Agenda packet, first session — Santa Monica City Council, July 25, 2023 (part 2 of 8)

EXTERNAL
Dan Jan,
This is the edited list I used to send my response to Houman about tech wizardry ..

I long deleted the dead emails and Council emails... not a tech wizard but I can do that much..I am not in control of editing the master list so whoever is has to do that..I have asked several times
Danielle
On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 12:14 PM Danielle Charney <[email protected]> wrote:

Zwick was born and raised here. His father is a well known film and tv producer.

He won because Abundant Housing and Leonora Camner organized a tech driven bullet voting campaign
and they will do it for Natalya and any other SMF candidates running next time..

Camner's husband is a tech wizard.

The SMDC goes by vote- want to change it.. join and vote -that is what SMF does .They are not in attendance usually for any other reason.. but they show up to vote. Same with SMRR..
they work by membership voting.

Gleam is not running - she is termed out I believe. Zwick and Caroline aren't running -they just got in ... but the others who are just as bad as Zwick and backed by SMF who are far more the problem -will run. Zwick was not the choice of the SMDC or SMRR but dem's da rules and they had to live with it. Let's keep it straight. In great part we are up against a tech savvy world - they are using it. We need to do the same.

On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 12:04 PM Houman Hemmati <[email protected]> ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 395 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) wrote:

They don’t CARE about Election Day because they know they will win regardless. The last election proved it. No one had heard of Zwick. He moved here to run for office. He didn’t campaign. Hardly had any “Pick Zwick” signs. Yet he easily won. How? SMRR and Dem Club + LA Federation of Labor ran a massive ballot harvesting and get out the vote ground name. We didn’t we aren’t organized. We need to fundraise on a national level (people laugh a us and they all know about us now) and overwhelm their own efforts with paid harvesters and a powerful ground game.

Phil Brock last night went on live in studio on Fox News at Night, a NATIONAL show with 1.5 million prime time viewership to draw attention to these issues and bash Himmelrich. Here is the link. Please share!
California city councilmember speaks out after he
was attacked by homeless man | Fox News Video
foxnews.com
On Jul 25, 2023, at 11:56 AM, Stanley H Epstein <[email protected]> wrote:

If Gleam and her colleagues refuse to allow public comment on 3C and 3D. it will be huge proof of a continuance of their effort to conduct the entire Auditorium use matter in total secrecy. Not helpful to them on Election Day or with the StateBar or LA County DA Public Integrity Division. Council can ,and certainly should, easily suspend its meeting rules so the public can be heard!
Stan
Sent from my iPad
On Jul 25, 2023, at 11:42 AM, Stanley H Epstein <[email protected]> wrote:

It has been brought to my attention that Gleam apparently will take the position tonight that no public comment will be allowed on the Civic Auditorium items because public comment on the same items was concluded last Tuesday ( before the Brown Act violation claim arose).

If anyone has an idea of what our action and response should be, please circulate it. Perhaps a majority of Council can change the rules to allow ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 396 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) tonight’s public comment.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619.

Sent from my iPad
On Jul 24, 2023, at 5:33 PM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]> wrote:

The City has just scheduled a “ Special Meeting” to start five minutes after the Regular Meeting tomorrow.

The sole item on the agenda for the Special Meeting is one case against the City, which should have been added to the Closed Session for the Regular Meeting.

It is hard to understand the minds of the people who dreamed up this attempt to fool the public and confuse things in order to take the emphasis off the clearly illegal, under the Brown Act, of Items 3C and 3D of the Regular Meeting.If there was a legitimate reason, staff should inform everyone immediately.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619.

Sent from my iPad
On Jul 23, 2023, at 11:05 AM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]> wrote:

Nothing in the Surplus Lands Act repeals or changes
the Brown Act.

Therefore, a Closed Session Tuesday that goes
beyond Price and Terms of Payment would be
illegal. Further, actions taken at the meeting, even if approved in open session, would be null and void.

Oscar requested, and the Council agreed , that
Attorney Cola would produce a memo on this
subject. Her FAQs , constituting her response, failed
to mention this issue or my statement to her that the
session would be illegal. She would not agree with
my opinion or, unethically, support the Closed
Session.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 397 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Sent from my iPad
On Jul 22, 2023, at 9:58 PM, Ann
Hoover <[email protected]>
wrote:

The City put up the FAQs Oscar asked for
yesterday (see links below). I don't think they
are completely accurate.

The decision to subject the Auditorium to the
Surplus Lands Act was absolutely
discretionary not legally-mandated
and of course it all surely must have been
pushed by Gleam as Mayor b/c she helps to
set the agendas. Shameful!!
FAQ regarding the Surplus Lands Act:
https://santamonica.gov/blog/faqs-fordesignation-of-the-civic-auditorium-assurplus-land This also can be found on the City’s
homepage santamonica.gov under
"Around Our City"
https://santamonica.gov/
On Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 07:40:23 PM
PDT, Danielle Charney <[email protected]> wrote:

Excellent letter from Stan
Epstein...please consider
including the Brown Act
violations he refers to:

The Agenda for Tuesday’s Council meeting
now includes Closed Session Items 3C and
3D., both of which concern a disposition by
the City of the Civic Auditorium.

It should first be mentioned that
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 398 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) every person present for the
discussion of either or both of
those items will be committing a
certain violation of the Brown
Act because that Act only allows
consideration of the “ Price and
Terms of Payment for Sale” of
the real estate being discussed.

It is certain that the discussion,
and any decisions made, will
include dozens of matters
concerning a disposition other
than the very limited permitted
scope specified above.

Therefore, if the Closed Session
is not cancelled, a report of the
meeting will be sent by me to
the Director of the Public
Integrity Division of the LA
County DA’s office, with
complaints against all Council
persons present, the City
Manager, City Attorney and
Susan Cola, City Clerk( for
placing the items on the
Agenda) and both City
Negotiators.In addition, I would
expect that any and all decisions
reached at that illegal meeting
would be considered by a court
to be null and void.,
I trust that Ms. Cola , as
requested by Oscar, has
provided him and his colleagues
with a memo relating to some of
the points raised at the prior
meeting.This note will surely say
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 399 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) that Ms. Cola and Gleam were
knowingly 100 % wrong in
stating Tuesday that , under the
Brown Act, real estate matters
can be handled only in Closed
Session.

The strong argument of SMCLC,
made today, against a Closed
Session,and for public
discussion on a matter of huge
significance, should be of great
influence to Council and senior
staff, and supplement the legal
analysis above that the Brown
Act prohibits Council from
discussing behind closed doors
the many broad issues involved
in this disposition issue.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393
7619
On Sat, Jul 22, 2023 at 7:34 PM Jaleh
MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who
were involved in considering Civic
Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”,
meaning “non essential land”, that has to
be sold or leased for housing or
educational institution passed by councils
on October 2022 with no community inputs.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 400 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry
Arreola <[email protected]
>
wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
SMRR and SMF are not the same. SMRR has always been closely aligned with the SMDC.. SMF infiltrated and took over the vote.

It is an uneasy alliance.. SMF split from. SMRR due to differences about 2015-16 .

The Sierra Club was taken over by $ many years ago - maybe in the early 2000's ...

On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 1:08 PM Karen Croner <[email protected]> wrote:

Yes, SMRR and Forward have taken over the Democratic Club and also the Sierra Club.

Are folks on this chain members of either the Dem Club or local Sierra Club? The Sierra Club
Stamp of approval makes a huge dif for people and it is completely corrupted by developer interests.

I am absolutely ready to help and join a new Dem Club for Santa Monica or join the present one and
make a difference.

On Jul 25, 2023, at 12:54 PM, Dan J. <[email protected]> wrote:

There is a new competitor to the SMDC:

Blue Wave Dem Club
bluewavedemclub.org
<cro
pped
-
bluewav
eicon180x
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 402 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) 180.
png
>
DJ
On Jul 25, 2023, at 12:34 PM, lmarreola
<[email protected]> wrote:

Agree about the necessity of using technology. SMRR had Roger Thorton as tech wizard for 40 years.

I believe trying to infiltrate Dem Club or SMRR is a waste of time and energy.

We need to grow our own organization with our own tech wizard.

We need to organize all the " like thinking" and FB site voters and all the neighborhood organizations under one umbrella working together. FB is not the answer to political organizing.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

AUDITORIUM
Zwick was born and raised here. His father is a well known film and tv producer.

He won because Abundant Housing and Leonora Camner
organized a tech driven
bullet voting campaign
and they will do it for Natalya and any other SMF
candidates running next time.. Camner's husband is a tech wizard.

The SMDC goes by vote- want to change it.. join and vote - that is what SMF does .They are not in attendance usually for any other reason.. but they show up to vote. Same with SMRR..
they work by membership voting.

Gleam is not running - she is termed out I believe. Zwick and Caroline aren't running -they just got in ... but the others who are just as bad as Zwick and backed by SMF
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 404 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) who are far more the problem -will run. Zwick was not the choice of the SMDC or SMRR but dem's da rules and they
had to live with it. Let's keep it straight. In great part we are up against a tech savvy world - they are using it. We need to do the same.

On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 12:04 PM Houman Hemmati
<[email protected]> wrote:

They don’t CARE about Election Day because they know they will win regardless. The last election proved it. No one had heard of Zwick. He moved here to run for office. He didn’t campaign.

Hardly had any “Pick Zwick” signs. Yet he easily won. How? SMRR and Dem Club + LA Federation of Labor ran a massive ballot harvesting and get out the vote ground name. We didn’t we aren’t organized. We need to fundraise on a national level (people laugh a us and they all know about us now) and
overwhelm their own efforts with paid harvesters and a powerful ground game.

Phil Brock last night went on live in studio on Fox News at Night, a NATIONAL show with 1.5 million prime time
viewership to draw attention to these issues and bash
Himmelrich. Here is the link. Please share!
<image.jpg>
California city councilmember speaks out after he
was attacked by homeless man | Fox News Video
foxnews.com
On Jul 25, 2023, at 11:56 AM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]> wrote:

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 405 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) It has been brought to my attention that Gleam
apparently will take the position tonight that no
public comment will be allowed on the Civic
Auditorium items because public comment on the
same items was concluded last Tuesday ( before the
Brown Act violation claim arose).

If anyone has an idea of what our action and
response should be, please circulate it. Perhaps a
majority of Council can change the rules to allow
tonight’s public comment.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619.

Sent from my iPad
On Jul 24, 2023, at 5:33 PM, Stanley H
Epstein <[email protected]> wrote:

The City has just scheduled a “ Special
Meeting” to start five minutes after the
Regular Meeting tomorrow.

The sole item on the agenda for the
Special Meeting is one case against the
City, which should have been added to
the Closed Session for the Regular
Meeting.

It is hard to understand the minds of the
people who dreamed up this attempt to
fool the public and confuse things in
order to take the emphasis off the clearly
illegal, under the Brown Act, of Items
3C and 3D of the Regular Meeting.If
there was a legitimate reason, staff
should inform everyone immediately.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619.

Sent from my iPad
On Jul 23, 2023, at 11:05
AM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]>
wrote:

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 406 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Nothing in the Surplus
Lands Act repeals or
changes the Brown Act.

Therefore, a Closed Session
Tuesday that goes beyond
Price and Terms of
Payment would be illegal.

Further, actions taken at the
meeting, even if approved
in open session, would be
null and void. Oscar
requested, and the Council
agreed , that Attorney Cola
would produce a memo on
this subject. Her FAQs ,
constituting her response,
failed to mention this issue
or my statement to her that
the session would be illegal.

She would not agree with
my opinion or, unethically,
support the Closed Session.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310
393 7619
Sent from my iPad
On Jul 22,
2023, at 9:58
PM, Ann
Hoover <annkbowman
@yahoo.com>
wrote:

The City put up
the FAQs Oscar
asked for
yesterday (see
links below). I
don't think they
are completely
accurate.

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 407 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) The decision to
subject the
Auditorium to the
Surplus Lands
Act was
absolutely
discretionary not
legally-mandated
and of course it
all surely must
have been
pushed by Gleam
as Mayor b/c she
helps to set the
agendas.

Shameful!!
FAQ regarding
the Surplus
Lands Act:
https://santam
onica.gov/blog/
faqs-fordesignation-ofthe-civicauditorium-assurplus-land This also can be
found on the
City’s
homepage
santamonica.go v under
"Around Our
City"
https://santam
onica.gov/
On Saturday,
July 22, 2023 at
07:40:23 PM
PDT, Danielle
Charney <shineshuge@g
mail.com> wrote:

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 408 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Excellent
letter from
Stan
Epstein...ple
ase
consider
including the
Brown Act
violations he
refers to:

The Agenda for
Tuesday’s
Council meeting
now includes
Closed Session
Items 3C and
3D., both of
which concern a
disposition by the
City of the Civic
Auditorium.

It should
first be
mentioned
that every
person
present for
the
discussion
of either or
both of
those items
will be
committing
a certain
violation of
the Brown
Act because
that Act only
allows
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 409 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) consideratio
n of the “
Price and
Terms of
Payment for
Sale” of the
real estate
being
discussed. It
is certain
that the
discussion,
and any
decisions
made, will
include
dozens of
matters
concerning
a disposition
other than
the very
limited
permitted
scope
specified
above.

Therefore, if
the Closed
Session is
not
cancelled, a
report of the
meeting will
be sent by
me to the
Director of
the Public
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 410 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Integrity
Division of
the LA
County DA’s
office, with
complaints
against all
Council
persons
present, the
City
Manager,
City
Attorney
and Susan
Cola, City
Clerk( for
placing the
items on the
Agenda)
and both
City
Negotiators.

In addition, I
would
expect that
any and all
decisions
reached at
that illegal
meeting
would be
considered
by a court to
be null and
void.,
I trust that
Ms. Cola ,
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 411 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) as
requested
by Oscar,
has
provided
him and his
colleagues
with a
memo
relating to
some of the
points
raised at the
prior
meeting.Thi
s note will
surely say
that Ms.

Cola and
Gleam were
knowingly
100 %
wrong in
stating
Tuesday
that , under
the Brown
Act, real
estate
matters can
be handled
only in
Closed
Session.

The strong
argument of
SMCLC,
made today,
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 412 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) against a
Closed
Session,and
for public
discussion
on a matter
of huge
significance,
should be of
great
influence to
Council and
senior staff,
and
supplement
the legal
analysis
above that
the Brown
Act prohibits
Council from
discussing
behind
closed
doors the
many broad
issues
involved in
this
disposition
issue.

Sincerely,
Stan
Epstein. 310
393 7619
On Sat, Jul 22,
2023 at 7:34 PM
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 413 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Jaleh
MIRHASHEMI <jaleh[email protected]>
wrote:

Hello,
Below emails
are belong to
the staff who
were involved
in considering
Civic
Auditorium as a
“surplus Land
Act”, meaning
“non essential
land”, that has
to be sold or
leased for
housing or
educational
institution
passed by
councils on
October 2022
with no
community
inputs.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 414 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) v
david.martin@s
antamonica.go v
susan.cline@s
antamonica.go v
doug.sloan@sa
ntamonica.gov
susan.cola@sa
ntamonica.gov
jennifer.taylor
@santamonica.
gov
nia.tang@sant
amonica.gov
Thank you for
your support!
Jaleh
Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22,
2023, at 1:41
PM, Larry
Arreola <lmarreola@ro
adrunner.com>
wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
Dear Phil. An excellent start to the new Club’s goals would be if you and your colleagues who are supportive would vote to suspend the rules tonight to allow public comment on the Auditorium itemsAlso, Council and its lawyers need finally to comply with the clear language of the Brown Act and therefore remove the two items from Closed Session.You know that Sloan’s comments to the Lookout were total nonsense!
Best regards, Stan.310 393 7619
Sent from my iPad
On Jul 25, 2023, at 1:01 PM, Phil Brock <[email protected]> wrote:

We have established a more moderate Democratic Club for Venice and Santa Monica. We are certified and can endorse candidates in the next election. We need this to be a powerful body in our town. Please
join!https://bluewavedemclub.org/
Phil
On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 12:35 PM lmarreola <[email protected]> wrote:

Agree about the necessity of using technology. SMRR had Roger Thorton as tech wizard for 40 years.

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 416 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) I believe trying to infiltrate Dem Club or SMRR is a waste of time and energy.

We need to grow our own organization with our own tech wizard. We need to organize all the " like thinking" and FB site voters and all the neighborhood organizations under one umbrella working together. FB is not the answer to political organizing.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 417 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Subject: Re: LET THE PEOPLE DECIDE ABOUT THE CIVIC

AUDITORIUM
Zwick was born and raised here. His father is a well known film and tv producer.

He won because Abundant Housing and Leonora Camner organized a tech driven
bullet voting campaign
and they will do it for Natalya and any other SMF candidates running next time.. Camner's husband is a tech wizard.

Zwick was not the choice of the SMDC or SMRR but dem's da rules and they had to live with it. Let's keep it straight. In great part we are up against a tech savvy world - they are using it. We need to do the same.

On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 12:04 PM Houman Hemmati
<[email protected]> wrote:

Phil Brock last night went on live in studio on Fox News at Night, a NATIONAL show with 1.5 million prime time viewership to draw attention to these issues and bash Himmelrich. Here is the link. Please share! <image.jpg>
California city councilmember speaks out after he
was attacked by homeless man | Fox News Video
foxnews.com
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 418 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) On Jul 25, 2023, at 11:56 AM, Stanley H Epstein <[email protected]> wrote:

If anyone has an idea of what our action and response should be, please circulate it. Perhaps a majority of Council can change the rules to allow tonight’s public comment.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619.

Sent from my iPad
On Jul 24, 2023, at 5:33 PM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]> wrote:

The City has just scheduled a “ Special Meeting” to
start five minutes after the Regular Meeting
tomorrow.

The sole item on the agenda for the Special Meeting
is one case against the City, which should have been
added to the Closed Session for the Regular Meeting.

It is hard to understand the minds of the people who
dreamed up this attempt to fool the public and
confuse things in order to take the emphasis off the
clearly illegal, under the Brown Act, of Items 3C and
3D of the Regular Meeting.If there was a legitimate
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 419 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) reason, staff should inform everyone immediately.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619.

Sent from my iPad
On Jul 23, 2023, at 11:05 AM, Stanley
H Epstein <[email protected]>
wrote:

Nothing in the Surplus Lands Act
repeals or changes the Brown Act.

Therefore, a Closed Session Tuesday
that goes beyond Price and Terms of
Payment would be illegal. Further,
actions taken at the meeting, even if
approved in open session, would be null
and void. Oscar requested, and the
Council agreed , that Attorney Cola
would produce a memo on this subject.

Her FAQs , constituting her response,
failed to mention this issue or my
statement to her that the session would
be illegal. She would not agree with my
opinion or, unethically, support the
Closed Session.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619
Sent from my iPad
On Jul 22, 2023, at 9:58
PM, Ann Hoover <[email protected]
>
wrote:

The City put up the FAQs
Oscar asked for yesterday (see
links below). I don't think they
are completely accurate.

The decision to subject the
Auditorium to the Surplus
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 420 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Lands Act was absolutely
discretionary not legallymandated
and of course it all surely must
have been pushed by Gleam
as Mayor b/c she helps to set
the agendas. Shameful!!
FAQ regarding the Surplus
Lands Act:
https://santamonica.gov/blog/faqsfor-designation-of-the-civicauditorium-as-surplus-land This also can be found on
the City’s homepage
santamonica.gov under
"Around Our City"
https://santamonica.gov/
On Saturday, July 22, 2023 at
07:40:23 PM PDT, Danielle
Charney <[email protected]
>
wrote:

Excellent letter from
Stan Epstein...please
consider including the
Brown Act violations
he refers to:

The Agenda for Tuesday’s
Council meeting now includes
Closed Session Items 3C and
3D., both of which concern a
disposition by the City of the
Civic Auditorium.

It should first be
mentioned that every
person present for the
discussion of either or
both of those items
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 421 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) will be committing a
certain violation of the
Brown Act because
that Act only allows
consideration of the “
Price and Terms of
Payment for Sale” of
the real estate being
discussed. It is certain
that the discussion,
and any decisions
made, will include
dozens of matters
concerning a
disposition other than
the very limited
permitted scope
specified above.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 422 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) that illegal meeting
would be considered
by a court to be null
and void.,
I trust that Ms. Cola ,
as requested by
Oscar, has provided
him and his
colleagues with a
memo relating to
some of the points
raised at the prior
meeting.This note will
surely say that Ms.

Cola and Gleam were
knowingly 100 %
wrong in stating
Tuesday that , under
the Brown Act, real
estate matters can be
handled only in
Closed Session.

The strong argument
of SMCLC, made
today, against a
Closed Session,and
for public discussion
on a matter of huge
significance, should
be of great influence
to Council and senior
staff, and supplement
the legal analysis
above that the Brown
Act prohibits Council
from discussing
behind closed doors
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 423 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) the many broad issues
involved in this
disposition issue.

Sincerely, Stan
Epstein. 310 393 7619
On Sat, Jul 22, 2023 at
7:34 PM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to
the staff who were involved in
considering Civic Auditorium
as a “surplus Land Act”,
meaning “non essential land”,
that has to be sold or leased
for housing or educational
institution passed by councils
on October 2022 with no
community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The
deadline for 90 days from SM
District and Community
Corporation RFPs is
approaching soon and again
councils are going to make a
decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to
the council emails
(copy/paste), so the staff also
can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41
PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]
>
wrote:
>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 424 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) > <img123.jpg>
--
Phil Brock / City Council Member
[email protected]
City of Santa Monica
(310) 458-8201 (310) 393-8004
1685 Main Street, Room 209, Santa Monica, CA 90401
smgov.net
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Youtube
California Parks & Recreation Commissioner Of The Year/42nd President, CalParkBoards/Past Chair, Santa Monica Recreation & Parks Commission/Past President, Lt. Governor, Kiwanis Club Of Santa Monica & District 19/President, Santa Monica High School Alumni Association/ Santa Monica Elks Club Trustee, 2018 Citizen of the Year/Host, Brock On Your Block/Advisory Board, Salvation Army ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 425 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Ann Maggio
To: Stanley H Epstein
Cc: Danielle Charney; SM Observer; Alyssa; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; David White; Jaleh MIRHASHEMI; Ann Bowman; Stephen Castro; [email protected]; PNA90404; Tricia Crane; Clerk Mailbox; [email protected]; Nia Tang; Elaine Golden-Gealer; Wes Wellman; [email protected] Subject: Re: LET THE PEOPLE DECIDE ABOUT THE CIVIC AUDITORIUM Urgent Matter! Date: Monday, July 24, 2023 5:51:36 PM

EXTERNAL
Gleam knows the truth of it. There's no telling her anything new.

Ann Maggio Thanawalla
"Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth." - Albert Einstein On Mon, Jul 24, 2023 at 1:55 PM Stanley H Epstein <[email protected]> wrote:

In the Plaza project situation, the Surplus Land issue was paramount, and HCD, the state agency authorized to handle that deal, was incompetent , or worse, and went along with misstatements by Cola, David Martin, and the lawyer for the developer ( the same guy now masterminding the Gelson’s development).

That state agency has not yet had a role in the Civic Auditorium situation, but could become deeply involved if it has to decide if the City negotiated in good faith with educational or housing prospective purchasers.

I agree that the unfortunate probability is that Doug Sloan is going along with Gleam’s illegal desire that the deal tomorrow proceed in absolute secrecy.He and Cola can read the Brown Act as to real estate deals as well as I, but they lack the character to tell their client( also an experienced lawyer) the truth.

Stan Epstein
Sent from my iPad
On Jul 24, 2023, at 1:29 PM, Danielle Charney <[email protected]> wrote:

Thank you Stan ..it would appear to me that Barrister Sloan has not upheld the resident's wishes on many occasions - his loyalty is clearly
to what he is told to do by the City.. and State now.. just like Moutrie - Cardona
Cola and the rest... no surprise here...

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 426 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) On Mon, Jul 24, 2023 at 9:37 AM Stanley H Epstein <[email protected]> wrote:

David. Thank you for performing a much needed public service. Stan Epstein Sent from my iPad
On Jul 24, 2023, at 9:05 AM, SM Observer
<[email protected]> wrote:

Here’s that
link: https://www.smobserved.com/story/2023/07/24/opinion/closedsession-meeting-on-sale-or-lease-of-the-civic-auditorium-clearlyviolates-the-brown-act/7702.html On Jul 24, 2023, at 6:56 AM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]> wrote:

Dear David. Thanks for the opportunity to submit a
letter showing that Sloan’s statements regarding the
Brown Act and Items 3C and 3D tomorrow were
false. It is too bad that you totally omitted from your posting yesterday all of my opinions to you and the
community, but chose to provide Sloan with the
unchallenged chance to materially mislead your
viewers.

Your posting was made a full day ago and the
rally and Council meeting are tomorrow. Therefore,
it is absolutely necessary and in the public interest
that my letter be posted by noon today. Please Email
me a copy of that immediately after it has been
posted.

Sincerely, Stan Epstein. 310 393 7619
Letter to the Editor: City Attorney Sloan has broken
his ethical obligations to all residents, the Council,
and the State Bar by falsely claiming in the Observer
that the Brown Act will not be violated Tuesday
when Council meets in Closed Session to discuss
and make decisions on all aspects of proposed sales
of the Civic Auditorium without any open meeting
on the issue. He is also causing all Council members
, the City Manager and other senior staff members to
be put in serious legal risk of prosecution by the LA
County DAs Office.

The Brown Act requires all Council proceedings,
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 427 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) including its decisions, to be held before the public.

There are specified exceptions such as litigation,
personnel matters and real estate deals. However,
only the price and terms of payment of real estate
sales or leases can be dealt with secretly.

Tomorrow’s secret session will deal with dozens of
major terms and conditions relating to Items 3 and/
or 4.Therefore, the Act will certainly be
violated.There is nothing in the Surplus Lands Act
that modifies the Brown Act!
On Tuesday, there will be no Staff Report on the two
items or relevant documents provided to the
public.In this case, the Report would probably be
about 20 pages if there were an open meeting. How
can anyone comment meaningfully when the City
tells no one what is being proposed at the secret
session? There will be no open discussion by
Council; no motions or amendments thereof; no
votes on anything but a bare bones proposal
approving the undisclosed deal reached behind
closed doors.The public has a legal right to all of that under the Brown Act and it is totally being taken
away because Council, David White, and Sloan
have blessed the illegal procedure.

We hear a lot lately that “ No one is above the law”.

That American standard will apply here to City
Attorney Sloan and all others who choose to hide
their actions by violating the Brown Act.

Stan Epstein, Member of the NY State Bar for many
decades
Sent from my iPad
On Jul 23, 2023, at 8:12 PM, SM
Observer <[email protected]>
wrote:

Hi, Stan, it’s always nice to hear from
old friends.

In 100 words or less, how would you
respond to Sloane’s assertions?
On Jul 23, 2023, at 6:08
PM, Stanley H Epstein
<[email protected]>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 428 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) wrote:

Dear David. There is a big
rally planned for Tuesday to
protest the plan of Council
to dispose of the City
Auditorium pursuant to
secret discussions and
without public input.

The current erroneous draft
of your article was sent by
you to me with a request
that I verify its accuracy. I
promptly told me about its
errors, the most important
of which is the lies from the
City Attorney implying that
the Brown Act will be
complied with at the Closed
Session Tuesday. I have
asked for an appropriate
correction from you
because that issue is crucial
to the public knowing
whether its reasonable, and
legal, requests have been
honored by City Hall.

To prevent your misleading
of many people at the rally
and elsewhere, please
change your article so that
the Brown Act situation is
made clear by 9 am on
Monday. Failing that, I
shall inform the 100 or so
activists on the email chains
about the issue immediately
thereafter of the story’s
hugely important errors that
you let stand after receiving
from me totally reliable
facts about the falsehoods
and a strong request to
correct those false
statements.

Thank you. Stan Epstein.
310 393 7619
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 429 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Sent from my iPad
On Jul 23,
2023, at 2:23
PM, Stanley H
Epstein <[email protected]
>
wrote:

Dear David.

There should
be many
comments on,
and changes to,
your Civic
Auditorium
sale story. They
are: 1. There
was no Closed
Session on this
subject on July

18. Many
Council
members,
especially
Oscar, had
important
concerns and
asked for a
factual and
legal memo
from Susan
Cola. The FAO
resulted
yesterday.

2. There are 2
Closed Session
items
scheduled for
July 25- one for
a sale to the
School District
and the other
for a sale for
affordable
housing
purposes.

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 430 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD)

3. Doug Sloan
is not telling
even a portion
of the truth to
you.The
Surplus Lands
Act is subject
to the Brown
Act, which is
certainly being
violated. Here,
Council will
discuss secretly
dozens of
issues about
either or both
of the Closed
Session items.

The Brown Act
expressly
allows only a
discussion
secretly of the
price and terms
of payment
Everything else
must be in open
session on real
estate
matters..Even
the FAQ did
not deal with
my Brown Act
complaint
because Cola
and Sloan, her
boss,
absolutely
know there is a
violation.

4. There is no
public
discussion or
Council
discussion after
Council has
made a
decision in
Closed Session.

Only a vote by
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 431 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Council. Again,
Sloan is trying
to materially
mislead you
and the public!

5. I think Tricia
was telling you
that HCD
decides
whether the
City acted in
good faith
when no sale is
agreed on for
education,
housing, or
park
purposes.That
is not to be our
situation. HCD
does not buy
the property in
any
circumstance.

Please feel
entirely free to
quote me, or
call me for any
clarification.

Thanks so
much. Stan
Epstein. 310
393 7619
Sent from my
iPad
On
Jul
23,
2023,
at
11:27
AM,
SM
Observer <[email protected]
>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 432 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) wrote:

Our
latest
story
on
the
Civic
sale,
let
me
know
if I
got
anything
wrong
<s_top.jpeg>
City Considers Sale of Santa Monica's Historic
Civic Auditorium to Developers
smobserved.com
On
Jul
23,
2023,
at
11:05
AM,
Stanley
H
Epstein
<[email protected]>
wrote:

Nothing
in
the
Surplus
Lands
Act
repeals
or
changes
the
Brown
Act.

Therefore,
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 433 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) a
Closed
Session
Tuesday
that
goes
beyond
Price
and
Terms
of
Payment
would
be
illegal.

Further,
actions
taken
at
the
meeting,
even
if
approved
in
open
session,
would
be
null
and
void.

Oscar
requested,
and
the
Council
agreed ,
that
Attorney
Cola
would
produce a
memo
on
this
subject.

Her
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 434 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) FAQs ,
constituting
her
response,
failed
to
mention
this
issue
or
my
statement
to
her
that
the
session
would
be
illegal.

She
would
not
agree
with
my
opinion
or,
unethically,
support
the
Closed
Session.

Sincerely,
Stan
Epstein.
310
393
7619
Sent
from
my
iPad
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 435 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) On
Jul
22,
2023,
at
9:58
PM,
Ann
Hoover
<[email protected]>
wrote:

The
City
put
up
the
FAQs
Oscar
asked
for
yesterday
(see
links
below).

I
don't
think
they
are
completely
accurate.

The
decision
to
subject
the
Auditorium
to
the
Surplus
Lands
Act
was
absolutely
discretionary
not
legallymandated
and
of
course
it
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 436 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) all
surely
must
have
been
pushed
by
Gleam
as
Mayor
b/c
she
helps
to
set
the
agendas.

Shameful!!
FAQ
regarding
the
Surplus
Lands
Act:
https://santamonica.gov/blog/faqsfordesignationofthecivicauditoriumassurplusland This
also
can
be
found
on
the
City’s
homepage
santamonica.gov
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 437 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) under
"Around
Our
City"
https://santamonica.gov/
On
Saturday,
July
22,
2023
at
07:40:23
PM
PDT,
Danielle
Charney
<[email protected]>
wrote:

Excellent
letter
from
Stan
Epstein...please
consider
including
the
Brown
Act
violations
he
refers
to:

The
Agenda
for
Tuesday’s
Council
meeting
now
includes
Closed
Session
Items
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 438 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) 3C
and
3D.,
both
of
which
concern a
disposition
by
the
City
of
the
Civic
Auditorium.

It
should
first
be
mentioned
that
every
person
present
for
the
discussion
of
either
or
both
of
those
items
will
be
committing a
certain
violation
of
the
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 439 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Brown
Act
because
that
Act
only
allows
consideration
of
the “
Price
and
Terms
of
Payment
for
Sale”
of
the
real
estate
being
discussed.

It
is
certain
that
the
discussion,
and
any
decisions
made,
will
include
dozens
of
matters
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 440 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) concerning a
disposition
other
than
the
very
limited
permitted
scope
specified
above.

Therefore,
if
the
Closed
Session
is
not
cancelled, a
report
of
the
meeting
will
be
sent
by
me
to
the
Director
of
the
Public
Integrity
Division
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 441 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) of
the
LA
County
DA’s
office,
with
complaints
against
all
Council
persons
present,
the
City
Manager,
City
Attorney
and
Susan
Cola,
City
Clerk(
for
placing
the
items
on
the
Agenda)
and
both
City
Negotiators.In
addition, I
would
expect
that
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 442 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) any
and
all
decisions
reached
at
that
illegal
meeting
would
be
considered
bya
court
to
be
null
and
void., I
trust
that
Ms.

Cola ,
as
requested
by
Oscar,
has
provided
him
and
his
colleagues
with a
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 443 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) memo
relating
to
some
of
the
points
raised
at
the
prior
meeting.This
note
will
surely
say
that
Ms.

Cola
and
Gleam
were
knowingly
100 %
wrong
in
stating
Tuesday
that ,
under
the
Brown
Act,
real
estate
matters
can
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 444 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) be
handled
only
in
Closed
Session.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 445 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) the
legal
analysis
above
that
the
Brown
Act
prohibits
Council
from
discussing
behind
closed
doors
the
many
broad
issues
involved
in
this
disposition
issue.

Sincerely,
Stan
Epstein.
310
393
7619
On
Sat,
Jul
22,
2023
at
7:34 PM
Jaleh
MIRHASHEMI <jalehITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 446 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected]
>
wrote:

Hello,
Below
emails
are
belong
to
the
staff
who
were
involved
in
considering
Civic
Auditorium
asa
“surplus
Land
Act”,
meaning
“non
essential
land”,
that
has
to
be
sold
or
leased
for
housing
or
educational
institution
passed
by
councils
on
October
2022
with
no
community
inputs.

We
don’t
have
time!!
The
deadline
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 447 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) for
90 days
from
SM
District
and
Community
Corporation
RFPs
is
approaching
soon
and
again
councils
are
going
to
make
a
decision
on
closed
doors!
Please
add
below
emails
to
the
council
emails
(copy/paste),
so
the
staff
also
can
hear
our
voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank
you
for
your
support!
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 448 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Jaleh
Mirhashemi
>
On
Jul
22,
2023,
at
1:41
PM,
Larry
Arreola
<[email protected]>
wrote:
>
>
<img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors! Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices! [email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
I would like to write a really smart letter regarding our city budget, does anyone have the facts about how many extra personnel we have working for the city, expenditures on the city hall annex, travel expenses. Yes, we have a 200 million dollar payout for sexual abuse which is horrific, but the city was being over developed before that happened. The civic center could certainly be a form of income for the city, selling naming rights. I’m uneducated about the SM school system, but I don’t understand why it would go to Samo High when enrollment is down and they just built a seemingly unnecessary new history building. Let’s promote arts and music and entertainment.

The “Bowl” sign says it all. What a terrible taunt, a reminder of essential community gathering place torn down, not even saved to be moved to the promenade for instance. Pretty soon, the phrase “there is no there there” is going to be literally true for Santa Monica. Thank you.

On Jul 23, 2023, at 12:07 AM, Mathew Millen <[email protected]> wrote:

The designation of the civic center as surplus property happened when North of Wilshire NIMBYs who don't want low income housing in their neighborhood voted to designate the historic Civic Center as surplus property. This means the almost 4 acres could probably be developed with over 700 units of high density low income housing.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <jaleh[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 453 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola
<[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
When the residents rose against the city council members who wanted to tear down the pier, the residents were able to stop them - by pledging to vote them out. That is our our power and we must remind the cc we will absolutely do that. Also the staff can be fired, right? Most are high paid and don’t live here. They must know we will also fight for their dismissal. Is there anyone from the list that played the Civic Center that any of us know? Our mayor hates bad press. Maybe music fan Charles Andrews can use his connections here? Doesn’t Bob Dylan still live here?
On Jul 23, 2023, at 12:07 AM, Mathew Millen <[email protected]> wrote:

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <jaleh[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 457 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola
<[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
Kill me now.....

On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 3:18 AM John Alle <[email protected]> wrote:

Thanks.

On Sun, Jul 23, 2023, 12:07 AM Mathew Millen <[email protected]> wrote:

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 461 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
Please add Stan Epstein to this email chain - he is all over it legally with a few areas..I have added him here
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 8:52 AM Karen Croner <[email protected]> wrote:

When the residents rose against the city council members who wanted to tear down the pier, the residents were able to stop them - by pledging to vote them out. That is our our power and we must remind the cc we will absolutely do that. Also the staff can be fired, right? Most are high paid and don’t live here. They must know we will also fight for their dismissal. Is there anyone from the list that played the Civic Center that any of us know? Our mayor hates bad press. Maybe music fan Charles Andrews can use his connections here? Doesn’t Bob Dylan still live here?
On Jul 23, 2023, at 12:07 AM, Mathew Millen <[email protected]> wrote:

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <jaleh[email protected]> wrote:

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 465 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola
<[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
Thanks.

On Sun, Jul 23, 2023, 12:07 AM Mathew Millen <[email protected]> wrote:

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 467 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Subject: Fwd: Surplus and Nonessential staff
FYI - The council emails are in this thread. If you need to write to the group, pay attention to that!
I saw it after sending my email!
Jaleh
Begin forwarded message:

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 468 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected],
[email protected]
Subject: Surplus and Nonessential staff
I realize that our city has budget questions.

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 469 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 470 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Arlene Fishbach
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium and Council agenda items 3E and 3F Date: Friday, July 21, 2023 11:51:27 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello
Once again I reiterate that the fate of the auditorium should and must be an open discussion with the community.

Thank you,
Arlene Fishbach
125 Montana Avenue
On Jul 18, 2023, at 9:24 AM, Arlene Fishbach <[email protected]> wrote:

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.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 471 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Candice Barnett
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: SM Civic Auditorium
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 3:39:56 PM

EXTERNAL
Should Council members decide on the fate of public spaces – spaces that by their very definition belong to the public – behind closed doors, without hearing the opinions of that public?
No. They should not.

Council’s final closed-door hearing on privatizing the Civic has been postponed until this Tuesday, July 25th. But Council is still proceeding full speed ahead on liquidating this irreplaceable community property.

Do the right thing. Cease & Desist this
action!
Candice A. Barnett & Will Alexander
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
Hi everyone, kindly DELETE my email - [email protected] - from all contact lists and email forwards. Thanks.

On Saturday, July 22, 2023, Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

FYI - The council emails are in this thread. If you need to write to the group, pay attention to that!
I saw it after sending my email!
Jaleh
Begin forwarded message:

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 474 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 475 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Lisa A de Vincent
To: Phil Brock
Cc: Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; councilmtgitems Subject: Reference Council agenda items 3C and 3D
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 5:59:34 PM

EXTERNAL
NO to the closed door agenda on the SM Auditorium!
Sent from my iPad
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
The City posted the FAQs where the Civic Auditorium process is described. https://santamonica.gov/blog/faqs-for-designation-of-the-civic-auditorium-as-surplus-land (https://santamonica.gov/blog/faqs-for-designation-of-the-civic-auditorium-as-surplus-land) Sent by Elaine Golden-Gealer
On Jul 22, 2023, at 10:15 PM, Jim Pickrell <[email protected]> wrote:

I realize that our city has budget questions.

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff. This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 477 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) October 2022 with no community inputs.

We don’t have time!! The deadline for 90 days from SM District and Community Corporation RFPs is approaching soon and again councils are going to make a decision on closed doors!
Please add below emails to the council emails (copy/paste), so the staff also can hear our voices!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 478 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Bob Taylor
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Christine Parra; Phil Brock; David White; David Martin
Cc: diana gordon; Nikki Kolhoff; Zina Josephs; [email protected]; Tricia Crane; Maryanne LaGuardia; Johncysmith; Lorie Brown; Bob Taylor; [email protected]; Mario Fonda-Bonardi; Dan Jansenson; Charles Andrews; Nancy Coleman; Esther Hickman; Dr. Anna Rogers; Ron Goldman; Larry Arreola; Robert H. Taylor; Samuel Tolkin
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
Date: Tuesday, July 25, 2023 12:07:41 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council, et al
I a m re-sending the same comments I made last week, but adding this forward in light of the storm of support that has been unleashed against the sale of the Civic Auditorium since the public was finally informed of the pending action of the Council.

You can not turn a deaf ear, and a blind eye, to the demands of the residents that you represent. Whatever silence may have existed prior to your listing the property as surplus land, and entering, or establishing the intent to enter, into negotiations is clearly a deafening roar of opposition as the public finally became informed. Please do your job and represent the wishes of the residents that you were elected to represent. And if this action is predicated on an attempt to balance an economic shortfall, then perhaps an independent third party analysis of the apparent years of fiscal mismanagement should be conducted to assure it will be curtailed and not repeated in the future.

Re: Civic Center Auditorium
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.

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 479 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) With concern,
Bob Taylor
Ocean Park Resident
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 480 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Brenda Anderson
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 5:34:58 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members:

Regarding Council Items 3C and 3D at the next council meeting:

Any decisions regarding future use of the SM Civic Auditorium should be made after public discussion that includes input from the residents of the City.

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

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 481 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Santa Monica Rx
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]; Tricia Crane; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: SANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 3:54:10 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
RE: SANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM Council agenda items 3C and 3D for COUNCIL MTG 2023 07 25
Should Councilmembers decide on the fate of public spaces – spaces that by their very definition belong to the public – behind closed doors, without public process and public participation in decisions on such a central and important public space and cultural venue?
No. They should not.

Santa Monica Residents Cross-City joins Northeast Neighbors and SMCLC in urging the SM City Council to utilize public process, democratic procedures in order to be accountable to the public whose taxes funded and have supported the SMCA.

Anything less would be authoritarian and autocratic.

Respectfully,
Derek Altmann, Research Team
Executive Board Secretary
Santa Monica Residents Cross-City (smRx)
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 482 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Patricia Rogers
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic
Date: Sunday, July 23, 2023 2:27:11 PM

EXTERNAL
Councilpersons:

Please use your influence to save the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. It is an important part of Santa Monica history and should be saved. What would happen to the land where it is were it to be razed? We don't need anymore luxury hotels or high rises for rich people to play in. Please consider your constituents over construction developers.

Kindest regards,
Patricia Rafferty
Santa Monica Homeowner
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 483 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Jo Baxter
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic
Date: Sunday, July 23, 2023 3:19:41 PM

EXTERNAL
Regarding Council Agenda items 3c and 3D, please preserve the Santa Monica a civic Auditorium and the decision of its use to be determined by the tax paying citizens of Santa Monica. This much needed facility is an important fixture to the quality of life in Santa Monica. Residents need to have the right to keep this architectural fixture as a landmark and venue for cultural events to be enjoyed by the citizens of Santa Monica and for Santa Monica.

Thank You,
Jo Baxter
22 year resident of Santa Monica and property owner in NoMa.

ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 484 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: GARY
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 12:52:22 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I'm writing to urge you to reconsider privatizing the iconic, landmarked Santa Monica Civic Auditorium aka Agenda items 3C and 3D.

I've lived here since 1975 and based on other buildings that have been saved both here and in Los Angeles, I know the building can continue to be of great value to the public.

Thank you,
Gary Gurner
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 485 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: hal lindes
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: SAVE OUR SANTA MONICA CIVIC - Council agenda items 3C and 3D Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 3:44:04 PM

EXTERNAL
What Councilmembers are doing is not acceptable.

The sale or long-term lease of public land should be decided by residents – These decisions should not be made in secret -Council agenda items 3C and 3D:

Hal Lindes
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 486 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SAVE The Civic !!
Date: Tuesday, July 25, 2023 11:13:29 AM

EXTERNAL
Don’t tear down another SM piece of culture and history, kill it and then replace it with more cheaply made supposedly “affordable” housing to sit empty, or another beautiful park for meth head tweakers to live in and take over, or space for more tossed around scooters, e-bikes and motorcycles (all enriching out of state developers and investors!) I mean, how much more of our soul can you sell? 25+ year SM resident
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 487 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Mary Hubbell
To: Council Mailbox
Cc: David White; David Martin; Susan Cline; [email protected]; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; councilmtgitems
Subject: Save the Civic Center - Items 3C and 3D
Date: Tuesday, July 25, 2023 10:25:11 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
I urge you to move to protect our beloved, landmarked, community based Civic Center.

This is public property and as a member of the Santa Monica public I urge you to reconsider your current plans to sell this iconic venue to private organizations.

A growing number of residents would very much like to see it restored to its former glory and used again as an arts, entertainment, and other community uses that would be an much needed asset for our City and its residents.

Please don’t allow the SMMUSD district to take this away from us 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 continue to work fine for them. Besides, district enrollment continues to decline.

Also, please don’t rubber stamp 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 bowling alley across from the Civic Center. All of these developments should be required to have a much higher percentage of “affordable” units.

We don’t need more housing or other developments at the Civic Center site.

We need a community gathering place for fun and entertainment! This site provides a unique opportunity to fill a growing need for more local entertainment venues.

Thank you for considering my input.

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

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 488 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Jonathan Louis Mann
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Cc: John Alle; Elaine Golden-Gealer; Santa Monica Democratic Club; SM Renters Rights; Santa Monica Forward; CSMCE; Santa Monica Coalition for A. Livable City
Subject: Save the Santa Monica Civic!
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 3:00:43 PM

EXTERNAL
Our city council needs to start listening to what the people want, or we will vote every one of you out of office! No more back room
deals in violation of the Brown Act!
The SM Civic is a historical landmark and should reopen to the public for smaller venues.

You lot want to privatize our civic auditorium and turn it into a revenue generating monster, so you can give more perks to city employees
so they will contribute and endorse you all for reelection.

We're sick and tired of crime in this city because you reward the SMPD with a 3 day week so they can more than double their income
working overtime, instead of hiring more police to work the night shift when break-ins and car burglaries occur!
The situation at the SM Promenade is atrocious. Are you going to demolish that next and put in more high rises? What is it about you
people, once you get elected all your promises go out the window? I'm Jonathan Mann and I approve this message.
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City <[email protected]> To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Sent: Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 12:30:09 PM PDT
Subject: It’s not over! Call or write Councilmembers to Save the Santa Monica Civic! ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 489 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) SMCLC-headerT.gif
July 22, 2023
RESIDENT ALERT!
IT’S NOT OVER!

CALL OR WRITE COUNCILMEMBERS TO

SAVE THE SANTA MONICA CIVIC
Fifty years ago, Santa Monica councilmembers voted to approve demolishing our beloved Santa Monica Pier and replacing it with a bridge leading to a manmade island resort. Residents were furious. They wanted to preserve this venerated treasure and rallied to defend it. Council backed down and the Pier was saved. But without that resident revolt, Santa Monica’s most iconic landmark would now only be a distant memory.

Currently, our City Council is engaged in closed-door negotiations to decide the fate of another Santa Monica jewel, our Civic Auditorium. Built in 1958, and now landmarked, The Civic is every bit as iconic as our Pier. While demolition may not be on the table, privatizing this public space most certainly is. In fact, it appears Councilmembers are about to sell or commit to a long-term lease of this public space with no public discussion.

Does that seem right to you? Should Councilmembers decide on the fate of public spaces – spaces that by their very definition belong to the public – behind closed doors, without hearing the opinions of that public?
No. They should not.

Council’s final closed-door hearing on privatizing the Civic has been ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 490 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) postponed until this Tuesday, July 25th. But Council is still proceeding full speed ahead on liquidating this irreplaceable community property.

If you agree that the sale or long-term lease of public land should be decided by residents – or at least that these decisions should not be made in secret -- please write or call our Councilmembers and tell them what they are doing is not acceptable. And if you’ve already written, feel free to write again! Reference Council agenda items 3C and 3D:
[email protected]; [email protected]; christine.parra@ santamonica.gov; [email protected]; jesse.zwick@santamonica. gov; [email protected]; [email protected]; co [email protected]
Fifty years ago, the Pier was saved by residents who stopped their City Council from making a tragic mistake. History has vindicated those residents. And the Council members who voted to demolish the Pier? None of them ever were reelected again.

Victor, Diana, Sherrill and Jeff
Please forward this email to your friends and neighbors to sign up for updates and join in our efforts.

Santa Monica Coalition for a Livable City | 1112 Montana Ave. #174, Santa Monica, CA 90403 Unsubscribe [email protected]
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ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 491 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) Santa Monica Rx <[email protected]>ANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM Council agenda items 3C and 3D for COUNCIL MTG 2023 07 25
Should Councilmembers decide on the fate of public spaces – spaces that by their very definition belong to the public – behind closed doors, without public process and public participation in decisions on such a central and important public space and cultural venue?
No. They should not.

Respectfully,
Mary Rushfield, member
Santa Monica Residents Cross-City

SANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM
From: Mary Rushfield
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems Subject: SM CIVIC AUD Council agenda items 3C and 3D for COUNCIL MTG 2023 07 25 Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 4:33:55 PM

EXTERNAL
Reply Forward
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 492 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Candice Hartung
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SM Civic
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 4:41:47 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Please do not vote to privatize the SM Civic. This decision should be made by the residents of Santa Monica.

I was born in Santa Monica, I am a homeowner here, and have spent most of my life in our wonderful city. The future use of the Civic should not be made behind closed doors. Please open this subject to public conversation.

Thank you,
Candice Hartung
Sent from my iPad
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 493 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: [email protected]
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: Stop the sale or long term lease of the Civic Center without public discussion of options Date: Sunday, July 23, 2023 10:25:45 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
This email is to make you aware of my vigorous objection to the manner in which the future of the Civic Center is being decided. Although I have not formed a firm opinion as to what should be done with that site, mainly because all of the options, including restoration, have not been discussed in public by the Council or staff, I do vigorously object to the way in which staff and Council are handling this topic.

The Civic Center is a public resource that belongs to the current residents and voters of Santa Monica. It is a resource that should be allocated only after public discussion of its future, with the public giving its input and the Council members voting in public on how to proceed, so that they can be held accountable for their decisions. This secretive process is undemocratic and only further erodes the public’s trust in their institutions and elected officials. Proceeding in this manner is a bad decision and this process should be halted and a more public and transparent one should be undertaken instead.

Sincerely,
Ofer Grossman
1115 Hill Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

EXTERNAL
I realize that our city has budget questions.

I am concerned that nobody is taking action on the issue of surplus and nonessential staff.

This is where the city could make some cuts.

Are you guys proposing to sell Civic Auditorium, and the ones in charge of designing traffic obstructions. Those guys could definitely go and nobody would miss them.

Jim Pickrell
On Sun, Jul 23, 2023 at 4:34 AM Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Below emails are belong to the staff who were involved in considering Civic Auditorium as a “surplus Land Act”, meaning “non essential land”, that has to be sold or leased for housing or educational institution passed by councils on October 2022 with no community inputs.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 495 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) [email protected]
[email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Jaleh Mirhashemi
> On Jul 22, 2023, at 1:41 PM, Larry Arreola <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> <img123.jpg>
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 496 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Bernice Glenn
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: the sale or long-term lease of public land should be decided by residents Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 1:16:08 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members
The sale or long-term lease of public land should be decided by residents!!!
Council members who profess to hold the interests of Santa Monica residents at heart have forgotten the claims they made in order to be elected to their present positions. The sale or long term lease is not to be heald in secret -- not only for the Civic Center but for any ongoing proposal of discussion of interest that affects the residents who voted for you.

And that includes council members who propose large scale building projects to provide affordable housing -- not for Santa Monica residents wo need and are looking for an affordable place to live, but for workers living elsewhere to save them from their long commutes.

Please have the courtesy ti reply and explain your positions on this issue to me.

Thank you.

Bernice Glenn, low income senior and a 50year resident in Ocean Park... who has suffered through the many large rent increases through her years in residency!!!!!!!
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 497 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Mike Bone
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: The Santa Monica Civic
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023 12:52:28 PM

EXTERNAL
This place is iconic.

You should be VERY careful with whatever you decide to do with the Civic.

I miss going to shows there. It needs to be made ADA compliant and earthquake proofed.

Why not let a concert promoter come in for a long term lease with them making the upgrades? Mike Bone
[email protected]
310 795 3231 mobile
“The great book, always open and which we should make an effort to read, is that of Nature.” - Antoni Gaudi
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 498 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: lmarreola
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Dr.

Anna Rogers
Subject: Tonights Agenda Items 3-C, 3-D
Date: Tuesday, July 25, 2023 7:11:19 AM

EXTERNAL
To move ahead with selling the Civic Auditorium without public notice or public input is totally irresponsible. You owe your constituents a chance to agree or object to the selling of a iconic landmark.

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

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 499 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) From: Brent Cohen
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Cc: David White; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cline; David Martin; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang Subject: Urgent Action Needed: Save Santa Monica"s Civic Auditorium! Date: Sunday, July 23, 2023 10:52:54 AM

EXTERNAL
To the esteemed members of the City Council and dedicated Staff, In 1973, a significant decision loomed over Santa Monica as council members considered the demolition of the beloved Santa Monica Pier. Thanks to the collective efforts of determined residents, the Pier was rescued from its fate. Today, that same spirit of preservation and love for our local history has sparked a new fight—one that urges us to prevent the sale of the Civic Auditorium landmark and the potential destruction that might pave the way for a gymnasium or housing.

I urge you to join this cause and champion the restoration of the SM Civic Auditorium, transforming it once again into a space for hosting historic live events. Instead of selling or leasing this iconic establishment, let us embrace its rich heritage and potential for bringing our community together. For far too long, this extraordinary and historic venue has remained unused, and we are in dire need of more reasons to unite our residents and welcome visitors.

Let us seize this opportunity to revitalize the SM Civic Auditorium and create a space that will not only honor our past but also contribute to a vibrant and culturally rich future for Santa Monica. Together, we can preserve our heritage and strengthen the bonds of our community through cherished live events that will be treasured for generations to come.

Sincerely,
Brent Cohen
2254 Cloverfield Blvd.
photo Brent Cohen
310-613-0204 | [email protected]
GMT +8
Santa Monica, CA
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.C.

JULY 25, 2023

3.C.b
Packet Pg. 500 Attachment: More Written Comments (5897 : 3.C. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Cary Upton, SMMUSD) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: July 25, 2023
Agenda Item: 3.D
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Douglas Sloan, City Attorney, City Attorney's Office Subject: Conference with Real Estate Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8: Property: 1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, California (Civic Auditorium) (APN 4290-013-901); City Negotiators: Jennifer Taylor, Economic Development Manager, and Nia Tang, Senior Development Analyst; Owner of Record: City of Santa Monica; Persons to be negotiated with: Jesus Hernandez, Director of Housing Development, Community Corporation of Santa Monica; Under negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment for Sale Prepared By: Esterlina Lugo, Deputy City Clerk
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:

A. Written Comments
B. More Written Cooments

3.D
Packet Pg. 501
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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 502 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 503 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 504 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 505 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 506 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 507 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) "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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 508 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 509 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 510 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 511 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 512 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 513 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 514 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 515 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 516 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 517 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 518 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 519 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.

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 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 520 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 521 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 522 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 523 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 524 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 525 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 526 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 527 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 528 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 529 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 530 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 531 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 532 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 533 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 534 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 535 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 536 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 537 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 538 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 539 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 540 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 541 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 542 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 543 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 544 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 545 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 546 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 547 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 548 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 549 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 550 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 551 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 552 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 553 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 554 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 555 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 556 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 557 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 558 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 559 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 560 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 561 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 562 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 563 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 564 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 565 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 566 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 567 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 568 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.

All to little benefit of residents.

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

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 569 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 570 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 571 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 572 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 573 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 574 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 575 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 576 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 577 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 578 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 579 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 580 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 581 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 582 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) Sent from my iPhone
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 583 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 584 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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
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ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 585 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 586 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 587 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 588 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 589 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 590 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 591 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 592 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 593 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 594 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 595 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 596 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 597 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 598 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 599 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica)

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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 600 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 601 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 602 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 603 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 604 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 605 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 606 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 607 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 608 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 609 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 610 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 611 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 612 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 613 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 614 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) Carla Finnerman
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 615 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 616 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 617 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 618 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 619 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 620 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 621 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 622 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 623 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 624 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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.D.

JULY 25, 2023
ITEM 3.D.

JULY 25, 2023

3.D.a
Packet Pg. 625 Attachment: Written Comments (5898 : 3.D. - Closed Session: Real Estate Neg. Jesus Hernandez, Community Corp Santa Monica) 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

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Santa Monica City CouncilJuly 25, 2023

Santa Monica City Council
July 25, 2023