard to decipher what WS gets from this, other than "expedited approval" of its projects if it "elects" to choose the existing process rather than the BR process. And there are some individual tenat settlements, which should not in ay way be a part of this package. This is like a high-low poker game with the developer having a lock on low. What does "expedited approval" actually mean? And why is the WS entity allowed to "elect" which route it will take, even after the city has given its "consideration" by adopting an undisclosed-terms ordinance allowing this to happen? This is a strange settlement proposal, to say the least. For one thing, it contemplated allowing the "ghettoization" of affordable units by transferring them all to one building rather than spreading them out among the 13 buildings among the market rate units. Does the city want to resurrect its past history of ghettoing the affordable housing and place them all in one place, say, somewhere in or near the Pico corridor, away from stylish Wilshire Blvd units? .Please explain the rationale for this bonus being delivered to WS. Without the actual text of the agreement, the public is unable to intelligently comment on the impacts, which leads to the question whether this notice complies with the Brown Act. . And claiming that a broad-brush agreement to give "expedited review" to 13 projects throughout the city with purported CEQA "exemptions" is not likely to stand up in court.

John B. Murdock
Attorney at Law
1209 Pine Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
tel. (310) 450-1859
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1507 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Thunder Levin
To: Council Mailbox; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin; councilmtgitems Subject: Builder"s Remedy Settlement
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:18:28 PM

EXTERNAL
To the City Council,
I’m am writing to object, in the most strenuous terms possible, ANY settlement with the “Builder’s Remedy” developer(s) before the details of such settlements have been revealed publicly and the residents of Santa Monica have had a chance to comment. Moreover, I’m implore you to take whatever actions are available to prevent these developments entirely AND to fight the State of California’s utterly insane 9000 unit mandate.

Allowing these developments will utterly destroy whatever beachside character remains to Santa Monica and take already impassable traffic and make it utterly impossible. Our small city will grind to a halt and our city services will collapse under the strain of this many new homes. The city simply doesn’t have the water, electrical, or education infrastructure to support this many new residents, and building more tall building will shadow their neighbors rendering rooftop solar useless and further increasing our carbon footprint.

I would encourage the council to think outside the box, up to and including deny any and all building permits for structures exceeding current zoning limits and using the SMPD to physically prevent construction. The well-intentioned but hopelessly misguided State mandates should be fought, and if necessary, ignored. They do not have the right overturn our own community standards. Go rogue if need be. Fight. And never, never give up.

Thunder Levin
2407 Fourth St. #7
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-392-8331
310-999-1831 cell
[email protected]
Virus-free.www.avast.com
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1508 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Lisa Lipman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: City Council mtg. 5/9: Item 11C - SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REGARDING BUILDER"S REMEDY Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:18:04 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members,
I live on 10th Street in the Wilmont neighborhood and I support and hope you vote yes on the settlement agreement with WS Communities. I appreciate that the agreement has 1038 10th Street, 1238-42 10th Street and 1007 Lincoln Blvd being withdrawn for BR projects and will not have replacement applications.

I still am concerned about the other 10 WS Communities projects and STRONGLY REQUEST that the council have city staff outline for these buildings that would qualify for ministerial approval what would be maximum height and FAR, maximum number of units possible, number of affordable units and parking allowed for all these projects BEFORE voting on the settlement.

Finally, as a member of a community with over 80% rental units, I want the city to ensure that the 20 deed-restricted affordable units between transferred from 1560 Lincoln Blvd. to 1038-42 10th Street DO NOT DISPLACE ANY RENT CONTROL RESIDENTS. The worst thing we can do is lose rent-control units/residents to displacement because of the builder's remedy debacle.

Thank-you,
Lisa Lipman
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1509 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: mdosti
To: Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: City Council mtg. 5/9: Item 11C - SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REGARDING BUILDER"S REMEDY Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:49:25 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members,
I live on 4th Street in the Wilmont neighborhood and I support and hope you vote yes on the settlement agreement with WS Communities. I appreciate that the agreement has 1038 10th Street, 1238-42 10th Street and 1007 Lincoln Blvd being withdrawn for BR projects and will not have replacement applications.

I still am concerned about the other 10 WS Communities projects and STRONGLY REQUEST that the council have city staff outline for these buildings that would qualify for ministerial approval what would be maximum height and FAR, maximum number of units possible, number of affordable units and parking allowed for all these projects BEFORE voting on the settlement.

Finally, as a member of a community with over 80% rental units, I want the city to ensure that the 20 deed-restricted affordable units between transferred from 1560 Lincoln Blvd. to 1038-42 10th Street DO NOT DISPLACE ANY RENT CONTROL RESIDENTS. The worst thing we can do is lose rent-control units/residents to displacement because of the builder's remedy debacle.

Thank-you,
Marya Dosti
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1510 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: E C
To: Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: City Council mtg. 5/9: Item 11C - SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REGARDING BUILDER"S REMEDY Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 7:59:27 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members,
I live on 10th Street in the Wilmont neighborhood and I support and hope you vote yes on the settlement agreement with WS Communities. I appreciate that the agreement has 1038 10th Street, 1238-42 10th Street and 1007 Lincoln Blvd being withdrawn for BR projects and will not have replacement applications.

I still am concerned about the other 10 WS Communities projects and STRONGLY REQUEST that the council have city staff outline for these buildings that would qualify for ministerial approval what would be maximum height and FAR, maximum number of units possible, number of affordable units and parking allowed for all these projects BEFORE voting on the settlement.

Finally, as a member of a community with over 80% rental units, I want the city to ensure that the 20 deed-restricted affordable units between transferred from 1560 Lincoln Blvd. to 1038-42 10th Street DO NOT DISPLACE ANY RENT CONTROL RESIDENTS. The worst thing we can do is lose rent-control units/residents to displacement because of the builder's remedy debacle.

Thank you,
Elizabeth Cazenave
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1511 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Lori Dreischmeier
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: City Council mtg. 5/9: Item 11C - SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REGARDING BUILDER"S REMEDY Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 7:04:02 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Member,
I live on 10th Street in the Wilmont neighborhood and I support and hope you vote yes on the settlement agreement with WS Communities. I appreciate that the agreement has 1038 10th Street, 1238-42 10th Street and 1007 Lincoln Blvd being withdrawn for BR projects and will not have replacement applications.

I still am concerned about the other 10 WS Communities projects and STRONGLY REQUEST that the council have city staff outline for these buildings that would qualify for ministerial approval what would be maximum height and FAR, maximum number of units possible, number of affordable units and parking allowed for all these projects BEFORE voting on the settlement.

Finally, as a member of a community with over 80% rental units, I want the city to ensure that the 20 deed-restricted affordable units between transferred from 1560 Lincoln Blvd. to 1038-42 10th Street DO NOT DISPLACE ANY RENT CONTROL RESIDENTS. The worst thing we can do is lose rent-control units/residents to displacement because of the builder's remedy debacle.

Thank you,
Lori
1044 10th Street HOA
--
Lori L. Dreischmeier
[email protected]
310-880-8203, mobile
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1512 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Jill Roffis
To: Gleam Davis
Cc: Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems Subject: City Council Mtg. 5/9: Item 11C - SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REGARDING BUIILDER"S REMEDY Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:02:22 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members,
I live on 6th Street in the Wilmont neighborhood and I support and hope you vote yes on the settlement agreement with the WS Communities. I appreciate that the agreement has 1038 10th Street and 1007 Lincoln Blvd being withdrawn for BR projects and will not have replacement applications.

I still am concerned about the other 10 WS Communities projects and STRONGLY REQUEST that the council have city staff outline for these buildings that would qualify for ministerial approval what would be maximum height and FAR, maximum number of units possible, number of affordable units, and parking allowed for all projects BEFORE voting on the settlement.

Finally, as a member of the a community with 80% rental units, I want the city to ensure that the 20 deed-restricted affordable units between transferred from 1560 Lincoln Blvd, to 1038- 42 10th Street DO NOT DISPLACE ANY RENT CONTROL RESIDENTS. The worse thing we can do is lose rent-control units/residents to displacement because of the builder’s remedy debacle.

Thank you,
Jill Roffis
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1513 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: City Developement - 11C
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:25:31 PM
From: Jero Books & Templet Co. <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:44 PM
To: Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Oscar de la Torre <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; Phil Brock <[email protected]>; Christine Parra <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Gleam Davis <[email protected]> Subject: Re: City Developement

EXTERNAL
I agree with the statements below, there is Enough Development as it is Now, and traffic is Bad!! Mary Rojeski 38 yr resident of S.M.

SMCLC's letter:

May 8, 2023
To: The City Council
[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] CC: City Clerk [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) www.SMCLC.net Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html
In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable? Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1514 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:29:05 PM
Attachments: Blue.png
Facebook.png
Top Agent Network - Verified Member.png
1_Email Signature_Kate Bransfield.png
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:28 PM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects

EXTERNAL
Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

Dear Council,
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-

22.html
In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1515 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement)

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy ;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward.

It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it.

This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Kate
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1516 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) Estates Director
Global Luxury Specialist
CalDRE # 01218699
310.395.1133
[email protected]
www.SantaMonicaListings.com
Coldwell Banker Realty
1608 Montana Avenue
Santa Monica, 90403
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1517 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Please do not approve the “Builder’s Remedy” Settlement with WSC until critical information is provided and Public can weigh in - 11C Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:27:11 PM
From: Kara Fox <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:11 PM
To: Gleam Davis <[email protected]>; Phil Brock <[email protected]>; Christine Parra <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Oscar de la Torre <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; David White <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]>; David Martin <[email protected]> Subject: Please do not approve the “Builder’s Remedy” Settlement with WSC until critical information is provided and Public can weigh in

EXTERNAL
How can you allow one single developer ruin our city???? This does not make sense. Please protect us, don’t destroy us. Thank you. Kara Fox, 14th street, Santa Monica Begin forwarded message:

From: Beatrice Felix <[email protected]>
Subject: Fw: Council votes TOMORROW: SMCLC Urges Council NOT to approve the “Builder’s Remedy” Settlement with WSC until critical information is provided and Public can weigh in Date: May 8, 2023 at 1:05:00 PM PDT
To: Thomas Hartman <[email protected]>, Julie Kirst <[email protected]>, Sarah Ann Lewis <[email protected]>, Ann 2417 Hill Lewis <[email protected]>, Elaine Gervasi <[email protected]>, Djsantamonica <[email protected]>, Kara Fox <[email protected]>, Rose Youssefi <[email protected]>, Emma Sanchez <[email protected]>, Rosvita Rauch <[email protected]>, Lena Grossman <[email protected]>, Daly Robert <[email protected]>
Reply-To: Beatrice Felix <[email protected]>
[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] CC: City Clerk [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1518 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Sharon Toriello
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: GELSON LOT.

Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 12:58:49 PM

EXTERNAL

YOU HAVE ALREADY NARROWED OUR DRIVING BY ELIMINATING ONE LANE IN EACH DIRECTION ON OCEAN PARK. NOW YOU ARE PROPOSING 551 UNITS AT THE CORNER OF LINCOLN AND OCEAN PARK. HOW DO YOU EXPECT US

TO GET OUT OF OUR NEIGHBORHOOD TO GO ANYWHERE ONCE THIS IS DONE? WHERE IS THE TRAFFIC SUPPOSED TO GO? YOU ARE MAKING OUR COMMUNITY UNLIVABLE.
sharon toriello 2918 6th st. #1 santa monica, ca. 90405 310-399-1044.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1519 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Linda Sypien
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: I oppose the 13 builder’s remedy projects
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:05:48 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
Please note: I oppose the Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

Thank you!
Linda Sypien
2nd St, Santa Monica
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1520 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: [email protected]
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan
Subject: Item 11 -C
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:07:10 PM

EXTERNAL
Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to important issues so you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

The public needs to be informed on such a large massive building matter.

Thank you Lou Steiner
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1521 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: janet rt
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:07:20 PM

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
To: The City
Council [email protected], [email protected], christine [email protected], [email protected], jesse.zwick@santa monica.gov, [email protected], oscar.delatorre@santamonica. gov, [email protected]
CC: City
Clerk [email protected], [email protected], dou [email protected], [email protected] From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) www.SMCLC.net Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these
projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1522 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient.

It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website
at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it.

This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1523 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Janet Tunick
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1524 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: [email protected]
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Item 11-C: SMCLC Urges Council NOT to approve “builder’s remedy” settlement until critical information provided and public review
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:40:08 AM

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
To: The City Council [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected]
CC: City Clerk [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) www.SMCLC.net Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its “builder’s remedy” project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a “builder’s remedy” statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder’s remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1525 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) This proposed settlement is essentially a mega development agreement - the biggest one in the city’s history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It’s impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State’s requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable? Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City’s website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC’s predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it’s in the interests of the ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1526 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) City to approve it, and when it’s anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1527 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Linda Shayne
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: OPPOSE Staff Admin Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC for LACK of CRITICAL INFO Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:01:02 PM

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
From: LINDA SHAYNE (resident and business owner in the city of Santa Monica, CA)
Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-

22.html
In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient.

It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1528 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it.

This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

LINDA SHAYNE
resident of Santa Monica, CA
310-486-5400
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1529 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Susan Suntree
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:07:55 PM

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
To: The City Council
[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] CC: City Clerk [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] FROM: SUSAN SUNTREE
1223 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
DEAR MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL: I SUPPORT THE POSITION OUTLINED IN THE FOLLOWING LETTER. PLEASE STAND FIRM FOR SENSIBLE PLANNING AND PROCEDURES.

SINCERELY, SUSAN SUNTREE
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) www.SMCLC.net Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable? Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it. This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

Thank you.

Victor, Diana, Sherrill and Jeff
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1530 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Danielle Charney
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:04:18 PM

EXTERNAL
I AM COPYING THIS LETTER FROM SMCLC BECAUSE NOBODY SAYS IT BETTER..

BUT I ADD THAT THIS CITY HAS ALLOWED NMS/WS TO PRETTY MUCH RUIN THIS TOWN WITH IT'S UGLY BUILDINGS AND DISHONEST PRACTICES..THEY WERE

CONVICTED IN COURT REGARDING THIS AND YOU STILL ALLOW THEM TO WALK ALL OVER US...THEY ARE THE LOWEST OF THE LOW -ONLY LOWER ARE THEIR SLIMY ATTORNEYS..

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-

22.html
In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient.

It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1531 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward.It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it.

This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1532 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: LAWRENCE ROBINSON
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:24:08 PM

EXTERNAL
The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-

22.html
In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient.

It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1533 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward.It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable?
Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.

When a development agreement as momentous as this one occurs, residents are relying upon the Council to do the work, to ask the hard questions, and to demand accurate and complete information to ascertain whether this settlement is reasonable, and in the City’s best interest before approving it.

This is even more important here, given the well-known history of WSC's predecessor (NMS).

Please do not move forward with any settlement with WSC until you have adequate answers to these issues and you can explain to residents what our City will look like if this settlement is approved, why it's in the interests of the City to approve it, and when it's anticipated that these expedited projects would come online.

LR
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023
ITEM 11.C.

May 9, 2023

11.C.g
Packet Pg. 1534 Attachment: ITEM.11.C.Written Comments (5756 : NMS Settlement) From: Mary Hubbell
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin Subject: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 1:30:01 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers;
I urge you to oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects. I agree with all of the statements in the letter from The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) – see below.

The City needs to be fighting the destruction of our City at every level.

Concerned resident,
Mary Hubbell
Ocean Park
May 8, 2023
To: The City
Council [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] CC: City Clerk [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (SMCLC) www.SMCLC.net Re: Oppose Staff Administrative Item 11-C to settle 13 WSC builder’s remedy projects for lack of critical information in the staff report and insufficient time for the public to weigh in.

The proposed settlement with WS Communities (WSC) over 13 of its "builder's remedy" project sites will have a huge impact on Santa Monica and its residents for generations to come. When the news broke last September that this developer had filed applications for 14 projects under a "builder's remedy" statute to construct buildings as high as 20 stories and over 4000 units citywide there was widespread opposition. Residents urged the city to hire outside counsel and oppose these projects. https://smclc.net/DevIgnoreZoning10-17-22.html In response, the City Attorney retained outside counsel who advised the City Council that there were good legal grounds to contest the filings once formal applications were filed, and one of his highest priorities was to keep the Council and the public informed.

In spite of this, last Thursday city staff placed a settlement item on the Council agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting as though it were just a routine item.

But this is NOT a one-off settlement between a developer and the City over one site. WSC owns 14 builder's remedy sites throughout the City and this settlement apparently would greenlight the construction of 1000s of housing units.

This proposed settlement is essentially a mega-development agreement - the biggest one in the city's history. Given this, there needs to be a high degree of disclosure as to what is being built and what the real-life benefits and burdens to the community will be if implemented. And there needs to be a more open and transparent process and sufficient notice than simply adding, almost as an afterthought, an administrative item to an already packed Council agenda.

Unfortunately, the staff report recommending settlement is seriously deficient. It omits critical information that is necessary for the Council and the public to weigh to determine if the settlement is in the interests of Santa Monica before approving it.

Key deficiencies in the staff report include:

1. Stating that “the housing built by the owners will satisfy a significant portion of the City’s regional housing needs, as planned in its certified Housing Element” without giving the actual numbers, including the number of affordable housing units;

2. Setting forth significant benefits to WSC in developing these sites, which include expedited processing, ministerial review (precluding public scrutiny), and waiver of any environmental review as to adverse impacts which otherwise could require mitigations;

3. Failing to identify any of the corresponding burdens to the City and its residents, including increased City costs and strain on infrastructure if all of these projects come online within the next few years;

4. Failing to disclose to the Council or the public what actually will be built on any of these sites (the heights and number of units, including affordable units) in comparison to the builder’s remedy numbers posted on the City’s website at https://www.santamonica.gov/builders-remedy;

5. Stating that the 14th WSC project on Euclid (200 units/18-stories) would remain a builder’s remedy project and be excluded from the settlement without explaining what this means (is the City reserving its legal right to disapprove it?); and

6. Failing to provide a copy of any proposed settlement agreement as part of the approval process (this is, in essence, a development agreement).

Absent this critical information the Council should not move forward. It's impossible to determine what the Council actually would be approving to be built - is it what was originally proposed or is it being modified? If modified, how? And how much affordable housing will be built under this settlement to satisfy the State's requirement that 2/3s of the required new housing be affordable? Moreover, it should be relatively easy for the planning staff to update the builder’s remedy chart on the City's website as to the proposed settlement with the total height, number of units and affordable units for each project so the public is kept informed.