Written Comments — Santa Monica City Council, March 11, 2025

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1 David Yakobson
From: Arthur Jeon <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 12:32 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Cc: Phil Brock; Douglas Sloan; City of Santa Monica; Clerk Mailbox; Jeanette Gant; Micah Akerson; Erika Aklufi; Danielle Noble; Ramon Batista; [email protected]; Roberto Lucio; Thomas McLaughlin; Jose Rodriguez; Annette Farmer; Maryanne LaGuardia; Albin Gielicz; Alisha Brady; [email protected]; Arati Desai Wagabaza; Lori Brown; John Smith; John Alle; Evan Meyer; [email protected]; Luke Cain; Peter Bosen; [email protected]; Elaine Golden-Gealer; Eric Sedman; Michele Aronson; Aisling Winders; Julia Ladd; Peter TRINH; Anuj Gupta; [email protected]; dominic gomez; Jenna Grigsby; Attorney Mailbox; Shawn R. Kehoe; Andrew Thomas (Downtown Santa Monica); SMDP Editor; Susan Cline; [email protected]; Michele A Wittig; [email protected]; Attorney Mailbox; Joe; Jenny Rush; Stan Epstein; Gary Tsai; [email protected]; Zina Josephs; Leah; Lauren Howland; [email protected]; Matthew Hall; Richard Drapkin; [email protected]; Planning Commission Comments; Dawn Fairchild; [email protected]; councilmtgitems; [email protected]; Dan Charn.; [email protected]; Gerardo Leyva; Carlos Jaen; Brandon Capiro; Kelly Simon; Mario Fonda-Bonardi; Jing Yeo; Albin Gielicz; Scott McGee; Gerardo Leyva; Ryan Gradle; Roy Brown; Frank Marnell; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Kim Pieper; Third District; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Robert Coleman; [email protected]; [email protected]; Alyssa G; [email protected]
Subject: Priorities: Performative versus Performance

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
You have inherited a city on the brink, with a lot of problems (we’re broke!). And, of course, with a lot of potential, if we keep our priorities straight.

But as you consider levying a staggering bond tax ($460 million) on residents, you are also inexplicably deciding to launch a task force to "explore both monetary and non-monetary reparations options.” To be paid with what money? Not to mention each member of this 'task force' will be paid $2500 for their opinions. Ha!
You have also managed to find money to hire a consulting firm to conduct a “cannabis equity assessment” to explore “barriers faced by marginalized communities in the cannabis industry.” I know, it sounds like a joke, but it’s not. And how much did that consulting firm cost? I realize the money spent on these two pieces of performative virtue signaling is a drop in the bucket of debt that is drowning us. But the energy, time, and attention include real opportunity costs, as they will drawn from staff, our new city manager, and the council. They will distract us from our ongoing crisis: we are broke, and our downtown is still overrun by addicts openly using and dealing drugs. These two Item 5-C
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2 initiatives signal to residents that your priorities are in the wrong place, and worse, that you are not serious people.

Here are two opportunities to show leadership and that you understand our real problems and opportunities:

1. Civic Auditorium: Approve the public/private partnership (agree to the revised Exclusive Negotiating Agreement) and start the process of restoring a world-class performing arts center. It will bring people from all over the world and help revitalize the city. This is a no-brainer.

2. Pali High at the Sears Building: Thousands of kids being dropped off by doting parents will activate that dead zone, bring foot traffic to the promenade, and naturally flush out the addicts that have taken over that area of our downtown, courtesy of our misplaced shelter, (which should be moved ASAP). Do whatever you can to enable Pali high to come to the Sear’s Building.

Finally, I challenge you to take a walk at dusk on Santa Monica Blvd., the street named after our city, without the hair on your neck standing up and your heart breaking. The city, with declining downtown revenues from both hotels and retail, will not recover until this issue is solved. Many of us have been saying this for years, and it has, unfortunately stayed true—because reality just doesn’t care what you believe.

Show the city that you understand our problems by prioritizing what’s critical first. Solve the problems we have, not your personal agenda to right every wrong in the world through questionable means. That’s a luxury we can’t afford.

Sincerely,
Arthur Jeon
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1 David Yakobson
From: Lisa L Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 5:23 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Save the OUR CIVIC AUDITORIUM SENT TO YOU FROM A 72 YEAR OLD SANTA

MONICA NATIVE

EXTERNAL
TO EVERYONE LISTED ABOVE:

I was born here in 1952 and I remember all the events we used to enjoy before the City closed the Civic Center! Is it possible even some of you sitting on our City Council have NEVER attended an event there? Yet you want to close it without ever enjoying an event there.

Please save our Civic Auditorium it is worth saving and we do not need another Homeless Shelter or Nail Salon (Montana Avenue) We need something to bring people back into our town to spend money not to attack people and take advantage of our obvious vulnerabilities!
BRING BACK OUR CIVIC AUDITORIUM SO WE CAN locally enjoy all the various cultural shows like we used to do! I miss the vintage textile show, jewelry gem show, cat show and various rock and roll concerts do not dismantle the things that can bring revenue into our City coffers we already cannot fund our Pension requirements and if you keep doling money out for all the sexual abuse and not figure out any way to (except by the continual overtaxing of local business owners and residents) than I believe you will fail at bringing our city financially back to stand on its own.

Sincerely,
Lisa L Olson
310-6725-7117
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2 David Yakobson
From: Rosemary Ford <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 4:57 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, built by master architect Welton Becket in 1959, is an iconic mid-century building that played a pivotal role in Santa Monica's cultural life. The Civic Auditorium, with an innovative mixed-use program, combining a concert hall, theater, trade show, and convention center, the Civic was designed to serve a broad segment of the community. Thus, along with Santa Monica Conservancy, I endorse RPG's efforts to revitalize this iconic building as a community asset.

RPG has the proven ability to restore and finance the Civic by revitalizing this landmark property to its rightful position as an important economic engine for the city as a magnet for new business and tourism, as a compelling 21st century performing arts venue for people of all ages, and as a point of civic pride for residents showcasing how historic rehabilitation, neighborhood legacy, community partnerships, sustainability, and business can all operate together to shine a positive and exciting light on Santa Monica.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Rosemary Ford
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3 David Yakobson
From: Susan Lewis <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 3:41 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Save the Civic Auditorium
Honorable Mayor & Council,
51 years ago I drove from Orange County and saw my first live concert at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium—Paul Simon. Two years later I moved to Ocean Park and literally walked to shows. Then was able to enjoy scores of concerts from all the top stars of the day: Bowie, Iggy Pop, Queen, the Go-Gos, Blondie, Beach Boys, The Nutcracker, and on and on. It was a sad day when the Civic closed and I stopped seeing music in my home town. I still see music but I must drive across town, and deal with traffic, the expense of dinner, price of show itself which is always in the hundreds of dollars, and parking.

I would much rather spend the money to help my local economy, right here at home in Santa Monica.

When it is restored to a world-class venue, it will be the best PR the City can have, a source of pride, enjoyment and revenue for Santa Monica residents. Plus it will help fill restaurants, eateries, and shops from Main Street to Santa Monica Place.

Please support the RPG proposal and sign the ENA. It is the right thing to do and the smart thing to do.

Susan Lewis
Santa Monica home and business owner for 38 years.

E: [email protected]
M: 310-466-7899
www.lewiscommunications.net
press: www.aboutthegear.com
ASC Associate Member
WiM 2024 Icon Award
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4 David Yakobson
From: Larry Arnstein <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 3:16 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: "3/11/25 agenda 5-C - Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
You Can Do it! So please Do!!
Larry Arnstein
1601 Hill St.

Santa Monia, CA 90405
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From: Ed Fraiman <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 3:04 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Supporting RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, built by master architect Welton Becket in 1959, is an iconic midcentury building that played a pivotal role in Santa Monica's cultural life. The Civic Auditorium, with an innovative mixed-use program, combining a concert hall, theater, trade show, and convention center, the Civic was designed to serve a broad segment of the community. Thus, along with Santa Monica Conservancy, I endorse RPG's efforts to revitalize this iconic building as a community asset.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely yours,
Ed Fraiman and Eriko Kobayashi
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6 David Yakobson
From: Carla Finnerman <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 1:26 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Lifelong resident, Carla Finnerman

EXTERNAL
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7 David Yakobson
From: Robin Danar <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 1:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SAMO Civic

EXTERNAL
"The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers."
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8 David Yakobson
From: Dan J. <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 12:03 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: regarding Item 5.C and in general support for saving the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Members of City Council,
I am writing in support of saving the Civic Auditorium, and signing the ENA to convert the facililty into a world-class performing-arts center. There are many people here, both over and under 50 years of age, who understand the significance of this building to the community. Please do the right thing and save the facility for the benefit of the community, and the region.

Thank you,
Daniel Jansenson
_______________________
Daniel Jansenson Architect
telephone: 310.451.5907
1424 4th St. 221
Santa Monica, CA 90401
www.danjansenson.com
www.linkedin.com/in/danieljansenson
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1 David Yakobson
From: Mike Bone <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 2:39 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 Agenda Item 5C: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Hello -
I appreciate your help. My letter below was not included in the public record. Could you please add it? I have lowered the quote level for convenience.

Thank you.

Mike Bone
[email protected]
Mobile 310 795 3231
Begin forwarded message:

From: Mike Bone <[email protected]>
Subject: The Santa Monice Civic
Date: March 10, 2025 at 2:40:41 PM PDT
To: "To: Lana Negrete" <[email protected]>, Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>, Ellis Raskin <[email protected]>, Barry Snell <[email protected]>, Dan Hall <[email protected]>, Natalya Zernitskaya <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>
Cc: Nia Tang <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "Susan Cola [email protected]" <[email protected]>, [email protected] I spent my entire professional life in the music industry. Concerts and records.

Sadly records has gone away, but the live business is stronger than ever.

People want the LIVE experience. You can not download it….it doesn’t look great on the TV and the whole “let’s go to the movie theater to see a concert DOES NOT WORK.

People want to see it live.

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2 We are lucky in Santa Monica, where I have lived for 33 years. We have a venue that COULD be one of the greats again IF you do the right thing and let people that know the business run the Santa Monica Civic.

Back in the day, I have seen many concerts at the Civic and I am not just speaking about Stairway of the Stars.

There is not another mid size room on the West Side of LA. The Civic could be a very busy venue and an economic driver for the City IF you are not short sighted.

Don’t go for the quick infusion of cash….go for the long dollar….a venue that provides tax revenue from restaurants and hotels income from concerts as well as the city being a landlord for this majesty historic venue. A busy Santa Monica Civic will be an economic driver for us.

Hey, the T.A.M.I. Show was filmed at the Santa Monica Civic.  The Beach Boys
 The Supremes
 The Rolling Stones
 James Brown
 Marvin Gaye
 Lesley Gore
 Chuck Berry
 Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Mike Bone
[email protected]
310 795 3231 mobile
“Sometimes dreams are best left where they came from, your sleep.” Chris Blackwell Item 5-C
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1 David Yakobson
From: Louise Steiner <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 11:57 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council members, please do the right by voting for the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group, so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

The Civic Auditorium is a cultural & architectural treasure that must be saved & enjoyed by not only SM residents but tourists as well.

I have lived near & have wonderful memories of the Civic for over 45 years.

It is a precious thing to me.

Thank you, Lou Steiner
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From: Karen Croner <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 11:55 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 5C - 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council
How exciting that you have the opportunity to revive Santa Monica in a way that will bring great revenue to the city!
You can proudly save the Santa Monica Civic so that there will be a new draw to the city that will bring life and arts to Santa Monica. If you want to get people to move here, you need to provide a draw. The numerous
empty apartments are a sign the city needs more of a cultural identity - and to have fabulous music and shows
in OUR civic center will be something you can take great pride in. It will attract folks from all over, will help the
tourist business. Win win for all. And certainly an achievement that will help you in your future political careers!
You have the chance to do real good here. Imagine all the amazing bands and acts that will come play here!
And folks will go to the restaurants, repopulate downtown, the city will come alive! It’s so exciting! Please vote to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group,
so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Karen Croner
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4 David Yakobson
From: Bob Taylor <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 11:49 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Honorable Mayor & Council,
You well know that, as the Save The Civic coalition has stated, with overwhelming support of residents; "The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.” The Civic had proven itself for more that fifty years as a ‘go to’ venue and can once again be that missing cog in the wheel of Santa Monica economics. Please support the RPG proposal and sign the ENA.

Optimistically thanking you in advance for doing the right thing.

Bob Taylor,
Ocean Park resident
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5 David Yakobson
From: Esther Chung <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 11:48 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems
Subject: Our historic Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayors and Council Members,
Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Sincerely,
Esther Chung
1247 Eucld St.

Santa Monica, CA 90404
l
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6 David Yakobson
From: Jaleh MIRHASHEMI <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 11:35 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall
Cc: Elaine Polachek; Christopher J. Smith; Ramon Batista; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; Jenna Grigsby; Erika Aklufi; Sofia Klatzker; Jenny Rogers; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Steven Johnson; Maryanne LaGuardia; John Smith; Lori Brown; Barry Rosenbaum; [email protected]; Susan Cline
Subject: City Council Meeting - 3/11/25 - Item 5.C. Closed Session - Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, and Esteemed Councilmembers:

We have been waiting very long to renovate and reopen our Santa Monica's landmark Civic Auditorium. Reviving the Civic Auditorium as a destination for performing arts and a cultural center like it was in the past, is a dream for the Santa Monica residents and many others.

The Revitalization Partners Group (RPG), LLC has submitted their Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with you. Considering that they offer to save our public land with no need for any public funds, it would be a great opportunity for our city. The reopening of the Civic Auditorium would have a great impact on our city's economy as well.

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please VOTE TO SIGN THE ENA with the RPG to revitalize and reopen the Civic Auditorium without any delay.

Please move forward this once-in- a- lifetime opportunity/deal. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Sincerely,
Jaleh Mirhashemi
Co-Chair, Civic Center Task Force
Resident, 24 years
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7 David Yakobson
From: Info Save the Civic <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 10:29 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; [email protected]; Susan Cola; councilmtgitems; [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Response to Councilmember Zwick

EXTERNAL
-
Februray 27, 2025
Jesse Zwick’s column opposing restoring the Civic Auditorium, delisting it as a landmark, and selling the land, is divisive, ageist, and heartbreaking. All the more so because as a Councilmember he’s supposed to represent all Santa Monicans, even those over fifty for whom he has such contempt. (Why “save a building to which no one under 50 has the faintest attachment?”)
Zwick’s position seems to be: Why place any cultural value on historic achievements in music, literature, art, dance if they outdate you and weren’t part of your own life? If that’s the standard that defines our shared experience what would make the cut?
And if, hopefully, he’s just being provocative, and thinks SOME historical places are worthy, why wouldn’t publicly owned and celebrated ones be at the top of the list? Zwick forcefully opposes having our Civic leased and restored as a cultural and economic resource in favor of something he knows the City cannot do: sell the “asset” for “likely close to $100 million.”
As Zwick and the previous Council understood, demolishing the Civic – which is on the National Register of Historic Places - would be the only way the City could cash out on the land on which it sits, which was publicly known when the school district was vying to turn the Civic into a gym a year ago.

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8 Any attempt to demolish the Civic and sell the land, including the soccer field, would unleash an epic legal battle that would drag on for years.

The fastest way for the City to shore up its finances would be to seize the opportunity that’s before the Council: keep the Civic publicly owned and move quickly to restore it into a world-class venue without ANY public cost.

That’s why City leaders (and former ones) embraced this moment: A reborn Civic would be an economic engine for a thriving downtown, bringing back restaurants, hotels, and other small businesses throughout the area.

Here are some other misleading arguments Zwick used to oppose the restoration of the Civic:
· Claiming that some Santa Monicans believe the Civic is “worth preserving at any cost;” (the public support for restoring the Civic is based on private enterprise bearing the entire cost and the city reaping revenues from its rejuvenation);
· Conflating “pressing (city) needs” with “some costs are simply too high to bear;” (our City isn’t being asked to “bear” any costs – there’s a consortium of entertainment heavyweights that proposes to “bear the costs);” and · Asserting that this is “such a large giveaway of public resources” and that City leaders would be “giving away for free” the “asset best poised to dig our city out of its current financial hole;” (No public resources are being given away: the Civic project envisions a long-term lease of our public land, and the Civic Auditorium would remain publicly owned as it should, providing economic benefits to our City for many years to come).

One wonders which side Councilmember Zwick would have been on fifty years ago when a majority of short-sighted councilmembers voted to demolish the historic Santa Monica Pier and replace it with a floating hotel (overturned by voters).

Hopefully, this Council will be on the right side of history.

Save the Civic Steering Committee
###
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9 David Yakobson
From: John Cyrus Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 10:28 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek
Subject: 3-11-25 ITEM 5C CIVIC

EXTERNAL
https://smdp.com/opinion/why-saving-the-civic-may-save-the-city/ The following is an editorial published recently in the SM Daily Press in response to an editorial by a Councilmember, on why the Civic may SAVE the city, if you give it a chance.

Thank you,
John Cyrus Smith
[email protected]
Dear Editor,
If you ever want to know how Santa Monica City Council members feel about a certain issue, you’d be wise to look beyond the latest Council meeting agenda for answers.

I say this because our new Council (which includes four new members and three others with less than a full term on the job) has given the group trying to save and renovate the Civic Auditorium only until Friday, February 28th, to make a deal, but they never mentioned it at all during Tuesday’s Council meeting three days before.

But I did, right off the bat. Item 1: Public Input. That’s when anyone can comment for two minutes on any item or issue not listed on the agenda.

And I packed a lot in those two minutes, briefly reminding our younger Council newbies about the Civic’s storied past, but focusing more on how its potential second life could help revitalize a downtown which struggled even before the pandemic and continues to languish because of public safety issues, a financially-strapped mall, a Promenade past its prime and now the Palisades Fire.

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10 I told them how other Councils had made Civic mistakes, how the city never really marketed it all that well and how red tape and rising costs made it increasingly harder for promoters to rent it, fill it and still turn a profit. I learned all this as a member of the original ‘Save the Civic’ group in 2012, when experts with the Urban Land Institute concluded the city should “Set the dream and renovate the Civic as a cultural icon.” I was also there at City Council the night the Santa Monica Symphony’s late conductor, Guido Lamell, brought his violin to City Hall and played his case for the Civic’s saving. But his beautiful song, that Council and that effort, ultimately failed.

Other Councils lacked the foresight to re-direct the money that built the Broad/SMC theater complex at the ‘nowhere’ location of 11th & Santa Monica Boulevard, and renovate the Civic instead. City Hall also failed to save our only bowling alley and all those yummy restaurants and shops across the street on Pico that could have created and enhanced a re-opened Civic experience. Who wouldn’t wanted to have a nice dinner downtown, see a show at the new Civic, then go for a short stroll near the beach before heading home?
A renovated Civic Auditorium could be just what our city needs to resurrect and revitalize our downtown core. Imagine performers such as Sting doing a two or three-week engagement, followed by five nights of the Foo Fighters unplugged or a run of Beyonce at the Beach performances.

The five entities that make up RPG, the Revitalization Partners Group behind this current restoration effort, include concert pros such as ‘Live Nation’ and the ‘Azoff Group.’ RPG says they can re-create the Civic, preserve much of its landmarked features and bring in world-class entertainers at no cost to the city.

This week one City Council member penned an editorial against the idea under the headline, ‘Save the Civic or Save the City?’
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11 Why can’t we do both? Maybe the CIVIC can save the CITY.

Bottom line: The current Council should give these new negotiations a fighting chance. Let’s see the numbers and a detailed proposal. Let’s see what RPG can come up with. Did you know two of the RPG principals lost their homes during the fires? But that didn’t stop them from also quickly putting together the Fire Aid Concert that raised $100 million dollars for fire relief. Sounds exactly like the kind of people we need to help the Civic earn its new future as Southern California’s premiere beachside concert venue.

Voters have long forgotten the mistakes of past Council members who failed to close a deal, but they will remember this current Council as either the one that made the biggest mistake of all and killed the Civic forever… or the council that made history and saved it.

Sincerely,
John C. Smith,
Santa Monica Recreation and Parks Commissioner

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12 David Yakobson
From: John Cyrus Smith <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 10:20 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek
Subject: 3-11-25 ITEM 5C CIVIC -- VIDEO -- THE LAST PERFORMANCE AT THE CIVIC

AUDITORIUM

EXTERNAL
I HAVE ATTACHED this video and hope you'll share it. What a moment it was... May of 2013, the very last live musical performance at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. A Tchaikovsky concert performed by the Santa Monica Symphony, under the direction of the late Maestro Guido Lamell. I remember meeting him and suggesting he bring his violin to the City Council meeting and "play" his case for keeping the Civic alive and open. He played wonderfully in Chambers that night, to rousing applause, but to no avail. Here we are now, a dozen years later. Give the Civic a chance at a new future! https://studio.youtube.com/video/SY2jUCRSTnM/edit
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For the record…I was a member of the original Save the Civic group founded in November 2012 as a coalition of concerned community members and local business leaders working towards the common goal of restoring and enhancing the Civic Auditorium’s place as a vibrant cultural and community hub.

John Cyrus Smith
[email protected]

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
13 David Yakobson
From: Lori Nafshun <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 10:13 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; [email protected]; Susan Cola; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 Agenda Item 5C: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Honorable Council Members,
All of the variables for the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium are in place for success.

The Civic is:
• Walking distance from the light rail
• Walking distance to the beach
• Walking distance to the pier
• Walking distance to shops and restaurants.
• The Civic is an Architecturally Significant Building
The Group of experts (RPG) who want to restore and operate the Civic (at no expense to taxpayers):
• have solid financial backing.
• have solid concert experience.
• have the passion, as seen with The Forum.

Your predecessors in 2013 knew they did not have the necessary funding to do what was necessary to revitalize the Civic, but chose to maintain the structure until such time as the funding was available.

For my children, the idea of being able to ride their bikes to a venue to see concerts, instead of having to drive east for over an hour, is a dream come true. Like many their age, they spend a lot of their earned money on live music performances.

Post Covid, people, sadly, are visiting movie theaters and dining out less.

The overall gross for the top 100 touring artists in North American venues is $6.18 billion in 2024. The concert business is thriving.

We can benefit from those tax dollars and potential ticket fees.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
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14 This is what the public wants. It’s part of our Civic Center. It belongs to us.

Stay the course!
Sincerely,
Lori Nafshun
655 Ashland Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
15 David Yakobson
From: Mario Fonda-Bonardi <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 9:42 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic Center Auditorium Item 5C
Attachments: Civic Auditorium 2.0..pdf

EXTERNAL
Dear Council members,
Please approve the Civic Center Auditorium ENA with RPG to ensure our City's artistic, cultural, entertainment and tourist based future. For additional background please find attached an article that appeared 2/1/25 in the Santa Monica Mirror. Your support for this initiative is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Photo by https://customrodder.forumactif.org/
Bring Back The Music
On January 28th, 2025 the City Council did a wise thing and agreed to continue the process, for 30 days, of negotiating an agreement to revitalize the abandoned Civic Center Auditorium. These negotiations had been moving forward for months (as expected for such a monumental endeavor) between the City of Santa Monica and the music consortium RPG (Revitalization Partners Group). That group was proposing to the City that it would enter into a long term lease and provide the landmarked building with substantial improvements including seismic upgrading, handicap accessibility, a modern sound system, acoustic and seating improvements, and other significant upgrades. When completed RPG would then operate it as a signature 21st century music venue.

This is a deal the City can’t and shouldn’t refuse. We now have a perfect storm for resurrecting this underperforming City asset. All the pieces are now in place to reactivate this building as a musical Mecca for the following reasons:

Location, location, location
This approximately 2500 seat 1958 auditorium is perfectly located as a music destination. First, it is at the end of two significant transit arteries (the 10 freeway and the expo line) making it easy access for the entire 10 million person metropolis. It is also just 20 minutes from LAX likewise making it easy access for visiting performing stars and their adoring fans.

Second it is surrounded on three sides by seven adjacent major hotels again providing easy accommodations for visitors and performers. Third the City’s beach culture and known close by amenities (eg the Pier, the 3rd Street promenade etc.) will enhance and improve the visitor’s and performer’s experience adding to their desire to attend musical events here. Fourth there are no nearby mid size performing arts venues (the Broad Auditorium seats only 500 people).

And finally the High School’s Barnum Hall and Greek theater are nearby (but far enough away Item 5-C
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Item 5-C
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to avoid sound interference) so that simultaneous music events could occur in a music festival format drawing a larger audience base. There is virtually no midsize music venue with all these significant advantages in the LA basin.

A credible partner
The City ran the Civic Auditorium for 55 years before it closed in 2013 because the City did not have a way to raise the millions of dollars ($50M to$150M were being discussed) to do all the necessary improvements. Also the City did not have the staff and skill set to manage and market a 21st Century music venue. After an extensive search and testing various alternatives its taken a dozen years to find a credible partner who can manage such a turn around for this important building. RPG is the best and probably only credible partner that the City can find.

RPG are a demonstrably successful music team that has years of experience in revitalizing old venues for new music uses. As an example of their capabilities, while two of their principals lost their homes in the Palisades Fire, in just two weeks they still managed to stage Fire Aid, a dual venue televised fundraising extravaganza that raised $100 million and counting for the victims of the fire. Such civic spirit combined with decades of connections with hundreds of performers even at a time of grievous personal loss, is an incredible testament to their qualifications and stamina needed for this project. We are fortunate to have them onboard.

A significant landmark
If the building has so many expensive deficiencies why not just tear it down and sell the land? The City is broke and needs the money so why not just cash out now? Such an approach would make sense if this was, for example just an ordinary warehouse or office building in some forgotten corner of the City, but this highly visible building has one of the most distinguished pedigrees of any building in Santa Monica. There are 6 criteria for a landmark in Santa Monica; but a building qualifies as a landmark if it meets only one of the criteria. Most buildings meet only one or two criteria. However this building checks ALL six of the boxes:

1. It signifies an important cultural element of the City: Hundreds of important cultural icons and groups played here from Frank Sinatra, to the Supremes, to the Beach boys, to U2, to Billy Joel, to the Rolling Stones, to Ella Fitzgerald, to Bruce Springsteen, to Prince, the list goes on and on and on. If you saw the entire list of all music stars that have performed here it would blow your mind.

2. It has artistic or aesthetic value: while a simple overall shape, the detailing and shape of the dynamic front spires, canopy and screen wall capture the exuberance and optimism of midcentury modern architecture.

3. It is identified with historic events or personages (see item#1 above): in the early sixties this building, among its many roles hosted the Academy Awards: it was the sexiest auditorium in the late 50’s and early 60’s to have such a signature event. It also symbolizes a boom period of Santa Monica history when we could still invest in symbolic and real support for the arts.

4. It is valuable for the study of architectural trends, construction methods, aesthetic considerations of its time: the movable stage was revolutionary and was a significant multipurpose element, the entrance esplanade had a distinctive 50’s reflective pool (now covered), and the sculpted swooping side and arched roof are also symbolic (and low cost) ways of trying to break out of the box which has finally been fully achieved by subsequent architects like Frank Gehry among others.

5. It is associated with a famous architect: Welton Becket’ (1902-1969) whose firm is the architect of record for auditorium and he lived for a time in Santa Monica. His assistant Louis Naidorf was still alive last year at age 96 and worked on the auditorium as chief architect.

Becket’s firm designed countless buildings including the futuristic Theme Restaurant at LAX, Item 5-C
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the Capital Records Building in Hollywood (the first circular office building), the Mark Taper forum, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion etc.etc. At its time Becket and Associates was one of the largest architectural firms in the world.

6. It is a unique location and an established visual feature: its a cultural icon facing down its commercial counterpart, Santa Monica Place, at the other end of Main Street. It maintains pride of place anchoring confidently the South corner of our public Civic Center Complex.

Because it is such a super qualified distinguished landmark for our City, it is not surprising the it is also a Nationally Registered Landmark which brings with it potential tax advantages for the renovation process. This is an architectural gem of value not just to Santa Monica, but to our whole country.

A beloved Icon
Everyone who has lived in Santa Monica for any length of time has some connection to this building. If you love live music you may have had the awesome experience of seeing one or many of your stars perform there. If you were a music student in the public schools music programs, you might played in the annual school musician extravaganza called Stairway to the Stars. If you loved sports you might have seen the American Fencing National championships there. If you loved cats you might have gone to a cat show there. If you were interested in ecology you might have browsed at an ecological products fair there. If you were interested in going to college you might have attended a college fair in this auditorium. If you were interested in Civic issues you might have participated in a meeting or workshop in the meeting rooms next to the main hall (while the main hall was closed for seismic reasons the adjacent meeting rooms were considered seismically safe for use in the last 12 years). In other words everyone has had an important experience of this building in its countless capacities. By providing so many rewarding experiences to so many, for two thirds of a century, it has become beloved by virtually all its visitors and residents. To lose this building would obliterate all those positive memories.

While there are negative memories for the Black neighborhood that was destroyed to make the Civic center complex (see the April Banks sculpture at Bel Mar Park), the destruction of one cultural asset is not righted by destroying another cultural asset.

Too valuable to abandon
Some say the City is too poor to rehabilitate this cultural asset. That’s the beauty of the RPG proposal: the City does not have to pony up any money for the rehab since the RPG is funding the entire rehab. But even with no cash investment today, the City will still get all the long term benefits of increased parking fees, sales taxes, hotel occupancy taxes, business taxes and advertising value, from the increased business activity of having a functioning iconic music venue in its center. Those who are considering selling the land and demolishing it (if at all legal) would have to consider, not just the irreparable loss of this icon, but also the destructive impact to all landmarks, as they now would be all consequently endangered. Destroying a nationally registered landmark when a viable path for its rehabilitation is already here, would be snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, and will make Santa Monica a cultural pariah. The resurrection of the Civic Auditorium is supported by many individuals and groups including but not limited to Save the Civic and the Santa Monica Conservancy.

So this is a significant local and national landmark, at a great location, with a credible rehabilitation partner, and beloved by all: it is now time for the City Council to finish the job ASAP: conclude the negotiations with RPG and start the process envisioned in the negotiated Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
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agreement to bring the Civic back to life. We are so close to giving this building a new life. Now is not the time to vacillate: Its time to Bring Back the Music.

By Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
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16 David Yakobson
From: phillis dudick <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 8:54 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan; councilmtgitems
Subject: AGENDA ITEM 5C /MARCH 11, 2025

EXTERNAL
Honorable Mayor Negrete Honorable Councilmembers:

As a strong supporter of the Civic, I urge Council to
to sign the ENA with RPG. We now have, perhaps, a rare opportunity to work with a group of extreme stature and expertise in the entertainment community willing to put its resources together to Save the Civic.

No bond measure for taxpayers, no cost to the City budget, and Santa Monica will still own its land.

Once again the iconic Civic, restored and revitalized, can rise to become the center for the performing arts on the Westside, for residents of all ages, guests, and a great enhancement for tourism.

Let us seize the moment!
Sincerely,
Phillis Dudick
Santa Monica Resident

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
17 David Yakobson
From: Brian O'Neil <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 8:53 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan.Hall. @santamonica.gov; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya Cc: PNA; Brian ONeil; Tony Huizar; Maria Loya
Subject: 3/11/25 City Council Item 5C- Approve signing the ENA with RPG to restore the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
March 11, 2025
To: City Council Members
From: Board of Directors, Pico Neighborhood Association (PNA) Re: 3/11/25 Item 5C -- City Council must approve signing the ENA with RPG to restore the Civic Auditorium and help in the revitalization of Santa Monica Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The Pico Neighborhood Association (PNA) Board of Directors asks the City Council to move forward with the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) to restore the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. We urge the Council to agree to the revised ENA and direct the City to pursue this process so that Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, begin the revitalization of our downtown, and create badly-needed future revenue streams controlled by our City.

Why?
· A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic multiplier effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

Item 5-C
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18 · A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.
· Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.
· A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City.
· Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city?
· Don’t sell our public land out; keep the history and future revenue stream under Santa Monica control.

For all of the above reasons, please move forward with the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) to restore the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium!
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
19 David Yakobson
From: Tom Larmore <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 8:53 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; [email protected]; Dan Hall; [email protected]; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Council Meeting 3/11 - Agenda Item 5C - Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
I haven’t had a chance to review the proposed ENA mentioned in the description of this Agenda Item so I cannot comment on its specific terms. However, I am extremely skeptical of any effort to restore this building and bring it back to life as a performing arts center. This might be a good idea if the building didn’t require millions of dollars to repair and if the City was not in a severe budget crunch. The City has made several attempts over the last 15 to 20 years to bring this building back to a useful purpose, all to no avail. I would much prefer that the City follow Councilmember Zwick’s approach which will put the City in a strong financial position. The City created the mess we’re in due to a lack of appropriate procedures and oversight in connection with the PAL disaster and should now use its assets to resolve the problem rather than threaten to divert tax revenues away from our public schools and/or impose a new tax on residents .

Tom Larmore

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
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20 David Yakobson
From: Byrnadette Di santo <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 8:34 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
byrnadette di santo
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
21 David Yakobson
From: Michele Modglin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 7:49 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
michele modglin
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
22 David Yakobson
From: Cheryl Clark <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 7:37 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Cheryl Clark
Sent from my iPad
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Annspun <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 11:00 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item (5C ) SM City Council Meeting , Tuesday 3/11/25

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council Members,
I have been a resident of Santa Monica for 48 years
and I have fond memories of attending many
concerts and special events at the now deceased Civic
Center.

It brought a bit of the outside world into our small community.

Now in my 70’s, all my friends, associates, children
and grandchildren are excited to experience a
revitalization of our Civic Center for all the right
reasons.

I am writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. (Item 5 C on 3/11 SM City Council Agenda)
Sincerely,
Ann Greenspun
Past SM Chamber Chair
Past Bayside District Boardmember
Past SMMEF Board Member
Past Samohi PTSA President
Current SMNOMA Boardmember
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
2 David Yakobson
From: Sue Ferrell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 10:48 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members:

This message is a plea to vote for the city to sign the negotiating agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group. Operation of the venue will increase spending in the city, leading to increased tax revenue, and provide a convenient entertainment venue for local residents and performers (such as the Santa Monica Orchestra). Please do not miss this opportunity to revitalize our historic Civic Auditorium at no cost to the city.

Elizabeth Ferrell
Harvey Ferrell
33815th Street
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
3 David Yakobson
From: S SSC <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 10:29 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Sumeet Chugh
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
4 David Yakobson
From: Harpriya Chugh <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 10:28 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Harpriya chugh
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
5 David Yakobson
From: Elizabeth Van Denburgh <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 10:22 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Cc: Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan
Subject: 3/11/2025 - City Council Item 5.C -- City Council must approve signing the ENA with RPG to restore the Civic Auditorium and help in the revitalization of Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
March 10, 2025
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The Wilshire Montana Neighborhood Coalition (Wilmont) Board of Directors asks the City Council to move forward with the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) to restore the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. We urge the Council to agree to the revised ENA and direct the City to pursue this process so that Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center and begin the revitalization of our city.

Why?
 A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic multiplier effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
6  A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.
 Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.
 A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City.
 Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city?
 Don’t sell our public land out; keep the history and future revenue stream under Santa Monica control.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
7 David Yakobson
From: amy thompson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:52 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Amy Thompson
350 25th street
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
8 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:43 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Ellis Raskin; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; Clerk Mailbox
Subject: Item 5.C. SAVE THE CIVIC- YES DO IT FOR REAL DO IT

EXTERNAL
RE: Item 5.C Closed Session
C. Conference with real estate negotiator pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8: Property: 1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, California (Civic Auditorium) (APN 4290-013-901); City Negotiators: Jennifer Taylor, Economic Development Manager, and Nia Tang, Economic Development Administrator; Owner of Record:

City of Santa Monica; Persons to be negotiated with: Tim Sexton, Revitalization Partner Group, LLC; Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment for lease.

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. IT'S A NO BRAINER ..

DON'T WE NEED THIS?
- A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.

AZOFF FOR GOD'S SAKE - LET US BE GRATEFUL HE WANTS TO DO THIS - HE HAS

VISION - HOPE YOU DO BEYOND HOUSING

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
9 - Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.

- A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City.

- Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city?

If Councilmembers vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us.

NO EXCUSES HERE COUNCIL - YOU ARE WAY OVER YOUR HEADS- DO

SOMETHING RIGHT - THIS IS AZOFF- DO IT

THANK YOU,

DANIELLE CHARNEY

OY IT'S ABSURD YOU WOULD EVEN

BEGIN TO THINK YOU CAN DO BETTER

THAN AZOFF- LOL

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
10 David Yakobson
From: AG Designs <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:41 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Alicia
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
11 David Yakobson
From: Ellen Mark <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:32 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Ellen Mark
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
12 David Yakobson
From: karen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:29 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Santa Monica Conservancy
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Karen Bailey
Santa Monica Resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
13 David Yakobson
From: Matt Goldenberg D.O. <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:27 PM
To: Matt Goldenberg
Subject: Save the Civic!

EXTERNAL
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so we can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Matt G.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
14 David Yakobson
From: Gabriella Landay <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:15 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
> Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council Members,
>
> The future of our historic Civic Auditorium is now in your hands. >
> As a lifelong Santa Monica resident, I was fortunate to experience the Civic Auditorium in my youth, both performing there and enjoying professional bands. It’s time for future generations to have the same opportunities right in their own backyard.
>
> I urge you to approve the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and move forward with a lease agreement with the Revitalization Partner Group. This will allow Santa Monica to have a world-class performing arts center, without any cost to taxpayers.
>
> Thank you.

Gabriella Landay
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
15 David Yakobson
From: Marc Verville <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:07 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: SMCC 2025-03-11 Agenda Item 5.C. - City Council must approve signing the ENA with RPG to reactivate the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
Given the dire financial situation the City outlined in last Saturday’s (03-08-2025) Budget Workshop, I strongly urge you to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group, LLC (RPG) to restore the Civic Auditorium’s functionality as a live entertainment destination venue.

The absolute need for this proactive step could not be more compelling. The fact that the City is using one-time funds to balance out its General Fund budget is indicative of just how much the City’s financial situation has deteriorated. Use of one-time revenues to fund ongoing expenditures was called out as an indicator of financial weakness as far back as 2012 in the LA County Grand Jury report on Santa Monica. That report was the genesis of the City’s 2015 launch of the Audit Subcommittee.

It is time for the City to seriously prioritize revitalization of the General Fund’s commerciallybased revenue growth after years of passively harvesting essentially stalled revenues from depreciating assets built by prior City leadership over the past 6 decades. The only revenuegenerating strategy to date has been the increase of tax rates and growing applicability of new taxes on this sector, hastening the slowdown of growth and sowing the seeds of eventual revenue decline. This decline will have been hastened by the City-initiated disposal of these irreplaceable assets based on the circular logic of declining utilization.

There have been statements made that selling the land could generate $100 million. That present value would be justified by the Civic driving an incremental $5.7m per year in net General Fund revenue through the City’s visitor-driven commercial ecosystem. And that would hold even if the Civic delivered only $1 per year in direct Civic revenue. A direct revenue deal that would kick in later in the lease period plus any additional growth above the $5.7m would create value for the City in excess of $100 million when viewed over a 30 timeframe.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
16 The Civic needs to be viewed as a cornerstone of the City’s visitor economy. In that, it would be a primary feeder into the other iconic revenue-generating visitor assts that include:
 Promenade dining and entertainment
 SM Place shopping
 A globally branded and historic pleasure pier
 Comprehensive hotel opƟons
All these assets are contained within a one mile geographic footprint that includes year-round Mediterranean weather and 245 acres of world class beach.

To maximize the economic benefits of this Civic Center asset, the City’s counter-productive siloed asset management policies must be abandoned and a professional portfolio management policy implemented for all the above assets.

The financial crisis the city finds itself in has been years in the making. Make no mistake, it is policy-driven and represents a complete failure of economic leadership. To that point, the City cannot ignore a key driver of the abandonment of Santa Monica as a visitor destination: the City’s ineffective and inappropriate homeless policies, and indifferent approach to safety and illegal narcotic flows into the city. These must be replaced with policies that ensure repeat visitor confidence and perceived safety in spending time and money in downtown and the larger Santa Monica commercial environs. Downtown comprises only 4% of the city’s land area but generated 34% of its taxable transactions as recently as 2012. It is likely now below 20% and declining.

The Homeless Strategy Plan in this meeting’s Item 11.A. mentions the transient nature of the City’s homeless crisis but does nothing to address it. That cannot stand. We now know the cost of the City’s ineffective and inappropriate homeless policies along with it’s indifferent approach to safety – and that is a commercial-driven General Fund revenue opportunity cost could be in the neighborhood of between $50 and $100 million annually. That is a flatly unacceptable and irresponsible cost. Nowhere is any commercial visitor opportunity cost mentioned in the Homeless Strategic Plan. How can this Council effectively manage the City’s finances when such critical information is completely absent? The signing of the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group, LLC (RPG) to restore the Civic Auditorium can only be the beginning of the revitalization process. Failure to sign this agreement will be the largest step so far (along with the surplusing and demolition of parking infrastructure) to ensure that the City cuts off all viable paths to economic recovery, placing itself and its residents on an unrecoverable financial path.

Respectfully,
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
17 Marc L. Verville
Chair, Audit Subcommittee
Sunset Park
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Elliot Makhani <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:59 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Brandon Fields; Justin Cortez; [email protected] Subject: Proposal for Installation of Antibacterial Fixtures in Public Restrooms

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I hope this message finds you well. My name is Elliot Makhani, and I serve as the Co-CEO of Titan64, a firm specializing in the design of antibacterial metal alloys. Our mission is to enhance public health through innovative solutions.

At Titan64, we have developed a range of bathroom fixtures made from a proprietary antibacterial steel alloy designed to significantly reduce the transmission of pathogens. Our product line includes toilets, sinks, shower assemblies, and hand dryers, all engineered with the utmost consideration for hygiene and user safety.

We are eager to partner with the City of Santa Monica to upgrade the public bathroom facilities with our state-of-the-art fixtures. We believe that our technology can play a pivotal role in promoting health and safety in public spaces.

Could you please inform us about the process for securing a slot at an upcoming city council meeting? We are keen to present our proposal and discuss how we can contribute to the city’s public health initiatives.

Thank you for considering our proposal. We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with the City of Santa Monica.

Warm Regards,
Elliot Yedidiah Makhani
Co-CEO, Titan64
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
18 David Yakobson
From: Justine Gilman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 8:00 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; councilmtgitems; Jesse Zwick; [email protected]
Subject: Save the Civic support for RPG

EXTERNAL
Vote to save the SM Civic Auditorium
A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status. - A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated. - Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes. - A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City. - Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city? THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW. Please send an email to Council TODAY urging them to move forward with RPG. And please forward this to your friends. We also encourage you to post on any social media you have access to. The clock is ticking. If Councilmembers vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us. Save the Civic Steering Committee
Justine Gilman, Ed.D.

Raise and live in Santa Monica
310-493-8312
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
19 David Yakobson
From: Carol Dickinson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 7:55 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 5.C, March 11 2025 Meeting--Restore the Civic!

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis and City Council Members, I urge you to vote to sign the ENA with RPG to restore the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Please bring back the glory days when we were a cultural and arts destination for all Southern Californians. Santa Monica will have new life and vitality as the result of this action!
Sincerely,
Carol Dickinson
1030 25th Street
Santa Monica 90403
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
20 David Yakobson
From: Liz Bell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 7:44 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
(This is a good letter from the conservancy and I support this item ) I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Lizbeth Bell
1434 18th St
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
21 David Yakobson
From: Christie Savage <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 7:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I remember my mom driving my brother and I to see the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium when it was built. It was a REALLY BIG DEAL!!! Of course, throughout the years I’ve attended conferences, concerts, the International Gem Show, and even a Cat Show, taking it for granted that the iconic auditorium would always be there - and hopefully it will be!
I fully support RPG’s request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement as noted in Item 5C on the March 11th agenda.

As you know, The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, built by master architect Welton Becket in 1959, is an wonderful mid-century building that played a pivotal role in Santa Monica's cultural life. The Civic Auditorium, with an innovative mixed-use program, combining a concert hall, theater, trade show, and convention center, the Civic was designed to serve a broad segment of the community. Thus, along with Santa Monica Conservancy, I endorse RPG's efforts to revitalize this iconic building as a community asset.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Christie Savage
Sent from my iPad
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
22 David Yakobson
From: Steven Dubnoff <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 7:07 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Steven Dubnoff
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
23 David Yakobson
From: Nancy Morse <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 6:57 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
To: City Council
From: Nancy Morse
Re: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium Please vote to sign the ENA submitted by RPG so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Revenues from performances will be a needed addition to city coffers.

The attraction of visitors from out of town will be a financial boon for surrounding businesses.

This will revitalize the civic center, which I think was the plan when it was built.

A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica, and will add to citizen’s pride in the city.

Once public spaces are no longer in public ownership or control, it is nearly impossible to get it back. That is a loss to citizens.

Erasing the lands previous history should not be justification to erase the auditorium’s recent history.

Thank you.

Nancy Morse
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
24 David Yakobson
From: jay nickels <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 6:17 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Thus, along with Santa Monica Conservancy, I endorse RPG's efforts to revitalize this iconic building as a community asset.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Jay Nickels, Architect
Yahoo Mail - Email Simplified
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
25 David Yakobson
From: Jamielle Stanley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 6:07 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Jamielle Stanley
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
26 David Yakobson
From: Vincent Landay <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 6:01 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council Members,
The future of our historic Civic Auditorium is now in your hands.

As a lifelong Santa Monica resident, I was fortunate to experience the Civic Auditorium in my youth, both performing there and enjoying professional bands. It’s time for future generations to have the same opportunities right in their own backyard.

I urge you to approve the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and move forward with a lease agreement with the Revitalization Partner Group. This will allow Santa Monica to have a world-class performing arts center, without any cost to taxpayers.

Thank you.

V
…………………………………………………………………………………….…...

Vincent Landay. ”Memento Vivere"
……………………………………………………………………………………………
This message was sent from my personal gmail account.

Please refer any business inquires to: [email protected] Thanks a bunch!
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
27 David Yakobson
From: JULIE G CAMPAGNA <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 5:58 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete:

I am writing to ask that you vote to sign the ENA for the Civic Auditorium.

I understand the partnership with RPG would keep the Civic's ownership with Santa Monica and bring much needed economic activity to the city.

Thank you for your consideration,
Julie Campagna
115 Marguerita Avenue
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
28 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 5:53 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Put Life Back into the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
The only thing Santa Monica is lacking is an excellent live performance venue. Oh, wait! We do have that. The Civic Auditorium. Please do what you can to bring the Civic back to life. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Eve Lichtgarn
440 18th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
310 395-7006
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Sanjeev Jain <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:43 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems; councilmtgitems Subject: re: Strong Support for RPG Proposal! (Agenda Item 5C)

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, and Esteemed City Council members, WOW! WHAT AN OPPORTUNITY!
As a Santa Monica resident, 30+ year arts professional, and Member of the Santa Monica Arts Commission, I strongly urge you to vote to sign the ENA and approve a lease with RPG. This historic deal will bring new life to the iconic Civic Auditorium space, create a cultural hub for our community, attract much-needed revenue to DTSM, and demonstrate that the City cares about arts and culture.

Here's why:
- A restored Civic would create a much-needed cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, for Southern Californians, and beyond.
- A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The impact on hotels, restaurants, and other small businesses is needed.
- Hosting world-class musicians in Santa Monica would offer wonderful educational opportunities for our young people. Connections to SMMUSD, SMC, LAUSD, UCLA, USC, etc. students could be made
- A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica.
- The architecture and history of the Civic Auditorium are significant. We must acknowledge and embrace this.
- The Civic Auditorium is located close to important transportation lines, making it accessible to many. This will encourage public transportation and reduce impact on local streets.
- The Civic Auditorium's location complements Santa Monica's most important cultural and environmental assets--our Beach & Pier, Farmer's Market, and Promenade. A dynamic arts/entertainment venue will help relight the DTSM area.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
2 - News of a positive outcome with RPG, would demonstrate the City's strong support for the arts.
- RPG are pros working at the highest levels of their industry who have deep roots in LA and strong global ties. Their recent arts-driven fundraiser for fire victims demonstrated that they care about LA.

To end negotiations with RPG would be a tragic mistake and a huge loss for the City.

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium and our Cultural Community is in your hands! Don't mess this up--we're behind you!
Sincerely,
Sanjeev Jain
23-year resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
3 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:42 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic aud''s future

EXTERNAL
If the work done with the Civic Aud would lead to a performance space at no cost to the city witth a part of the income from the shows at some time in the future, then I like the idea.

Otherwise Council member Zwick seems to have the right idea Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
4 David Yakobson
From: Susan Jain <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:33 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: re: Strong Support for RPG Proposal! (Agenda Item 5C)

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, and Estemed City Council members, WOW! WHAT AN OPPORTUNITY!
As a Santa Monica resident, 30+ year arts professional, and Member of the Santa Monica Arts Commission, I strongly urge you to vote to sign the ENA and approve a lease with RPG. This historic deal will bring new life to the iconic Civic Auditorium space, create a cultural hub for our community, attract much-needed revenue to DTSM, and demonstrate that the City cares about arts and culture.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
5 - News of a positive outcome with RPG, would demonstrate the City's strong support for the arts.
- RPG are pros working at the highest levels of their industry who have deep roots in LA and strong global ties. Their recent arts-driven fundraiser for fire victims demonstrated that they care about LA.

To end negotiations with RPG would be a tragic mistake and a huge loss for the City.

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium and our Cultural Community is in your hands! Don't mess this up--we're behind you!
Sincerely,
Susan Pertel Jain, PhD
20+ year resident
Santa Monica Arts Commissioner
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
6 David Yakobson
From: Evelyn Lauchenauer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:22 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan Subject: Civic Auditorium-Tuesday 3/11/25 Council Agenda Item 5c—Please Vote Yes

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Council,
I have such great memories of my high school and college days, going to Warren Miller ski films like "Winter Fever" and "Steep and Deep," as well as dog shows, arts and craft fairs, and Samohi's "Stairway to the Stars." Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, it would be amazing to have even more events like these. Let's make it happen!
I strongly encourage the Council to vote in favor of signing the ENA and move forward with negotiations to revitalize the Civic Auditorium into a world-class venue. The group leading this effort has exceptional and rare experience in building and managing cultural venues like this.

This is a rare opportunity that feels like a clear win-win for our local businesses, residents, and the City itself. An iconic cultural venue in the heart of Santa Monica would not only boost our local economy but also provide a reliable revenue stream for the City.

Plus, it would give us a much-needed space for local music and arts—a place we can all be proud of.

Best of all, this would come at no cost to the City while ensuring that this valuable public property remains in public hands for the future.

Thank you for considering this.

Evelyn Lauchenauer
Santa Monica Resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
7 Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
8 David Yakobson
From: David Paden <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
[Your Name] David W Paden
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
9 David Yakobson
From: Justine Lavelle <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:04 PM
To: Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Save the Civic!!!

EXTERNAL
As a person who has gone to JAMS, Samohi, and UCLA and lived in Santa Monica the majority of my life — deep roots in Santa Monica - and even have seen concerts at The Santa Monica Civic Center it is imperative to save this historic building! What we all believe it should be as DogTown locals with a deep history for our city is a revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades.

The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica.

Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated. - Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.

Sincerely,
Justine
OWNER | CREATIVE DIRECTOR
J u s t i n e La V e l l e

FIRST CUT MARKETING
[email protected]
2940 Neilson Way
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
10 David Yakobson
From: Thomasine Rogas <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 4:01 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Thomasine H. Rogas
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
11 David Yakobson
From: Younes Atallah <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 3:55 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Younes Atallah
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
12 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 3:51 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: City Council 3/11/25 -- agenda item 5-C -- Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Attachments: Civic Auditorium - 3-11-2025 - Z's letter to City Council.docx

EXTERNAL
March 10, 2025
To: Mayor Negrete and City Council members
From: Zina Josephs
RE: 3/11/25 item 5-C – Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
Writing only for myself, I hope the Council will go forward with the Revitalization Partner Group ENA and lease agreement and bring the Civic Auditorium back to life! It occurs to me that some of the City Council members may not have been living here before 2013 and/or may have never attended an event at the Santa Monica Civic. So, here are some of my personal memories of the Civic Auditorium plus some additional information:

1) I remember watching these TV broadcasts from the Civic of the Academy Awards:
“Home of the Academy Awards”: https://calisphere.org/item/0d8424127112a8e39250eede23132c7c/ 1961: The 33rd Annual Academy Awards at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Best Actor in a Supporting Role goes to Peter Ustinov. Shirley Jones accepts the Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Greer Garson announces the award for Best Actor. Burt Lancaster receives the award for his leading role in “Elmer Gantry.” Yul Brynner announces Elizabeth Taylor as the winner of Best Actress for her role in “Butterfield 8.” Audrey Hepburn announces the winner for Best Picture. Billy Wilder, the producer of the film “The Apartment,” accepts the Oscar.
1962: The 34th Annual Oscars held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Rita Moreno receives the award for the best supporting actress. The best actor award goes to Maximilian Schell and best actress award to Sophia Loren. The best picture award goes to “West Side Story.” 1964: The 36th Academy Awards at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Gregory Peck announces the Best Actress award for Patricia Neal…Frank Sinatra announces the winner of Best Picture. “Tom Jones” gets the Best Picture award…Anne Bancroft announces the winner of the Best Actor award. Sidney Poitier receives Best Actor award for his performance in “Lilies of the Field.” He is the first African American to receive the Best Actor Award.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
13 1966: Santa Monica History Museum: The 38th Academy Awards ceremony, hosted by Bob Hope, was held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. It was the first Academy Awards to be broadcast live in color.

The two most nominated films were "Dr. Zhivago" and "The Sound of Music." 2) While at USC, a friend and I attended a sold-out concert by the legendary Pete Seeger. 3) When my husband was working at RAND and we were living in an apartment on 4th & Bay, we walked over to the Civic to attend a sold-out concert by Peter, Paul and Mary. 4) When our daughter was at Grant Elementary, she performed in SMMUSD “Stairway of the Stars” concerts at the Civic, along with 1,000 other elementary middle, and high school student musicians each year. There were always 2 sold-out performances. I helped with Stairway ticket sales for many years and was the honoree one year.
5) When my mother was living with us, I accompanied her to the annual “Senior Proms” at the Civic. 6) I also attended amazing Santa Monica Symphony concerts at the Civic. 2) Albums recorded at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Albums_recorded_at_the_Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium a) 1961 – The Kingston Trio – “Live at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium” -- released 2007 b) 1963 – George Shearing Quintet – “Jazz Concert”
c) 1972 – Ella Fitzgerald with the Tommy Flanagan Trio and the Count Basie Orchestra – “Jazz at the Santa Monica Civic ‘72”
d) 1972 – David Bowie during the Ziggy Stardust tour – “Live Santa Monica ‘72” – released legally in 2008 e) 1972 – George Carlin – “Class Clown”
f) 1980 – The Eagles – “Eagles Live”
g) 1980 – Fleetwood Mac – “Live”
h) 1995 – Phish – “A Live One” (platinum)
3) Here are some nearby cities that have Civic Auditoriums:
a) Bellflower has the Bristol Civic Auditorium
https://www.bellflower.org/departments/parks___recreation/recreation_facilities/bristol_civic_auditorium.php b) Culver City has its Veterans Memorial Building, which includes an auditorium. https://wwwculvercityhistoricalsociety.org/veterans-memorial-building/ c) Glendale has its Civic Auditorium.

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14 https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/community-services-parks/parks-facilities-historicsites/glendale-civic-auditorium d) Malibu has the Malibu Civic Theater, a large auditorium that was previously privately owned. https://www.malibucity.org/facilities/facility/details/Malibu-City-Hall-3 e) Pasadena has its Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
https://www.visitpasadena.com/civic-auditorium/
f) San Gabriel has its Civic Auditorium (San Gabriel Mission Playhouse)\ https://www.lahtf.org/theaters/missionplayhouse/ -- The San Gabriel Mission Playhouse is an opulent theater steeped in history, complete with tapestries presented by the King of Spain, a beautifully carved and painted ceiling, a fully operational Wurlitzer Theatre Organ, and chandeliers that replicate the lanterns used on Spanish galleons which sailed around the tip of South America en route to California in the 1800’s.
g) Torrance has its Armstrong Theatre.
https://arts.torranceca.gov/our-city/general-services/cultural-arts/james-r-armstrong-theatre h) Thousand Oaks has its Civic Arts Plaza Theatres.
https://www.toaks.org/departments/cultural-affairs/civic-arts-plaza-3340 i) The City of Los Angeles has the Greek Theatre.
https://www.lagreektheatre.com/connect/history-of-the-greek-theatre j) The County of Los Angeles has:
-- Walt Disney Concert Hall,
https://www.laphil.com/about/our-venues/about-the-walt-disney-concert-hall -- the Los Angeles Music Center, including
-- the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion,
-- the Mark Taper Forum,
-- the Ahmanson Theatre, and
-- the Kirk Douglas Theatre, plus
-- the Hollywood Bowl, and
-- the nearby Ford Amphitheatre.

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15 k) Orange County has the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts (originally the Orange County Center for the Performing Arts) -- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Segerstrom_Center_for_the_Arts These performing arts centers are sources of pride, and they bring people together in a positive way. The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium should continue to be City-owned, per the Civic Center Specific Plan, and it should come back to life as a performing arts venue and a source of pride for the City of Santa Monica and its residents.

Background:

Closing the Civic Auditorium was a “big deal” judging from the number of articles below in local newspapers.

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium -- on the city web
site: http://www.smgov.net/departments/ccs/civicauditorium/ Civic Auditorium -- on Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium Civic Auditorium Declared a Landmark in 2002:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_City_of_Santa_Monica_Designated_Historic_Landmarks "Santa Monica Civic to Get $47 Million Renovation" -- 5/30/11 -- Santa Monica Mirror - - http://www.smmirror.com/articles/News/Santa-Monica-Civic-Auditorium-to-Get-47-MillionRenovation/32286 "Civic Auditorium: Once and Future Masterpiece" -- 6/30/11 -- Santa Monica Dispatch - - http://www.santamonicadispatch.com/2011/06/civic-auditorium-once-and-future-masterpiece/ City Council -- 1/24/12 agenda item 3-M:

Revised Design-Build Contract for Civic Auditorium Remodel & Seismic Upgrade Recommended Action -- Staff recommends that the City Council:

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

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

3. Authorize the Director of Public Works to issue any necessary change orders to complete the work within budget authority.
htttp://www01.smgov.net/cityclerk/council/agendas/2012/20120124/s2012012403-M.htm Item 5-C
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16 City Council -- 8/14/12 agenda item 4-C:

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

Executive Summary -- This report provides information about recent amendments to the State law that dissolved redevelopment agencies, the impacts of those amendments upon the City’s ability to fund priority capital improvement projects, and recommendations regarding continued work on each project. http://www.smgov.net/departments/council/agendas/2012/20120814/s2012081408-C.htm "Council Stalls Civic, Samohi Improvements" -- 8/15/12 -- Santa Monica Daily Press - - http://www.smdp.com/council-stalls-civic-samohi-improvements/ "Historic Civic Will Go Dark" -- 8/15/12 -- Santa Monica Patch - - http://santamonica.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/historic-civic-will-go-dark City Council -- 10/23/12 agenda item 4-A:

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

Executive Summary -- The $51.9 million renovation of the landmark Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (Civic) is suspended due to recent legislative actions related to the dissolution of redevelopment and the uncertainty of funds designated for this project. The facility is still scheduled to close on June 30, 2013. Since the August 14, 2012 meeting at which City Council
authorized the suspension, staff has identified options for the facility and potential funding sources. These options fall under four broad categories: 1) partial renovation; 2) full renovation; 3) adaptive re-use; and 4) demolition.
http://www.smgov.net/departments/council/agendas/2012/20121023/s201210234A.pdf "Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Will Close in June as Planned" -- 10/26/12 -- Santa Monica Lookout - - http://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2012/October2012/10_26_2012_Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium_Will_Close_in_June_As_Planned.html "City Council Sticks to Planned Closing Date for Civic Auditorium" -- 11/2/12 -- The Argonaut - - http://argonautnews.com/santa-monica-city-council-sticks-to-planned-closing-date-for-civic-auditorium/ "American Film Market: Civic Auditorium Theater Essential to the Future" -- 1/24/13 -- Santa Monica Daily Press -- http://smdp.com/afm-civic-auditorium-theater-essential-to-the-future/117191 "'Save the Santa Monica Civic' Group Steps Forward" -- 5/7/13 -- Santa Monica Patch - - http://santamonica.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/save-the-civic-santa-monica Item 5-C
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17 "Civic Center Will Have to Learn New Tricks to Survive" -- 5/10/13 -- Santa Monica Daily Press - - http://smdp.com/civic-center-will-have-to-learn-new-tricks-to-survive/122176 "To Preserve Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, Revise Specific Plan, Says Expert Panel" -- 5/13/13 - - Santa Monica Lookout -- http://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News2013/May2013/05_13_2013_To_Preserve_Santa_Monica_Civic_Auditorium_Revise_Specific_Plan_Says_Exp ert_Panel.html
"Curtains for the Civic" -- 5/19/13 -- Santa Monica Daily Press -- http://smdp.com/curtains-for-thecivic/122417

Item 5-C
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18 David Yakobson
From: Julia Carnahan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 3:43 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Julia Carnanan
2239 27th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Member, Santa Monica Public Art Committee
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: CYNTHIA MEDIAVILLA <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 5:12 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Cindy Mediavilla, member
Santa Monica Conservancy
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
19 David Yakobson
From: Nathan Oshidari <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 3:41 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Douglas Sloan
Subject: Vote to sign the ENA with RPG

EXTERNAL
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. - A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

N. Oshidari
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
20 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 3:03 PM
To: 'Jane Dempsey'; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: RE: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C - Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Thank you Jane great comments …
Gail Denney
Consultant - Retail/Strategic Sales
[email protected]
310 621 7486
From: Jane Dempsey <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:05 PM
To: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C - Save the Civic Auditorium Dear Mayor and City Council members,
I have lived in Santa Monica since the mid 70’s both renting and owning.

There is no way to say this and sound happy. It does not surprise me that Santa Monica is the 2nd most dangerous city in California per news reports. If you lived her, you watched it happen. I was involved in Korean tourism and most wanted to spend a few hours shopping here in Santa Monica by the busload until about 2005 and then they chose to shop in outer cities as ours frightened them. I even found I was no longer comfortable going to downtown SM. Then Covid and within months, most of us watcher the breaking news live as there was a frightening riot that went on for hours in SM. It is an understatement to say it was horrifying to those of us living here not to mention the whole country. Fast forward and we are now the top news story every week with more reasons for people to not come here. And let’s add than as of April 1st, the sales tax goes up again in Santa Monica. What else can happen before a change is made? I have not read or heard of anything the City plans to do to improve or help our City image. All I keep hearing about is all the money spent defending and making lawsuits go away and the City has no money. Friends of mine now suggest other cities to meet for meals. They don’t even want to come here to visit anymore.

Hopefully this will be a turning point to start to rebuild our City. On Tuesday night, you have a chance with your vote to try to give the City something to be proud of again. The Santa Monica Civic is one place that has not been tarnished over the years. I urge you to vote and sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group, so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. People have wonderful memories of events held there (jewelry shows, dog shows, the Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
21 Colleagues fundraisers etc.). Then there were concerts over the years with top artists and bands including the TAMI Show in 1964.

It would be nice for Santa Monica to make the news for something other than bad news. I hope the City Council will vote to sign this agreement so the City can have just one thing to be positive about in Santa Monica for a change?
Jane Dempsey
(310) 392-3366
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
22 David Yakobson
From: Reception <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:58 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
As an active member of the preservation community I am reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Our heritage is still imperiled needlessly.

Sincerely,
Roy Rogers Oldenkamp
Founding Member
WestHollywoodPreservationAlliance.org
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
23 David Yakobson
From: Peter Spelman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:55 PM
To: Bea Nemlaha; Stephanie Tainsky
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Elaine Polachek; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; councilmtgitems Subject: Re: 3/11/25 Agenda Item 5C: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Hello Council Members:

I completely agree with Ms. Nemlaha's statements -- all of them.

PLEASE do the right thing and Save The Civic!
Sincerely,
Peter Spelman & Stephanie Tainsky
730 Marine St.

Santa Monica 90405
On Mon, Mar 10, 2025 at 2:29 PM Bea Nemlaha <[email protected]> wrote:

Honorable Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Council Members, and City Staff, Santa Monica needs funds to meet its many obligations. There are several ways to raise them.

But the City also needs to restore its reputation as a desirable destination for local, regional, and worldwide shoppers, visitors, tourists, and lovers of the arts.

Restoring and reopening the Civic for music, culture, and the arts is the only way the City can accomplish both objectives: investment in a future income stream, and revitalizing the City as a place to go and be.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
24 Selling or using an historic City treasure for any other purpose will not result in a longterm, viable economic investment. And whatever might replace it will not, and cannot enhance Santa Monica’s reputation as a desirable City in which to live or visit.

Fairy tales were some of our first teachers when we were kids. The story of the golden goose still has much to teach us.

Bea Nemlaha
Ocean Park
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
25 David Yakobson
From: Miriam Kaplan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:54 PM
To: Jane Dempsey
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C - Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
I will send a note as well.

Sent from my iPhone.

On Mar 10, 2025, at 12:05 PM, Jane Dempsey <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear Mayor and City Council members,
I have lived in Santa Monica since the mid 70’s both renting and owning.

There is no way to say this and sound happy. It does not surprise me that Santa Monica is the 2nd most dangerous city in California per news reports. If you lived her, you watched it happen.

I was involved in Korean tourism and most wanted to spend a few hours shopping here in Santa Monica by the busload until about 2005 and then they chose to shop in outer cities as ours frightened them. I even found I was no longer comfortable going to downtown SM. Then Covid and within months, most of us watcher the breaking news live as there was a frightening riot that went on for hours in SM. It is an understatement to say it was horrifying to those of us living here not to mention the whole country. Fast forward and we are now the top news story every week with more reasons for people to not come here. And let’s add than as of April 1st, the sales tax goes up again in Santa Monica. What else can happen before a change is made? I have not read or heard of anything the City plans to do to improve or help our City image. All I keep hearing about is all the money spent defending and making lawsuits go away and the City has no money. Friends of mine now suggest other cities to meet for meals. They don’t even want to come here to visit anymore.

Hopefully this will be a turning point to start to rebuild our City. On Tuesday night, you have a chance with your vote to try to give the City something to be proud of again. The Santa Monica Civic is one place that has not been tarnished over the years. I urge you to vote and sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group, so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. People have wonderful memories of events held there (jewelry shows, dog shows, the Colleagues fundraisers etc.). Then there were concerts over the years with top artists and bands including the TAMI Show in 1964.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
26 It would be nice for Santa Monica to make the news for something other than bad news. I hope the City Council will vote to sign this agreement so the City can have just one thing to be positive about in Santa Monica for a change?
Jane Dempsey
(310) 392-3366

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
27 David Yakobson
From: Lisa Pearl <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:50 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
L Pearl
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
28 David Yakobson
From: Lisa Pearl <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:49 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely, Lisa Coplen
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
29 David Yakobson
From: Lisa Pearl <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:49 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Lisa Pearl
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
30 David Yakobson
From: Karen Blechman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:42 PM
To: [email protected]; councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; David White; Nia Tang; Douglas Sloan; Jennifer Taylor Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Great cities are known for their iconic buildings: do not destroy this one! Karen Blechman
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Caryn Marshall <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:35 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Caryn Marshall
Sent from my iPad
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
2 David Yakobson
From: Bea Nemlaha <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:29 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Cc: Elaine Polachek; Susan Cola; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; councilmtgitems Subject: 3/11/25 Agenda Item 5C: Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Honorable Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, Council Members, and City StaƯ, Santa Monica needs funds to meet its many obligations. There are several ways to raise them.

But the City also needs to restore its reputation as a desirable destination for local, regional, and worldwide shoppers, visitors, tourists, and lovers of the arts.

Selling or using an historic City treasure for any other purpose will not result in a longterm, viable economic investment. And whatever might replace it will not, and cannot enhance Santa Monica’s reputation as a desirable City in which to live or visit.

Fairy tales were some of our first teachers when we were kids. The story of the golden goose still has much to teach us.

Bea Nemlaha
Ocean Park
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
3 David Yakobson
From: Ann Hoover <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:28 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall
Cc: Elaine Polachek; Christopher J. Smith; Ramon Batista; Jennifer Taylor; Nia Tang; Jenna Grigsby; Erika Aklufi; Sofia Klatzker; Jenny Rogers; Douglas Sloan; Susan Cola; Steven Johnson; Maryanne LaGuardia; John Smith; Lori Brown; Barry Rosenbaum; Susan Cline Subject: March 11, 2025 City Council Meeting - Closed Session Item 5.C. - CIVIC AUDITORIUM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, and Esteemed Councilmembers - Please continue to nurture the incredible opportunity our City has been given to partner with RPG to revitalize and reopen the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Economic development was reconfirmed this past Saturday as a key priority for all of you. Bringing back the Civic in glorious 21st Century splendor is a major key to rebooting the tarnished image and attractiveness of Santa Monica as a visitor and tourist destination.

If you want to get jazzed about what could be, just take a look at the Kia Forum, below, revitalized by the Azoff Group (one of the RPG partners).

If you want to be inspired by the calibre of individuals and companies who want to do business with our City, consider that Irving Azoff spearheaded Fire Aid in January and that Tim Sexton helped produce it. The $100 Million raised by Fire Aid now is being distributed to help victims of the terrible January fires, with (just in the news) $2.4 million going to help return fire-damaged Loma Alta Park in Altadena to community families by by May. Read more and review a list of their grantees here.

The point is that RPG brings to the City not only top entertainment industry talent but unparalleled social consciousness and commitment-to-community values as well. I cannot imagine the City would ever find a finer group to partner with.

Please keep moving this incredible deal forward. Thank you! Best,
Ann Bowman
Resident, 28+ years
Recreation and Parks Commissioner
Item 5-C
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4 Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
5 fireaidla.org/
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
6 David Yakobson
From: Cheryl Downey <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:17 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
7 David Yakobson
From: Debbie Alexander <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 2:13 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Deborah Alexander
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
8 David Yakobson
From: D'Orsogna, Maria R <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:59 PM
To: D'Orsogna, Maria R
Subject: Agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium 3/11/25

EXTERNAL
Dear all,
It appears that after several round of negotiations, The Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) that wants to save our Civic Auditorium and turn it into a performing arts center at no cost to the taxpayer,
has now submitted a revised Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) proposal to the City.

I hope that you continue discussions in good faith and approve the ENA so the process can move forward.

The Civic will provide revenue, attract visitors, preserve history, all at very little cost to residents.

Here are great columns on why letting RPG go forward is important https://smdp.com/opinion/why-saving-the-civic-may-save-the-city/ https://smdp.com/opinion/win-win-for-the-civic/
https://smdp.com/opinion/saving-the-civic-to-save-the-city/ https://smmirror.com/2025/03/santa-monica-civic-auditorium-the-cultural-icon-santa-monica-needs/ https://smmirror.com/2025/02/sm-a-r-t-column-bring-back-the-music/ https://www.savethecivic.org/post/s-m-a-r-t-article-save-the-civic-keep-it-alive https://www.facebook.com/p/Save-the-Santa-Monica-Civic-100071205001701/ The page "Save the Civic" has 1300 followers on Facebook, so I hope the will of the people (and not of the developers) can prevail.

Maria
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
9 Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
10 David Yakobson
From: Lee Rosenbaum <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:51 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Lee Rosenbaum
211 Marguerita Avenue
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
11 David Yakobson
From: Elizabeth Lerer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:38 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Cc: Douglas Sloan
Subject: Civic Auditorium - Closed Session 3/11/25 Item 5.C.

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
Please act to restore the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium and with it the positive attention and revenue multiplier to our local businesses such a prominent entertainment venue would bring to our city.

It would be beyond foolish to pass up this opportunity to work with the RPG team to revitalize such an important Santa Monica cultural landmark.

Your votes matter and us voters are paying attention.

Looking forward to being able to attend an event at the Civic! Elizabeth Lerer
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
12 David Yakobson
From: Suzanne Verge <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:35 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Suzanne Verge
Santa Monica Resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
13 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:32 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Thus, along with Santa Monica Conservancy, I endorse RPG's efforts to revitalize this iconic building as a community asset.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
[Shoshana maler
Sent from AOL on Android
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
14 David Yakobson
From: Cherry, James D. <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:29 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
James D Cherry
1402 San Vicente Blvd 90402
UCLA HEALTH SCIENCES IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return email, and delete this message from your computer.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
15 David Yakobson
From: Michael Jolly <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:23 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Please Support RPG's Request for an ENA - restoration of the Santa Monica Civic.

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
--
Michael Jolly
Santa Monica, CA
Sent from iMac on Gmail
Electronic Privacy Notice: This email and any attachments contain information that is or could be covered by electronic communications privacy laws and is confidential and proprietary. If you are not the intended recipient, please be advised that you are legally prohibited from retaining, using, copying, distributing, or otherwise disclosing this information in any manner. Please reply to the sender that you have received this communication in error and immediately delete it. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
16 David Yakobson
From: Brenda Anderson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:22 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Brenda Anderson
475 24th Street
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
17 David Yakobson
From: Tom Zanic <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:22 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Please Give RPG a Shot and Approve Their Request for an ENA - Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
As an experienced urban planner and a city resident, I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Tom Zanic
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
18 David Yakobson
From: Erin Donley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:21 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
To whom it may concern,
As an active resident of Santa Monica I would like to see the restoration of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium into a world-class music and performing arts venue.

I know of the scale and high quality of events RPG produces and encourage the City Council to move forward and approve the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement submitted by RPG.

It would be akin to our own Greek Theater and Royce Hall.

Thank you,
Erin Donley
1208 Broadway
Santa Monica
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
19 David Yakobson
From: janine autolitano <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Janine Autlitano
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
20 David Yakobson
From: Michele Beacham <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
21 David Yakobson
From: Shari Phillips <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:07 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan Subject: 3/11/25 Agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members and Mayor Negrete,
First, I’d like to ask that all future City Council Budget Workshops be held in City Council chambers so more people can attend and the meeting can be videotaped live. Having it held in the small Multipurpose Room at the library where live video is not possible, even if it had been held there during the last workshop almost seems deliberate so as to prevent more community involvement. I hope that is not your intent and that you will move the next workshop to the City Council chambers.

Secondly, it would be a wonderful thing to have the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium restored AT NO COST TO CITY TAXPAYERS. The Revitalization Partner Group (RPG), who organized the FireAid benefit concert on January 30th at the Intuit Dome and the Kia Forum in Inglewood, and raised about $100 million for wildfire relief efforts have proven to be successful at gathering the necessary people and resources to make the auditorium a money producing venue for the city. The city is hemorrhaging cash and though the Civic Auditorium is not the end all solution, it is one source of income you need to consider. Let’s approach our financial shortage from many different angles, with the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium being one of them. The other reason is to make Santa Monica, once again, an entertainment destination. There is no other public space in the city where we can host art performances. Please sign the ENA.

Sincerely,
Shari Phillips
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
22 David Yakobson
From: Noma Boardmember <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:06 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan Cc: Bruce Leddy
Subject: AGENDA ITEM 5C, March 11, 2025 - Approve ENA

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

TO: SANTA MONICA CITY COUNCIL
RE: Agenda Item 5C, March 11, 2025
Dear Mayor, Council Members, Acting City Manager, and City Attorney - The Board of NOMA urges you to accept the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with RPG to move the process of restoring the Civic Auditorium forward. RPG is the perfect consortium for this project, with extensive experience in both venue restoration and live concert management. Their proposal will return the Civic to its glory days as an entertainment and cultural hub for our city, resulting in significant longterm economic benefit, all at no cost to taxpayers.

This city is fortunate to have such a legendary facility that will add to our reputation as a center for the arts, and even luckier to have such a talented group eager to restore it. Please move forward with the ENA.

Bruce Leddy, Chair
On behalf of
The NOMA Board
NOMA'S Next Meeting: THUR. APRIL 3RD
at 7PM on ZOOM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81526517066
smnoma.org
[email protected]
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
23 David Yakobson
From: Janet Carter <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 1:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Support RPG's Request for an ENA - Restoring the Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
To Santa Monica City Council,
I'm reaching out to address Item 5C on the March 11th agenda, writing to support RPG's request for an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement.

Please support RPG in restoring the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Janet D Carter
2803 Kansas Ave
Santa Monica CA 90404
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
24 David Yakobson
From: Peter Spelman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:58 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Our wonderful Civic Center

EXTERNAL
3/10/25
Hello Council Members:

My wife and I are 47+ year residents of Santa Monica, first renters, now homeowners. Our daughter went through the SM school system K-12. We love and treasure our City.

Please do not sell off one of the few remaining pieces of our heritage. Short term gain in this case will mean long term pain for us, our children, and grandchildren. Instead, keep the Civic as a place for music, art, and culture. There's a proposal to do just that in front of you; vote YES.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Peter Spelman & Stephanie Tainsky
730 Marine St.

Santa Monica 90405
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
25 David Yakobson
From: Esther Hickman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:43 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Douglas Sloan; Elaine Polachek; Barry Snell Subject: Agenda Item 5.C (3/11/25) City Council must approve signing the ENA with RPG to restore the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and members of the Council,
When you vote to move forward or not with the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) to restore Santa Monica Civic Auditorium please think about the marginalized, impoverished and struggling communities in Santa Monica and the surrounding Westside. We need more art and opportunity to uplift and empower all the individuals and families that have come from all over the Nation and World to seek better lives and support through housing vouchers, affordable housing, basic aid public school education and State resources. All residents need more art and pride in their city too! With plans to build more housing and expand the population of our city we need the revitalization of our great Civic Auditorium to create more balance and beauty. Music, art, education and sports is one of the things that can break the barriers of socio-economic classes. You have the power to make things right in our community so I hope you will vote to move forward with this phenomenal opportunity that our residents have worked so hard to create for the betterment of the City. We all need a better Santa Monica. Imagine the National press praising our World Class city and moving away from our reputation of being a safe haven for degenerates and criminals.

We urge the Council to agree to the revised ENA and direct the City to pursue this process so that Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center and begin the revitalization of our city.

Thank you for your consideration.

With Sincere Gratitude,
--
Esther Hickman
310.600.7306
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
26 David Yakobson
From: Edgar Sernas
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:18 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: RE: Opposition to City Council Meeting Staff Report 6941 Im not sure which Zoe request this is. But I will make this one into one PDF.

Edgar Sernas
Staff Assistant III – Records & Election Svcs
(310) 458-8211 x5782
santamonica.gov
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Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: councilmtgitems <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:14 PM
To: Edgar Sernas <[email protected]>
Subject: FW: Opposition to City Council Meeting Staff Report 6941 Hey Edgar,
Not sure if you saw my previous email but Zoe wants these items made during public comment. Niki mentioned she’d prefer they just be included as one PDF file.

David Yakobson
Staff Assistant III
(310) 458-8211 x2066
santamonica.gov
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: Zoe <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, March 5, 2025 5:02 PM
To: Dana Brown <[email protected]>; Clerk Mailbox <[email protected]>; Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]>; Susan Cline <[email protected]> Cc: David Gardinier <[email protected]>; Josh Kurpies <[email protected]>; Lisa Parson Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
27 <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Ramon Batista <[email protected]>; councilmtgitems <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Ellis Raskin <[email protected]>; Natalya Zernitskaya <[email protected]>; Barry Snell <[email protected]>; Dan Hall <[email protected]>; Elaine Polachek <[email protected]>
Subject: Opposition to City Council Meeting Staff Report 6941

EXTERNAL
Dear Ms. Brown,
First, congratulations on your appointment to lead the City of Santa Monica Human Resources team.

I have been busy since your appointment with litigation in the LA Superior Court for the negligence of the processing of my nomination papers by Nikima Newsome,and Maria Dacanay- Weisner Santa Monica City Clerk's for Santa Monica College Board of trustee, hence you did not hear from me sooner.

I am writing to you today to oppose the Staff Report 6941, Approval of City Attorney Amended and Restated Employment Agreement. The report is inaccurate, There are Financial Impacts and Budget Actions to this recommendation. As I filed a claim for the irresponsible way Douglas Sloan Department has failed to investigate and file charges against Marty Kaplan, Sean Besser and Maureen Morris in several Tenant Harassment Complaints dating from 2022 until 2024.

His legal malpractice in defending the City Clerk negligence of my Nomination Papers for Santa Monica College Board of Trustees is also a claim against the City of Santa Monica, specifically to his department. Doglas Sloan lied to the City Council in closed session saying I lost 8 times in LA Superior Court at different hearings of the Writ of Mandate case filed in the LA Superior Court.

Councilmember Dan Hall shared that information with me on December 21, 2024 at the Virginia Avenue Park Lloyd Allen Plaque Unveiling event. You should consider asking for copies of the claims I filed with the City Clerk's Office.

At the February 25, 2025 City Council meeting, I approached Douglas Sloan in the hallway close to the glass doors of City Hall Chambers, in a typical behavior of White Supremacy, Sloan dismissed me as a nuisance, failing to engage with me to discuss an issue that exposes the city to litigation. Earlier at the meeting during Public Comment, I asked him to look at me when speaking and he continued looking at his phone. It is on the record. Not a good look. On January 6, 2025I emailed a presentation of a LA Law Library Class I took on January 7, 2025 about Civility in the Courts which I attached to this email. Sloan knows the law, he and his staff refuse to abide by it. I am still waiting for an answer from Deputy Attorney Benito Delfin about a Subpoena filed last month. Nine days ago he told the court he was going to present an ex parte motion to oppose the subpoena, I am still waiting for it. This is a culture of privilege and entitlement that needs to be addressed by the City Council.

There is a BIG and immediate financial impact of budget action necessary as a result of recommended action. Salary and benefits for the City Attorney position are included in the City’s budget, however if the City Council and the City Manager (Human Resources) authorize this recommendation, there will be a significant exposure to litigation that will exacerbate the reputation of the city with discriminatory practices and the influence of political actors in making decision at the City Attorney's Office.

Douglas Sloan has systematically exposed the City to litigation not to prevent it. In a time when the fiscal wellbeing of the city is impacted by multiple litigations as per Councilmember Ellis Raskin OPA Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
28 Neighborhood meeting participation last month, Santa Monica lawmakers should be risk averse. Given the track record of malicious prosecution by previous City Attorney's Marsha Moutrie, I would think carefully about this recommendation and its potential exposure to litigation.

I will be filing complaints with the State of California Bar, the Los Angeles Bar, the Los Angeles District Attorney, and the California Attorney General tomorrow to include in this report.

Kindly reply if you have any questions. Thank you.

Zoё Muntaner
“Do you have the patience to wait till your mud settles and the water is clear?"- Tao Te Ching IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed to and may contain privileged and confidential information. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it safely, securely, and confidentially.

Unauthorized re-disclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify me by return email and delete this message from your computer.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
29 David Yakobson
From: danilobach <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:15 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 5C - City Council meeting 3/11/25

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Council members,
The opportunity to team up with RPG (Revitalization Partner Group) in revitalizing the Civic Auditorium and our downtown is too good for the city to pass up. As a Santa Monica resident, I urge you to satisfactorily conclude the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with them now being considered.

Respectfully,
Danilo Bach
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
30 David Yakobson
From: Lisa Pound <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:10 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; David White
Subject: SAVE THS CIVIC-Sign the ENA

EXTERNAL
PLEASE LISTEN TO THE RESIDENTS OF SANTA MONCIA.

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so we can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers

Lisa Pound
1010 Pacific St.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
2 David Yakobson
From: Jane Dempsey <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:05 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C - Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Council members,
I have lived in Santa Monica since the mid 70’s both renting and owning.

Hopefully this will be a turning point to start to rebuild our City. On Tuesday night, you have a chance with your vote to try to give the City something to be proud of again. The Santa Monica Civic is one place that has not been tarnished over the years. I urge you to vote and sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group, so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. People have wonderful memories of events held there (jewelry shows, dog shows, the Colleagues fundraisers etc.). Then there were concerts over the years with top artists and bands including the TAMI Show in 1964.

It would be nice for Santa Monica to make the news for something other than bad news. I hope the City Council will vote to sign this agreement so the City can have just one thing to be positive about in Santa Monica for a change?
Jane Dempsey
(310) 392-3366
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
3 David Yakobson
From: Ann Maggio <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:02 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; councilmtgitems
Subject: March 11 - Closed Session Item - Save the Civic / THE CITY MUST STOP FORCING

SAMOHI TO CARRY THE CITY'S WATER

EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
The Public campaign to REFUSE another school bond that would REMOVE the City's OBLIGATION to SAVE the CIVIC CENTER is UNDERWAY. We have YEARS to inform voters about your back door plans to burden the District (and fund your political campaigns and those of your friends over at the District) by pushing the burdens onto PUBLIC EDUCATION. Shame on you! The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

Vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Ann Maggio Thanawalla
"Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth." - Albert Einstein Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
4 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 12:01 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: City Council 3/11/25 item 5-C -- Civic Auditorium -- SUPPORT!

EXTERNAL
March 10, 2025

To: Mayor Negrete and City Council members
From: Ofer Grossman
RE: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C -- Santa Monica Civic Auditorium The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

I urge you to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and lease the Civic to RPG so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Background:
- A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status. - A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities, which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.
- Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.
- A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians, and beyond -- a source of pride for the people of our great City. - Traffic makes it difficult for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater.

Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city? If City Council members vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us.

The suggestion that selling historic, unique, income producing properties of the City is a sound financial tactic is incorrect. These assets are the bread and butter of the City of Santa Monica. They bring in tourists (domestic and foreign) and add quality to the lives of residents, making Santa Monica a special Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
5 place to live. Do not sell or ignore these unique assets. They are the key to Santa Monica’s financial viability in the future.

Thank you,
Ofer Grossman
1115 Hill Street
To help protect your privacy,
Micro so ft Office prevented
auto matic downlo ad o f this
picture from the Internet. Virus-free.www.avast.com
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
6 David Yakobson
From: Ellie <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 11:39 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11 city council item 5-C. Save the civic auditorium

EXTERNAL
Please help save the auditorium
Ellie Pezeshki
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: JEANNE LAURIE <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 2:48 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
This is a legacy moment for you and for the City of Santa Monica The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

The City of Santa Monica needs the Civic Auditorium for many reasons. It is a shame that such a valuable building has sat idle for so long. There is great pride to have it. It would be a terrible shame to turn it into basketball courts or any other purpose.

Here is your chance to do the right thing.

Jeanne Laurie
Sunset Park
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
2 David Yakobson
From: Jeffrey Sturges <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 11:46 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please save the Civic!

EXTERNAL
To the Santa Monica team,
The permanent fate of our beloved and historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center and a magnificent , at no cost to taxpayers.

A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.

Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.

A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City.

Thank you,
Jeffrey Sturges
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
4 David Yakobson
From: Ellen Hannan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 11:24 AM
To: Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems
Subject: Why is the Civic Center Important? Vote for March 10,2024

EXTERNAL
It is all about the money. We need it to help fund the many hotels in the immediate area of the City Center area. This revenue is a source for more hotel growth. The high tax rate the City Staff has placed on our downtown hotels is a major source(along with auto dealerships taxes) is saving our City from the financial ruin it is facing.

It is not just Save The Civic Auditorium, it is to save our hotels and to save our downtown and SAVE OUR CITY from bankruptcy. And you need to do it now. Not in a year or two, do not wait until the next election. cycle.

March 10, 2024
Ellen Hannan
1218 9th St #6
Santa Monica Ca 90401
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 7:20 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: hi

EXTERNAL
Hello Santa Monica City Counsel Members,
as in the past we have the Broad Auditorium, but please study or vet the future use of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. I certainly liked it in the past attendance . Perhaps it can reintroduce the Academy Awards, concerts, educational forums etc., political debates, there is no end to usage.

Good bye, Mitchell Lachman
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
1 David Yakobson
From: Tricia Crane <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 10:50 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; councilmtgitems; Elaine Polachek; Douglas Sloan Subject: Agenda Item 5.C (3/11/25) City Council must approve signing the ENA with RPG to restore the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
To: City Council
From: The Board of Northeast Neighbors
Re: Agenda Item 5.C, Council meeting of March 11, 2025
Santa Monica City Council must approve signing of the ENA with RPG to restore the Civic Auditorium
Dear Mayor Negrete and members of the Council,
The Board of Northeast Neighbors asks the City Council to move forward with the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) to restore Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

We urge the Council to agree to the revised ENA and direct the City to pursue this process so that Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center and begin the revitalization of our city.

The Civic was the location for the 40th Annual Academy Awards Photo courtesy of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
2 David Yakobson
From: Anita <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 10:16 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Sincerely,
Anita Szafran
929 Idaho Ave Apt 1
Santa Monica
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
3 David Yakobson
From: Bob Elson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:06 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Santa Monica Civic

EXTERNAL
Hi all,
I'm sure that I've lived and worked in Santa Monica longer than anyone this email is going out to. During that time, the City has deteriorated in more ways than I currently choose to write about, or you would choose to read about, so let's limit this to 1 topic. The SM Civic should be saved. Period.

The Civic is an asset that can't (won't) be replaced, just like so many others that are being "disappeared" here. Don't aspire for Santa Monica to become the next Miami Beach or Acapulco. Save what little unique beach city charm remains, (don't build more "affordable units" in the area which is already gridlocked, and has parking shortages,) and have someone rehab and manage the auditorium the way it was in the past.

Sincerely,
N. Robert Elson, M.D.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
4 David Yakobson
From: Victor Fresco <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 9:00 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Dan Hall; Caroline Torosis; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Cc: Elaine Polachek; Nia Tang; Jennifer Taylor; Susan Cola Subject: Re: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Vote for the Civic Auditorium ENA

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council,
I urge you to approve the ENA and negotiate with RPG to restore Santa Monica’s historic Civic Auditorium into a world-class performing arts venue.

A revitalized Civic would be an economic driver for our downtown. The City would incur no costs, publicly owned land would not be sold off DOGE/Musk-style, and Santa Monica would have a worldclass cultural arena, generating tax revenue for decades to come. It’s a win-win-win-win for our City.

It would also give residents something to be excited about. A City-wide morale booster in these challenging times.

Sincerely,
Victor and Diane Fresco
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
5 David Yakobson
From: Richard Orton <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 8:55 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Keep the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
Attachments: 61. Sept Civic Aud Newsletter B .pdf

EXTERNAL
I think the first Civic Auditorium was built at the Ocean Park Pier and it was enveloped into part of POP when that started in 1958. By then the current Civic as under construction and we should continue with that tradition and commitment.

Save the Civic
At the bottom I'm attaching the newsletter about the history of the Civic Auditorium to help you why it is so important to keep it. It is the soul of our community, a landmark, and to order it's destruction would be permanent wound to our city's heritage.

Thank you,
Richard Orton
Ocean Park
Look who played there...

The Beach Boys
Lesley Gore
Bo Diddley
Chuck Berry
Gerry & the Pacemakers
Jan and Dean
Marvin Gaye
Smokey Robinson
James Brown
The Supremes
The Rolling Stones
Bob Dylan
The Eagles
David Bowie
Bruce Springsteen
Pink Ffloyd
Van Morrison
Journey
Genisis
The Doors
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Steps Advance for Extensive Civic Building
os Angeles Times (1923-1995); Feb 19, 1956; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times g. E1
Richard’s Tales of Ocean Park, Santa Monica and other magic places.

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

Page 1 ends

Appreciating the Civic Auditorium
A look at the Santa Monica
Civic Auditorium from the
pages of the LA Times
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March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
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Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permissio Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Santa Monica Fetes Building of Auditorium
Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Jun 16, 1958; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Los Angeles Times pg. B1
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.

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

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

Page 2 ends

There’ll be No Snack
Bar for S.M. Sea Gulls
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March 11, 2025

Page 3 ends

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

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

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

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

More interesting stuff....

Whats happening now?.

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

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

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

Meanwhile, a long-promised soccer
field has been built on its parking lot making the likelihood of a reopening less likely than ever. I wish it well... Richard Orton
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March 11, 2025
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Page 4 ends

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

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
6 The Who
Billy Joel
Boston
Van Halen
Queen
Frank Zappa
Prince
U2
Aerosmith
Eric Clapton
Jackson Browne
Kingston Trio
Village People
Frank Sinatra
Ella Fitzgerald
Crosby, Stills, and Nash
The Kinks
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
7 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 11:33 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Caroline Torosis; Lana Negrete
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Please Save the Civic Auditorium-Revitalize our City!

EXTERNAL
Please Save the Civic Auditorium and let them bring world class music back to our city and Help Revitalize our Business and our City..

And bring more badly needed revenue and Tourism.
- 30 yr Santa Monica home owner and resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
8 David Yakobson
From: girltunes <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 10:09 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I stand with Friends of the Civic regarding the following request* for the SM City Council to agree to the revised ENA submitted by RPG so that the process of saving the CIvic Center can move forward. *The Revitalization Partner Group (RPG) that has been negotiating with the City to restore Santa Monica’s Civic Auditorium into a world-class music and performing arts center (at no cost to taxpayers!) has now submitted their second revised Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) to the City.
(RPG includes people who organized the FireAid benefit concert on January 30th at the Intuit Dome and the Kia Forum in Inglewood, and raised about $100 million for wildfire relief efforts.) The future of the historic Civic Auditorium is now in the hands of our City Council. It can either agree to the revised ENA and move the process forward and agree to a lease. [from Friends of the Civic email blast 3-9-2025] Sincerely,
Ferris Gluck
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
9 David Yakobson
From: Wendy Dembo <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 8:24 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems; Douglas Sloan
Subject: re: agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Esteamed Council Members,
One way to help the City of Santa Monica's dire financial situation is to help businesses.

Please allow and encourage the revitalization of the Historic Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. People love live music and will come to Santa Monica to attend concerts. They will spend money, which will create much-needed tax revenue.

Please approve a lease for the Revitalization Partner Group (RPG).

Selling land is short-sighted. Land continually goes up in value. Please think of the future of Santa Monica.

With great concern,
Wendy Dembo
Santa Moncia Resident, Voter, and Wilmont Board Member
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
10 David Yakobson
From: Hillary Rollins <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 7:12 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

The benefits are obvious, but if you need reminders, here are some very good reasons:
- A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status. - A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities, which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.
- Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.
- A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians, and beyond -- a source of pride for the people of our great City. - Traffic makes it difficult for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city? Thank you for serving the community ;)
Hillary Rollins
Hillary Rollins Presents
310.291.1466 (cell)
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
11 David Yakobson
From: Kit Dreyfuss <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 8:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Save the Civic auditorium!

EXTERNAL
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:

From: Kit Dreyfuss <[email protected]>
Date: March 9, 2025 at 7:59:32 PM PDT
To: [email protected]
Subject: Save the Civic auditorium!
I moved to Santa Monica in 1969, raised four children, served as Santa Monica School Nurse for 23 years and have supported city projects along the way. I urge our city council to maintain our Civic Auditorium as a significant attraction for business and pleasure for Santa Monica residents, businesses and visitors.

Sincerely,
Kit Dreyfuss
Sent from my iPhone
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
12 David Yakobson
From: Mindi Shank <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 7:03 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Vote to save the Civic for the residents of Santa Monica

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

Please vote to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group, so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. - A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status. - A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities, which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.
- Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.
- A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians, and beyond -- a source of pride for the people of our great City. - Traffic makes it difficult for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city? We, residents, deserve a culturally rich and iconic concert hall to remain a part of our fine city for us and future generations to enjoy. I have lived in LA for over 20 years and have not had the good fortune of seeing any performances at this historic landmark site but have heard the wonderful stories from those who did. It’s time we bring it back!
If City Council members vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us. Vote YES to revitalize and save the Civic!
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
13 David Yakobson
From: Hal Bogotch <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 6:39 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands! Please vote to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and approve a lease with the Revitalization Partner Group (RPG), so that Santa Monica can, once again, have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Years ago, I used to attend concerts at the Santa Monica Civic — it was an extraordinary venue! For Santa Monica residents (as well as folks who live elsewhere), it is accessible by bicycle, bus, and train.

The Civic Auditorium has sat vacant for far too long!
Please don't hesitate to approve the proposed negotiating agreement & lease — so that this project can — at long last, move forward.

Sincerely,
Mr. Hal Bogotch
2520 Cloverfield Blvd
Santa Monica 90405
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
14 David Yakobson
From: Kathy Knight <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 6:23 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; [email protected]; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium Importance: High

EXTERNAL
March 9, 2025
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council Members:

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

A partnership with RPB would mean that the Civic would remain owned by we, the residents of Santa Monica.

I don’t want to travel across Los Angeles to go to a concert. I want to go to concerts here.

We are asking for your support to save our Civic Auditorium.

Thank you,
Kathy Knight and Joe Faris
Sunset Park Residents
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
15 David Yakobson
From: Diana Gordon <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 5:58 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Cc: Elaine Polachek; Nia Tang; Jennifer Taylor; Susan Cola Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Vote for the Civic Auditorium ENA

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council,
I write to urge you to approve the ENA and negotiate with RPG to breathe new life into the Civic Auditorium and restore its luster as a top-notch cultural and entertainment venue for the ages.

The RPG team that has emerged to partner with the City has deep and broad experience in renovating and operating entertainment/cultural venues in the US and elsewhere, and understands the entertainment industry bar none.

Likewise, RPG has the deep pockets to revitalize the Civic at no cost to the City and generate a steady revenue stream for our City and its businesses while burnishing our City’s arts and cultural stature.

It’s a unique win-win opportunity - resurrecting our very own iconic venue that has lain fallow for too long.

And lastly, this rare publicly owned venue called “The Civic” will remain, as it should, in public hands.

Thank you,
Diana Gordon
Santa Monica resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
16 David Yakobson
From: Phyllis Chavez <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 5:56 PM
To: [email protected]; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Cc: Nia Tang; Douglas Sloan; Jennifer Taylor
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium"

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

If City Council members vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us.

Thank you,
Phyllis Chavez
Sunset Park
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
17 David Yakobson
From: Daniel Galamba <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 5:23 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems; Daniel Galamba
Subject: City Council Meeting 3-11-2025 Item 5.C.-Please save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I am requesting that your sign the ENA with RPG to restore our Civic Auditorium into a world-class music and performing arts center at no cost to taxpayers. Some of the benefits of signing an ENA include:

A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center that would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity and tax dollars for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica.

Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.

A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City.

Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. A restored Civic Auditorium will have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in Santa Monica.

This is a once in a generation opportunity to revitalize our downtown area. Please don't waste it by destroying the Civic Auditorium and replacing it with something else, e.g. luxury condos that only further stuff the pockets of greedy developers. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Dr Daniel Galamba
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
18 David Yakobson
From: Toby Berlin <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 4:41 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: "3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium"

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

- A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.
- A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities, which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated. - Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.
- A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians, and beyond -- a source of pride for the people of our great City. - Traffic makes it difficult for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city? If City Council members vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us.

Toby Berlin
1701 Pier Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
19 Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
20 David Yakobson
From: Mary Hubbell <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 4:18 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C – Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
Please vote YES to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with the Revitalization Partner Group to restore and revitalize our publicly owned Civic Auditorium. With RPG we are getting our world-class performing arts and cultural center at no cost to taxpayers.

Thank you,
Mary Hubbell
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
21 David Yakobson
From: Nancy Hicks <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 2:57 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: 3/11/25 Agenda Item 5-C - Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council Members:

Thank you.

Nancy & Wes Hicks
Santa Monica residents
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
22 David Yakobson
From: Abby Adams <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 2:55 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Cc: Patrick Adams; Kellogg Adams; cooper adams; Riley Adams Subject: SAVE AND RESTORE THE CIVIC!

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. We strongly encourage you to move forward with RPG ASAP, so the city can begin to move forward with this game changing plane. Thank you.

Thank you.

The Adams Family
475 17th Street

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
23 David Yakobson
From: janet rt <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 2:42 PM
To: [email protected]; Lana Negrete; councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick Subject: Save the Civic

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Council members,
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

Janet Tunick
1224 Grant St
90405
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
24 David Yakobson
From: [email protected]
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 11:17 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: FOSP: City Council 3/11/25 item 5-C -- Civic Auditorium -- SUPPORT!

EXTERNAL
March 8, 2025

To: Mayor Negrete and City Council members
From: Board of Directors, Friends of Sunset Park'
RE: 3/11/25 agenda item 5-C -- Santa Monica Civic Auditorium The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands.

The FOSP Board urges you to sign the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement and lease the Civic to RPG so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city? If City Council members vote to end negotiations, this will be a tragic missed opportunity and a huge loss for all of us.

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
25 David Yakobson
From: Jeffrey Gordon <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 9:50 AM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; [email protected]; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems Subject: Civic Auditorium-Tuesday 3/11/25 Council Agenda Item 5c—Please Vote Yes

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and City Council,
I strongly urge our Council to vote to sign the ENA and proceed with negotiations to revitalize the Civic as a world class venue with this strong group which has deep, rare experience in constructing and operating such a cultural venue.

We are rarely faced with such a clear win-win situation for our local businesses, residents and the City government. An iconic cultural venue in the heart of our city would provide an ongoing economic engine for local businesses and a steady City revenue stream.

At the same time it would provide us all with a much needed local music and arts home—something we really can be proud of. All at no cost to the City. And while allowing this valuable publicly owned venue and property to remain in public hands into the future.

Thank you, Jeff Gordon, Santa Monica resident
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
26 David Yakobson
From: Ed A <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 9:07 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis
Subject: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Why not have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city?
Regards, E Albert
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
27 David Yakobson
From: Andrea Level <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 1:59 AM
To: Lana Negrete
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Save+the+Civic

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete and Council Members,
I urge you to sign the Civic Auditorium ENA to restore a world class performing arts centre in Santa Monica. This would be at no cost to taxpayers but would provide an enormous benefit in terms of access to the facility for residents and also the uplift for local businesses.

The fate of this valuable community asset is in your hands.

Thank you for considering my view.

Yours sincerely,
Andrea Level
✉ [email protected]
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
28 David Yakobson
From: Martyn Burke <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 6:33 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SAVE THE CIVIC

EXTERNAL
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
29 David Yakobson
From: Andrew Wilder <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 6:11 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; Susan Cline; Elaine Polachek
Subject: 03/11/25 Item 5C - Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
Please save the Civic Auditorium and work with RPG to turn it into a revitalized concert and performing arts center.

An arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

Traffic makes it all but impossible for Santa Monicans to visit venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theater. Let's reduce vehicle trips and create a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city!
Thank you!
Andrew Wilder
Sunset Park
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
30 David Yakobson
From: Susan Suntree <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 4:13 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; David White; Ellis Raskin
Subject: The Civic Auditorium!

EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members: The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers.

Additionally,
A revitalized world-class concert and performing arts center would provide the City with a revenue stream for decades. The economic ripple effect for Santa Monica would be huge as a restored concert and performing arts venue in the heart of our city would attract people from all over the region and beyond, generating economic activity (and tax dollars!) for hotels, restaurants, etc., enhancing our City’s destination status.

- A partnership with RPG would mean the Civic would remain owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Keeping public spaces public encourages residents to participate in their communities which is vital at a time when people feel increasingly isolated.

- Publicly owned venues for music and the arts are rare and important and should not be sold off or used for other purposes.

- A restored Civic would make our City a cultural and arts destination for Santa Monicans, Southern Californians and beyond, a source of pride for the people of our great City.

Sincerely,
Susan Suntree
1223 11th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
31 David Yakobson
From: Stacey Abarbanel <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 3:40 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Save the Civic Auditorium

EXTERNAL
Dear Council:

The fate of our historic Civic Auditorium is in your hands. Please vote to sign the ENA so Santa Monica can have a world-class performing arts center, at no cost to taxpayers. RPG Group is highly experienced with strong ties to the entertainment industry and a proven track record. They are prepared to secure the funding needed to revitalize the Civic Auditorium as a world-class performance venue if given time and consideration in developing a feasibility assessment and design proposal that fits this project's complex requirements and our community's needs. Please endorse their request for an ENA as considerable economic and cultural benefits to the city will accompany their success.

We cannot wait to again have a vibrant home for music and the arts right here in our city! Thank you,
Stacey Ravel Abarbanel
1039 Harvard Street
Santa Monica, CA 90403
[email protected]
310/736-5300
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
32 David Yakobson
From: D M <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 3:04 PM
To: Lana Negrete
Subject: Save the Civic

EXTERNAL
Please vote to sign the ENA.

I am a musician and feel strongly that we need a world class venue for the performing arts where the Santa Monica Civic stands!
Thank you for considering my viewpoint.

Sincerely,
Diane
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
33 David Yakobson
From: Ed Harker <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 2:29 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Determining the fate of the Civic in closed session on Tuesday, March 11

EXTERNAL
Dear City Council,
Please pass the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement presented by RPG so we can begin, once again, enjoying world class arts and entertainment right here in our beautiful beach town! All the vendors along Main Street, Pico, Ocean and the beachfront would love nothing more than days and evenings when folks from all over the city and the country would have another really great reason to come here, enjoy the scene and support our locals.

And for our residents, to have the opportunities to enjoy what the whole world of performers have to offer on stage, is another great reason to live here, stay here, grow families here, and share our blessings with everyone.

This is really a no brainer... AT NO COST TO TAXPAYERS, wow! Thank you,
Ed Harker
SM resident since 1984
2029 20th St 90404
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
34 David Yakobson
From: Gina Simas <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 2:00 PM
To: Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Jesse Zwick; councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Save the Civic and Vote to Sign the ENA

EXTERNAL
All,
I have been a resident of Santa Monica for over twenty years. I moved here to attend law school and, thereafter, purchased a townhome in 2002. I love going to concerts and do so frequently. Unfortunately, the Hollywood Bowl, the Greek and other venues are so far away from us that we cannot go as frequently as we would like. Our community would benefit greatly by having a venue close by for everyone to use and enjoy. Moreover, it would bring in needed tax dollars and tourists from all over seeking to attend a concert at this storied venue.

I implore you to embrace a partnership with RPG so that the Civic remains owned by the residents of Santa Monica. Covid resulted in a loss of community and connection. Restoring Santa Monica’s Civic Auditorium into a world-class music center could help restore a sense of community. PLEASE vote to sign the ENA. The fate of our City is in your hands. Thank you for looking out for the residents by ensuring our future is bright by having a much needed performing arts and entertainment venue.

Sincerely,
Gina Simas

Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
35 David Yakobson
From: Libby Pachares <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 8, 2025 1:44 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Civic Auditorium - Please support entering into an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with RPG Group

EXTERNAL
Honorable Members of the Council,
I am writing to urge you to vote in favor of entering into an ENA with RPG Group. Our residents need to know that the City Council has diligently pursued every option find an economically feasible way to adaptively reuse this historic site, and in so doing, preserve it’s legacy for future generations, bring revenue into our city and reclaim the city as an important center for the performing arts.

I hope that I can count on you to vote in favor of entering into the ENA.

Sincerely,
Libby Pachares
414 16th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025
Item 5-C
March 11, 2025

Santa Monica City CouncilMarch 11, 2025

Santa Monica City Council
March 11, 2025