Written Comments — Santa Monica City Council, July 18, 2023

From: Noma Boardmember
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; [email protected]; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; [email protected]; Lana Negrete; [email protected]; David White; [email protected]; Phil Brock
Subject: Subject: Items 3E and 3F
Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 6:42:39 AM

EXTERNAL
To: Mayor Davis and Council Members
From: The North of Montana Association
Date: July 17, 2023
RE: Items 3 E and 3 F on the July 19 Council agenda
The NOMA Board asks that Items 3 E and F be removed from consideration.

Allowing negotiations to begin (or a “process” of negotiations) between the City and private or other public entities to “sell” or “lease” city-owned land without the public’s participation in that discussion is neither democratic nor acceptable and a disheartening violation of trust with its citizens.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium has been an important community asset since the early 1960s. It has been landmarked by the Council and has been recognized as a venue for plays, concerts, craft shows, conventions, the Academy Awards, and numerous other events. The future of this unique event center needs to be decided by open discussion and public participation, not in closed session.

Accordingly, the NOMA Board requests that items 3 E and F be removed from the Agenda and consideration of the Civic’s future be fully transparent and in public open session.
smnoma.org
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

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From: Jaleh MIRHASHEMI
To: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; David White
Cc: [email protected]; Douglas Sloan; Jennifer Taylor; David Martin; Anuj Gupta; Ann Bowman ; Zina Josephs; Larry Arreola; Dr. Anna Rogers
Subject: City Council Meeting July 18, 2023 - Closed Session Items 3.E. and 3.F. (Negotiations for Sale of Civic Auditorium)
Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 10:15:22 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and Esteemed City Council Members,
Our Civic Center is a symbolic part of our city. The civic land belongs to the community, and it should remain for the public and in the public use. The Civic Auditorium, as the landmark, can be revitalized as a cultural and economic center for the public the same as how it was before.

The city must retain the ownership of Civic Auditorium and make a public announcement for the possible philanthropist if the funding is an issue. However, any decision on the Civic Center land and Civic Auditorium should be through community input and not through closed doors.

As a concerned Santa Monica resident, I urge you to give a chance to our Civic Auditorium, to not sell it and plan to find a better solution. Please let us residents be involved and help if needed.

Thank you for your attention and your time.

Warmly,
Jaleh Mirhashemi
Santa Monica resident of 22+ years
ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

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From: Wendy Dembo
To: councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; David White; Anuj Gupta; Susan Cline; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; Matthew Hall; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: RE: Items 3 E and 3 F on the July 19 Council agenda Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 1:39:52 PM

EXTERNAL
Mayor Davis and Council Members:

Please removed Items 3 E and F from consideration.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium has been an important community asset since the early 1960s. I saw many exciting concerts there and went to Cat.con there as well. It was landmarked by a previous City Council and recognized as a venue for plays, concerts, craft shows, conventions, the Academy Awards, and numerous other events. The future of this unique event center needs to be decided by open discussion and public participation, not in closed session.

Accordingly, please remove 3 E and F from the Agenda and consideration of the Civic’s future to be fully transparent and in public open session.

Residents and taxpayers have a right to know what is going on in their city.

With regret,
Wendy Dembo
Santa Monica tax payer and resident
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; David White; Anuj Gupta; Susan Cline; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: FOSP: City Council 7/18 items 3-E and 3-F: OPPOSE selling the Civic Auditorium Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 2:08:11 PM

EXTERNAL
July 16, 2023
To: Mayor Gleam Davis and City Council members
From: Board of Directors, Friends of Sunset Park
RE:
7/18/23 agenda items 3-E and 3-F: Negotiating the sale of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium to either SMMUSD or CCSM.

The FOSP Board opposes the sale of the Civic Auditorium. It appears that the city is looking to generate cash, not cash flow, therefore emphasizing sale rather than lease. But this would be a permanent, irreversible decision, done to partially solve a short-term issue.

The city already turned over a large section of the Civic Center to Santa Monica College for the large Early Childhood Center. We are against selling publicly-owned property in the Civic Center, especially a unique, landmarked venue intended for civic purposes.

Plus, it’s frustrating that these negotiations are taking place behind closed doors, out of the view of the public. We believe that the Brown Act allows for closed session ONLY with regard to pricing. Instead, the City and SMMUSD seem to have conducted discussions and feasibility analyses in private. We are not privy to those discussions, and we don’t know exactly how CCSM proposes to use the property. Deciding what to do with public property should be a public process, not a decision made in Closed Session.

Culver City has its Veterans Memorial Building, which includes an auditorium. https://wwwculvercityhistoricalsociety.org/veterans-memorial-building/ Glendale has a Civic Auditorium.
https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/community-services-parks/parks-facilities-historicsites/glendale-civic-auditorium Pasadena has a Civic Auditorium.
https://www.visitpasadena.com/civic-auditorium/
Torrance has its Armstrong Theatre.
https://arts.torranceca.gov/our-city/general-services/cultural-arts/james-r-armstrong-theatre The City of Malibu now has the Malibu Civic Theater, a large auditorium that was previously privately owned. https://www.malibucity.org/facilities/facility/details/Malibu-City-Hall-3 The City of Los Angeles has the Greek Theatre.
https://www.lagreektheatre.com/connect/history-of-the-greek-theatre ITEM 3.F.

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L.A. County has
-- Walt Disney Concert Hall
https://www.laphil.com/about/our-venues/about-the-walt-disney-concert-hall -- the Los Angeles Music Center, including
-- the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion,
-- the Mark Taper Forum,
-- the Ahmanson Theatre, and
-- the Kirk Douglas Theatre, plus
-- the Hollywood Bowl, and
-- the nearby Ford Amphitheatre.

Thousand Oaks has its Civic Arts Plaza.
https://www.toaks.org/departments/cultural-affairs/civic-arts-plaza-3340 The Bank of America Performing Arts Center at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza is one of the largest performing arts centers between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and is funded through a unique public/private partnership between the City of Thousand Oaks and the Alliance for the Arts.

It consists of the 1,800-seat Fred Kavli Theatre for the Performing Arts and the 394-seat Janet and Ray Scherr Forum Theatre, which combine outstanding arts and entertainment with state-of-the-art technology and acoustics. More than 300,000 patrons and 50,000 children attend more than 400 performances annually.

The Center's headliners include touring Broadway musicals, popular entertainers, award-winning children’s programs, international ballet, folk and modern dance companies, classical symphonic performances, chamber music, choral ensembles, civic light opera, comedy, distinguished speakers, films, magic, jazz, big band orchestras, live theatre, and community programs. In addition, the Fred Kavli Theatre Lobby doubles as a fine art gallery for exhibitions by both local and internationally acclaimed artists. “The Civic Arts Plaza is the realization of a 20-year dream by Thousand Oaks citizens to provide a facility to house quality cultural activities.” More than 30 million people have patronized the Civic Arts Plaza since its 1994 grand opening.

In 2011, the City contracted with Morley Construction Company for preconstruction and construction services required to remodel and seismically upgrade the Civic Auditorium facility. Unfortunately, the renovation was suspended due lack of funds after the state legislature dissolved the redevelopment agencies that were set up after the 1994 earthquake. (see below) Nevertheless, the Civic Auditorium should continue to be City-owned and for public use, as per the Civic Center Specific Plan.

Again, the FOSP Board opposes the City of Santa Monica giving up its Civic Auditorium, just because we have not yet figured out what to do with it.
****************************************************************************** Background:

From an FOSP Board member:

Selling the Civic Auditorium is a disgrace. It is NOT surplus. The “surplus” vote should be reversed and a new RFP issued, asking for solutions. An RFP hasn't been done in years, since before COVID, and before anyone realized the asset was up for grabs. Times have changed, and all options need to be on the table. The Civic Auditorium should not be sold in a fire sale to pay for child molestation settlements.

From another FOSP Board member:

Prior to the Civic Center, the area was known as the Belmar Triangle. It was probably the most important neighborhood in ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

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Santa Monica's African American community, until the city acquired it via eminent domain. I think that history is important to remember.

From a NOMA Board member:

I am opposed to selling city property. Furthermore, the negotiations are being done in Closed Session, not in public. We already lost Civic Center property to SMC for the Early Childhood Center. The city should NOT be negotiating the sale of the Civic Auditorium.

From a Northeast Neighbors Board member:

The Civic is a valuable Santa Monica resource and asset that has been sorely missing from our cultural landscape -- completely mismanaged and neglected. Save the Civic!
From a Santa Monica Mid City Neighbors Board member:

The Civic was used for many trade shows, dog and cat shows, movie screenings, and catered events over the years. All these events brought money into the city’s hotels and restaurants. I attended many arts and crafts show and gem shows. The building would still be in use if an earthquake refit had been done. We could have recovered the money by now.

From another FOSP Board member:

I attended the annual SMMUSD “Stairway of the Stars” concerts at the Civic from 1996 until it closed, with about 1,000 student musicians from throughout the district participating in each concert. When she was in her 90’s, I took my mother to the annual Senior Prom. A friend and I attended a sold-out Pete Seeger concert at the Civic, and my husband and I attended a sold-out Peter, Paul, and Mary concert there. Numerous Academy Award ceremonies were broadcast from the Civic in the 1960s, including when Rita Moreno won an Oscar for “West Side Story” and when Sidney Poitier was the first African American to win an Oscar for Best Actor. (see below)
Closing the Civic Auditorium was a “big deal” judging from the numerous articles below in local newspapers.

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium -- on the city web site: http://www.smgov.net/departments/ccs/civicauditorium/ Civic Auditorium -- on Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium Civic Auditorium Declared a Landmark in 2002:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_City_of_Santa_Monica_Designated_Historic_Landmarks "Curtains for the Civic" -- 5/19/13 -- Santa Monica Daily Press -- http://smdp.com/curtains-for-the-civic/122417 "To Preserve Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, Revise Specific Plan, Says Expert Panel" -- 5/13/13 -- Santa Monica Lookout -- http://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News2013/May2013/05_13_2013_To_Preserve_Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium_Revise_Specific_Plan_Says_Expert_Panel.html "Civic Center Will Have to Learn New Tricks to Survive" -- 5/10/13 -- Santa Monica Daily Press - - http://smdp.com/civic-center-will-have-to-learn-new-tricks-to-survive/122176 " 'Save the Santa Monica Civic' Group Steps Forward" -- 5/7/13 -- Santa Monica Patch -- http://santamonica.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/save-the-civic-santa-monica ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

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"American Film Market: Civic Auditorium Theater Essential to the Future" -- 1/24/13 -- Santa Monica Daily Press -- http://smdp.com/afm-civic-auditorium-theater-essential-to-the-future/117191 "City Council Sticks to Planned Closing Date for Civic Auditorium" -- 11/2/12 -- The Argonaut -- http://argonautnews.com/santa-monica-city-council-sticks-to-planned-closing-date-for-civic-auditorium/ "Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Will Close in June as Planned" -- 10/26/12 -- Santa Monica Lookout - -
http://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2012/October2012/10_26_2012_Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium_Will_Close_in_June_As_Planned.html City Council -- 10/23/12 agenda item 4-A:

Options for the future of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Recommended Action -- Staff recommends that the City Council review and provide direction on which options for the future of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Council wishes staff to further analyze for future decision-making.

Executive Summary -- The $51.9 million renovation of the landmark Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (Civic) is suspended due to recent legislative actions related to the dissolution of redevelopment and the uncertainty of funds designated for this project. The facility is still scheduled to close on June 30, 2013. Since the August 14, 2012 meeting at which City Council authorized the suspension, staff has identified options for the facility and potential funding sources. These options fall under four broad categories:
1) partial renovation;
2) full renovation;
3) adaptive re-use; and
4) demolition.

This study session is intended to inform Council of the various options and seek direction to prioritize further research and planning efforts for the future of the Civic. http://www.smgov.net/departments/council/agendas/2012/20121023/s201210234A.pdf "Historic Civic Will Go Dark" -- 8/15/12 -- Santa Monica Patch -- http://santamonica.patch.com/groups/politics-andelections/p/historic-civic-will-go-dark "Council Stalls Civic, Samohi Improvements" -- 8/15/12 -- Santa Monica Daily Press -- http://www.smdp.com/councilstalls-civic-samohi-improvements/ City Council -- 8/14/12 agenda item 4-C:

Contingency Planning Related to the Dissolution of Redevelopment Recommended Action -- Staff recommends that the City Council: Authorize staff to proceed with certain priority projects while suspending other priority projects, in light of recent legislative actions related to the dissolution of redevelopment; and Direct staff to return to council at a future date with additional information, as well as necessary appropriations or adjustments to project budgets.

Executive Summary -- This report provides information about recent amendments to the State law that dissolved redevelopment agencies, the impacts of those amendments upon the City’s ability to fund priority capital improvement projects, and recommendations regarding continued work on each project. http://www.smgov.net/departments/council/agendas/2012/20120814/s2012081408-C.htm City Council -- 1/24/12 agenda item 3-M:

Revised Design-Build Contract for Civic Auditorium Remodel & Seismic Upgrade ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

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Recommended Action -- Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a revision to the previously approved Design-Build Contract No. 9396 (CCS) with Morley Construction Company, a California-based company, in an amount not to exceed $51,944,432 (includes a 5% contractor contingency, a 10% owner contingency, and allowances). This not to exceed amount of $51,944,432 includes the previously Council approved amount ($35,000,000), preconstruction and design fee ($5,000,000), added scope ($4,000,000) and City’s owner contingency and allowances ($7,944,432).

2. Appropriate budget increases as outlined in the Financial Impacts & Budget Actions section of this report.

3. Authorize the Director of Public Works to issue any necessary change orders to complete the work within budget authority.

Executive Summary -- The City has contracted with Morley Construction Company for preconstruction and construction services that are required to remodel and seismically upgrade the Civic Auditorium facility. A Request for Bids was issued in April 2011, and upon evaluating bids, City staff recommended Morley Construction Company in June 2011. In error, the recommendation was for an amount not to exceed $35,000,000 based on the budget solely for construction services and exclusive of preconstruction and design services. At this time staff recommends adding $5,000,000 for preconstruction and design services; and $4,000,000 for construction to include additional scope of work which was removed in preliminary design due to cost constraints, but will serve to improve the facility’s future financial viability.

Additionally, staff recommends an additional $7,944,432 to fund the City’s cost of implementing this project during the construction phase. This includes an owner’s contingency of an additional 7% ($3,080,000) and allowances for inspections, testing, monitoring, geotechnical services and abatement costs ($4,864,432). The new contract amount will not exceed $51,944,432. This is a phased agreement with the final contract amount being modified by a construction Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment.htttp://www01.smgov.net/cityclerk/council/agendas/2012/20120124/s2012012403- M.htm
"Civic Auditorium: Once and Future Masterpiece" -- 6/30/11 -- Santa Monica Dispatch - - http://www.santamonicadispatch.com/2011/06/civic-auditorium-once-and-future-masterpiece/ "Santa Monica Civic to Get $47 Million Renovation" -- 5/30/11 -- Santa Monica Mirror - - http://www.smmirror.com/articles/News/Santa-Monica-Civic-Auditorium-to-Get-47-Million-Renovation/32286 “Home of the Academy Awards”: https://calisphere.org/item/0d8424127112a8e39250eede23132c7c/ 1961: The 33rd Annual Academy Awards at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Best Actor in a Supporting Role goes to Peter Ustinov. Shirley Jones accepts the Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Greer Garson announces the award for Best Actor. Burt Lancaster receives the award for his leading role in “Elmer Gantry.” Yul Brynner announces Elizabeth Taylor as the winner of Best Actress for her role in “Butterfield 8.” Audrey Hepburn announces the winner for Best Picture. Billy Wilder, the producer of the film “The Apartment,” accepts the Oscar. 1962: The 34th Annual Oscars held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Rita Moreno receives the award for the best supporting actress. The best actor award goes to Maximilian Schell and best actress award to Sophia Loren. The best picture award goes to “West Side Story.”
1964: The 36th Academy Awards at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Gregory Peck announces the Best Actress award for Patricia Neal…Frank Sinatra announces the winner of Best Picture. “Tom Jones” gets the Best Picture award…Anne Bancroft announces the winner of the Best Actor award. Sidney Poitier receives Best Actor award for his performance in “Lilies of the Field.” He is the first African American to receive the Best Actor Award. 1966: Santa Monica History Museum: The 38th Academy Awards ceremony, hosted by Bob Hope, was held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. It was the first Academy Awards to be broadcast live in color. The two most nominated films were "Dr. Zhivago" and "The Sound of Music."
ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

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From: Ann Hoover
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Christine Parra; Phil Brock; David White
Cc: Susan Cline; Anuj Gupta; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; David Martin; Roxanne Tanemori; Heidi von Tongeln; Melissa Spagnuolo; Sofia Klatzker; [email protected]; jaleh mirhasemi
Subject: July 18, 2023 Council Meeting - Items 3.E. and 3.F. - Closed Sessions Civic Auditorium Sale Negotiations Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 2:39:25 PM

EXTERNAL

OPPOSE - ANY SALE OF THE CIVIC AUDITORIUM
Dear Mayor Davis, Esteemed Councilmembers, and Mr. White - Please do not proceed any further with negotiations to sell the Civic Auditorium.

The City should never, EVER sell an asset of this magnitude. That's Real Estate 101.

Given its unique history & with a major acoustics upgrade, many of us believe that a restored Auditorium will be a massive tourist attraction if revived as a quirky but topnotch performance venue. It also would once again be able to support other arts, convention, sports, and community functions as it did for over 60 years. So many people (locals and tourists alike) in this increasingly soulless, ever-corporatized world are desperate for authenticity. For something real, with roots.

Let's please have the discussions and exchange elevated visions alongside concrete plans to make them happen. Possibly they will still involve community partners and/or corporate partners. There's an opportunity for cross-collaboration among City Staff departments, political leadership, and other local players as well. There also may be an opportunity for private philanthropy. Let's be a team. Maybe some civic boosters are back. To find out, you have to give them a chance.

We won't know how great we could make this if we don't sit down and get it all out on the table, give it the old college try. The community owns this land. You owe the community a chance to will something truly great into existence here that could end up juicing our civic life and super-sizing the entire Santa Monica economy for the next century. Don't miss this opportunity!
So THIS is your Plan A - listening to people who aren't economically self-interested who have IDEAS. The far distant Plan B, should all else fail, is picking back up talk of a sale. Which would be so lame and so sad. No more "done deals", please, ever.

PLUS, this would truly be a LEGACY PROJECT for this Council and Mayor and City Leadership. Please don't be the people who threw it all away.

Financial obligations due to Mr. Uller's crimes, staff gross negligence in ignoring ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
them, and pressing unfunded pension obligations cannot ever justify the sale of something that is essentially priceless and once gone, would be gone forever, not just as a tangible asset but as an intangible locus of civic identity.

Additionally, the public has grown weary of the refrain that "well, the redevelopment money dried up." Well, yes it did, but recent Council, including Mayor Davis, and Staff also just spent $141 million on the City Hall Annex and gave away 3 acres of our Civic Center public land for FREE ($1 a year), alongside a multi-million dollar contribution towards construction of the private perk Early Childhood Lab School. The money to rehab the Auditorium could have been identified all along if Council/Staff had cared to make it so, but the will has been lacking.

Now, since October 2022 you've gone zero-to-sixty on this sale issue with no substantive public discussion or community input. The Auditorium has been the cornerstone of our City's civic identity since the late 1950s - HALF of our City's incorporated existence.

Please DO NOT allow yet another public-to-private (or with SMMUSD, effectively private) land grab like past Council and the City let happen with the ECLS. The most recent Civic Working Group process was a public land grab masquerading as a community input process. Getting ahold of this land has been one of private interests' main goals for well over a decade.

Key takeaways for Council and Staff: LEGACY PROJECT..... JUICE OUR ECONOMY..... RESTORE CIVIC LIFE.

Thank you for your time reading this and look forward to seeing you tomorrow night.

Sincerely,
Ann Bowman
Former corporate and entertainment attorney, PTA President, non-profit fundraiser, Co-Chair - Civic Center Task Force
Resident, 26+ years
IS BOOSTERISM BACK?
And in the immortal words of Peanuts' Lucy van Pelt:

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Carol Lemlein
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: July 18 Closed Session Items 3E and 3F: Conference with Real Estate Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8: Property: 1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, California (Civic Auditorium) Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 2:49:29 PM
Attachments: 2023-07-18 Council Mtg - Civic Auditorium .pdf

EXTERNAL
Please include the attached letter from the Board of Directors of the Santa Monica Conservancy in the public comment for these items.

Thank you,
Carol Lemlein
Vice President
Santa Monica Conservancy
Email: [email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
P.O. BOX 653
SANTA MONICA, CA 90406
310-496-3146
www.smconservancy.org
July 17, 2023
Via email to [email protected]
Re: July 18 Closed Session Items 3E and 3F: Conference with Real Estate Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8: Property: 1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, California (Civic Auditorium)
Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete and Councilmembers,
I am writing on behalf of the Board of the Santa Monica Conservancy to request that your discussions with the City’s Real Estate Negotiating Team include the importance of the Civic Auditorium’s designation as a Santa Monica Landmark. Designed by Welton Becket & Associates, it is an excellent example of mid-20th century International Style by world-famous master architect and Santa Monica resident Welton Becket. The history of activities at the Civic is woven into our community’s memories, from the Academy Awards to celebrity musicians to Stairway of the Stars (SMMUSD) to cat shows and art fairs. When designated in 2002, it was determined to meet all 6 of Santa Monica’s criteria for Landmark designation.

At this time the Conservancy is not taking a position on which proposal is a preferred solution to the City’s needs and which one best facilitates a successful adaptive reuse of this cherished landmark. We are reminding you of the Civic’s Landmark status because maintaining that designation should be part of any transaction regarding its future. You may not be aware that Barnum Hall at Santa Monica High School is designated as a Landmark at the request of the SMMMUSD because of advantages accompanying that status.

Our expectations are that as a condition of sale there will be language to require the new owner retain permanent Landmark status and that all work at the property will comply with Secretary of the Interior Standards. The guidelines for Landmarks allow flexibility to accommodate new functional requirements while protecting key architectural elements, balancing preservation and change. Additionally, Landmark designation supports use of the California Historical Building Code which provides alternative building regulations that recognize the unique construction issues inherent in adaptively reusing historic buildings and facilitate a cost effective approach to preservation.

Sincerely,
Tom Cleys, President
Santa Monica Conservancy Board of Directors
ITEM 3.F.

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ITEM 3.F.

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From: Brian O"Neil
To: councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; David White; Susan Cline
Cc: PNA SM
Subject: PNA Board; Council Mtg Agenda July 18, 2023 -- Remove Items 3E and 3F from Consideration Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 8:05:17 PM

EXTERNAL
To: Mayor Davis and Council Members
From: Board of the Pico Neighborhood Association
Date: July 17, 2023
RE: Items 3E and 3F on the July 18 Council Agenda
The PNA Board asks that Items 3E and 3F be removed from consideration.

Any sort of sale of city-owned property is a permanent, irreversible action. It appears as if the potential sale of public lands in this moment is being contemplated for short-term revenue reasons. It would be much more fiscally responsible to seek options in which city-owned lands, especially historically important venues like the Civic Auditorium, could be leased or turned into positive-cash-flow operations that would benefit the residents and taxpayers well into the future.

Accordingly, the PNA Board requests that items 3 E and F be removed from the Agenda and consideration of the Civic Auditorium’s future be fully transparent and in public open session.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Tricia Crane
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Gleam Davis; councilmtgitems; David White; Susan Cline; Anuj Gupta
Subject: Public Comment re Council Closed Session Agenda Items 3E and 3F, July 18, 2023 - Our history is being sold and we are in the Dark
Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 10:55:03 PM
Attachments: image.png

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium is an excellent example of mid-20th century International Style by worldfamous master architect and Santa Monica resident Welton Becket. It was designated a Landmark in 2002. The history of activities at the Civic is woven into our community’s memories, from the Academy Awards to celebrity musicians to Stairway of the Stars (SMMUSD) to cat shows and art fairs.

To: City Council
From: Tricia Crane, Chair Northeast Neighbors
Re: Closed session Agenda Items 3E and 3F, July 17, 2023 Dear Council,
Our cultural legacy and future cultural potential is fast disappearing. The people of Santa Monica have not been told why.

Tomorrow night, July 18, City Councilmembers will meet in Closed Session to discuss with a real estate negotiator the possible sale of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Closed Session Items 3E and 3F can be found on the Council Agenda at this link:
https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_Meeting.aspx?ID=1389 ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
The people of Santa Monica have not been informed of the scale of the financial hole that needs to be filled, what justifies its size, how fast it needs to be filled nor what all the other options are. All we know is that the need for cash is so pressing that it justifies the on-time irrevocable sale of irreplaceable cultural assets that will be needed more than ever in a densifying city. But, we have no way of assessing the priority tradeoffs being made. None.

There must be other options. The City's Proposed FY24 revenue budget was $747.1 million. Of that, $438.7 million (59%) was for the General Fund, which allows for completely discretionary spending decisions. Yet savings could not be found from this massive pool of General Fund money to replenish reserves or pay for whatever priority is driving these decisions? These general fund revenues increased $24 million, or 6%, since FY22. Department budgets have ballooned. For example, the City Manager's proposed FY24 department budget for consultants ("Professional Services") has increased by $587,171 (101%) since FY2022.

Without any case being made to the voters, we have no idea if a sale makes any sense. Nor do we have any idea of the structure of any proposed sale. For example, will the Civic:

Landmark status be maintained in any transaction regarding its future? Be allowed to be torn down if sold?
Also on the proverbial chopping block in Closed Session Tuesday is a parcel the city owns near the light rail station on 4th Street. How will negotiations go for that parcel, which could be developed by the city into 100% affordable housing to help meet state requirements but instead sold to a developer who will likely produce 10% affordable and 90% market rate as has been done with Gelson's.

Then there is compliance with state law, which has not been disclosed. The state's Surplus Lands Act (SLA) requires local agencies to contact HCD twice. First, when a local agency declares land surplus and issues a Notice of Availability (NOA), the local agency must send the NOA to HCD. (Gov. Code, § 54222, subd. (a)(1).) Second, the local agency must contact HCD again once at least 60 days have passed after the issuance of an NOA and any required 90-day good faith negotiations have concluded.

At that time, the local agency must provide HCD with disposition documents that include the following: a copy of the Resolution declaring the land surplus, a copy of the NOA, a copy of the draft affordability covenant, proof of NOA delivery to all required entities per Government Code section 54222 (see Noticing Requirements below), and a description of any negotiations that have taken place. (Gov. Code, § 54230.5, subd. (b)(1).)
The overarching issue here is completely deficient governance. This fiscal responsibility deficit is a subset of a much larger governance deficit. Why should elected officials meet in secret to negotiate the sale of a public landmark without the respect to the voters of making a compelling case, and without any public input? ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
If the Council had integrity and any respect for the voters, it would pull these items from the Closed Session and openly discuss what the realities and options are.

Tricia Crane
Chair, Northeast Neighbors
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Tricia Crane
To: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Gleam Davis; councilmtgitems; David White; Susan Cline; Anuj Gupta; Gigi Decavalles Subject: CORRECTED Public Comment - Council Closed Session Agenda Items 3E and 3F, Council meeting of July 18, 2023
Date: Monday, July 17, 2023 11:05:23 PM
Attachments: image.png

To: City Council
From: Tricia Crane, Chair Northeast Neighbors
Date: July 17, 2023
Re: Closed session Items 3E and 3F, Council Agenda of July 18, 2023 Dear Council,
Our cultural legacy and future cultural potential is fast disappearing. The people of Santa Monica have not been told why.

Tomorrow night, July 18, City Councilmembers will meet in Closed Session to discuss with a real estate negotiator the possible sale of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Closed Session Items 3E and 3F can be found on the Council Agenda at this link:
https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_Meeting.aspx?ID=1389 ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

Without any case being made to the voters, we have no idea if a sale makes any sense. Nor do we have any idea of the structure of any proposed sale. For example, will the Civic:

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
If the Council had integrity and any respect for the voters, it would pull these items from the Closed Session and openly discuss what the realities and options are.

Tricia Crane
Chair, Northeast Neighbors
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Oscar de la Torre; Gleam Davis; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Cc: David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations on The Civic and Institute a Public Process (7.18.23 City Council Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:03:51 AM

EXTERNAL
July 18, 2023
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (“SMCLC”) www.SMCLC.net Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval. These resources belong to all of us, not just to those who happen to be holding office at the time. Public officials are stewards of public land, which imposes a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

While state law allows some aspects of property negotiations to be conducted in secrecy, we believe that the importance of public space, especially this iconic space, necessitates an open and transparent community discussion.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Karla Klarin
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Santa Monica Civic
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:22:20 AM

EXTERNAL
Please do not even consider selling the SM Civic, once it leaves the public's ownership it will never be able to be brought back. It will become just another mega-wealth toy. The civic is part of our, my, heritage. Do Not Sell!
Karla Klarin
--
karlaklarin.com
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Angelique Glennon
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: The Santa Monica City Council and City Clerk - Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:26:36 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello City Council members and City Clerk,
Please consider my email below. Thank you very much in advance.

Angelique Glennon
Santa Monica Resident
Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

While state law allows some aspects of property negotiations to be conducted in secrecy, I believe that the importance of public space, especially this iconic space, necessitates an open and transparent community discussion.

I urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide. ###
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: RUTH FORD
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:29:33 AM

EXTERNAL
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

These resources belong to all of us, not just to those who happen to be holding office at the time. Public officials are stewards of public land, which imposes a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Ruth Ford
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Andrew Wilder
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: 7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:31:07 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Please open this discussion to residents.

Thank you,
Andrew Wilder
Sunset Park
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Tim Hanson
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:31:24 AM

EXTERNAL
I am mystified by why a taxpayer-funded municipality thinks it's in its best interest to negotiate the lease or sale of city-owned property without public participation. What's so secret about it?
I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiments expressed in the email sent by SMCLC on his subject:
"We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide." Sincerely,
Tim Hanson
Ocean Park Resident
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: suzanne Verge
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: 7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:32:18 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Please be transparent in your discussions.

With gratitude,
Suzanne Verge
Santa Monica resident
Sent by my rotary phone via carrier pigeon so please excuse any typos or grammar errors ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Miriam Alpern
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:33:46 AM

EXTERNAL
I have lived in and loved Santa Monica for over 25 years and I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.
- Miriam
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Daniel Galamba
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject: City Council Meeting July 18, 2023 agenda items 3E and 3F: Please halt Closed Negotiations about the Fate of the Civic Auditorium and begin Open Public Discussion
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:34:32 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
Please halt closed negotiations about the fate of the Civic Auditorium and begin open public discussion. Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

The landmark-designated Santa Monica Civic Auditorium served our community from 1958 to 2013, providing concerts, forums for national speakers, arts and crafts shows and other cultural events (including The Oscars) well attended by residents and visitors. While we recognize The Civic has since fallen into disrepair, there is no similar public venue in our city, and we are bereft without it. The option should be considered of refurbishing the Civic Auditorium and bringing it up to current earthquake standards and this should be discussed in an open forum and not behind closed doors.

As stewards of public assets, including the Civic Auditorium, you owe it to your constituents that discussions such as this be held in an open forum so that the views of the people of Santa Monica can be considered before any decisions are made. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Dr Daniel Galamba
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Beatrice Felix
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Future of civic center and public conversation Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:34:34 AM

EXTERNAL
I am asking that you please do NOT discuss the future of public land in private. Your constituents deserve to hear all that is put forth and to know how decisions are being made. It's a transparency we were promised and you should feel obliged to provide.

Beatrice Felix and Thomas Hartman
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: David Misch
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda items 3E, 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:35:22 AM

EXTERNAL
I urge the Council to discuss the situation with the Civic Auditorium with the public before further negotiations take place.

David Misch
Princeton St.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:36:52 AM
From: Beatrice Felix <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:33 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic center

Beatrice Felix and Thomas Hartman
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Gloria Albert
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Council agenda items 3E and 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:36:54 AM
Attachments: signature.png

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (“SMCLC”) www.SMCLC.net Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Smitha Chandrabose
To: councilmtgitems
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:37:20 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello
Regarding council agenda items 3E and 3F, I urge the City Council to discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding further with negotiations.

Smitha Chnadrabose
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:37:43 AM
From: Smitha Chandrabose <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:36 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic auditorium

EXTERNAL
Hello
Regarding council agenda items 3E and 3F, I urge the City Council to discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding further with negotiations.

Smitha Chnadrabose
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Phyllis Chavez
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:53:35 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers:

I am concerned and feel that public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval. These resources belong to all of us, not just to those who happen to be holding office at the time. Public officials are stewards of public land, which imposes a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

The landmark-designated Santa Monica Civic Auditorium served our community from 1958 to 2013, providing concerts, forums for national speakers, arts and crafts shows and other cultural events (including The Oscars) well attended by residents and visitors. While we recognize The Civic has since fallen into disrepair, there is no similar public venue in our city, and we are bereft without it. I remember going to concerts and surf movies there. We should treat this landmark with more respect and dignity, not just try our best to tear it down and give it away.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you,
Phyllis Chavez
Sunset Park
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Lisa Test, OTD, OTR/L
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations about the Fate of the Civic Auditorium & Begin Open Public Discussion Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:43:11 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council members
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

We have to have a voice in our city.

Kindly,
Lisa A. Test
835 Grant Street, #5
Santa Monica, CA
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Krystyna Pawlus
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Re: Agenda Items 3E & 3F - Public participation in determining the future of the SM Civic Auditorium Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:48:29 AM

EXTERNAL
I am in full agreement with the Santa Monica coalition for a livable city (SMCLC) regarding the fate of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. The Santa Monica City Council must realize that this public entity belongs to the residence of Santa Monica and, as such, any discussions about the future of this property must include public participation.

To quote from the SMCLC email to you,
"Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide." Respectfully,
Krystyna Pawlus
125 Montana Avenue #205
Santa Monica, CA 90403
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Neal Wilde
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:52:23 AM

EXTERNAL
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Neal Wilde
123 California Ave
SM, CA
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Bruce Brown
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:41:52 AM
Attachments: PastedGraphic-1.png

EXTERNAL
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you, Bruce Brown
Bruce F Brown
1333 Pine St.

Santa Monica, CA 90405
[email protected]
C/ 310-351-5149
Lic. 523683
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Roger Genser
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 3E & 3F - Save the SM Civic with public hearings Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:55:14 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members
I am a member of the Santa Monica Landmarks Commission and former Chair.

I was on the Landmarks Commission at the time the iconic building was unanimously landmarked by the Commission in 2002.

Please be transparent in respecting the future of the Civic.

Sincerely
Roger Genser
Member Santa Monica Landmarks Commission
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Adam Holiber
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Meeting
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:56:33 AM

EXTERNAL
I am told that CLOSED DOOR negotiations/discussions over the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium are to take place at the City Council. I AM COMPLETELY OPPOSED TO CLOSED DOOR

DISCUSSIONS/DELIBERATIONS ABOUT PUBLIC SPACES IN THE CITY WITHOUT PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.

Determination of the use of Public Spaces should always involve public participation. Why would the Council have closed door discussions and deliberations about that? Please provide a response to that question. I very much appreciate it.

Please do not proceed with any closed door negotiations about the Santa Monica Civic.

I am a 30-year resident of this city.

Adam Holiber
434 Pier Ave #4 90405
(310) 570-6444
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Auditorium Discussion
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:59:35 AM
From: Adam Holiber <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:55 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Auditorium Discussion

EXTERNAL
I am told that CLOSED DOOR negotiations/discussions over the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium are to take place at the City Council. I AM COMPLETELY OPPOSED TO CLOSED DOOR

DISCUSSIONS/DELIBERATIONS ABOUT PUBLIC SPACES IN THE CITY WITHOUT PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.

Please do not proceed with any closed door negotiations about the Santa Monica Civic.

I am a 30-year resident of this city.

Adam Holiber
434 Pier Ave #4 90405
(310) 570-6444
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:59:52 AM
From: John Murdock <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:56 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>; Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Please reject any proposed disposition of the Civic Auditorium without first going through a thorough public review with input from residents and all concerned parties. This land is by no means "surplus" property, it is an invaluable asset held in trust for the public until its highest and best use can be agreed upon.

John B. Murdock
Attorney at Law
1209 Pine Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
tel. (310) 450-1859
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Janet Heinle
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Building and land
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:59:52 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
You don’t get to hold secret meetings for the land : Council agenda items 3E and 3F, urging the City Council to discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding further with negotiations. This should be known to all residents not just you!
Janet Heinle
1047 Lincoln Bl #7 90403
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: John
To: councilmtgitems; [email protected]
Subject: Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:02:49 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: John and Linda Hiscock, 1330 Pine Street.

Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide. ###
--
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/journalists/John_Hiscock/
www.johnhiscock.blogspot.com
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Alan Levenson
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 3E 3F items
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:02:56 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
Please invite public discussion to decide the fate of the civic center.

Please do not make this decision largely behind closed doors.

Thank you.

Alan
Alan Levenson
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: julie kat3
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell CIVIC CENTER
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:04:15 AM

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Julie Martini 90401
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Karen Blechman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Items 3E and 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:15:41 AM

EXTERNAL
Civic Auditorium is a Santa Monica public resource. Its fate should be decided only AFTER open, public hearings and discussion. STOP CLOSED HEARINGS PLEASE.

Karen Blechman
Santa Monica resident since 1978
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Bea Nemlaha
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: CIVIC AUDITORIUM, Agenda 3E, 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:16:15 AM

EXTERNAL
Our Civic Auditorium is an architectural and historic treasure. It belongs to ALL Santa Monica residents.

Council, please open its fate to public discussion. Stop your closed hearing.

Decide its future only AFTER your constituents have weighed in.

Bea Nemlaha
43 year Ocean Park Resident
Happy participant at many Civic Auditorium events
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Patricia Mayer
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Council items 3E and 3F Meeting tonight
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:18:12 AM

EXTERNAL
Re: Council agenda items 3E and 3F:

These items should not be discussed in a closed session. I urge you to please to discuss the fate of The Civic Auditorium with the public before proceeding further with negotiations.

Thank you,
Patricia Mayer
Santa Monica Resident since 1978
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Arlene Fishbach
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium and Council agenda items 3E and 3F Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:24:58 AM

EXTERNAL
Good morning,
I have been a resident of Santa Monica since 1986.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium has been a beloved venue for decades. From concerts, award shows to craft fairs etc.

I am outraged that you would consider closed door discussions. Any discussion/negotiations/decisions about the Auditorium's future should be and must be in an open forum between the City Council and residents, nothing less.

I look forward to your response that tonights agenda has changed and an open meeting has been scheduled for the near future.

Thank you,
Arlene Fishbach
125 Montana Avenue
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Robin Holding
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: URGENT: Council agenda items 3E & 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:26:44 AM

EXTERNAL
To our mayor Gleam Davis
Mayor Pro Tem Lana Negrete
City Clerk Denise Anderson-Warren
and our City Council members:

Phil Brock
Christine Parra
Jesse Zwick
Caroline Torosis
Oscar de la Torre
As Santa Monica residents for more than 40 years, we are appalled to learn that the sale of the Santa Monica Civic auditorium -- an iconic, publicly owned landmark of which we are justly proud -- to a private concessionaire is to be considered today in a closed session of the council, without public participation of any kind.

As stewards of our public property, it is your duty to include Santa Monica voters in this process, and to seek their approval for any such sale or lease.

The behind-closed-doors nature of this process invites suspicion of insider dealing, and frankly, it stinks.

David Clayberg
Robin Holding
948 15th Street #4
Santa Monica, CA 90403
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Randall Klarin
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SM Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:29:57 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (“SMCLC”) https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.SMCLC.net__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!pKcHx_1UTpIbOlDE5DW8WsciIxcZ5beWKSy9LuISJEwImydkZUF9GtZN8ODQV8V4xD5YlcdOUSjNmgrSoqCfhc3a_ou$ Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

RW Klarin
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell CIVIC CENTER Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:32:08 AM
From: linda hane <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:02 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell CIVIC CENTER

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Julie Martini 90401
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:32:19 AM
From: Ellen Hannan <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:25 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Center

EXTERNAL
7/18/2023
Council Members:

I am very disappointed to hear the SM School District and a low income housing provider are the only 2 proposals you are in discussions with at this time. Since the City can't afford proper maintenance and retrofitting of a landmark important revenue site I don't see proper oversight of our City at this time.

Please return to the public for more thoughtful consideration of the best and most revenue options for this site.

Ellen Hannan
1218 9th St #6
Santa Monica CA 90401
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: No closed sessions
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:32:39 AM
From: Chrissi Durbin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:09 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: No closed sessions

EXTERNAL
Open to residents PLEASE. 33 year senior resident
TY v
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: David Lappen
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Stop Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:34:20 AM

EXTERNAL
Please do NOT negotiate with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

These resources belong to all of us. Public officials are stewards of public land, which imposes a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

The Council should to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:36:01 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
Why the secrecy? Where's the transparency?
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you.

Gary Landi
-
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: lmarreola
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: ITEMS 3E.,3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:46:59 AM

EXTERNAL
Please include community input on the possible sale of Civic Auditorium. Please organize a community workshop with proper and timely notices so that all concerned can have input as to what will happen to OUR Civic Auditorium, not your Civic Auditorium Please make sure the workshop is not led by special interest people or organizations. No Dog and Pony Shows.

Respectfully,
Larry and Carol Arreola
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Esther Hickman
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Please Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:47:57 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
Please consider allowing the public to participate in the discussions surrounding the fate of the Civic Auditorium.

The venue is a priceless asset owned by the City of Santa Monica, and could be used as a vehicle to revitalize tourism, hotels, downtown commerce, and increase revenue for the City of Santa Monica. The Civic was meant to serve its residents and the greater surrounding communities.

There is a finite limitation from the good that can come from the 2 options on the table.

There is no limitation to the upside of what a revitalized Civic center can bring to our City, financially and spiritually for all of our residents and for generations to come! Please consider solutions that can invigorate and unite our communities. Please do not fold to the economic and legislative challenges that our beloved City is facing.

With Santa Monica's current reputation, this is not the time to rush into a finite sale and rob the City of more of its history and potential. The West Side needs a venue like the Civic and it's a legacy worthy of this Council.

Thank you for all that you do for all of us and please press pause. Please consider all the good that can come from bringing this spectacular venue back to life. --
Esther Hickman
310.600.7306
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: janine autolitano
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: tonight"s meeting
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:56:47 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
Today, the average stadium naming rights deal across the country is about $14 million a year!
We have an iconic, beloved, landmarked auditorium situated within walking distance to hotels & restaurants.

A valuable community resource that could bring real cultural richness and community spirit to our city.

Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you,
Janine Autolitano
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Mary Hubbell
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Items 3E and 3F fate of the Civic Center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:04:51 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
I urge you to provide opportunities for public input regarding the fate of our beloved, landmarked Civic Center. This is public property and as a member of the Santa Monica public I want a voice in what happens to this iconic venue.

Many of us would very much like to see it restored to its former glory and used again as an arts, entertainment, and other uses that are an asset to our City and its residents.

Please don’t allow the SMMUSD district to take this away for yet another sports related venue. Although it’s obvious sports are high on their priority list, they have other options that have and will work fine for them. Besides, district enrollment continues to decline.

Also, the other option out there for more housing, we already have a massive number of hugely oversized housing developments in the pipeline. Including one at the former bow alley. We don’t need more housing at the Civic Center site.

We need a community gathering place for fun and entertainment! Thank you for considering my input.

Mary Hubbell
Ocean Park
Sent from Mary's iPhone
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Lori Nafshun
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: 7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:05:36 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Honorable Council Members,
The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium is a beloved architecturally significant venue that should be afforded very opportunity to reopen as a much needed event space on the west side of Los Angeles County.

Any process involving its future should be held in public, and with public participation as much as possible.

Thank you for your time,
Lori Nafshun
655 Ashland Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90405
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Fay Viola
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Don’t meet in private about public land
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:07:30 AM

EXTERNAL
And hands off any secret dealings about our beloved Civic Auditorium.

Sent from my iPhone.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Wendy Dembo
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:09:50 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and Council Members:

Please listen to the residents of Santa Monica. Please give them a chance to speak.

SMMUSD has a terrible track record of maintaining their school building and they have no idea of what a budget is. The CIVIC would go to waste with them.

I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City-owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed-session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval. These resources belong to all of us, not just to those who happen to be holding office at the time. Public officials are stewards of public land, which imposes a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed-session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

The landmark-designated Santa Monica Civic Auditorium served our community from 1958 to 2013, providing concerts, forums for national speakers, arts and crafts shows, and other cultural events (including The Oscars) well attended by residents and visitors. While we recognize The Civic has since fallen into disrepair, there is no similar public venue in our city, and we are bereft without it.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

With great regret,
Wendy Dembo
Santa Monica resident and taxpayer.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Gary Glickman
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: do not sell before public discussion!
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:11:19 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (“SMCLC”) www.SMCLC.net Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Gary Glickman
Stephan Hewitt
Santa Monica
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Bob Taylor
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Christine Parra; Phil Brock; David White; Susan Cline; Anuj Gupta; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; David Martin; Roxanne Tanemori; Heidi von Tongeln; Melissa Spagnuolo; Sofia Klatzker; gigi.decavalles[email protected]; jaleh mirhasemi Subject: Council Agenda item #.E & 3.F - 7/18/23
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:11:29 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council, et al
Re: Agenda Items 3.E & 3.F
I am expressing my concern for what appears to be an effort by certain members of the council to move for the sale of a city and historic treasure, the Civic Center Auditorium, and the leasing of the land for commercial development.

The presumed argument for this action is the necessity to generate income to our apparently cash starved city. To this resident that reasoning would seem to be merely a reflection of a continuing economic mismanagement that will further exacerbate the declining quality of life residents, and tourists, have been exposed to and and are experiencing for the past 20 years. We have the very egregious PAL lawlsuits costing upwards of $200 million, and inappropriate council member retribution against an individual that cost at least another $1million. There is the $1/year lease of our civic center land for the development of the ECEC which mostly appears to serve as a daycare center for the Rand Co employees children, and though said to be a function of the SMC is operated by a third party ‘non-profit’.

All to little benefit of residents.

Adding to the examples above, the several million dollars authorized to “study” the future of the Santa Monica Airport, ostensibly for the transformation to a “great” park. Like the current argument by certain council members that the city needs to sell/lease the Auditorium for financial reasons, it is quite apparent that the SMO land is merely ripe for similar sale/lease to developer interests and profit, once again at a loss of quality of life for residents. In the staff presentation to the council in January it was pointed out that there is no funding available for a change of use without developer involvement. The presentation mentioned SMO operations currently generates $20 million a year to the city, but did not mention that, as pointed out in a 2011 Daily Press news article, SMO generates some $273 million ($356 million 2023 dollars) city wide, which most obviously results in additional business taxes, sales taxes, etc.

Common sense suggests putting on hold any notion of further divesting our city of its community resources and the commons that serve us all, including the understanding that our beachfront town is a regional relief valve for the heat burdened residents of the Valley and east side. There will be no benefit seeking relief in an increasingly densely built out extension of high rise Los Angeles. Maybe a detached third party evaluation of the economic management of Santa Monica should be implemented, perhaps by the County in a manner similar to a study was that done in 2011.

With concern,
Bob Taylor
Ocean Park Resident
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Abby Adams
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Cc: Abby Adams; Patrick Adams
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:22:25 AM

EXTERNAL
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Abby, Patrick, Kellogg, Cooper and Riley Adams
475 17th Street
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Jewett, Jade
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda items 3E and 3F: The City Council should discuss The Civic plans with the public before deciding its fate! Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:18:05 AM
Importance: High

EXTERNAL
Agenda items 3E and 3F:

The City Council should discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding any further with negotiations about its sale or lease.

Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members Brock, Parra, Negrete, Zwick, Torosis, and De La Torre, I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City-owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval. These resources belong to all of us, not just to those who are holding public office at the time of such a negotiation. Public officials are stewards of public land, which demands a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

Please do not move forward with any decisions about the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium until additional or any public hearings take place. Such public hearings should be well advertised and announced to the residents of this city.

Respectfully submitted,
Jade Jewett
(resident and homeowner in Santa Monica for 30-years)
Email: [email protected]
Jade Jewett
Visual Arts Special Projects | College of the Arts
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers (what's this?)
CSU Fullerton
657-278-2081 office, 310-486-5686 cell
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Stop Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:19:03 AM

EXTERNAL
To the Santa Monica City Council,
As a long time Santa Monica resident I'm urging you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

I urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thanks,
Kelly
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Austin Sipes
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:12:01 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City-owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closedsession hearings about its fate) without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

These resources belong to all of us, not just to those who happen to be holding office at the time. Public officials are stewards of public land, which imposes a high standard of transparency and accountability to the public. Holding closed-session hearings to discuss the sale/lease of The Civic falls below that standard.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. We have a right to weigh-in on this decision.

Best,
Austin Sipes
Santa Monica Resident since 2004
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: James Schumacher
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic Center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:29:03 AM

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium: Council Agenda Items: 3E and 3F Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:29:09 AM
From: Brenda Anderson <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 9:55 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium: Council Agenda Items: 3E and 3F

EXTERNAL
Dear Member of the City Council:

I am requesting that you do not conduct private/secret meetings for the discussion of the possible sale or lease of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. This property belongs to the citizens of Santa Monica and any discussions about its fate should be held in public and with the input of the citizens.

Brenda Anderson
475 24th Street
Santa Monica 90402
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Please do not hold secret meetings
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:29:29 AM
From: Fay Viola <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:03 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Please do not hold secret meetings

EXTERNAL
About public land. Especially our beloved Civic Auditorium.

Sent from my iPhone.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Agenda items 3E and 3F: The City Council should discuss The Civic plans with the public before deciding its fate!
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:29:42 AM
From: Jewett, Jade <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:08 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Agenda items 3E and 3F: The City Council should discuss The Civic plans with the public before deciding its fate!

EXTERNAL
Agenda items 3E and 3F:

The City Council should discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding any further with negotiations about its sale or lease.

Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City-owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Note on CIVIC AUDITORIUM, Agenda 3E, 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:29:54 AM
From: Chris Bruss <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:12 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Note on CIVIC AUDITORIUM, Agenda 3E, 3F

EXTERNAL
City Council:

I am writing to request that you have open public hearings to discuss the fate of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. It is an important building with historic significance and a resource to the public.

Please do not decide its fate via closed-door hearings.

Thank you,
Chris Bruss
12 Year Ocean Park Resident
Member of 3rd Street Historic District Citizen Participation Committee --
Chris Bruss
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:30:03 AM
From: Jayne Gordon <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:25 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers:

Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

It would be wonderful to refirbish and reopen the venue for concerts and other events so that we don’t have to go to downtown Los Angeles or Hollywood, and it would bring revenue to the city.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
I urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you.

Jayne Gordon
28th Street, 90405
(She/Her)
tYpos HaPpn
Sent from my iPhone
“When you see something that is not right, not fair, you just have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something.”
—John Lewis
“There can be freedom only when nobody owns it.”
—Jackson Browne, “Walls and Doors”
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:30:21 AM
From: James Schumacher <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:26 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Center

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Don’t do it! Think of MY future!
James Schumacher
43 yr resident
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:30:26 AM
From: Annie Spong <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:27 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Our Civic Auditorium is an architectural and historic treasure. It belongs to ALL Santa Monica residents.

Council, please open its fate to public discussion. Stop your closed hearing. Decide its future only AFTER your constituents have weighed in.

Annie & Asamino Spong
27 year Ocean Park Resident
Happy participant at many Civic Auditorium events
--
Annie Spong
310-429-1617
Certified Intimacy Coordinator
SAG-AFTRA IC // Registry
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Will von Bernuth
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic Center and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:30:40 AM

EXTERNAL
To the Santa Monica City Council and City Clerk,
As a Santa Monica resident I am writing to ask you to stop the closed door discussions and negotiations regarding the future of the Santa Monica Civic Center. These talks should be open to the public for comment and consideration. They should not be held in behind closed doors.

The Civic Center is a public space on public land and therefore the public should be able to way in on its future. I recognize the Civic Center is in disrepair and site needs rehabilitation. The residents of Santa Monica should have a say and understanding of what its future will be. Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public's weigh in and approval.

As such, I request that these talks not be held in closed door sessions and instead should be open to the public.

Regards,
Will
_____________________________
Will von Bernuth
Block Island Organics | Non-Toxic Suncare
Web: www.blockislandorganics.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlockIslandOrganics
Twitter: twitter.com/biosuncare
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/biosuncare/
Instagram: instagram.com/blockislandorganics
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Bridget Terry
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic Auditorium land
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:34:25 AM

EXTERNAL
To the Council abolut to meet in secret —
RE: Council agenda items 3E and 3F:

I urge the City Council to discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding further with negotiations. As a homeowner in Santa Monica for 30 years — our public property belongs to the public — and considetation therefore should include your constituents.

Sincerely,
Bridget Terry
Bridget Terry
1237 22ND STREET - SUITE 1
SANTA MONICA, CA. 90404
Ofc: 310-403-8540
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Liz Bell
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Items 3E and 3F--Civic Center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:36:12 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello Council. I see you have an Agenda item tonight to sell the Civic Center property. I don’t recall any public hearing about this. Was there? This is public land. Further, it is a large piece of iconic property in Santa Monica and its future should be carefully considered by ALL residents before it is sold for mere commercial use. Please, pull the item for tonight and let’s have some public hearings and discussion.

Thank you.

Lizbeth Bell
1434 18TH ST.

Santa Monica 90404
[email protected]
310-977-2463
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Elizabeth Lerer
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick Cc: councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan
Subject: Civic Auditorium 7/18/23 Closed Session
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:47:45 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
Please stop negotiations and refuse to make any permanent decisions regarding the fate of the Civic Auditorium behind closed doors.

This civic building is one of the too few significant community owned buildings and is a treasured landmark that deserves an open democratic process to determine its destiny.

Thank you,
Elizabeth Lerer
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Gerald Zelinger
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: City council items 3E and 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:52:04 AM

EXTERNAL
The civic auditorium has been sitting vacant for about 25 years and now, all of a sudden the city is planning on having closed discussions with potential “developers”.

Open this planning process to the public! This is publicly owned land and structures. We paid for it and continue to pay for it. It is OURS.

Thank you,
Gerald Zelinger
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Michele Modglin
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Items 3E and 3F on tonight"s agenda
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:14:06 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members:

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you,
Michele Modglin
630 Idaho Ave
SM (0403
###
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Jane
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute property Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:17:00 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (“SMCLC”) www.SMCLC.net Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you.

Jane Tucker
29 year Resident of Santa Monica
I VOTE in every election
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Kenneth Legaux
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Save The Civic PLEASE
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:17:37 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers:

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you, Kenneth Legaux
Sent from Outlook
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Peter A Donald
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: I oppose the private sale of the Santa Monica Civic Center Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:31:46 AM

EXTERNAL
This is public land and should be kept for the residents to decide its use.

Peter A Donald
2618 32nd St.

Santa Monica, CA 90405
310 871-4862
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: AGENDA ITEMS 3E and 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:35:27 AM
From: Harald Wattrus <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:56 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: AGENDA ITEMS 3E and 3F

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City-owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Respectfully submitted,
Harald and Louise Wattrus
3019 Prospect Avenue , Santa Monica
( resident and homeowners for 13 years )
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:35:33 AM
From: Bond Wright <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:46 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Ladies and Gentlemen:

I urge you to have a public hearing before anything is decided about the Civic Center.

It is unacceptable for closed “secret” meetings about this public land.

Thank you.

Rev. Bond Wright, MA, CRT, CTA, CM
Santa Monica Resident
310-450-3396
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FW: CIVIC AUDITORIUM
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:36:27 AM

EXTERNAL
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:33 AM
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: CIVIC AUDITORIUM
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: Linda Hall @ 1330 Pine Street
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Yours sincerely,
Linda Hall
1330 Pine Street
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: City council items 3E and 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:36:06 AM
From: Gerald Zelinger <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 10:51 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: City council items 3E and 3F

EXTERNAL
The civic auditorium has been sitting vacant for about 25 years and now, all of a sudden the city is planning on having closed discussions with potential “developers”.

Open this planning process to the public! This is publicly owned land and structures. We paid for it and continue to pay for it. It is OURS.

Thank you,
Gerald Zelinger
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: CIVIC AUDITORIUM
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:35:44 AM
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:33 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: CIVIC AUDITORIUM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: Linda Hall @ 1330 Pine Street
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Yours sincerely,
Linda Hall
1330 Pine Street
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Nikki Kolhoff
To: councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Cc: David White; Jennifer Taylor
Subject: 7/18/23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F - OPPOSE Sale of Civic Auditorium Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:43:56 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council -
I urge you to vote NO on the sale of the Civic Center Auditorium. It is shameful that you voted to surplus this core PUBLIC civic asset with no public process in the first place, and your failure to engage in a public process regarding the rehabilitation and renovation of the Civic Auditorium is part of your continued destruction of our city.

I am sending you my comment from April of this year because it remains completely valid today. Vote no, halt the sale process, rescind the resolution, and give direction to staff to commence a PUBLIC process to identify viable options for revitalizing our Civic Center Auditorium.

Regards,
Nikki Kolhoff
Santa Monica Resident
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Nikki Kolhoff <[email protected]>
To: Councilmtgitems <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 11:49:21 AM PDT
Subject: 4/11/23 agenda items 3-J and 3-K - OPPOSE Sale of Civic Auditorium City Council -
I urge you to OPPOSE the sale of the Civic Center Auditorium and instead give direction to staff to commence a PUBLIC process to identify viable options for revitalizing our Civic Center Auditorium. The reasons are many.

1. FRAUD BY STAFF: The entire premise for the October resolution is based on a long-term lease and not a sale, which is evidence of fraud on the part of staff now pushing a sale. The staff report furthers the long-term lease premise by stating, they won't even need to designate as surplus "if HCD confirms that the longterm leasing of the existing facility with only interior tenant improvements is not subject to the SLA." So why did they need to designate it surplus in October? Did staff get a response from HCD? The only reason council declared it surplus was to start the process for a lease with improvements not subject to the SLA. Staff's argument pushed for a resolution claiming it is needed prior to disposition. However, there is nothing in the report that says this had to happen before engaging in discussions with potential parties and the discussion of potential options.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023

2. NO FINDINGS OF SURPLUS: The resolution states:
"WHEREAS, the City Council desires to declare the City Owned Properties as surplus land and not necessary for the City’s use; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires that the City Owned Properties be treated as surplus land within the meaning of the SLA, to the extent required by the SLA; and WHEREAS, the accompanying staff report provides supporting information upon which the declaration and findings set forth in this Resolution are based;" Where are the findings in the staff report that the Auditorium is surplus? We don't see any such findings. Given the lack of findings and the false premises under which staff moved this forward, the October 2022 resolutions must be rescinded.

3. SMMUSD DEMOLISHES HISTORIC BUILDINGS. SMMUSD is a terrible partner when it comes to historic resources and landmarks. They expressly refused to include local criteria in their "historic resources policy" and demolished both the JAMS Auditorium and the Samohi History Building. They are not bound to local rules and have no integrity, so a sale to SMMUSD ensures the demolition of the Auditorium.

4. HOUSING IS NOT APPROPRIATE IN A CIVIC CENTER. The Village housing development is already a shame and a misuse of public land. Luxury condos (or any housing) has no place being built in a Civic Center. A Civic Center is for PUBLIC amenities for open use by the residents of Santa Monica and visitors from the public.

A transfer to Community Corp removes the land from public use and there is no guaranty it would even house current Santa Monica residents at risk of displacement.

5. LACK OF PUBLIC PROCESS FOR LAST 6 YEARS AND A SHAM BEFORE THAT: The last "public" process was an RFP in 2017. Staff and council continuing to noodle options with a single suitor is obviously not a robust public process and surely isn't sufficient to dispose of a landmark. Prior to that, there was the Civic Center Working Group, which was implemented to railroad development of the Civic Center and was heavily biased toward private developer uses. There is no other explanation for a panel drawing the conclusion that the SMC Lab School, a walled off fortress for private day care for Rand, SMC and City staff, is an appropriate use while the Sports Field, used by thousands of residents and visitors every week, is not.

Times have changed and a fully open public process to determine the future of the Auditorium is needed. We need all options on the table, all potential partners to be engaged, and a grand plan to revive the music scene in Santa Monica at the Auditorium. It is absurd that council could find a landmarked, historic music and entertainment venue is no longer needed in Santa Monica.

6. BACKWARDS FISCAL PRIORITIES OF STAFF AND COUNCIL GOT US HERE.

Santa Monica loves to cry broke. But we are not. Our leaders just have terrible priorities for the use of our ample resources. Remember, when the renovation was estimated at $50 million, Staff, Council, SMC and SMMUSD prioritized the following BEFORE spending any money on the Civic Auditorium:

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
Demolition of the historic JAMS Auditorium and replacement with a $45 million middle school auditorium paid for by SMMUSD and SMC bonds; Gifting SMC the civic center land for free and spending $34 million of city funds and SMC bonds on a private day care for City, SMC and Rand staff; Demolishing the History Building to spend $85 million of SMMUSD bonds on a classroom building we don't need because of declining enrollment; Spending $141 million on a city hall annex for 243 staff; Spending $85 million in SMMUSD bonds on a "practice gym" that cannot host legitimate sporting events;
Spending $100 million on a sewage treatment plant that might not work.

I am sure there are more examples, but these alone would have paid for the Civic Auditorium eight times over.

7. BROWN ACT: The broad use of the Brown Act exception to avoid public discussions isn't permissible. Nobody believes that your closed door meetings have been limited to price. And holding the closed door meeting to take action PRIOR to the public component is even more damning. We, the public, are entitled to hear all the details except price and that is not happening here.

Also, the agenda title for the October 2022 resolution only listed the address and not the structure in the first item, which means the description wasn't adequate to comply with the Brown Act.

8. EDUCATION NOT A PRIORITY: Nothing screams "education" as a sham more than holding a meeting about SMMUSD's purchase of the Auditorium during spring break. At a minimum this must be postponed until AFTER spring break. Otherwise, this harkens back to the Joint Use Agreement vote pushed through during spring break in 2019 with none of the public or oversight processes followed.

9. RECONSIDERATION BY COUNCIL: Council may reconsider the resolution and we just need one of you with the guts to ask for that based on the total lack of consistency with the current proposals on the table and the lack of public process.

Please do the right thing for Santa Monica. Halt the sale process, rescind the resolution, and give direction to staff to commence a PUBLIC process to identify viable options for revitalizing our Civic Center Auditorium.

Regards,
Nikki Kolhoff
Santa Monica Resident and SMMUSD Parent
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Gina Novish
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Tonight: The Civic - 3E and 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:49:34 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello.

Santa Monica resident Gina Reichardt here. Regarding items 3E and 3F on the closed City Council meeting this evening: please consider full transparency in a discussing these points in an open meeting.

The Civic is a historic building key to the identity of Santa Monica. It is an architectural gem. Selling property that belongs to the public in secret is not what the citizens elected you to do.

Cycling past The Civic on the weekend, my husband and I were appalled at the disrepair of the building and the disrespect for the grounds. That the city has let it fall into this state is bizarre and shameful. It is right next door to the other city buildings and police station! If it is a money grab for land on the part of the city, perhaps the council needs a fiscal and moral inventory. I know I am taking one of the council’s actions or lack thereof.

In short, please make discussions regarding The Civic public and fair.

Sincerely,
Gina and Christian Reichardt Sent from space
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Nancy Hyland
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Andrew Turman
Subject: SM Civic Auditorium hearings
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:49:58 AM

EXTERNAL
Attention: Santa Monica City clerk
As 20+ year residents of Santa Monica, we are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations to sell or lease the Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation.

Please respect your elected positions as our representatives - this is our city, we have the right to influence its future direction.

Sincerely,
Nancy Hyland
Andrew Turman
Olivia Angelo- Turman
2715 Highland Ave
SM, CA, 90405
[email protected]
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Carla Finnerman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Do Not Sell the Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:50:39 AM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

I urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Sincerely,
Carla Finnerman
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Items 3E 3F
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:51:24 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council members,
As a family who has resided in Santa Monica continuously since 1969, and in part since 1914, complete transparency and public participation is absolutely necessary for deciding the future of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, as stated in the following letter:
-Wendy Lamm
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Kathy Knight
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Save Our Beautiful Santa Monica Civic Auditorium! Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:54:58 AM

EXTERNAL
July 18, 2023
To:

The Santa Monica City Council
From: Kathy Knight and Joe Faris
Sunset Park Residents for 35 years
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease Our Civic Auditorium and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss Its Future (7-18-23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
PLEASE DO NOT continue ANY negotiations with any private or public entities to sell or lease our wonderful City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (nor hold any Closed session hearings about its fate) without the public’s participation in these discussions.

This is a landmark-designated resource. Disposing of it in secrecy is against the whole idea of landmarking a special place. Why would you want to do this? This is a TERRIBLE PRECEDENT to set in our City government.

PLEASE hold a properly noticed open meeting for the public to attend regarding the future of our Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Kathy Knight and Joe Faris
(310) 613-1175
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; MICHELE VICE
Subject: To City Council and County Clerk! Halt Closed Negotiations about the Fate of the Civic Auditorium & Begin Open Public Discussion
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:55:45 AM

EXTERNAL
Re: Council agenda items 3E and 3F,
I am adamantly opposed to secret negotiations over public land that the public owns without meaningful public discussion about its future.

I am urging the City Council to discuss the fate of The Civic with the public before proceeding further with negotiations.

Thank you!
A concerned citizen of 43 years in Santa Monica.

Michèle Vice
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: ANDREW TURMAN
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic center
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:56:49 AM

EXTERNAL
Attention: Santa Monica City clerk
As 30 year resident of Santa Monica I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations to sell or lease the Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation.

It is should ours, the residents, to decide.

Please respect your elected positions as our representatives - this is our city, we have the right to influence its future direction.

Sincerely,
Nancy Hyland
Andrew Turman
Olivia Angelo- Turman
2715 Highland Ave
SM, CA, 90405
[email protected]
[email protected]
-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Please Forbive Typos !
Enroute, inflight, in transit & via iPhone
-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Bernice Glenn
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: CLOSED NEGOTIATIONS ARE NOT WHY YOU WERE ELECTED TO OFFICE. VOTERS DESERVE AND REQUIRE A

DEMOCRATIC OPEN COUNCIL
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:01:21 PM

EXTERNAL
Council members -- YOU MUST HALT THESE PRIVATE COUNCIL

NEGOTIATIONS
Santa Monica residents not only DESERVE to know Council plans

REGARDING THIS PROPERTY, THEY MUST NEVER BE KEPT IN THE DARK REGARDING THE FUTURE OF A GOVERNMENT PROPERTY!

SOME OF YOU ARE NEWBIES TO SANTA MONICA, AND SOME ARE

NEWBIES TO THE COUNCIL

AND HAVE LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF THE MANY WAYS THE

AUDITORIUM HAS ENRICHED THE LIVED OF ITS RESIDENTSAND

THE MANY VISITORS WHO HAVE ENJOYED OUR CITY
Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
I AM writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

While we recognize The Civic has since fallen into disrepair, there is no similar public venue in our city, and we are bereft without it.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
transparent community discussion.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

BERNICE GLENN
WHO HAS LIVED IN SANTA MONICA FOR ALMOST 50 YEARS AND

HAS ENJOYED MANY FUNCTIONS HELD IN THE CIVIC CENTER
AUDITORIUM.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Susan Suntree
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: DO NOT SELL THE CIVIC CENTER
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:11:46 PM

EXTERNAL
To: The Santa Monica City Council
From: SUSAN SUNTREE and The Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City (“SMCLC”) www.SMCLC.net
Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F)
We are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Sincerely, Susan Suntree, 1223 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401 ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Melanie Landsberg
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:13:04 PM

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Thank you.

Melanie Landsberg
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: julie kirst
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:15:22 PM

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Julie
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Do NOT Sell the Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:18:09 PM
From: Carla Finnerman <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Do NOT Sell the Civic Auditorium

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

I urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Sincerely,
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
Carla Finnerman
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: The Fate of The Santa Monica Civic - 3E and 3F Tonight Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:18:15 PM
From: Gina Novish <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: The Fate of The Santa Monica Civic - 3E and 3F Tonight

EXTERNAL
Hello.

The Civic is a historic building key to the identity of Santa Monica. It is an architectural gem.

Selling property that belongs to the public in secret is not what the citizens elected you to do.

In short, please make discussions regarding The Civic public and fair.

Sincerely,
Gina and Christian Reichardt
Please consider
Sent from space
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Santa Monica Civic Center hearings
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:18:20 PM
From: Nancy Hyland <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 11:48 AM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Cc: Andrew Turman <[email protected]>
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Center hearings

EXTERNAL
Attention: Santa Monica City Council
As 20+ year residents of Santa Monica, we are writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations to sell or lease the Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation.

Please respect your elected positions as our representatives - this is our city, we have the right to influence its future direction.

Sincerely,
Nancy Hyland
Andrew Turman
Olivia Angelo- Turman
2715 Highland Ave
SM, CA, 90405
[email protected]
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Civic Center: DO NOT SELL
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:18:28 PM
From: Susan Suntree <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 12:10 PM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Civic Center: DO NOT SELL

Public spaces should not be sold or leased without the public’s approval.

We urge the Council to open this discussion to residents. It is ours to decide.

Sincerely, Susan Suntree, 1223 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401 ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Jessica Wilkins
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Halt Closed Negotiations to Sell or Lease The Civic and Institute a Public Process to Transparently Discuss its Future (7.18.23 City Council Closed Session Items 3E and 3F) Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 1:32:02 PM

EXTERNAL
Please end private discussion about use of public land! Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Katharine Dreyfuss
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic Center sale negotiations
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 1:53:00 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council members,
While state law allows some aspects of property negotiations to be conducted in secrecy, we believe that the importance of public space, especially this iconic space, necessitates an open and transparent community discussion.

I urge you to open this discussion to residents. It is our responsibility to decide.

Please resist the temptation to sell our Civic Auditorium until you have requested and heard public comment on the matter.

Thank you for considering my request.

Sincerely,
Katharine Dreyfuss
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Aggi Raeder
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: do not sell the Civic Auditorium without input from SM citizens Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 1:54:37 PM

EXTERNAL
I am shocked to hear that selling the Civic Auditorium is being proposed without any input from the many citizens that have enjoyed countless events there before the city began neglecting needed upgrades that probably would have given the Auditorium a long and useful life.

The Auditorium is city property and should be upgraded and modernized to be useful for current events. Any SM resident that remembers the many exciting events there would be happy to support city efforts to keep the Auditorium in modern shape for modern events.

I hope the Council will refrain from any hasty decisions, and keep this property for everyone's enjoyment.

Aggi Raeder 420 California Ave #20, Santa Monica. A resident of SM since 1967.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: ellen hoffs
To: councilmtgitems
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 2:02:40 PM

EXTERNAL
I urge you to not sell ANYTHING in secret negotiations. Shocking. Whats wrong with you? This is Santa Monica. Or used to be. We’ll remember you want to sell the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in secret.

Ellen Hoffs
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Council Mailbox
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: Proposed Negotiations for Sale of City Owned Land Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 4:07:25 PM
From: Roger <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 4:04 PM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Subject: Proposed Negotiations for Sale of City Owned Land

EXTERNAL
To the Santa Monica City Council:

I am writing to protest the secret negotiations that are proposed to take place tonight between yourselves and a potential real estate developer involving the land on which sits the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. This structure, it should be noted, is a Historic Landmark.

The lack of transparence with regard to discussions of this nature are unacceptable and reflect poorly on the ethical standards of the council members. You seem to think that local citizens should be kept in the dark about matters such as this and that their interests are inconsequential to any decision you might make. This is appalling! STOP
Santa Monica does not possess “excess land” that can be sold off to make up for the mismanagement by city government over many decades. There is not enough unencumbered land to sell your way out of incompetence. The city need rather to focus on rebuilding cash flow from its business tax base. This means improve safety and deal with the homeless.

Let’s be clear. Litigation is certain to follow any definition you might take to sell off this rare parcel of land and if the city prevails, it will be years and years from now.

Thank you for reading my opposition to secret sale negotiations.

Roger Hill
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
From: Gretchen Goetz
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: The FUTURE of SANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM
Date: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:29:55 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members and City Clerk,
With regard to Council agenda items 3E and 3F, I am writing to urge you NOT to continue negotiations with private or public entities to sell or lease the City owned Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (or hold closed session hearings about its fate), without the public’s participation in these discussions.

Thank you,
Gretchen Goetz
c 310-386-2240
[email protected]
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
Steps Advance for Extensive Civic Building
os Angeles Times (1923-1995); Feb 19, 1956; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times g. E1
Richard’s Tales of Ocean Park, Santa Monica and other magic places.

NEWSLETTER
September 2022 | Issue No.61 | [email protected]
Above: February 16, 1956 sketch of the proposed Santa Monica Civic Auditorium including the reflection pool. Who knew there was a reflection pool? Reproduced with permission of the copyrigh
Steps Advance for Extensive Civic Building
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Feb 19, 1956; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angel pg. E1
Steps Advance for Extensive Civic Building
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Feb 19, 1956; ProQuest Historical News pg. E1
Steps Advance for Extensive Civic Building
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Feb 19, 1956; ProQuest
pg. E1
Reproduced with permission of the copyrig
Reproduced with permission of the copyright ownerFurther February 16, 1956

Page 1 ends

Appreciating the Civic Auditorium
A look at the Santa Monica
Civic Auditorium from the
pages of the LA Times
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permissio Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.

Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
June 16, 1958
Oscars, April 17, 1961
Above: The Oscar broadcast, live on ABC-TV from the new Santa Monica Civic Auditorium really put the venue on the map and gave it new prestige.

This was on April 17, 1961
Left: The Civic Auditorium today. Compare the
top of the facade in this picture to the one at the
top of the page. In the 1961 picture the concrete
screen goes all the way to the top. Today there
is a band of white across the top. When was this
change made and why was it made?

Page 2 ends

There’ll be No Snack
Bar for S.M. Sea Gulls
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023

Page 3 ends

Above: The excellent Santa Monica Symphony used to call the Civic Auditorium home Above: The 1921 Ocean Park Municipal Auditorium shown here in 1950.

Above: The Belmar neighborhood was cleared away in the late 1950s to make way for enlarging the Civic Center. The old cottages were set afire to provide training for the fire department.

Today!
The Belmar neighborhood
The removal of the Belmar neighborhood
was part of a national program by the
federal government to help cities “clean
up” impoverished areas and keep them
economically viable for the City. These urban modernization efforts were part of a campaign to encourage white upper- and
middle-class people to visit and continue
to reside in the bay city. An estimated
80% of those who were displaced nationwide were African Americans and people from other marginalized groups. Little
was spent on their relocation.

Not the first Auditorium in town
The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium was
not the city’s first auditorium. The Ocean
Park Municipal Auditorium opened in
1921, just north of the Ocean Park Pier,
replacing an earlier auditorium destroyed
in a 1912 fire that swept through the
neighborhood. It was used for events into
the 1950s and then re-purposed for Pacific
Ocean Park’s Westinghouse Enchanted
Forest exhibit opening in 1958. POP closed
in 1967. The kiddie park at the south end of
the beach parking lot is where this building
used to be.

More interesting stuff....

Whats happening now?.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium had
a long illustrious reputation as a top destination for conventions and legendary concerts, but by 2000, it was struggling
to make a profit with an annual deficit of as
much as $2 million, which the city has had
to cover.

The City of Santa Monica began to plan
for a $51.9-million renovation using redevelopment funds and negotiated with the Nederlander Organization to book
events. That effort was suspended after
Governor Jerry Brown dissolved community redevelopment agencies. The auditorium closed on June 30, 2013 and its been closed ever since.

A complete renovation would exceed
$70 million. From an economic perspective, it would be cheaper to replace it, but many consider it a landmark worth preserving. The city has an annual budget of more than half of a billion dollars and is
considering its priorities.

Meanwhile, a long-promised soccer
field has been built on its parking lot making the likelihood of a reopening less likely than ever. I wish it well... Richard Orton
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023

Page 4 ends

The Beach Boys
Lesley Gore
Bo Diddley
Chuck Berry
Gerry & the Pacemakers
Jan and Dean
Marvin Gaye
Smokey Robinson
James Brown
The Supremes
The Rolling Stones
Bob Dylan
The Eagles
David Bowie
Bruce Springsteen
Pink Ffloyd
Van Morrison
Journey
Genisis
The Doors
The Who
Billy Joel
Boston
Van Halen
Queen
Frank Zappa
Prince
U2
Aerosmith
Eric Clapton
Jackson Browne
Kingston Trio
Village People
Frank Sinatra
Ella Fitzgerald
Crosby, Stills, and Nash
The Kinks
On June 30, 2013, the historic Santa Monica Civic
went dark and closed its doors after fifty-five years
of operation. Nearly fifty of those years it held concerts performed by virtually every Rock act you can imagine.

ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023
ITEM 3.F.

JULY 18, 2023

Santa Monica City CouncilJuly 18, 2023

Santa Monica City Council
July 18, 2023