Written Comments — Santa Monica City Council, June 25, 2024

1 David Yakobson
From: Bhatnagar, Varun <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 11:53 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

Currently, our system heavily subsidizes car parking, which encourages both residents and visitors to rely on the least sustainable and least safe mode of transportation. This measure would allocate funds towards programs and infrastructure projects aimed at creating a safer, more sustainable, and more enjoyable Santa Monica for everyone.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children in the county, and over 2/3 of our city's emissions stem from cars. To achieve a clean and safe Santa Monica, it is crucial that we move away from incentivizing widespread car usage. This measure represents a critical step towards that goal, benefitting all residents and visitors regardless of their mode of transportation.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
VARUN Bhatnagar 90403
Sent from my iPhone
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June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
2 David Yakobson
From: Sudeepti Bhatnagar <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 11:38 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Sudeepti Bhatnagar Rachakonda, 90403
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
3 David Yakobson
From: Santa Monica Forward <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 10:55 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Phil Brock; Lana Negrete; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Subject: Support Item 14-A – Parking Facilities Tax

EXTERNAL
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

June 25, 2024
Subject: Support Item 14-A – Parking Facilities Tax
Dear Mayor Brock and City Councilmembers,
Santa Monica Forward strongly supports the proposed parking facilities tax. Please vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica. This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lower the risk of fatal traffic accidents.

We also wanted to raise our opposition to the proposed parcel tax in 16-e. This feels half-baked at best, and could negatively impact the success of other, more important tax measures on the ballot.

We also should not be directing public money to private security.

Thank you for your consideration,
Brad Ewing and Carl Hansen
Co-Chairs, Santa Monica Forward
--
We are working for a diverse, progressive, sustainable and equitable Santa Monica.

SantaMonicaForward.org
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
4 David Yakobson
From: John Lin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 10:56 AM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A:Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

EXTERNAL
Council Members,
I am concerned about street safety in Santa Monica. I work in mid-city Santa Monica. I urge you to vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica. This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents.

Sincerely,
John Lin
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
5 David Yakobson
From: Cynthia Rose <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 9:53 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; Christine Parra Cc: David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support item 14A: Parking Facilities Tax Measure Attachments: 2024-06 CC Support Item 14A Parking Facilities Tax Measure.pdf

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica Mayor and City Council:

Please find Santa Monica Spoke and the Santa Monica Safe Street Alliance letter of support attached for placing the Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot that - if approved - would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

Give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Cynthia Rose and Cris Gutierrez
--
Cynthia Rose
Director
Santa Monica Spoke
SMSpoke.org
I acknowledge with respect and gratitude the Tongva, Kizh, and Chumash Peoples on whose traditional territory I live and work.

Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
6 David Yakobson
From: Caro Vilain <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 9:11 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

Considering the city’s financial situation, the climate crisis, and the traffic violence crisis, this measure would truly be a win for our city and greatly help our goal of a clean and safe Santa Monica.

Our heavy parking subsidies encourage residents and visitors alike to heavily rely on the least sustainable and least safe vehicle to get around our city. We can do so much better. We can make our streets inviting for all modes of transportation, allow children to get to school safely using active modes of transportation that benefit their mental and physical health, decrease our emissions, and create a truly safe and welcoming place to live in and visit. This measure could help us reach this goal, if we have the political will.

If you open up SMPD’s call logs, you’ll see that they respond to hit and runs every day, in addition to other traffic collisions, reckless driving, traffic hazards, etc. Whether or not you are concerned by this serious issue of traffic violence, responding to these calls takes up a good amount of time and resources from SMPD that could be used for other things. Traffic violence is preventable, and we know the solutions. It’s up to us whether we’re willing to implement them or not.

Over 10% of households in Santa Monica are car-free, and at least half of the residents walk or bike at some point each day. Many of us simply do not have the option to drive—whether it’s children, the elderly, people with certain health conditions, people who can’t afford to drive, people who choose not to drive for a wide variety of reasons, people who both drive and use other modes of transportation, or people who wish they didn’t have to drive but don’t feel safe using active transportation. You are serving your community, not the car industry, and your community deserves to get around safely, regardless of what mode they choose or have to use.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Caro Vilain, 90404
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
1 David Yakobson
From: Jasper Kok <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 6:58 AM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is time for us to get more serious about reducing incentives to drive and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

We will never meet our goals to reduce car trips if we continue to subsidize parking that only encourages driving. This measure allocates funding for programs and infrastructure projects aimed at creating a safer, more environmentally sustainable, and joyous Santa Monica for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Jasper Kok
1037 16th St.

Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
2 David Yakobson
From: Ferris Kawar <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 6:23 AM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I live and work in Santa Monica and I am asking you to vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety. We need to increase revenue that will go to projects that will make our streets safe for kids, the elderly, and really all users of our public spaces.

Sincerely,
Ferris Kawar
Sunset Park resident
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
3 David Yakobson
From: kent Strumpell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 11:26 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: Safe Streets Parking Tax!

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Please support the resolution for a parking facilities tax to fund street safety.

I was seriously injured while biking several years ago - right in front of our house on Michigan Ave - by a reckless pizza delivery driver who admitted that he was on his phone. A few years later, the MANGo project was implemented which installed traffic circles in this stretch. Had these been in place, it is unlikely that I would have been hit when that pizza delivery guy and I shared the road. This is the sort of safety improvements that we need citywide and which this proposal would help fund.

Our city is scraping for funding for roadway safety improvements, needed to give people safe mobility options (since many people don’t have cars), for getting our students safely to school and for making our streets more inviting, less intimidating places to go about our daily lives.

This parking fee is a logical source to tap to help fulfill our city's promise to reduce fatalities and severe injuries from traffic.

Thank you,
Kent Strumpell
1211 Michigan Ave
Pico Neighborhood
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
4 David Yakobson
From: Brian Sweeney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 9:42 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 14A(3): Proposed Ballot Measure to Increase Parking Facilities Tax

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Brock and City Council members,
I am writing in support of Councilmember Zwick's proposed ballot measure to increase the Parking Facilities Tax from 10% to 18%.

As you know all too well, the City's dire financial situation frequently requires making painful trade offs, even when it comes to addressing public safety. While I understand Council's decision to add four new officer positions at your last meeting, this new measure would provide much needed revenue to, for example, repair broken and otherwise damaged sidewalks and alleyways--which, of course, is another way that City residents and visitors can get hurt.

Importantly, directing revenue to infrastructure maintenance not only saves money in the future (these projects only get more expensive the longer we allow our sidewalks and alleyways to fall into disrepair) but also reduces the chance of slip and fall liability. Frankly, the last thing our City needs is more expensive legal costs and settlements.

Thank you all for considering Councilmember Zwick's proposed resolution.

Best wishes,
Brian Sweeney
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
5 David Yakobson
From: Robin Roy <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 8:26 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is long past time for us to get serious about reducing incentives to drive, and to make motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Robin Roy
201 Ocean Ave
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
6 David Yakobson
From: Jason Mastbaum <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 8:07 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Public Safety Parking Tax!

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I urge you to vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica. This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents,
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
7 David Yakobson
From: Eric Weinstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 6:23 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is time for us to get more serious about reducing incentives to drive and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Eric Weinstein
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
8 David Yakobson
From: MICHAEL KNUE <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 5:17 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
My wife and I are long time residents of Santa Monica. We walk the streets regularly instead of using a car. I bicycle almost daily for exercise and to do the things I need to do. This ability is do our business and enjoy life without needing to get into a car is why we live in this lovely community.

Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is time for us to get more serious about reducing incentives to drive and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

The leading cause of death for our children in LA County is motor vehicle crashes. Over 2/3 of our city's emissions stem from transportation, particularly motor vehicle use. To achieve a cleaner and safer Santa Monica, it is critical to stop subsidizing and incentivizing car trips. As Santa Monica recovers economically - this measure can create a critical step towards achieving our adopted climate goals and improve safety for everyone who lives in and visits our city regardless of how they travel. It’s been nearly 30 years since parking fees were updated. Let's do this now! We will never meet our goals to reduce car trips if we continue to subsidize parking that only encourages driving. This measure allocates funding for programs and infrastructure projects aimed at creating a safer, more environmentally sustainable, and joyous Santa Monica for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Michael Knue
[email protected]
925 14th St. #28
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
9 David Yakobson
From: Ted Winterer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 5:08 PM
To: Phil Brock; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Cc: councilmtgitems; David White
Subject: Items 14-A (parking tax section) and 16-E, 6/25/24 Council agenda

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
You have two very different proposed ballot measures to consider to generate sorely needed revenue for the City, both of which would yield a roughly commensurate amount of funding.

Let's compare the two:

1. The parking tax requires 50% voter approval to pass; the parcel tax needs 67%, a much more difficult threshold to attain. You have a greater likelihood of obtaining the needed funds through the parking tax.

2. The parking tax has been studied, revised and polled by staff. The parcel tax has not been vetted at all and in fact is still completely nebulous at this point. Would it be a flat tax per parcel? A tax based on lot square footage? Or based on square footage of developed structures on a parcel? And what would the tax rate per assessed value be? A measure such as this should have been brought forward months ago for additional clarification, analysis and polling.

3. A second tax on properties could undermine the SMMUSD bond measure, leaving our elementary and middle schools without vital modernization efforts for years to come. Our public school kids deserve your support.

4. Resident property owners would have to pay the parcel tax while the parking tax would be largely financed by visitors to Santa Monica.

5. Small businesses under triple net leases would have to pay the parcel tax at a time when the City's economic recovery is still ongoing.

In short, I urge you to set aside whatever differences there may be between you; to vote to put the parking tax and not the parcel tax on the 2024 ballot while contemplating additional revenue enhancements in 2026; and to all lend your full-throated support for the parking tax during the upcoming election season.

Regards,
Ted Winterer
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
10 --
Ted Winterer
Realtor @Compass, 2115 Main Street Santa Monica
DRE #02047989
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
1 David Yakobson
From: Stassja Sichko <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 4:30 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Stassja Sichko, 90405
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
1 David Yakobson
From: Pam O'Connor <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 3:35 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

Please support item 14A (attachment B) to put a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

The leading cause of death for our children in LA County is motor vehicle crashes. It is time for us to get serious about road safety and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

Please support placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Pam O’Connor
Former Mayor
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
2 David Yakobson
From: Boris Suchkov <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 3:20 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I am very concerned about street safety in Santa Monica. I urge you to vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica. This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents.

The city needs a dedicated funding stream for street safety projects. State and federal grants remain an unreliable and insufficient source of such funds.

Sincerely,
Boris Suchkov
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
3 David Yakobson
From: Chasen Daniels <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 3:20 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is time for us to get more serious about reducing incentives to drive and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Chasen Daniels
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
4 David Yakobson
From: Brenna Lilley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 3:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Brenna Lilley, MD
90404
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
5 David Yakobson
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 3:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: The City Staff's Inappropriate Recommendations to the City Council Re: the Santa Monica Airport
From: Steven Naftali <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:57 PM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>
Cc: Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]> Subject: The City Staff's Inappropriate Recommendations to the City Council Re: the Santa Monica Airport

EXTERNAL
Honorable City Council Members:

I am a resident of Santa Monica. My family and I live down the flight path from the SMO. I have observed that the City Staff who works on the SMO has repeatedly showed bias toward the aviation interests at the SMO. Below is the latest example.

The staff failed to ask their expert aviation attorney to help reasonably spend the airport surplus $13,000,000 to:
(a) Remediate any aviation caused contamination. (b) Make needed capital improvements as allowed by the FAA. (c) Take the 45-year-old fuel farm out of commission. (d) Budget for legal fees. (e) To decommission the airport.

Instead, the Staff recommended to return the excess to the aviation users. They justified their inappropriate recommendation on the Consent Decree and potential lawsuits. They know well that nothing can prevent lawsuits. It is false to say that the Consent Decree gives no choice other than giving surplus funds away.

In the last few months staff has used the Consent Decree and possible lawsuits as the reasons to lease the 45- year-old fuel farm, sign a lease to another flight school, sign Atlantic's lease, and now reduce fees. All have been actions to stop the community to rebuild the park that the City bought in 1926.

Thus, I recommend that the City council please stop the 13 Million Dollar give away. Please direct the staff to use the funds for the purposes that I outlined above. Further, if the staff is not willing to work for the community and the Citizens of Santa Monica, as they voted on Measure LC, please find new staff who will.

Regards,
Steve Naftali
[email protected]
The information transmitted is intended only for the person which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer.

Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
6 David Yakobson
From: Council Mailbox
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 3:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fw: PLEASE VOTE IN FAVOR OF Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure From: Sonya Sones <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:37 PM
To: Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; Gleam Davis <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Oscar de la Torre <[email protected]>; Phil Brock <[email protected]>; Christine Parra <[email protected]>; Anuj Gupta <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]> Cc: sonya Sones <[email protected]>
Subject: PLEASE VOTE IN FAVOR OF Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

I have lived in Santa Monica for 51 years. I use my bicycle to do errands and visit friends whenever I can. But I have often felt that I am taking my life in my hands when I venture forth. The recent installation of protected bike lanes in Santa Monica has made me feel SO much safer.

Please support item 14A (attachment B) to put a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

We can't wait any longer. NOW is the time to commit to continue to make Santa Monica a safer place for all pedestrians and bicyclists. Every time I see a white bicycle marking the spot where a cyclist was killed, a chill runs through me. Will I be next?
Please please PLEASE support item 14A.

Thanks for listening,
Sonya Sones
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
7 David Yakobson
From: stephan corbel <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 2:45 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is time for us to get more serious about reducing incentives to drive and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

The leading cause of death for our children in LA County is motor vehicle crashes. As Santa Monica recovers economically - this measure can create a critical step towards achieving our adopted climate goals and improve safety for everyone who lives in and visits our city regardless of how they travel.

It’s been nearly 30 years since parking fees were updated. Let's do this now!

This measure allocates funding for programs and infrastructure projects aimed at creating a safer, more environmentally sustainable, and joyous Santa Monica for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Stephan Corbel
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
1 David Yakobson
From: laurene <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 2:17 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta; [email protected] Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
Please support item 14A (attachment B) that places a measure on the November ballot that would help fund safer streets in Santa Monica.

It is time for us to get more serious about reducing incentives to drive and make sure motor vehicle drivers contribute to funding safe streets for everyone.

This measure allocates funding for programs and infrastructure projects aimed at creating a safer, more environmentally sustainable, and joyous Santa Monica for everyone.

Please vote to approve placing this Parking Facilities Tax Measure on the November ballot and give Santa Monica residents the opportunity to vote on this important measure.

Please support item 14A.

Sincerely,
Laurene von Klan
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
2 David Yakobson
From: Rick Eastland <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:06 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

Sincerely,
Rick Eastland
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
3 David Yakobson
From: Adil Minocherhomjee <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:04 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

Sincerely,
Adil Minocherhomjee
Mobile: +1-630-881-8436
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adilminocherhomjee
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
4 David Yakobson
From: Yan Lhert <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:03 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

Sincerely,
Yan Lhert
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
5 David Yakobson
From: Matthew O'Connor <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; Monica Hsu Subject: We support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
We are writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

We urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Matt O'Connor and Monica Hsu
2628 Kansas Ave Apt 13, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
6 David Yakobson
From: Sarah Gallagher <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:02 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

EXTERNAL
Hello Council members,
Thanks for all of the work you are doing for Santa Monica! I'd like to add my voice to all those concerned about street safety in Santa Monica.

Please vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica. This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents.

Thanks,
Sarah
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
7 David Yakobson
From: Vanessa Sorensen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 1:01 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,I am concerned about street safety in Santa Monica. I urge you to vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica. This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents.Sincerely,
Vanessa Sorensen
[email protected]
(801) 362.7325
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
8 David Yakobson
From: Adam Remba <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 12:59 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Safe Streets Parking Tax!

Sincerely,
Adam Remba
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
9 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 12:55 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

Over the past two years I've applied for and successfully had stop signs added to two 4-way intersections that previously only had 2 stop signs. The department took ~8 months both times due to budget constraints, we need more funding to make it safer for all those vulnerable pedestrians (elderly, parents pushing strollers, children, dog walkers) and cyclists, and wheelchair users.

Will be rallying the ocean park neighborhood voting block to follow each council members decision on 14A when deciding on who to elect this November.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Michael Etzel 90405
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
10 David Yakobson
From: Brodsky, Michael <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 12:53 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; David White; Anuj Gupta Subject: Support Item 14A, Parking Facilities Tax Measure

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,

I support item 14A.

Safe streets are EVERYTHING.

This will provide much needed funding to make our streets safer.

Sincerely,
Michael Brodsky
Santa Monica
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
1 David Yakobson
From: Ed Fraiman <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, June 23, 2024 2:48 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Public Safety Parking Tax!

Sincerely,
Ed Fraiman and Eriko Kobayashi
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
2 David Yakobson
From: Jairo Avalos <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, June 22, 2024 10:50 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

Whenever I've biked around town to get to/from work or for fun, I've done so looking over my shoulder and with fear that even if I do nothing wrong I am very likely to be hit by a car on my way to do what I love or meet my friends.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Jairo, 90405
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
3 David Yakobson
From: Mark Yetter <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, June 22, 2024 8:57 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A Support the public safety parking tax!

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I urge you to vote yes on the resolution to place a parking facilities tax to support public safety in Santa Monica.

This vital revenue will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents, shall the measure increasing the City.

Sincerely,
Mark Yetter
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
4 David Yakobson
From: Fred Chasen <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, June 22, 2024 9:15 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: Our family’s support for item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I’m going to do my best to be there in person on Tuesday, but wanted to write in about my support of item 14A.

We recently purchased a home for our family of 4 in Mid-City Santa Monica and a large part of that decision was because of the great work you all have done supporting safe street infrastructure.

The short section of Broadway protected bike lanes allow us to bike to and from daycare everyday and the Wilshire safety improvements allow us to walk to Douglas park without questioning if it would be safer to just drive instead.

I’d really appreciate the chance to vote for this measure on the ballot in November. While the current improvements have been great, this could help fund implementing more of the existing bike action plan and enable a network of routes instead of just patches.

Nearly everything we need is within a few miles of our home and we want to be able to safely walk and bike as a family. As a family with two cars currently, I completely support higher parking prices if that funds programs and infrastructure projects that would allow us to drive less and ideally go down to one car. The savings there would more than make up for any parking expenses and would be living a healthier and more sustainable life.

Lastly, if there are any concerns from businesses owners I can assure you that at-least one family spends way more at locally shops when walking or biking vs driving past.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow us to vote a very strong yes in November.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Fred Chasen, 90404
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
5 David Yakobson
From: John Farren <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 21, 2024 9:40 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
Sorry I hit send on my previous message before it was complete. I am writing again in strong support of item 14A.

Cities around the world are realizing the benefits of reorienting their streets towards walking and biking.

Beyond the obvious and manifold safety and climate issues at play, cities that are bikable and walkable are simply much more enjoyable places to live. We spend for too much time trapped in our cars, and I firmly believe if people are given other options they will embrace them, even if there are loud complaints during the transition. Santa Monica has an opportunity to be a leader on these issues in the region, state, and county, so I urge you to move forward with 14a. My wife and I hope to raise our family in Santa Monica, but that will not be possible without the kind of improvements 14a can make possible.

Sincerely,
John Farren
Santa Monica, 90405
310.795.9471
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
6 David Yakobson
From: John Farren <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 21, 2024 9:25 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

My wife and I recently welcomed our first child, and whether we decide to stay in Santa Monica long term will depend directly on how easy and safe it is for our family to move about the city by walking/biking mass reanstis.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
]
John Farren, Santa Monica 90405
310.795.9471
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
7 David Yakobson
From: Caroline G <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 21, 2024 9:08 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: I support item 14A

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing in strong support of item 14A.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Caroline Jones, Zip Code 90405
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
8 David Yakobson
From: Leonora <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 21, 2024 1:52 PM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Public Safety Parking Tax!

Sincerely,
Leonora Camner
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
9 David Yakobson
From: Jacob Wasserman <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 21, 2024 12:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre Subject: Item 14A: In Support of the Public Safety Parking Tax

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
As a driver, pedestrian, biker, voter, and parent, I am writing in strong support of item 14A. This vital revenue measure will enhance public safety, creating safe routes to school to protect children, and lowering the risk of fatal traffic accidents.

This measure has the potential to significantly benefit our entire community by enhancing the safety of our streets for all residents and visitors.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children in the county, and over two-thirds of our city's emissions stem from cars. To achieve a clean and safe Santa Monica, it is crucial that we move away from incentivizing widespread car usage. This measure represents a critical step towards that goal, benefitting all residents and visitors regardless of their mode of transportation.

I urge you to place this measure on the ballot and allow the community to vote on this vital issue.

Please support item 14A.

Thank you,
Jacob Wasserman
90403
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
10 David Yakobson
From: Sam Shapiro-Kline <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 21, 2024 11:48 AM
To: Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: 14A: Support the Public Safety Parking Tax!

In particular, I support focusing the tax on commercial and hotel parking as opposed to residential buildings if possible. A key goal for our city should be shifting the modes that are used to enter Santa Monica or travel to local businesses.

Sincerely,
Sam Shapiro-Kline
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024
Item 14-A
June 25, 2024

Santa Monica City CouncilJune 25, 2024

Santa Monica City Council
June 25, 2024