Written Comments — Santa Monica City Council, March 8, 2025

1 David Yakobson
From: Melanie O <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 8:27 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please prioritize education and library services Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Lana Negrete and Councilmembers,
As a Santa Monica resident, proud of alumna of SMMUSD schools, and parent of a child at Edison Language Academy, I wanted to take the opportunity to urge you to continue prioritizing SMMUSD and library services in light of the March 8 Special Joint Meeting and Council Budget Workshop.

My educational experience at John Adams and Samohi was second to none and I was admitted to several highly selective colleges and fully prepared for the rigors of the one I eventually selected (Amherst College). When my husband and I were considering where to ultimately settle down, I knew that if we had children, there would be no better school district for them than the one I attended. And so we moved to SM 10 years ago, and now we have a kindergartener. :)
We all know what makes a great school - quality teachers, challenging curriculum, and small class sizes. This takes sustained financial support and as you assess priorities for the current year, I urge you to put the school district at the highest level of support.

I also wanted to share my experiences with SM’s library services. When I first had my daughter I attended the weekly storytime at the Fairview Branch with my 4 month old. The librarian would read three books, have several others on display, and lead us in songs with props that were specially selected for young children - I still sing some of those songs today! Then there would be a free play session with provided toys and the babies could crawl around and look at each other and parents could chat. Those weekly sessions were invaluable to me as a stay at home parent. The ability to connect with other parents who were going through the same whirlwind transition that I was, to be provided with resources for my infant, and to be able to walk to such a destination never failed to fill me with gratitude.

The Fairview library (my local Sunset Park library) has been shuttered now for years. Yes, I know it’s on that self serve model, but without the librarians, the hustle and bustle from other patrons, the programming it loses its luster. Please restore library services to the prepandemic levels. The libraries are the crown jewel of the city serving constituents of all ages and we need them at their best. Now is the time to support them.

Thank you for your consideration,
Melanie Overby
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2 David Yakobson
From: Hunter Hall <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 8:06 AM
To: [email protected]; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Kara Taub; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Albin Gielicz; Jenny Rice
Subject: Re: City Budget Request

EXTERNAL
WHAT SHE SAID.

May the force be with you all! 뇉뇄뇅뇆뇇뇈뇊
-Hunter
314.323.4663
On Mar 8, 2025, at 7:08 AM, Kara Taub <[email protected]> wrote:

Good Morning City Council Members,
As you are meeting today to discuss the city’s budget I would like to remind you of Main Street & Montana Avenue's request for a line item inclusion into the budget that will provide for about half of the mandated and required fees associated with our very popular Open Street Events. We are asking for 12K per event. These funds go right back to city departments to cover the required fees. We are planning for 2 events on Montana Ave. and 2 on Main Street - 4 total per year.

We need your support.

Thank you
Kara Taub
Montana Ave. Merchant's Association - Chair
Ten Women Gallery - 1128 Montana Ave.
www.ktwf.com
www.ktwf.etsy.com
[email protected]
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3 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

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4 David Yakobson
From: RE Wolfe <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 8:02 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Preserve Santa Monica Public Libraries - Ocean Park Resident Advocate

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council Members,
I am writing as a concerned resident of Ocean Park to express my strong opposition to any potential closures or reductions in funding for Santa Monica's public libraries, including the vital Ocean Park branch.

Our public libraries are indispensable community assets that provide crucial services and resources for residents of all ages and backgrounds. I believe maintaining our libraries is an investment in a stronger, more equitable, and more vibrant Santa Monica.

Specifically, I urge you to consider the following invaluable contributions of our libraries:
 Equal Access to Information and Resources: Libraries provide free and equal access to books, technology, and educational materials, ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to learn and thrive, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This is fundamental to a just and equitable society.
 Support for Lifelong Learning: Libraries offer programs and resources that foster lifelong learning, from early literacy initiatives for children to computer literacy classes for seniors. They empower individuals to acquire new skills, pursue their passions, and adapt to an ever-changing world.
 Promoting Literacy and a Love of Reading: Libraries cultivate a love of reading and promote literacy through engaging programs and events. They create welcoming spaces where individuals can discover the joy of reading, develop essential literacy skills, and expand their horizons.

The potential closure of any of our libraries would be a devastating loss for our community. I urge you to prioritize the preservation and enhancement of our public libraries, ensuring that they continue to serve as vital centers of learning, community building, and cultural enrichment for generations to come.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,
RE Wolfe, Ocean Park Residen
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5 David Yakobson
From: Kara Taub <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 7:08 AM
To: [email protected]; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya Cc: Hunter Hall; Albin Gielicz; Jenny Rice
Subject: City Budget Request

EXTERNAL
Good Morning City Council Members,
As you are meeting today to discuss the city’s budget I would like to remind you of Main Street & Montana Avenue's request for a line item inclusion into the budget that will provide for about half of the mandated and required fees associated with our very popular Open Street Events. We are asking for 12K per event.

These funds go right back to city departments to cover the required fees. We are planning for 2 events on Montana Ave. and 2 on Main Street - 4 total per year.

We need your support.

Thank you
Kara Taub
Montana Ave. Merchant's Association - Chair
Ten Women Gallery - 1128 Montana Ave.
www.ktwf.com
www.ktwf.etsy.com
[email protected]
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6 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

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7 David Yakobson
From: Wendy Dembo <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 6:58 AM
To: [email protected]; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Subject: Have your read the Library Book?

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
Have you read The Library Book by Susan Orlean about the fire at the main Los Angeles library? It goes into the history of libraries and how they have changed. Current libraries are a hub for unhoused people and others who want to read a book.

Please fully fund all of the Santa Monica libraries.

The other day, my daughter needed a book SAMO didn't have. I ordered it that day and went to pick it up at the main library the next day. It wasn't there because it was at a library which was closed, and it couldn't be transferred until the next day.

Please. Librarians are so nice.

Wendy Dembo
Santa Monica resident, Wilmont board member and voter
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8 David Yakobson
From: Eric Fournier <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 6:29 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library Funding

EXTERNAL
Hello - my name is Eric Fournier.

I am a home owner in Santa Monica and the parent of a two-year-old who makes extensive use of different library resources throughout Santa Monica.

The present situation where individual libraries are only open with partial hours or partial access to resources is wholly unacceptable.

We must restore the library system’s operational budgets, such that these facilities can maintain open for all residents and provide all services, just as they were able to do so prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is essential infrastructure for our children.

Thank you,
Eric Fournier
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9 David Yakobson
From: Eden Kusmiersky <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 9:57 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis
Subject: March 8, 2025 Special Joint Meeting of City Council and the Housing Commission – Item 11B

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council -
I am writing to request that you prioritize essential resident services in our budget. Please fully fund our libraries. Our whole family of 5 deeply miss the Fairview branch. It was an integral part of our involvement in the local community.

Eden Kusmiersky
Sunset Park Santa Monica resident, voter, SMC/SMMUSD family Item 11-B
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10 David Yakobson
From: Sirinya Matute <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 9:25 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Please prioritize EDUCATION in the FY26-28 Biennial Budget

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Councilmembers,
I recognize the difficult financial decisions facing the City. As an active member of a PTA and Community for Excellent Public Schools, I strongly urge you to prioritize sustained and ongoing support for SMMUSD.

Similar to the City, SMMUSD is navigating financial strain due to high labor costs, necessary downsizing, and the significant impact of the Palisades fire, which resulted in 150 newly homeless students and a $3.4 million cost. Additionally, the district faces uncertainty regarding Title 1 funding and property tax revenues (due to properties lost due to the Palisades fire).

City funding provides crucial, stable revenue for SMMUSD, enabling essential long-term budgeting.

These funds are vital for maintaining our excellent public schools. In a complex world polarized by misinformation and outright lies, I believe it's essential to educate our kids so they can become engaged and productive citizens. And many students come from low-income households in which one or both parents work in the city; a good education is their path to a better quality of life for their families.

I also wish to register concern regarding potential diversions of Measure K funds from their intended purpose. Voters passed Measure K and its advisory measure overwhelmingly. And Santa Monica-Malibu PTA Council and CEPS backed Measure K expressly because it called for restoring safe routes to school programming, which was gutted during the 2020 budget crisis and no, it hasn't been the same (although I credit the District for trying.) You need a dedicated person to run a year-round program, who can provide leadership to recruit and retain parent volunteers to really make mode shift away from driving really stick. (Not saying this person has to be a city staffer. But it has to be someone, for whom this is a decent chunk of their job).

This is all to say that I will support the difficult tradeoffs and decisions you will have to make as you grapple with the City's financial woes, but also urge you to make sustained and ongoing support of SMMUSD and using Measure K for its original purpose of restoring safe routes to school as two of your highest priorities.

Sincerely,
Sirinya Matute
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11 David Yakobson
From: Ann Hoover <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 9:10 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Subject: March 8, 2025 - COUNCIL BUDGET WORKSHOP - Item 11.B - A few thoughts

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, and Esteemed Councilmembers - I really wanted to attend tomorrow's Budget Workshop and provide brief public comment but I'm under-the-weather.

So here's a quick summary of what I wanted to share with sincere apologies in advance to Councilmember Hall who I know is an avid biker - my son is too, but both he and I think some of what we're doing now with the bike lanes is verging into overkill, see below, at least given these times of financial challenge for the City.

Thanks so much for your consideration. Hope you have a good and productive morning! Best wishes,
Ann Bowman
Resident, 28+ years
 Nice to have vs. Need to have - For as long as the City operates under a deficit that requires reserves infusions to meet the annual operating budgets, I strongly encourage Council to be very cognizant of and make decisions based exclusively on what is "nice to have or do" right now vs. what is "need to have or do" right now. And to not spend any more money for now on the "nice to haves" until economic recovery is clear.
 If it's not an essential service that is, just as examples, directly benefiting new openings of or support for existing struggling businesses, the housing insecure, or residents/families with meaningful offerings like afterschool programs and recreation classes (which help pay for themselves through fees anyway), maybe press pause for a year? o An example of "nice to have" right now is building more protected bike lanes. o An example of "need to have" always is regular trash pick up. o An example of "nice to have" right now is implementing Vision Zero initiatives. o An example of "need to have" always is clean, safe water. o An example of "nice to have" right now is a City Wide Equity plan. o An example of "need to have" always is a well-staffed, well-resourced police department.
o None of us would allow our personal/household budget to overextend itself without a course correction; we all know to live within our means and defer things we'd like to do but can't afford to do until a future time of greater solvency. That goes for cities too. If our means are uncertain, sources of revenue are down or more modest than before, it's important and prudent to adjust and press pause in some instances until recovery is Item 11-B
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12 more sure. I know it's hard because many programs and initiatives take on a life of their own and are hard to say no to but someone has to draw the bright line.  Be careful of approving projects that start with grant funding because how will it all end?? So projects that start with grant funding at some point tend to tap into the General Fund or other non-grant funding sources to continue and sustain themselves. Protected bike lanes is a great example of this, again with sincere apologies to avid biker Councilmember Hall for calling this one out as an example!
o So the protected bike lanes on 17th Street originated with grant funding. But when Mobility wanted to expand the program, they came to Council to get General Fund money ($500,000) to design more protected bike lanes on 14th Street and 11th Street.

That General Fund outlay was just for the DESIGN. Additional likely non-grant money will be required to actually build them.
o And then of course Council within the past year then had to approve $2,500,000 spending from, I believe again, the General Fund for SPECIAL PROTECTED BIKE LANE STREET CLEANING EQUIPMENT, because regular street sweepers are not equipped to do the job.
o So it's important to maybe dig in a little when an initiative is being paid for with grant funding - how will the program be paid for long-term it it's successful? Am sure you'll see at least a few other examples of initiatives like this as you go through the budget process and review.
o Santa Monica had a terrific bike lanes network even before the protected bike lanes were built. But as an example of implementing a need to have vs. nice to have evaluative framework - adding even more protected bike lanes is nice to have but not need to have at the present time.
 Homelessness Funding - Santa Monica spends about $50 million dollars annually dealing with homeless/transient individuals. That is almost 7% of the City's annual budget! Housing and Human Services has confirmed that our "homeless" population is a transient population and not a homegrown population. So I would recommend not spending a penny more in this category unless the spending promises to dramatically decrease visibility, which will be both responsive to one of the top concerns expressed in the Budget Survey and will also further Council's goals vis a vis economic development.

Local business owners continually express distress and frustration over the degree to which they have to deal with transients both inside and outside of their businesses, with all the attendant problems. The Budget Survey reveals that a top area people say needs improvement is dealing with Homelessness. I think it's important for Council to discuss what Council thinks people actually meant when they flagged that as a top issue and maybe that is something to mull over also in connection with the Tuesday Council Meeting review of the Homelessness Strategic Plan. What I think people meant (which is what I would have meant) is that homelessness is too visible and people feel depressed seeing impacted individuals all the time. They may feel that all the spending is a waste of money and that no one is really being helped and also people sometimes just feel scared or threatened by it all. I know I do, especially when I'm using an ATM machine at the corner of 15th Street and Wilshire Boulevard and have to keep glancing over both of my shoulders. So I think people don't want just to see more spending on homelessness that doesn't make any difference in the visibility and feelings of being under attack (even where there isn't an imminent threat, the psychic load becomes real after you're exposed to high/addicted and mentally-ill people year after year as you run your errands and do the simple everyday tasks of your lives out in the community). If we spend even more money yet people still are faced with the same amount of or increased visibility and feelings of not being safe, which you may get by spending even more money on this because more $$ may bring even more impacted individuals to town, then the public will consider that spending a very big fail.

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14 David Yakobson
From: Johanna Kracke <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 8:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Re: budget items

EXTERNAL
Hello,
As a resident and small business owner in Santa Monica, I implore you to fully fund our libraries, opening them again with librarians at all locations. I am trying my best to raise 3 children in this city and my business, FIT4MOM Santa Monica, serves families with young children - over the past number of years, it has been nothing short of heartbreaking to watch the erosion of many of our favorite things to do with our kids in this city. With my first born I spent many hours dropping in to swi at the SMC pool - that has become utterly impossible with the huge decrease in rec swim hours. I used to attend the best library programming at the Ocean Park branch library, such as PJ storytime and great arts and crafts, and we made many friends through these activities. And now with the ocean questionable for swimming for the foreseeable future, it feels extremely bleak here for our kids.

I realize there are many constraints on the budget. I would ask that you make every effort to funnel money toward programs that support families and youth in this city - including funding our public schools. It's what makes this a great place to raise kids - without these, we are just a tourist city, and young families like mine will simply not have any incentive to pay the rent that we do to stay here, or decide to make the investment to purchase a home here. Thank you.

Johanna Kracke
Resident, 90404
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15 David Yakobson
From: Anika Rast. <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 7:22 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Ocean Park Library

EXTERNAL
Hi -
I'm a Santa Monica (Ocean Park) resident and I'm writing to express that funding the Ocean Park library should be a priority. It's already limited, open two hours a week, but it's integral to the neighborhood. The closest library is not as walkable or as accessible to Ocean Park residents.

This is a direct community benefit and certainly more integral than sending city council members to Vienna.

If resources are needed, has the city council thought about incorporating volunteers to help? Thanks,
Anika
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16 David Yakobson
From: Holly Silvers <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 7:16 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Cc: councilmtgitems; Dennis Granelli
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers of Santa Monica,
Thank you for your service to our wonderful City. As an involved community member and parent of children in SMMUSD schools, a home owner and business owner in Santa Monica (2 children at Grant Elementary), I'm writing to ask that the City maintain its long-standing funding for our City's public schools, early childhood education and youth services.

I see the positive impact of our strong public schools on children, their families and our community on a weekly basis. This investment directly translates to enriched learning experiences, enhanced student well-being, and a stronger community fabric. It is inspiring and makes me proud to live in a City that places such a high value on public education.

We are investing in the infrastructure through the bond measures, but the more important component of our school system is our wonderful and immensely dedicated teachers and administrative staff. It is critical to continue to reward and preserve their job security.

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

Most sincerely,
Holly Granelli
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17 David Yakobson
From: Sarah Zeitlin <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 6:14 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Thank you for your service to our wonderful City. As an involved community member and parent of children in SMMUSD schools, I'm writing to ask that the City maintain its long-standing funding for our City's public schools, early childhood education and youth services.

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Sarah and Owen Miehe
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18 David Yakobson
From: kelly capp <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 5:46 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Subject: RE: March 8, 2025 Special Joint Meeting of City Council and the Housing Commission - Item 11B

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
I am writing to request that you prioritize essential resident services in our budget. Please fully fund our libraries.

Thank you,
Kelly Capp
Santa Monica resident, voter
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19 David Yakobson
From: Amanda Robertson <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 5:04 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Subject: TIME SENSITIVE: PLEASE SAVE City Funding for SMMUSD Public Schools! Attachments: City Council-specialmeeting-letter-v1.docx; PTA-council-budget-factsheet-20250225 (1).docx

EXTERNAL
I am a proud parent of 2 kids in SMMUSD schools-- one at JAMS and one at Grant. It has come to my attention that there is a crucial budget meeting tomorrow which could impact discretionary funding for our public schools. My sincere hope is that you will recognize this funding as vital for our district, and protect these budgets for the benefit of our schoolchildren. Quality education for Santa Monica's kids should be a top priority.

Our schools are dependent on this funding for vital staffing needs, which provide continuity of education, ensure that our kids receive quality time in shaping their futures, and keep class sizes manageable. The strength of SMMUSD's public school system played a primary role in our family moving to Santa Monica.

It concerns me greatly that there may be an outcome from this budget workshop that reduces funding for our kids. It is simply not enough to rely on bond measures in this climate. The parent and educator community is strong here and we are eager to do our part to support the city in its effort to meet the needs of our students.

Thank you for being receptive to our feedback-- please consider the devastating impact of reducing these budgets on our kids, and help us continue to promote excellence in education.

Amanda Robertson
Santa Monica resident, JAMS mom and Grant mom
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Office of the City Mayor and City Council
1685 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
XX March, 2025
Dear Honorable City Councilmember [you may customize with the name of each Councilmember],
As involved and concerned Santa Monica residents and parents of school-age children, and in advance of the March 8 Special Joint Meeting and Council Budget Workshop, we wanted to take the opportunity to share our perspective on priorities for the City of Santa Monica.

The City has long been a powerful partner to the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. We moved to Santa Monica in part on the strength and quality of the school system; as parents of two children who have come through the District, we truly appreciate the support the City has provided. This ongoing financial support has helped the District to minimize (but not eliminate) the volatility of income planning and made possible the District’s renowned curriculum and moderate class sizes.

As you assess priorities for the coming biennial budget, we urge you to place sustained and ongoing support of the SMMUSD at the very highest level of priority. This week, the SMM Council of PTAs executive board pledged its support of maintaining current City funding to the District into the future. We cannot imagine a greater investment in the future of our city than continued funding of the education system. The benefits are well known:
excellent schools lead to developing a cohort of productive and responsible citizens and taxpayers, and also attract residents from around the world.

We have gratitude for the City’s longtime commitment to the District and responsiveness to us as citizens. You can count on this community to continue to work with the City to best meet the needs of the largest number of our students and families, with a focus on our most vulnerable.

We truly appreciate your work and success on issues impacting children, youth, and families in Santa Monica, and wish all the best for the future.

Sincerely,
Sarah and Casper Casparian
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City of Santa Monica – SMMUSD Budget Fact Sheet
February, 2025
For the 2024-25 SMMUSD Adopted Budget
Total SMMUSD Revenues $211,465,883
Total Available Funds $252,740,208
City of Santa Monica and Malibu contributions to SMMUSD Budget City of Santa Monica Joint Use revenue $10,978,200
Measure Y(YY), GS(GSH) (2016) revenue $18,000,000
Measure GS (2022) revenue $10,000,000
TOTAL contributions to SMMUSD from Joint
Use and tax revenues
$38,978,000
Source: SMMUSD 2024-25 Adopted Budget
Joint Use (also known as Master Facilities Use) is an agreement that sets terms for the shared use of school district facilities by the City and the District. The agreement specifies the facilities subject to the agreement as well as the annual payments to be made by the City for use of the facilities, and to support the District’s educational programs. Payments made are subject to adjustment based on usage, additional facilities, and inflation. The current agreement will expire in 2027.

Measure Y (2010) and its accompanying advisory Measure YY is a transaction and use tax increase (of 0.5%), that indicates a portion of revenue should go to education.

Measure GSH (2016) is an additional transaction and use tax increase of 0.5%.

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● The City is not obligated by Measure Y or GSH to give revenue from transaction and use taxes to the SMMUSD. Allocation of Measure Y and GSH revenue to the District is at the discretion of the City of Santa Monica. ● By existing agreement, the SMMUSD has received from the City 50% of the transaction and use tax revenue of Measure Y and GSH.
● There is no expiration date for Measure Y or GSH. The revenue agreement between the City and SMMUSD will expire in 2028.

Measure GS (2022) is a documentary transfer tax of 5%, that applies to real estate transactions of $8 million or more. By the terms of the measure, the first $10 million of annual revenue from this tax is directed to the SMMSUD. ● In referencing earlier measures and agreements, Measure GS specifies:
“...any funds allocated to the SMMUSD … should be additional to, and not a replacement of any funds the City otherwise provides to the school district, including any funds provided according to existing agreements or in accordance with prior advisory measures.”
There are several other contributions to SMMUSD available funds, but those listed above are specifically from the City, and within City Council control.

CAPTA Authorities

1. Resolution: School Funding
http://downloads.capta.org/res/SchoolFunding.pdf
The Resolution states in relevant part:

WHEREAS, Stability, consistency and responsible fiscal planning are necessary for a quality educational system; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the California State PTA urge its units, councils and districts to study, support and encourage the education of the parents, teachers and community regarding the financing of their school districts.

2. Resolution: Financing Public Schools
http://downloads.capta.org/res/FinancingCaliforniasPublicSchools.pdf The Resolution states in relevant part:

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WHEREAS, The California State PTA recognizes the need to determine and secure an adequate level of funding and resources for public schools that ensures a quality education for every student; and WHEREAS, To assure the opportunity for all students to reach their full potential, funds must be available to provide for the diverse needs of students and the differential costs to school districts; and WHEREAS, The California State PTA recognizes that a stable and consistent finance system and responsible fiscal planning are necessary for a quality public education; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the California State PTA and its units, councils and districts continue to make financing our public schools, both programs and facilities, a top priority in order to ensure a quality education for every student.

3. Resolution: PTA Priority – Supporting Public Education http://downloads.capta.org/res/PTAPrioritySupportOfPublicEd.pdf The Resolution states in relevant part:

WHEREAS, Every citizen should be encouraged to voice suggestions to local governing boards and state agencies and elected officials for the improvement of our schools; and
WHEREAS, Public education without adequate funding is not feasible; and WHEREAS, The National PTA has pledged that its number one priority is: “To preserve, maintain and strengthen the public education system;” now therefore be it RESOLVED, That the California State PTA focus its resources on obtaining adequate financing for public education; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the California State PTA, its units, councils and districts, affirm as a top priority its commitment to the preservation, maintenance and strengthening of our public school system, as pledged by the National PTA Item 11-B
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Budget Detail
● About 4% of California schools are “Basic Aid” districts, meaning that property taxes in these areas exceed the minimum guaranteed per-pupil spending in the local control funding formula.
● Santa Monica-Malibu USD is a basic aid district – considered to be self-funded, and receives a minimum amount of financial support from the state. ● Basic aid districts are also called “self-funded” or “community-supported.” Source: Ed100
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City of Santa Monica – City Council Contacts
City Hall
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, California 90401
Phone: (310) 458-8201
Fax: (310) 458-1621
To contact the Council Office: [email protected] To provide input on Council meeting items: [email protected] Mayor Lana Negrete [email protected]
Mayor Pro Tem Caroline Torosis [email protected] Councilmember Jesse Zwick [email protected]
Councilmember Dan Hall [email protected]
Councilmember Ellis Raskin [email protected] Councilmember Barry Snell [email protected]
Councilmember Natalya Zernitskaya [email protected] Item 11-B
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20 David Yakobson
From: Nikki Kolhoff <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 4:50 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Cc: Zina Josephs
Subject: March 8, 2025 Special Joint Meeting of City Council and the Housing Commission – Item 11B

EXTERNAL
To: City Council
From: Board of Directors, Friends of Sunset Park
Re: March 8, 2025 Special Joint Meeting of City Council and the Housing Commission – Item 11B Dear Mayor Negrete and Councilmembers:

On behalf of Friends of Sunset Park, thank you for your dedicated service to our community.

A majority of the Friends of Sunset Park Board are writing to express concerns regarding the City’s upcoming budget process and potential bond financing for discretionary projects. We believe that the City’s focus on increasing revenue by taxing the residents, instead of revitalizing commercial activity to jump start commercial revenue generation growth, is the wrong approach. It allows the City to pass the buck to residents without being accountable for the commercial harm caused by City policies that don’t improve the City’s quality of life and safety profiles, resulting in revenue stagnation.

We respectfully ask the Council to focus on a strategic plan to revitalize the commercial sector, capitalizing on the unique combination of world-class assets and locale that is already available prior to considering resident taxes and bonds. We also request that you defer any non-essential, unfunded projects until Santa Monica’s fiscal outlook and core revenue streams are able to support such expenditures.

1. Budget Challenges
According to the latest City budget documents and analyses, Santa Monica’s General Fund reserves are significantly lower than in the early 2010s. While our City’s goal is to maintain at least 15–20% of operating expenditures in reserves, reports indicate that our current “months of reserves” have declined substantially compared to previous years, that we now have only 4 months of reserves, and that we are in a downward trend. Furthermore, the City plans to “balance” the general fund deficit with the use of what appears to be $60.8 million in one-time reserves ($33.2 million General Fund reserve balance plus $27.6 million Working Capital reserves). We believe this diminished reserve level places the City in a vulnerable position, particularly if new unfunded initiatives move forward.

2. Decline of Downtown Revenues and Failure to Focus on City’s Core Strengths Historically, a vibrant commercial sector, especially the downtown core centered around the Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place, generated substantial sales tax and tourist revenue, as it should. We were and can be a world-class destination. Policy shortcomings have caused businessrelated revenues to flatline and, in some areas, decline. The last robust sector, auto sales, are now stumbling. If our commercial transaction flows aren’t fundamentally improved, increasing revenues Item 11-B
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21 through business tax increases will also stall, both by placing even more pressure on our remaining businesses and by not addressing the core problem of declining visitors in a visitor-driven economy.

Public data from LA County and local studies suggest that factors such as increased unhoused and reduced parking options have contributed to a downturn in the downtown's revenue. Despite this data, staff continues to blame Covid and other technical issues, not the crumbling safety and homeless-impacted business environment created by inappropriate or absent City policies. Even though there has been overwhelming resident focus on homelessness and safety, the City is calling itself safe and refuses to change any of its policy priorities in response to both resident and business feedback.

The City’s decision to repurpose certain public parking infrastructure (e.g., Parking Structure 3, Parking Structure 1, and the Main Street parking lots, just to name the most prominent) further discourage visitor traffic, contributing to a decline in millions of dollars in revenue generated by the structures themselves. In comparison, nearby shopping destinations (Century City Mall, Marina del Rey) remain highly competitive. Yet the City refuses to acknowledge the holistic and direct costs of removing the parking infrastructure.

There is a huge opportunity to anchor Santa Monica’s commercial revitalization with the Civic Center as an entertainment destination by entering into an ENA with RPG. But the absence of a holistic view of the commercial potential of the City’s destination assets has led to the unimaginative and economically destructive consideration of selling off this irreplaceable asset. This plan is a continuation of managing each of the key destination assets in a silo, and not being interested in policy that takes advantage of their combined economic power, which is greater than the sum of its parts. The only mention of active management is the hiring of the Civic Center Consultant and even that sounds like a stopgap activity on the ultimate path to declare the Civic a stranded asset in need of demolition.

3. Concerns About the Proposed Bond
We understand the City is exploring a bond measure to finance capital improvements. The total unfunded capital project list has skyrocketed from $113 million in FY22 to $460 million in FY26. We can’t help but think this has been done to inflate the amount of money the City will ask for in a General Obligation Bond.

The City launches into the need for a capital projects Bond without prioritizing any of the projects or making any reference to the capital financial management problems identified by the internal auditors.

Passing a general obligation bond simply creates another revenue stream that will become permanent, just like the school district’s bonds, with no accountability for the spending, no requirement to spend on the listed projects, and no responsibility for the destructive policies that are killing the commercial activity in the city that would otherwise pay for the improvements. We strongly urge the Council to assess how much revenue a fully revitalized and optimized commercial sector would generate, how quickly such policies could be implemented and what the minimum resident needs would need to be addressed by in the interim by issuing long-term debt.

4. Recommendations

1. Prioritize Coordinated Revitalization of our Core Assets: Focus on initiatives that enhance safety, parking accessibility, and overall visitor experience in the Third Street Promenade, the Santa Monica Place, the Civic Center Auditorium, Main Street, and nearby surrounding areas. Enter into the ENA with RPG. Encourage developers to repurpose privately owned and under-occupied office buildings in the downtown as low-income housing to fulfill our housing mandates, rather than building elsewhere in the city, so that there will be more residents downtown to shop.

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22 2. Prioritize Basic Resident Services – Fully Reopen Libraries: Fund essential services prior to discretionary programs. It is unacceptable that our libraries have not been fully restored to pre-Covid levels of operation. The failure to prioritize this most essential service and foundation of democracy is shameful.

3. Suspend Non-Essential Projects: Delay purely discretionary projects until the City’s reserve levels reach a more prudent threshold, ensuring Santa Monica can weather unforeseen economic changes.

4. Maintain Strategic Public Land: Fully evaluate and disclose all economic consequences, direct and indirect, before selling or converting city-owned structures that are critical to supporting local businesses and revitalizing our core assets.

5. Ensure Bond Accountability: If a bond measure is pursued, provide legallyenforceable specific projects to be funded by the bond, and transparent regular reporting and analysis of its financial sustainability and alignment with core city needs.

Thank you for considering these concerns. We appreciate your leadership and remain committed to working alongside the City Council to help ensure Santa Monica’s continued prosperity.

Sincerely,
Friends of Sunset Park
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23 David Yakobson
From: Rachael Bloom <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 3:52 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems
Subject: Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

EXTERNAL
As involved and concerned Santa Monica residents and parents of school-age children, and in advance of the March 8 Special Joint Meeting and Council Budget Workshop, we wanted to take the opportunity to share our perspective on priorities for the City of Santa Monica.

We truly appreciate your work and success on issues impacting children, youth, and families in Santa Monica, and wish all the best for the future.

Rachael
www.rachaelbloomtherapy.com
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24 David Yakobson
From: Inessa Manevich <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 3:09 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

EXTERNAL
Office of the City Mayor and City Council
1685 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

03.07.25 Dear Honorable City Councilmember.

As involved and concerned Santa Monica residents and parents of school-age children, and in advance of the March 8 Special Joint Meeting and Council Budget Workshop, we wanted to take the opportunity to share our perspective on priorities for the City of Santa Monica.

We truly appreciate your work and success on issues impacting children, youth, and families in Santa Monica, and wish all the best for the future.

Sincerely,
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
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25 Inessa Manevich
--
Inessa Manevich, Ph.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, PSY 25319
Clinical Instructor, The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA www.drinessamanevich.com
310.804.6339
Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Please keep in mind that privacy of healthcare data sent via email can not be assured. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and please destroy the original message and any and all copies. Unauthorized use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited.

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26 David Yakobson
From: Nisha Mendelsohn <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 3:27 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With gratitude,
Nisha Mendelsohn
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27 David Yakobson
From: Danny Bitar <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 2:44 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems
Cc: erin.bitar
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Thank you for your service to our wonderful City. As involved community members and parents of children in SMMUSD schools, We are writing to ask that the City maintain its long-standing funding for our City's public schools, early childhood education and youth services.

We see the positive impact of our strong public schools on children, their families and our community on a weekly basis. This investment directly translates to enriched learning experiences, enhanced student well-being, and a stronger community fabric. It is inspiring and makes me proud to live in a City that places such a high value on public education.

We look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Danny and Erin Bitar
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March 8, 2025
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28 David Yakobson
From: Mike Flaxman <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 2:18 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Mike Flaxman
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
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29 David Yakobson
From: Jill Bentley <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 2:10 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Jill Bentley
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
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30 David Yakobson
From: Kristin Julie Viola <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 1:44 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

EXTERNAL
Hello Councilmembers,
Thank you for your service to the city of Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica and parent of two children in SMMUSD schools, I'm writing to ask that the City maintain its long-standing funding for our City's public schools, early childhood education and youth services.

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

Best,
Kristin Flaxman
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31 David Yakobson
From: Ann Kelly <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 1:38 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support continued City funding for SM Schools

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Ann Kelly
SM Resident & Parent of 3 children at Grant Elementary (Kinder, 3rd, 4th grades) Item 11-B
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32 David Yakobson
From: Peter DiChellis <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 1:38 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Budget Discussion

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
Cutting spending on the myriad of city programs and policies that attract criminal drifters and homeless drug addicts will help restore fiscal health both by reducing expenditures and by creating a safer and more attractive environment for tourism and business formation.

After all, who wants to visit or operate a business here when headlines scream crime and unconscious derelicts litter sidewalks?
Sincerely,
Peter DiChellis
Santa Monica
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33 David Yakobson
From: Nichole Delansky <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 12:59 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: PLEASE SAVE City Funding for SMMUSD Public Schools!

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I am a proud parent of 2 kids in SMMUSD schools-- one at JAMS and one at Grant. It has come to my attention that there is a crucial budget meeting tomorrow which could impact discretionary funding for our public schools. My sincere hope is that you will recognize this funding as vital for our district, and protect these budgets for the benefit of our schoolchildren. Quality education for Santa Monica's kids should be a top priority.

Thank you for being receptive to our feedback-- please consider the devastating impact of reducing these budgets on our kids, and help us continue to promote excellence in education.

Nichole Delansky
Santa Monica resident, JAMS mom and Grant mom
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
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34 David Yakobson
From: Yvonne Kawano <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 12:40 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please continue City funding for our public schools

EXTERNAL
Office of the City Mayor and City Council
1685 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
March 7th, 2025
Dear Honorable City Councilmembers,
As an involved and concerned Santa Monica resident and parent of school-age children, at Grant Elementary and John Adams Middle School, and in advance of the March 8 Special Joint Meeting and Council Budget Workshop, I wanted to take the opportunity to share my perspective on priorities for the City of Santa Monica.

The City has long been a powerful partner to the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. My family moved to Santa Monica in part on the strength and quality of the school system; as parents of two children who have come through the District, I truly appreciate the support the City has provided. This ongoing financial support has helped the District to minimize (but not eliminate) the volatility of income planning and made possible the District’s renowned curriculum and moderate class sizes.

As you assess priorities for the coming biennial budget, I urge you to place sustained and ongoing support of the SMMUSD at the very highest level of priority. This week, the SMM Council of PTAs executive board pledged its support of maintaining current City funding to the District into the future. I cannot imagine a greater investment in the future of our city than continued funding of the education system. The benefits are well known:
excellent schools lead to developing a cohort of productive and responsible citizens and taxpayers, and also attract residents from around the world.

I have gratitude for the City’s longtime commitment to the District and responsiveness to us as citizens. You can count on this community to continue to work with the City to best meet the needs of the largest number of our students and families, with a focus on our most vulnerable.

I truly appreciate your work and success on issues impacting children, youth, and families in Santa Monica, and wish all the best for the future.

Sincerely,
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
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36 David Yakobson
From: KelsHarrison11 <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 12:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding for Ocean Park and Fairview Branches

EXTERNAL
Hello,
I am an ocean park resident writing to request an increase in funding so that full service support at the Fairview and ocean park library branches can be restored to at least 2 days a week.

The libraries are a critical part of our community—they provide open safe spaces for people to gather and learn.

The self service option does not provide the same level of resources as the full service option. The self service felt necessary in Covid, but now limits our communities ability to gather and learn.

Please provide additional funds for the Ocean Park and Fairview library branches! Sincerely,
Kelsey Harrison, Santa Monica resident
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37 David Yakobson
From: Zoë Muntaner <[email protected]> Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 12:16 PM
To: Cecilia Tovar; councilmtgitems
Cc: Karen Reitz; Jennifer Ullrich; Natalie Marrero; Lana Negrete; Elaine Polachek; Susan Cline; David Gardinier; Lisa Parson
Subject: Re: Jai Chakribarti Reading Cross Pollination with Cultural Affairs

EXTERNAL
Hi Cecilia,
Today I decided to come to the Beverly Hills Library. What a difference in the courtesy and cooperation from library staff! Very welcoming, I even applied for a library card to use it since the limit of access hours of Santa Monica Library creates a deficit in the time I can spend studying in a clean and quiet environment.

I am baffled by your reply; once again the lack of cooperation to do an event that could have been a fundraiser for the library. As you shared in our meeting The Library funding is limited and you are asking for money from the 2025 Budget. I am confused.

Today I received an email from one of the Santa Monica Neighborhood Associations. Urgent Timing Regarding Library Funding: The City Council budget meeting is this Saturday and they need to hear from residents that funding the libraries needs to be a priority. The Group is asking neighbors to write tothe City Council about concerns and here are some facts from the library staff:
 The Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels  2 branches do not have any full-service hours and are only accessible 2 days per week  The reduction in staff also impacts the availability of new books since processing times are slower with reduced staff
 At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of self-service.
 This small increase, compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25, would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

If Library funding should be a funding priority, why would you and the Library Board pass on an opportunity to do a Fundraiser for the Santa Monica Library? It does not make sense. How does that decision reflect on the mission of the library? Asking for a friend reads the website of the Santa Monica Friends of the Public Library:"Your support fuels the mission of the Santa Monica Public Library. Help cultivate wellbeing by providing essential resources, programs, services and spaces to connect."
Isn't that ironic? If the Library wants to pass on an opportunity to do a Fundraiser it means the finances are stable, otherwise you would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the Compassionate Santa Monica event.

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38 On Wed, Mar 5, 2025 at 5:40 PM Cecilia Tovar <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello Zoe,
It was nice to see you today! I had the opportunity to connect with my team, Karen Reitz, and Jen Ullrich, who oversee the events and programs proposal process for the library.

As indicated on the library website, event proposals typically take about 4–6 weeks to review.

Additionally, our team plans library programs on a quarterly basis. As I mentioned earlier, the library has faced significant budget cuts, which have resulted in limited staff capacity. Due to these constraints, we can only coordinate a few events each month.

Our March calendar for library events is already full and has been published, so unfortunately, we won’t be able to host your event at this time. However, the library is currently planning events for May and June if you wish to for us to consider another event with us. Karen Reitz can answer any questions about the library program events proposal process and timelines.

We also have meeting rooms for rent if you wish to proceed with your event in March. Please visit our meeting room information for rentals santamonica.gov - How to Book a Meeting Room at the Library

Sincerely,

Cecilia Tovar
Assistant City Librarian
Administration & Business Services
Santa Monica Public Library
(310) 458-8640
smpl.org
Facebook | X | Instagram
View the Library Calendar of Events

Item 11-B
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39 From: Zoë Muntaner <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, March 5, 2025 1:42 PM
To: Cecilia Tovar <[email protected]>
Subject: Fwd: Jai Chakribarti Reading Cross Pollination with Cultural Affairs

EXTERNAL

Proyecto de Podcast Lecture

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Zoë Muntaner <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Feb 28, 2025 at 10:47 AM
Subject: Jai Chakribarti Reading Cross Pollination with Cultural Affairs To: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> CC: <[email protected]>

I am working with a writer friend of mine from New York who is travelling to be in a panel at the AWP Conference next month. The AWP Conference & Bookfair is the essential gathering for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers.

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40 Having Jai Chakribarti will draw a significant audience from the Jewsih and Indian audiences. I can fill the house. I was producing a reading of the author's last book with a Q & A, a sound bath experience, Indian music,dance, and food. A full cultural experience. After last night's event at the Annenberg Beach House I thought that this would dovetail perfectly with the programming Natalie marrero is doing at the Annenberg and would love to host it there as part of the Santa Monica Library and Arts and Cultural Affairs.

Let me know if you have time to meet on Monday in person or via ZOOM to further explain what I have in mind. I filled out the SM Library Event proposal, however it says the library will get back to me in 6-8 weeks and the AWP is on March 25-29, 2015.

Have a blessed weekend. Kindly reply, thank you.

Zoë Muntaner
Founder & Chief Compassion Officer
Building a COMPASSIONATE City Since 2013
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. --
Zoë Muntaner
Founder & Chief Compassion Officer
Building a COMPASSIONATE City Since 2013
To help
protect your
privacy,
Micro so ft
Office
prevented
auto matic
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from the
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Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
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March 8, 2025
41 David Yakobson
From: adam monaghan <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 10:48 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support for continued City funding for Santa Monica's public schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Thank you for your service to our wonderful City. As a member of the Grant Elementary PTA Executive Committee and a parent of children in SMMUSD schools, I'm writing to urge you to maintain the City's long-standing funding for our public schools, early childhood education, and youth services.

In my role on the PTA Executive Board, I witness firsthand the profound positive impact of our strong public schools on students, their families, and our community. Every week, I see the dedication of our teachers, the engagement of our students, and the supportive network that makes our schools thrive. This investment directly translates to enriched learning experiences, enhanced student well-being, and a stronger community fabric. It is truly inspiring and reinforces my pride in living in a City that prioritizes public education.

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Adam Monaghan
Grant Elementary PTA Auditor
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
42 David Yakobson
From: Wes L <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 10:47 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support for Santa Monica's public schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Thank you for your service to our wonderful city. As PTA Finance Secretary and a parent of children in SMMUSD schools, I'm writing to urge you to maintain the city's long-standing funding for our public schools, early childhood education, and youth services.

As a parent and in my PTA role, I witness firsthand the profound positive impact of our strong public schools on students, their families, and our community. Every week, I see the dedication of our teachers, the engagement of our students, and the supportive network that makes our schools thrive. This investment directly translates to enriched learning experiences, enhanced student well-being, and a stronger community fabric. It is truly inspiring and reinforces my pride in living in a city that prioritizes public education.

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the city and SMMUSD.

Sincerely,
Wes Larmore
Grant Elementary PTA Financial Secretary
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
43 David Yakobson
From: Sara Benyaminy <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 10:40 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Continue City Funding for our Public Schools

I see the positive impact of our strong public schools on children, their families and our community on a weekly basis. It is inspiring and makes me proud to live in a City that places such a high value on public education.

I look forward to the continued partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Sara Benyaminy
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
44 David Yakobson
From: girltunes <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 10:37 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please fund the Ocean Park & Fairview Libraries

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
It is imperative that you properly fund the Ocean Park and Fairview libraries.

The article, "Role of Library In Society," posted by the Library and Information Science Education Network summarizes the vital importance of libraries:

Introduction: Libraries are often regarded as the quiet, unassuming pillars of society, yet their role is nothing short of transformative. In the tapestry of modern civilization, they are the custodians of knowledge, the keepers of stories, and the gateways to a world of information. As we delve into the essential role of libraries in society, we embark on a journey that transcends the dusty shelves and the hushed whispers within these hallowed halls. Libraries are not merely repositories of books; they are vibrant hubs of learning, innovation, and cultural enrichment.

With that in mind, here are some facts (source: OPA 3-7-25 email) about the state of our libraries in Santa Monica:
 The Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels  2 branches do not have any full-service hours and are only accessible 2 days per week  The reduction in staff also impacts the availability of new books since processing times are slower with reduced staff
 At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of selfservice.  This small increase, compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25, would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

Please fund our Ocean Park & Fairview libraries in full.

Sincerely,
Ferris Gluck
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
45 David Yakobson
From: Grace DeVoll <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 9:09 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please prioritize funding the libraries

EXTERNAL
Hi,
My name is Grace DeVoll and I’m a resident of Sunset Park Santa Monica (3020 17th St 90405). I am writing to urge the city council to prioritize library funding during the budget meeting this weekend. The Fairview branch has barely been open for the past five years and is an important community space for the neighborhood.

Thanks for your consideration.

Warmly,
Grace
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
46 David Yakobson
From: Teresa Mendez <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 8:34 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Library

EXTERNAL
Good morning,
I am a proud Santa Monica resident- I live across from Ozone Park. There are a lot of things our city does well. But one thing that could be improved is our libraries!
I am the mother of a 2 year old. The local libraries are so important to us. We visit the library at least once a week.

More in the winter when it gets dark early or when it’s raining. But we are constantly being frustrated by the limited hours of the Main Street branch and the Fairview Branch.

The staff who work these branches are so dedicated and great. We would like to go more often and to go on more days of the week.

Libraries are vital community resources for children. Please restore funding levels for the library.

Thank you for your time.

Tessa Mendez
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
47 David Yakobson
From: Santa Monica Families for Safe Streets <[email protected]> Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 8:12 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Protecting Measure K Money for Safe Streets in the Biennial Budget Attachments: Measure K March 2025.pdf

EXTERNAL
Mayor and Councilmembers,
Last November Measure K passed with overwhelming support, earning approval from 74% of voters. This decisive mandate reflects the community’s clear expectation that the city will uphold the measure’s intended purpose.

Please see the attached letter from organizations that supported Measure K and led the successful campaign that led to the overwhelming approval of measure K.

Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
Last November Measure K passed with overwhelming support, earning approval from 74% of voters. This decisive mandate reflects the community’s clear expectation that the city will uphold the measure’s intended purpose.

It is unfortunate that the staff report sets forth a plan to use funding from the most recent voter-approved tax increase for a purpose other than that which was intended by the voters.

Ignoring the will of the voters would erode public trust in the city’s commitment to responsive and transparent governance. Measure K funds must be used for their intended purpose: safe streets and public safety.

The city surveyed the top areas of greatest need and mobility and safe streets were in the top five. Additionally, with 68% of our greenhouse gas emissions coming from transportation, it is clear that we cannot meet our sustainability goals without investing in safe, multimodal streets that enable people to drive less and choose cleaner, more efficient ways to get around.

Restoring the city’s Safe Routes to Schools Program and leveraging local Measure K revenues as local matches for grant applications to Metro, SCAG, and Caltrans for street safety projects should be priorities.

We ask that you ensure that Measure K funds are used as the voters intended: to make the streets of Santa Monica safer and more multimodal.

Sincerely,
Juan Matute, Co-Founder, Santa Monica Families for Safe Streets Michael Schneider, Founder & CEO, Streets For All
Brad Ewing and Carl Hansen, Co-Chairs, Santa Monica Forward Eli Gill, Abundant Santa Monica Chapter Lead
Cynthia Rose, Director, Santa Monica Spoke
Cris Gutierrez & Cynthia Rose, Co-Chairs, Santa Monica Safe Streets Alliance Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
48 David Yakobson
From: Katherine McNamara <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library funding

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
I am writing to urge you to address the disastrous cuts in library funding that have affected the Ocean and Sunset Park branches. Our beloved Fairview Branch was a hub in our neighbourhood, but has been sitting mostly dormant since 2020. Without library staff and programs, the self serve atmosphere creates an uncomfortable space to bring my kids, as there are rarely more than one or two individuals present. So many neighbors are stymied by their inability to access the security code at the door. Putting books on hold and requesting transfers involves weeks of waiting if you miss their limited Tuesday and Friday hours. If this continues your client base will disappear completely. These budget cuts are extremely short sighted. For a tenth of a percent of the City budget, we could staff Fairview and Ocean Park with knowledgeable librarians and restore them to full function, even if on a limited schedule. The nearly 30,000 residents of Ocean and Sunset Park deserve this. It is more critical than ever to make device-free reading materials accessible to residents of all ages. Please address this funding gap in your next budget.

Thank you,
Katherine McNamara
 The Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels
 2 branches do not have any full-service hours and are only accessible 2 days per week
 The reduction in staff also impacts the availability of new books since processing times are slower with reduced staff
 At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of self-service.  This small increase, compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25, would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
49 David Yakobson
From: William Purdy <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 7, 2025 7:48 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11-B

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council members,
I will do my best to attend the Saturday morning meeting to make this point in person. We need to increase the operating hours of the Fairview branch ASAP. If that means more open hours to the public, then great! yet even more self-service hours, all weekdays and Saturdays for example, would do nicely.

We need to re-introduce families and kids to the wonderful things our libraries provide.

We raise readers, from toddlers to teenagers, at our libraries. Don't let them down, Thanks!
Bill Purdy
Sunset Park rez
Voter
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
50 David Yakobson
From: Henry Molofsky <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 9:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Ocean park and Fairview libraries

EXTERNAL
Hi there,
I’m a Sunset Park resident and my daughter and I regularly use these libraries with her grandmother. She loves reminding me to whisper there.

A library makes a community better in innumerable and irreplaceable ways. Please keep kids curious and keep funding our libraries.

Henry Molofsky
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
51 David Yakobson
From: Anastasia Foster <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 9:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support for schools

EXTERNAL
I hope the city will continue to maintain the funding it’s been sharing with the schools. My family has relied upon the after school programs in particular when we were struggling. I know others do as well. Our budget reflects our values, and I know each of you value the long relationship our city and schools have always had.

Thank you
> Anastasia Foster
>
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
52 David Yakobson
From: Joy Moini <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 6:15 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Subject: Please continue City funding for our public schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Honorable City Councilmembers:

The City has long been a powerful partner to the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. We stayed in Santa Monica in part on the strength and quality of the school system; as parents of two children who are currently in the District, we truly appreciate the support the City has provided. This ongoing financial support has helped the District to minimize (but not eliminate) the volatility of income planning and made possible the District’s renowned curriculum and moderate class sizes.

As you assess priorities for the coming biennial budget, we urge you to place sustained and ongoing support of the SMMUSD at the very highest level of priority. We cannot imagine a greater investment in the future of our city than continued funding of the education system. The benefits are well known: excellent schools lead to developing a cohort of productive and responsible citizens and taxpayers, and also attract residents from around the world.

We truly appreciate your work and success on issues impacting children, youth, and families in Santa Monica.

Sincerely,
Joy Moini and Howard Padwa
Parents of SMMUSD Grant 2nd grader & JAMS 6th grader
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
53 David Yakobson
From: AJ Mildenberg <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 6:08 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Protect Ocean Park & Fairview Libraries

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica City Council,
I’m writing to express my strong support for keeping Ocean Park and Fairview libraries open and fully funded. These libraries are an essential part of our community, and reducing their services—or worse, closing them—would be a huge loss.

For many of us, these libraries are more than just a place to borrow books. They’re where kids develop a love of reading, where students find a quiet place to study, and where residents of all ages can access resources they might not have at home. They provide a safe, welcoming space for everyone, and that kind of community hub is irreplaceable.

Personally, I’ve seen firsthand how valuable these spaces are. I’ll never forget bringing my neice to the Ocean Park library for storytime—watching their face light up as they listened, surrounded by other kids and families. It wasn’t just about the books; it was about fostering curiosity and connection. These libraries offer that experience every day, and without them, we lose a piece of what makes our community special.

I understand the challenges of balancing budgets, but cutting library services would take away something that so many people rely on. I urge you to prioritize keeping Ocean Park and Fairview libraries open and fully operational.

Thank you for your time and for considering the voices of those who care deeply about our local libraries.

Best,
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
55 David Yakobson
From: Allison Dollar <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 5:56 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica libraries

EXTERNAL
Hi, I've been distressed to see the state of our library services. To find locked doors and self service was heartbreaking. And I'm thinking of people who don't know how or have the resources to use QR codes that lose out altogether.

I presume this budget erosion reflects the usage/visitor rates dropping, which has been a long slide due to the migration to digital media. And I'm sure the branches and various committees have been discussing the redefinition of libraries' structures and services. But the fundamental need for libraries as beacons of civil civic society remains.

Perhaps we could run a campaign, a la Adopt a Highway, for support from larger corporations/brands and established local companies.

Bottom line is that we need libraries to be supported and healthy.

Allison Dollar
[email protected]
310 428 5079
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
56 David Yakobson
From: Clare Driscoll <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 5:28 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library Funding

EXTERNAL
Please prioritize funding for Santa Monica’s library. A robust library system that is accessible to residents in all parts of the city is foundational for a thriving community. The library provides countless resources and is a reflection of what a city values.

Thank you,
Clare Driscoll
Sent from my iPhone
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
57 David Yakobson
From: nicole faries <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 4:53 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11-A

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members -
I’m writing to you as longtime Santa Monica resident and parent of 2 SMMUSD graduates and one current student.

I am very aware of the challenges you face in approving a balanced budget by June and am sympathetic to the tradeoffs you will have to make given the current economic realities. When funding the City’s operational budget, I urge you to preserve your long term commitment to municipal funding for education and youth services.This unique partnership between the City of Santa Monica and SMMUSD is envied by other districts. Too often when public agencies have to trim their budgets, it is items such as libraries and kids programs which bear the brunt of cuts, while expenditures backed by louder, more organized lobbying are spared the chopping block. Strong, well-funded schools are the backbone of any community.

What better commitment is there to a diverse and equitable city than an investment in our children and their future? School funding is in alignment with 2 City Strategic Priorities, Economic growth and Cultural Vitality and Justice Equity& Diversity.

Please include funding for the children of Santa Monica in your budget priorities by continuing to honor the voter approved revenue sharing agreements with the School District , Y/YY and GS/GSH and the Master Facilities Use Agreement. I will add that the money from GS 2022 is meant to supplement not replace the money from the other agreements. The children in our community and I thank you in advance for making public school support a Budget Priority .

Sincerely,
Nicole Faries
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Tom Brown <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 4:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SMPL

EXTERNAL
Hello council members
As a long-term Sana Monica resident (40 plus years) and lifelong library patron, I have grown to appreciate the SM Public Library more and more over the years I have resided here. As a matter of fact, I worked there for a few years in the 90s. My most memorable shift was in the AV Dept on Sunday afternoons. As a patron I miss the Sunday and Friday hours, the 9:00 pm closing time during the week, and the friendly faces at the Ocean Park and Fairview branches. Santa Monica has a long tradition of strong community support for our library system as evidenced by the construction of the new Main Library some years ago. We need full funding for the library to be restored to pre-pandemic levels for so many reasons. Please give us back the library service we need and want in an enlightened community such as Santa Monica.

Tom Brown
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Louise Jaffe <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 3:58 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 11-A: please continue strong support for children and their families Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Council Members, and Interim City Manager Polachek! I understand that you are facing a very difficult fiscal situation. Nevertheless, I hope you will be strong in continuing your support for our community's children and their families. Please maintain or increase funding for early childhood education, after school programs, youth services including library services, and the school district. I know all of you understand the importance of quality education, including early education, in the lives of all Santa Monicans, the future of the city, and advancing equity. I appreciate your willingness to serve, to stand strong for children, and to tackle the challenges ahead.

Thank you.

Louise
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Susanna Wise <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 3:27 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Libraries

EXTERNAL
Hello!
I'm a Sunset Park resident and want to express my support for the libraries. I'm a recent college grad who just moved back to Santa Monica and I LOVE the libraries. I need the resources they provide and love the free coworking space aspect. Please don't reduce hours and services.

Thanks!
Susanna Wise
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
2 David Yakobson
From: Tricia Crane <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 3:23 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Cc: Douglas Sloan; Elaine Polachek; Susan Cline; Christopher J. Smith Subject: Support our Public Libraries - Special Joint Meeting of City Council and the Housing Authority

EXTERNAL
March 6, 2025
To: Mayor Negrete and City Council members
From: Northeast Neighbors Board of Directors
RE: Special Joint Meeting of the City Council and Housing Authority 3/8/25 Mayor Negrete and Councilmembers,
Our public libraries play an indispensable and unique role in benefiting Santa Monica’s community fabric and well-being and they must not be subjected to further budget cuts.

The losses to library services resulting from recent budget cutbacks have been hurtful to residents.

Our libraries depend upon the General Fund for operations and staffing.

The budget for our libraries is approximately 2% of the General Fund budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025: $11.5 million out of $458 million.

We send this letter to support the Library Board’s request for an increase of $600,000, which would provide at least 2 days of full service at all five branches throughout our city.

The Board of Northeast Neighbors
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
3 David Yakobson
From: Tom Larmore <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 2:54 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Budget Discussion

EXTERNAL
In the context of your discussion on Saturday morning, I want to express my strong support for continued funding of the School District in accordance with existing agreements and other funding that is necessary in order to support school age kids and their parents such as after-school programs, playground supervision, other your services and early childhood education. The well-being of our youth is critical to the future of our City.

Tom Larmore
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
4 David Yakobson
From: Jayanthi K. Daniel <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 2:44 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Request to Keep SMMUSD Funding Whole During Budget Negotiations -- Attachments: Jayanthi_Daniel_City_Council_Budget_Request.docx

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Attached is a letter from myself, a Franklin Elementary School parent, to request to the City Council to not reduce funding to SMMUSD during the current budget negotiations.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Jayanthi
--
Jayanthi K. Daniel
[email protected]
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Office of the City Mayor and City Council
1685 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
March 6, 2025
Dear Honorable City Councilmembers,
As involved and concerned Santa Monica residents and parents of school-age children, and in advance of the March 8 Special Joint Meeting and Council Budget Workshop, we wanted to take the opportunity to share our perspective on priorities for the City of Santa Monica.

We truly appreciate your work and success on issues impacting children, youth, and families in Santa Monica, and wish all the best for the future.

Sincerely,
Jayanthi Daniel
Franklin Elementary School Parent
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
5 David Yakobson
From: Daniella Geller <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 2:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library

EXTERNAL
Hello!
Our family are frequent users of the library and we truly value the system. We take out books physically and digitally, and my kids also enjoy the youth programming.

Before the pandemic, our regular library was the beautiful OPB branch. When it reduced hours and essentially became a kiosk, we switched to the Main Library.

As patrons of the library and Santa Monica residents, we value continued investment in the library system, particularly for kids and young adults, and would advocate for bringing the branches currently on limited hours back into service.

This is a protection in the future for the education of our population, and a way for people to access tech when they may not be able to otherwise. Libraries serve a critical need, and Santa Monica should be at the forefront.

Best Regards,
Daniella
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
6 David Yakobson
From: Todo Sher <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 2:04 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library funding

EXTERNAL
As our country experiences uncertainty because of Trump’s DOGE cuts, it becomes more imperative that our libraries are funded on every level possible. They should remain the refuge that they have been for generations.

Please insure that libraries do not become extinct!
Thank you.

Arthur Sher
2050 Neilson Way #5-307
Santa Monica
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
7 David Yakobson
From: Carolyn Day <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:55 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Introduction Growing Hope Gardens

EXTERNAL
Hello Santa Monica COuncil folks,
We are a social and environmental nonprofit that was founded in Santa Monica in 2019 at Samoshel and continues to grow within Santa Monica.

I would like to come to a City Council meeting to introduce our impactful work in a public speaking portion of your meeting. COuld you please share when your next 2 meetings are.

In 2024:
- We lead a total of 20 Resident Gardens, with 14 in Santa Monica, in affordable and permanent supportive housing and homeless shelters. These are available to over 2000 low income residents - We lead a 1/4 acre regenerative farm across from the Virginia Park that grows 68varieties of edible vegetables, herbs and fruits
- We donated 65,000 pounds of fresh produce to Santa Monica low income residents - We collaborate with your Office of Sustainability
- We receive funding from the Saint John's Foundation, UC Davis, 3rd Supervisor District and the Annenberg Foundation
- We hosted 500 volunteers with many of them being Santa Monica residents - We collaborate with the LA LGBTQ Center to offer paid Urban Farm internships to their clients - We provide 22x $80 monthly humanitarian stipends for resident onsite garen ambassadors positions.

Thank you for letting us know when we can come to the City Council meeting and introduce ourselves. 3 of 4 employees are Santa Monica Residents and 2 of 5 Board members are also Santa Monica Residents
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
8 Regards,
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

Carolyn Day
Founder & Executive Director
Growing Hope Gardens
c. (310) 467-4949
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Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
9 David Yakobson
From: Hannah G <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 12:20 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SMPL Libraries - March 6 Comment

EXTERNAL
SM Public Libraries have never been restored to their formerly healthy community-serving selves since the pandemic.

Ocean Park has become a strange transactional book warehouse staffed by security two days a week.

No idea where the kids have gone who used to go there after school to study, read, use computers and play chess.

Fairview used to serve the Sunset Park community beautifully. All the kids after school, the neighbors dropping in, the staff greeting people. Did it ever reopen? Find our libraries so that the community, particularly kids, seniors and families can lean into their services. They are an important reflection of the health of our community.

Hannah Galloway
2800 Nelson Way
Santa Monica 90405
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
10 David Yakobson
From: Laura Adery <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 12:00 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please fund the Libraries!

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council members,
I am an Ocean Park resident and library constituent urging you to prioritize funding for the libraries. Libraries open accessibility for all people to a wide variety of crucial resources to help keep our community thriving. In addition the Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels. At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of self-service. This small increase, compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25, would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

Thank you very much,
Laura Adery, PhD
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
11 David Yakobson
From: Rev. Jim Conn <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:59 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Supporting Libraries

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and Council Members...

I am hoping that in the struggle with budget issues, you are able to provide support for our libraries. They matter!
JIM
Rev. Jim Conn
230 Pacific St #108
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310/392-5056
Associations:

CLUE - A Founding Member: www.cluejustice.org
Climate Action Santa Monica - Advisory Board
Asset Based Community Development: www.abcdinstitute.org/ United Methodist Minister - Retired: www.calpacUMC.org
Former Council Member and Mayor of Santa Monica
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
12 David Yakobson
From: Alexandra Morgan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:37 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library Funding

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I urge you to make funding Santa Monica Library a priority. I am an English instructor with with SMMUSD, and currently teach ESL to immigrants at both the Mail Library and Virginia Park. I have enormous respect for the librarians and staff members who are passionate about providing education and service to our community.

The Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels. 2 branches do not have any full-service hours and are only accessible 2 days per week.

The reduction in staff also impacts the availability of new books since processing times are slower with reduced staff.

At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of self-service.

Please vote for this small increase, which compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25,would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

Thank you.

Alexandra Morgan, MPW
125 Fraser Ave
Santa Monica 90405
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
13 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: I support FULL funding for ALL of our Santa Monica Library branches

EXTERNAL
Members of the City Council:

We see again and again what an invaluable asset our libraries are to our community and our residents. Please – especially with the slash and burn approach to all things democratic at the federal level – restore our library branch’s funding.

Our Ocean Park branch is such a valued part of our community. 2 days a week + 1 of self-service do not seem unreasonable to ask or expect.

The facts as I understand them are:
 The Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels  2 branches do not have any full-service hours and are only accessible 2 days per week  The reduction in staff also impacts the availability of new books since processing times are slower with reduced staff
 At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of self-service.
 This small increase, compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25, would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

I look forward to hearing from you.

With appreciation for your service,
Prisclla Burton
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
14 David Yakobson
From: Maggie Minogue <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:26 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support for Fairview Library

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica Councilmembers,
I write to express my support and love for the Fairview branch. It is a calm, consistent and cozy place for us to explore a world of books. It would be a real loss to our community if it were no longer available.

Appreciate your consideration,
Maggie, Sean, Armour (5) and Dot (2) Minogue
--
Maggie Minogue (she/her) | Head of Industry - Specialty Retail | P: 310.309.6801 Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
15 David Yakobson
From: Randall Klarin <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:25 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Library

EXTERNAL
Please reopen the libraries at Ocean Park and Fairview. They are the foundations of COMMUNITY.

Randall Klarin
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
16 David Yakobson
From: President Grant PTA <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:20 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Ellis Raskin
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support for Santa Monica's public schools

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
Thank you for your service to our wonderful City. As PTA President and a parent of children in SMMUSD schools, I'm writing to urge you to maintain the City's long-standing funding for our public schools, early childhood education, and youth services.

In my role as PTA President, I witness firsthand the profound positive impact of our strong public schools on students, their families, and our community. Every week, I see the dedication of our teachers, the engagement of our students, and the supportive network that makes our schools thrive. This investment directly translates to enriched learning experiences, enhanced student well-being, and a stronger community fabric. It is truly inspiring and reinforces my pride in living in a City that prioritizes public education.

I look forward to the continued, vital partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Steven Atamian
Grant Elementary PTA President
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
17 David Yakobson
From: Jean-Paul Buchanan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:18 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: City Libraries - South of Pico Blvd - Fairview and Ocean Park

EXTERNAL
I write to urge the city to fund all libraries equitably and provide services equitably across the city.

I am a resident of Ocean Park and I was a regular user of the Ocean Park library.

I believe that the equitable provision of services demands that the city must provide Ocean Park and Sunset Park the same library access that is provided to other neighborhoods.

I prefer that the city increases budget allocations to improve access in Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

However, if equitable access to libraries and services requires a shifting of funds from other branch libraries so be it.

Thank you
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
18 David Yakobson
From: Catherine Bidart <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 10:07 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: please restore library funding

EXTERNAL
Greetings,
I live in Ocean Park and used to regularly use our local library. I urge you to restore funding to our library.

Here are some key facts from Ocean Park Association, from library staff:
 The Library Budget is still only 88% of 2019 funding levels and 66% of 2019 staffing levels
 2 branches do not have any full-service hours and are only accessible 2 days per week
 The reduction in staff also impacts the availability of new books since processing times are slower with reduced staff
 At the February Library Board meeting, Director Cuyugan provided a preliminary estimate of $550,000 to $650,000 to restore full service at Fairview and Ocean Park branches for two days per week plus one day of self-service.  This small increase, compared to the City's overall General Fund operating budget of $450 million for FY 24-25, would make a meaningful difference for the approximately 28,000 residents of Ocean Park and Sunset Park.

Thank you so much for considering all of this.

Best,
Catherine
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
19 David Yakobson
From: Ana Martinez <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:50 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: We love our libraries
Attachments: 20250306_084842.jpg

EXTERNAL
Hello,
I'm writing in support of our local libraries in Santa Monica. We love to get electronic books to read from home, checking out the library at Virginia Park when we go to the farmers market, and visiting our local Ocean Park library as a self serve location.

Please prioritize this important service to the community in the budget! Ana Martinez
Marine st. Santa Monica CA 90405
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
20 David Yakobson
From: Kaitlin Palmer <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:44 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Save the libraries

EXTERNAL
To whom it may concern,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to kindly request that the city council continues to allocate funding for the library programs dedicated to young children. These programs play a crucial role in fostering early literacy, creativity, and a love of learning in our community’s youngest members. My husband and baby have enjoyed walking the aisles and joining for story times. What a magical way to introduce the love and importance of reading at such a young age.

Access to these resources is vital for their development, and the library is an invaluable space for children and families. I strongly urge you to support continued funding to ensure these opportunities remain available.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Kaitlin Palmer Martini
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
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21 David Yakobson
From: Grace Sobey <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:34 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Importance of Ocean Park Library for My Infant Daughter - Budget Considerations

EXTERNAL
Dear Council members
I am writing to express the immense value that the Ocean Park Library holds for my family, particularly for my 5-month-old daughter.

Even at this early age, the library has become a cherished part of our routine. The vast collection of board books and age-appropriate materials provides essential opportunities for early literacy development and sensory exploration.

The library offers a calm and welcoming environment where I can introduce my daughter to the joy of books and foster a love of reading from the very beginning. It's a safe and stimulating space for her to explore, and I know it will be an invaluable resource as she grows. The ability to browse and borrow books is a crucial service that benefits our family immensely.

As the council considers budget allocations, I implore you to recognize the profound impact that the Ocean Park Library has on young families like mine. It is a vital community resource that supports early childhood development.

Please prioritize funding for the Ocean Park Library to ensure that it can continue to provide these essential services to our youngest residents and future generations.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Grace Chapman, 2520 5th St, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Tel: 650-680-8555 Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
22 David Yakobson
From: Paula Larmore <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, March 5, 2025 11:34 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B: Support for continued City funding for Santa Monica's public schools

I look forward to the continued partnership between the City and SMMUSD.

With Gratitude,
Paula Larmore
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025
Item 11-B
March 8, 2025

Santa Monica City CouncilMarch 8, 2025

Santa Monica City Council
March 8, 2025