city.
Karen was an all-American and National Champion swimmer at UCLA . She has since continued in Masters Swimming, earning American and World records. Her son participated in various Santa Monica city and school sports programs.
Karen was instrumental in forming the Santa Monica Aquatics Advisory Committee, and she has served as Chair and Vice Chair. The committee advises the Recreation & Parks Commission and also works to improve communication and cooperation among the Santa Monica Swim Center users.
Karen states on her application that, "My vision for the RPC is to be an advocate for the residents of Santa Monica to ensure that parks, recreation, and the arts are a priority to the City Council, and that the City commits resources for Santa Monica to have facilities equal or above those of comparable cities." Karen earned an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management. She worked at UCLA as Director of Systems, Network, Architecture & Planning. She then worked at Cal State LA as Director of Administrative Technology and Director of IT Projects & Compliance.
In other words, this is a person who works well with others.
I've known her for some years, and I urge you to appoint Karen Melick to the Recreation & Parks Commission.
Thank you for your consideration.
Item 16-A
March 11, 2025
Item 16-A
March 11, 2025
16.A.c
Packet Pg. 770 Attachment: Written Comments (6994 : 16.A. Appointment to one seat on the Recreation and Parks Commission (5 mins.)) 2 David Yakobson
From: Joe Pertel <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 9, 2025 4:02 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16.A - Council Meeting on March 11th
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I am writing in support of Karen Melick for the Recreation and Parks Commission. She's an outstanding candidate.
Ms. Melick was instrumental in the creation of the Santa Monica Aquatics Advisory Committee (SMAAC) and has served in a leadership role for the past 5 years. She has served as a board member and President of the Bruin Booster for Womens Sports at UCLA. With both a BS in Engineering and MBA from UCLA, the former captain, all-American, and national champion UCLA swimmer, will be an incredible voice for the tens of thousands of young children, adults, and seniors who use are aquatics facilities ever year, as well as a strong advocate for more parks and open space in Santa Monica in the future.
Sincerely,
Joe Pertel
Santa Monica resident
Item 16-A
March 11, 2025
Item 16-A
March 11, 2025
16.A.c
Packet Pg. 771 Attachment: Written Comments (6994 : 16.A. Appointment to one seat on the Recreation and Parks Commission (5 mins.)) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: March 25, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.B
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Appointment to one unscheduled vacancy on the Housing Authority Board for a term ending on June 30, 2026. (CONTINUED FROM 3/11/2025) Prepared By: David Yakobson, Staff Assistant III
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Applicant List
16.B
Packet Pg. 772
City of Santa Monica
Boards and Commissions Applicants
Housing Authority Board
Name Application Date
Bruce, Alisa
Grayson, Stephanie D.
Harper, Carmel C.
Mickens, Yolanda R.
Nolan, Wendy
Phillips, Belinda L.
Prina, Liliana N.
07/11/2024
07/22/2024
07/30/2024
08/29/2024
07/09/2024
07/20/2024
07/29/2024
Susman, Matthew B.* 07/10/2024
Giolito, Robert S.*
Gordon, Nancy*
King, Dominique E.*
Lilly, Christine M.*
Shadchina, Larissa*
Weston, Emily*
White, Paula M.*
02/17/2025
08/08/2024
12/16/2024
07/10/2024
07/08/2024
08/27/2024
07/22/2024
Buchanan, Rene J
Lynch, Deborah
07/23/2024
08/20/2024
TOTAL APPLICANTS: 17
*Currently serves on the Disabilities Commission
*Not eligible or applying for this seat
Withdrew application
16.B.a
Packet Pg. 773 Attachment: Applicant List (6995 : 16.B. Appointment to HAB (5 Mins.))
16.B.a
Packet Pg. 774 Attachment: Applicant List (6995 : 16.B. Appointment to HAB (5 Mins.)) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: March 25, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.C
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Appointments to eleven newly created seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee with five terms ending on June 30, 2026, and six terms ending on June 30, 2028.
Prepared By: David Yakobson, Staff Assistant III
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Applicant List
B. Written Comments
16.C
Packet Pg. 775
City of Santa Monica
Boards and Commissions Applicants
Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee
Name Application Date
Buchanan, René J.* 01/11/2025
Curcio, Gregory* 03/13/2025
Jeter, Markashia* 03/12, 2025
Kelley, Wade* 01/21/2025
Ramsey, Milan* 03/18/2025
Marasco, Theresa*,** 03/18/2025
Price, Raenetta*** 03/06/2025
Goltsman, David^ 03/06/2025
Jeevaprakash, Anujan^^ 03/11/2025
Soloff, Michael^^ 12/30/2024
Wessel, Bruce^^ 03/14/2025
TOTAL APPLICANTS: 11
*
**
***
^
^^
Qualifies for the 4 low-income seats
Currently serving on the Housing Commission
Not eligible
Expertise in the accounting field
Expertise in the legal field
16.C.a
Packet Pg. 776 Attachment: Applicant List (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 1 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 11:52 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Dan Hall; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Douglas Sloan; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; [email protected]
Subject: ITEM 16 C GS Oversight Committee
EXTERNAL
We need eyes other than SMRR on this committee.
Vote for Theresa Marasco who will be sure to see these monies used for the purposes they were intended.
This tax was to be earmarked for specific uses. This needs explanation not shuck and jive.
It looks like all year one GS funding has already been used in the March 11, 2025 City Council meeting item the Strategic Plan for Homelessness, including more city staff for the City Attorney's office.
And combining the Human Services and Housing Departments again.
But about the GS funds, look toward the bottom of the staff report. https://santamonicacityca.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?F rame=None&MeetingID=1431&MediaPosition=&ID=6095&CssClass= Danielle Charney
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 777 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 1 David Yakobson
From: Karen Croner <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 11:35 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; Douglas Sloan Subject: Theresa Marasco for GS oversight committee
EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
I am writing in support of Theresa Marasco. She is passionate, will work hard, truly cares about residents in need from her own personal experience and
Her great knowledge of Santa Monica. She has been a hard working Housing Commissioner and has vast knowledge of both State and Federal laws and HUD regulations . Theresa checks all the boxes for one of the 4 seats reserved for low income tenants, as she is a Housing Choice Voucher holder, she lives in deed-restricted housing, she was formerly homeless during COVID 19, and is someone living with a disability.
I supported GS and hope it will be distributed in an equitable manner. Theresa is non-partisan and will work for all Santa Monicans.
Thank you,
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 778 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 1 David Yakobson
From: info <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 9:13 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Agenda Item 16C - Support of Theresa Marasco
EXTERNAL
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong and unwavering support for Theresa Marasco's candidacy for a seat on the GS Oversight Board. Theresa has been a dedicated and tireless advocate for individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Through her extensive research and commitment, she has worked tirelessly to identify and develop ways to enhance the city's housing programs, ensuring they better meet the needs of our residents.
As both a Housing Commissioner and someone with firsthand lived experience of homelessness, Theresa approaches this issue with a deep sense of compassion and understanding. She has consistently advocated for those in need, bringing a unique perspective that only someone with her background and dedication can provide.
Theresa has applied for one of the seats reserved for a low-income resident, and I am confident that her insight, experience, and dedication would make her an invaluable asset to the board. I strongly encourage you to consider her for this important role.
Sincerely,
Christine Parra
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 779 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 2 David Yakobson
From: Jarrod Bailey <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 10:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 16C - Appoint Theresa Marasco to the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Torosis, and Council Members, This letter is in support of Theresa Marasco to be appointed to the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee.
In the several years that I’ve known Theresa, she has proven to be a compassionate advocate for the underserved community in Santa Monica. I have personally seen her go above and beyond to help at-risk Santa Monica residents with housing information and resources.
She meets four requirements for members of the lower income households, including being someone with a physical disability, living in a deed-restricted unit, she is a Housing Choice Voucher holder, who was formerly homeless both as a child, and as an adult—as recently as during the COVID pandemic, and was a Santa Monica resident when she and her family became homeless.
Theresa works tirelessly as a Housing Commissioner in the seat reserved specially for someone who is a Housing Authority Program Participant and who was formerly homeless, she is an active community volunteer assisting low-income residents who are at risk of becoming homeless or need help obtaining housing, she assists Santa Monica Housing Authority clients with housing issues and HUD information, and works with homeless people in the City who are trying to obtain shelter and/or housing.
Her personal and professional experience make her a uniquely qualified candidate for the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Jarrod Bailey
Santa Monica Resident
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 780 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 3 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 7:22 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Jesse Zwick; Natalya Zernitskaya; Barry Snell; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; Douglas Sloan; [email protected]
Subject: Meeting Item 16.C. GS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
EXTERNAL
I would like to express my support for Theresa Marasco, who is truly one of the most qualified applicants on this list.
She brings to the table 25 years of experience working for those in need in varying capacities.
She is relentless in her quest to see the common need be addressed, be it housing or help to stop someone from falling into homelessness or to navigate the legal system and public agencies.
We are facing a very tough time locally and god help us.. nationally.
Theresa has in-depth knowledge of how the City works and has hit the ground running since she arrived in Santa Monica in 2014. She has helped many avoid homelessness alone.
I see this list of applicants and honestly, it appears to be a list of the "usual suspects" who will do what is wanted by SMRR not that it is all bad, but we need more diversity. We also need the City not to use those funds to make up for their shortfalls in other areas.
She will do a great job. Be smart. Don't let your personal peeves towards me or her interfere. Appoint the best people ..she is one of them. She loves this town. She will do a great job.
Thank you,
Danielle Charney
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 781 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 4 David Yakobson
From: Andres Drobny <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 5:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Subject: Agenda Item 16C
EXTERNAL
THERESA MARASCO
I write as a resident to support Theresa as a candidate for the GS Oversight Committee.
I only know her via Santa Monica FB sites, but frankly can’t imagine a better qualified candidate. She is civically minded, always up to date on social issues, has a handle on many housing questions in Santa Monica, presents herself sensibly and thoughtfully in writing, and comes off as a solid hard working resident.
I would be comforted to know that she is on the committee.
Andres Drobny
Santa Monica
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 782 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 1 David Yakobson
From: Debra Senopole <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 3:46 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Theresa H. Marasco Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
EXTERNAL
Hello,
I would like to recommend Theresa Marasco for the position. Theresa is honest, intelligent, hard working, fair individual that would be perfect for the position of GS Resident for the Oversight Committee. Please choose her.
Sincerely,
Debra Senopole
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 783 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 1 David Yakobson
From: Debra Shepherd <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 4:54 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16C measure GS Resident Oversight Committee
EXTERNAL
Good evening, Council members:
I would like to support Theresa Maraseco for the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee. Theresa is one of the most knowledgeable people that I know regarding HUD regulations in relation to the Housing Voucher Program. I worked as a news reporter covering government agencies, and I have yet to meet anyone that understands HUD, better than Theresa, unless they are a government employee. I believe with her knowledge and established relationships with voucher holders and other residents, she will be an essential asset to this committee.
I read the requirements for this committee, but there is no substitute for lived experience when it comes to issues of homelessness and permanent housing. I’m glad that this committee is being assembled. I look forward to the implementation of their recommendations to build a better Santa Monica.
Regards,
Debra Shepherd
Santa Monica resident and housing choice voucher participant Sent from my iPad Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 784 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) 1 David Yakobson
From: lenore albert <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 1:08 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya
Cc: Theresa Marasco
Subject: Recommendation
EXTERNAL
Dear Council members:
I highly recommend Theresa Marasco for the committee position addressed in Agenda Item 16C, which you will address at your meeting tomorrow.
I don’t make this recommendation lightly. My track record includes helping approximately 1,000 California homeowners avoid foreclosure in 2011, which contributed to the enactment of the California Homeowner's Bill of Rights and the ban on dual tracking. I would not jeopardize my reputation or past efforts by endorsing anyone in the housing sector who has not demonstrated their qualifications to me.
Her knowledge of the HUD Section 8 voucher program and the need to address the homeless problem in your area should make her a valuable asset to the committee.
Sincerely,
Lenore Albert
lenorealbert.com/
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
Item 16-C
March 25, 2025
16.C.c
Packet Pg. 785 Attachment: Written Comments (6946 : 16.C. Appointments to eleven seats on the Measure GS Resident Oversight Committee (5 mins.)) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: March 25, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.D
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Appointment to one unscheduled vacancy on the Human Services Commission for a term ending on June 30, 2025.
Prepared By: David Yakobson, Staff Assistant III
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Applicant List
16.D
Packet Pg. 786
City of Santa Monica
Boards and Commissions Applicants
Human Services Commission
Name Application Date
Glover, Kevin 02/03/2025
Muntaner, Zoë 05/14/2024
Susman, Matthew B. 07/10/2024
TOTAL APPLICANTS: 3
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 787 Attachment: Applicant List (6947 : 16.D. Appointment to one seat on the Human Services Commission (5 mins.)) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: March 25, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.E
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Appointment to one unscheduled vacancy on the Architectural Review Board for a term ending on June 30, 2027.
Prepared By: David Yakobson, Staff Assistant III
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Applicant List
16.E
Packet Pg. 788
City of Santa Monica
Boards and Commissions Applicants
Architectural Review Board
Name Application Date
Laks, Howard 06/17/2024
Li, Qianyu 03/04/2025
Pakshong, Victoria 03/18/2025
TOTAL APPLICANTS: 3
16.E.a
Packet Pg. 789 Attachment: Applicant List (6997 : 16.E. Appointment to one seat on the Architectural Review Board (5 mins.)) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: March 25, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.F
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Request by Mayor Negrete that the City Council authorize the use of travel funds to participate in the 50th Anniversary of Sister Cities in Japan up to an amount of $4,000.
Prepared By: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Written Comments
16.F
Packet Pg. 790
1 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 4:27 PM
To: Lana Negrete
Cc: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Douglas Sloan; Santa Monica City Manager's Office Subject: Re: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
Of course it's not enough to stop the bloodletting but it's enough to do some smaller things residents need badly. Keeping libraries open a few more days here and there - or hiring more security to monitor the parking garages which are not safe... there are many uses for it ..and the $10 grand for the LBGTQ+ indulgence. Enough already of all that is superfluous ..
When I lost everything years ago and went from making lots of $$ to having nothing..I learned where and how you cut. It was quite the lesson. Now that I can breathe a drop easier ..but nothing fat or porky.. I am glad for the lesson. Every dollar counts when you are broke.
You know the old saying "a thousand here a thousand there -pretty soon you are talking about real money"...
Danielle
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025 at 4:18 PM Lana Negrete <[email protected]> wrote:
I wish that what we have in our travel budget would help resolve our budget problems, but I think it’s more than that. I ended up spending my own money because the entity that offered to cover the cost of my travel there to speak at their conference for three days was unable to do so per our rules. So it stayed a personal expense for me something that definitely impacted me but in a hope to bring a future conference as well as other events to our city to help bring revenue I felt it worth it at the time. Of course I would’ve preferred to have been reimbursed for the time I spent discussing business around the city. It did not work out and I had to sustain the cost. I continue to do that with many trips as well as I’m sure other council members we all spend a lot of time working on City issues. There’s just not enough time in the day.
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 791 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 2 Every department is taking a look at their budget and making cut we hope to come back this summer with a pair down budget that really focuses on the top three priorities all of council has agreed need to be the main focus
Lana Negrete
Mayor
santamonica.gov
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Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:47:14 AM
To: Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; councilmtgitems <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]>; Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
Thanks for your response. Honestly, I don't care where the money is coming from. I know there are separate budgets..I follow things pretty closely. Just move it back to the fund for general services. The Council moves the housing trust fund money to pay for the Uller "victims"...same idea you know what I mean ..move it around.
I love that the kids go to Japan and others come here -always have.
This is all well and good when we can afford it, we can't now. Thinking needs to change. We have a huge shortfall and floating more bonds is not the way to go. Saving money and using it for badly needed services for our residents is. This is a good start to show us you have creative ideas in this area instead of just more taxes. I also find it odd Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 792 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 3 that you are often saying how you have no money personally but are telling me you actually paid for the trip to El Salvador yourself with no reimbursement ? Now why would you choose to spend your own hard earned money this way?
Please consider letting go of some overpaid staff..we have many.. stop giving out $10 grand to a small group of people to prance around waving flags to celebrate their gender choices. Start doing discovery and open the books on the Uller case. Drop the District Election lawsuit.
I am 77. I moved here in 1982 ..43 years this April Fool's Day. It took me a while to get the message about how this City does things. I am no longer a fool about it .
Thanks for your response. Don't take the trip. Move the money.
Danielle
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025 at 9:18 AM Lana Negrete <[email protected]> wrote:
Good morning Danielle
I think our kids may have gone to school together?
Thank you for your email, I too like you would be scrutinizing council travel after our last budget meeting. I just want you to understand that there’s separate budgets. I’m not getting money from the general fund and every council or mayor before has taken these trips. they are not leisure trips they are supportive of Business between our cities and celebratory in this case of a 50 year relationship between Japan. We send 40 students from Samo hi there through the immersion program and receive Japanese students and dignitaries here multiple times throughout the year.
We have a travel budget, so the money is just being transferred from one council member who didn’t use theirs to my travel budget. As far as El Salvador I paid for that myself nobody paid for it not the bitcoin office nor the city.
Thank you for your inquiries. I’m always happy to answer these questions directly. As you know we work more than just part-time and we get paid roughly $17,000 a year. All of us have full-time jobs but most of us spend over 40 hours a week doing this job. That’s what we signed up for! And I appreciate you being a concerned, citizen and checking in on all the details happy to talk and meet over coffee anytime.
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 793 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 4 Lana Negrete
Mayor
santamonica.gov
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Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 8:04:53 PM
To: councilmtgitems <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Ellis Raskin <[email protected]>; Barry Snell <[email protected]>; Natalya Zernitskaya <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Dan Hall <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]> Subject: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
I find it very wrong that at the time of such a massive shortfall that we even consider items like this for any reason. That $4000 dollars can keep the OP Library open a few extra days or stop a senior from falling into homelessness
The $10,000 requested for the LBGTQ+ parade is also an
indulgence we cannot afford. Is a parade more important than other needs like libraries who are suffering due to cut funding or stopping a few single parents from falling into homelessness ?
Is a vanity trip to Japan, Paris or anywhere really okay for any reason right now? NO ..the answer is NO. It speaks to the selfishness of the request and lack of caring for what really matters.
Was the BitCoin vote before or after the trip to El Salvador - I assume paid by the Bitcoin office.
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 794 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 5 This isn't fun and games anymore with free trips, parades..free dinners and lunches.. it is serious business time. Show us you actually care.
Danielle Charney
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 795 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 6 David Yakobson
From: Lana Negrete
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 4:18 PM
To: Dannie Charney; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Douglas Sloan; Santa Monica City Manager's Office
Subject: Re: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
I wish that what we have in our travel budget would help resolve our budget problems, but I think it’s more than that. I ended up spending my own money because the entity that offered to cover the cost of my travel there to speak at their conference for three days was unable to do so per our rules. So it stayed a personal expense for me something that definitely impacted me but in a hope to bring a future conference as well as other events to our city to help bring revenue I felt it worth it at the time. Of course I would’ve preferred to have been reimbursed for the time I spent discussing business around the city. It did not work out and I had to sustain the cost. I continue to do that with many trips as well as I’m sure other council members we all spend a lot of time working on City issues. There’s just not enough time in the day.
Every department is taking a look at their budget and making cut we hope to come back this summer with a pair down budget that really focuses on the top three priorities all of council has agreed need to be the main focus
Lana Negrete
Mayor
santamonica.gov
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:47:14 AM
To: Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; councilmtgitems <[email protected]>; Council Mailbox <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]>; Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 796 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 7 Thanks for your response. Honestly, I don't care where the money is coming from. I know there are separate budgets..I follow things pretty closely. Just move it back to the fund for general
services. The Council moves the housing trust fund money to pay for the Uller "victims"...same idea you know what I mean ..move it around.
I love that the kids go to Japan and others come here -always have.
This is all well and good when we can afford it, we can't now. Thinking needs to change. We have a huge shortfall and floating more bonds is not the way to go. Saving money and using it for badly needed services for our residents is. This is a good start to show us you have creative ideas in this area instead of just more taxes. I also find it odd that you are often saying how you have no money personally but are telling me you actually paid for the trip to El Salvador yourself with no reimbursement ? Now why would you choose to spend your own hard earned money this way?
Please consider letting go of some overpaid staff..we have many.. stop giving out $10 grand to a small group of people to prance around waving flags to celebrate their gender choices. Start doing discovery and open the books on the Uller case. Drop the District Election lawsuit.
I am 77. I moved here in 1982 ..43 years this April Fool's Day. It took me a while to get the message about how this City does things. I am no longer a fool about it .
Thanks for your response. Don't take the trip. Move the money.
Danielle
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025 at 9:18 AM Lana Negrete <[email protected]> wrote:
Good morning Danielle
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 797 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 8 I think our kids may have gone to school together?
Thank you for your email, I too like you would be scrutinizing council travel after our last budget meeting.
I just want you to understand that there’s separate budgets. I’m not getting money from the general fund and every council or mayor before has taken these trips. they are not leisure trips they are supportive of Business between our cities and celebratory in this case of a 50 year relationship between Japan. We send 40 students from Samo hi there through the immersion program and receive Japanese students and dignitaries here multiple times throughout the year.
We have a travel budget, so the money is just being transferred from one council member who didn’t use theirs to my travel budget. As far as El Salvador I paid for that myself nobody paid for it not the bitcoin office nor the city.
Thank you for your inquiries. I’m always happy to answer these questions directly. As you know we work more than just part-time and we get paid roughly $17,000 a year. All of us have full-time jobs but most of us spend over 40 hours a week doing this job. That’s what we signed up for! And I appreciate you being a concerned, citizen and checking in on all the details happy to talk and meet over coffee anytime.
Lana Negrete
Mayor
santamonica.gov
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 8:04:53 PM
To: councilmtgitems <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Ellis Raskin <[email protected]>; Barry Snell <[email protected]>; Natalya Zernitskaya <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Dan Hall <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]> Subject: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
I find it very wrong that at the time of such a massive shortfall that we even consider items like this for any reason. That $4000 dollars can Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 798 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 9 keep the OP Library open a few extra days or stop a senior from falling into homelessness
The $10,000 requested for the LBGTQ+ parade is also an
indulgence we cannot afford. Is a parade more important than other needs like libraries who are suffering due to cut funding or stopping a few single parents from falling into homelessness ?
Is a vanity trip to Japan, Paris or anywhere really okay for any reason right now? NO ..the answer is NO. It speaks to the selfishness of the request and lack of caring for what really matters.
Was the BitCoin vote before or after the trip to El Salvador - I assume paid by the Bitcoin office.
This isn't fun and games anymore with free trips, parades..free dinners and lunches.. it is serious business time. Show us you actually care.
Danielle Charney
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 799 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 1 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:47 AM
To: Lana Negrete; councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Douglas Sloan; Santa Monica City Manager's Office
Subject: Re: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
Thanks for your response. Honestly, I don't care where the money is coming from. I know there are separate budgets..I follow things pretty closely. Just move it back to the fund for general
services. The Council moves the housing trust fund money to pay for the Uller "victims"...same idea you know what I mean ..move it around.
I love that the kids go to Japan and others come here -always have.
This is all well and good when we can afford it, we can't now. Thinking needs to change. We have a huge shortfall and floating more bonds is not the way to go. Saving money and using it for badly needed services for our residents is. This is a good start to show us you have creative ideas in this area instead of just more taxes. I also find it odd that you are often saying how you have no money personally but are telling me you actually paid for the trip to El Salvador yourself with no reimbursement ? Now why would you choose to spend your own hard earned money this way?
Please consider letting go of some overpaid staff..we have many.. stop giving out $10 grand to a small group of people to prance around waving flags to celebrate their gender choices. Start doing discovery and open the books on the Uller case. Drop the District Election lawsuit.
I am 77. I moved here in 1982 ..43 years this April Fool's Day. It took me a while to get the message about how this City does things. I am no longer a fool about it .
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 800 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 2 Thanks for your response. Don't take the trip. Move the money.
Danielle
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025 at 9:18 AM Lana Negrete <[email protected]> wrote:
Good morning Danielle
I think our kids may have gone to school together?
Thank you for your email, I too like you would be scrutinizing council travel after our last budget meeting.
I just want you to understand that there’s separate budgets. I’m not getting money from the general fund and every council or mayor before has taken these trips. they are not leisure trips they are supportive of Business between our cities and celebratory in this case of a 50 year relationship between Japan. We send 40 students from Samo hi there through the immersion program and receive Japanese students and dignitaries here multiple times throughout the year.
We have a travel budget, so the money is just being transferred from one council member who didn’t use theirs to my travel budget. As far as El Salvador I paid for that myself nobody paid for it not the bitcoin office nor the city.
Thank you for your inquiries. I’m always happy to answer these questions directly. As you know we work more than just part-time and we get paid roughly $17,000 a year. All of us have full-time jobs but most of us spend over 40 hours a week doing this job. That’s what we signed up for! And I appreciate you being a concerned, citizen and checking in on all the details happy to talk and meet over coffee anytime.
Lana Negrete
Mayor
santamonica.gov
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Subscribe to City of Santa Monica Email Updates
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 8:04:53 PM
To: councilmtgitems <[email protected]>; Lana Negrete <[email protected]>; Ellis Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 801 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 3 Raskin <[email protected]>; Barry Snell <[email protected]>; Natalya Zernitskaya <[email protected]>; Caroline Torosis <[email protected]>; Dan Hall <[email protected]>; Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>; Santa Monica City Manager's Office <[email protected]>; Douglas Sloan <[email protected]> Subject: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
I find it very wrong that at the time of such a massive shortfall that we even consider items like this for any reason. That $4000 dollars can keep the OP Library open a few extra days or stop a senior from falling into homelessness
The $10,000 requested for the LBGTQ+ parade is also an
indulgence we cannot afford. Is a parade more important than other needs like libraries who are suffering due to cut funding or stopping a few single parents from falling into homelessness ?
Is a vanity trip to Japan, Paris or anywhere really okay for any reason right now? NO ..the answer is NO. It speaks to the selfishness of the request and lack of caring for what really matters.
Was the BitCoin vote before or after the trip to El Salvador - I assume paid by the Bitcoin office.
This isn't fun and games anymore with free trips, parades..free dinners and lunches.. it is serious business time. Show us you actually care.
Danielle Charney
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 802 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 1 David Yakobson
From: Karen Croner <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 8:11 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; Douglas Sloan Subject: Fwd: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
I think at this dire moment of the city facing serious financial hardship, this is the year to cut back on all travel. We need to use that money
to keep the library open a few extra days, to help a senior not fall into homelessness, this money could go to librarians. Sadly this is not the moment for free trips. The city needs that money far too much for essential services for the community. When you guys right the ship, as I’m sure you will, then it will be a great time for those trips! But for now the residents need to see how much you care for the community. Thank you for your service.
Sincerely,
Karen Croner
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 803 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) 2 David Yakobson
From: Dannie Charney <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 8:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell; Natalya Zernitskaya; Caroline Torosis; Dan Hall; Jesse Zwick; Santa Monica City Manager's Office; Douglas Sloan Subject: Meeting ITEM 16 F TRAVEL MONEY - OPPOSE
EXTERNAL
I find it very wrong that at the time of such a massive shortfall that we even consider items like this for any reason. That $4000 dollars can keep the OP Library open a few extra days or stop a senior from falling into homelessness
The $10,000 requested for the LBGTQ+ parade is also an
indulgence we cannot afford. Is a parade more important than other needs like libraries who are suffering due to cut funding or stopping a few single parents from falling into homelessness ?
Is a vanity trip to Japan, Paris or anywhere really okay for any reason right now? NO ..the answer is NO. It speaks to the selfishness of the request and lack of caring for what really matters.
Was the BitCoin vote before or after the trip to El Salvador - I assume paid by the Bitcoin office.
This isn't fun and games anymore with free trips, parades..free dinners and lunches.. it is serious business time. Show us you actually care.
Danielle Charney
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
Item 16-F
March 25, 2025
16.F.a
Packet Pg. 804 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7005 : Travel Funds for Sister Cities 50th Anniversary) City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: March 25, 2025
Agenda Item: 16.G
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk, Records and Election Services Department Subject: Request of Councilmembers Zwick, Hall and Raskin that the City Manager, in conjunction with the Building Official and Fire Chief and as part of the City’s 2025 Building Code Update, return to Council with proposed modifications including aligning the City’s definition of a high-rise building with the Statewide definition as set forth in Health and Safety Code Section 13210(b) and establishing an Alternative Means/Methods for the construction of singlestairwell multifamily unit residential buildings up to six stories.
Prepared By: Nikima Newsome, City Clerk
Approved Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Written Comments
16.G
Packet Pg. 805
1 David Yakobson
From: John Lin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 4:57 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 16G single stair reform.
EXTERNAL
Permits are sharply down in the midst of an ongoing housing crisis. It is beyond time that Santa Monica catch up with reforms already in effect in Seattle and New York City and being pursued in LA.
Please approve reforms that will allow Santa Monica to adopt the forms of other world class cities like Vienna, Barcelona, and Paris!
John Lin
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
16.G.a
Packet Pg. 806 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7006 : Proposed Modifications to 2025 Building Code Update) 1 David Yakobson
From: Dustin Shahan <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:57 AM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support Item 16G
EXTERNAL
Good morning,
Please support item 16G to work towards single stair residential. This will allow for more cost efficient units, better utilization of our space, and more flexible unit layout without sacrificing safety.
Thanks
Dustin Shahan
90401
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
16.G.a
Packet Pg. 807 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7006 : Proposed Modifications to 2025 Building Code Update) 1 David Yakobson
From: Jacob Wasserman <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 7:36 AM
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Cc: Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Dan Hall; Natalya Zernitskaya; Lana Negrete; Ellis Raskin; Barry Snell
Subject: In Support: Item 16.G
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
In order to make housing more available and more varied types of human-scale buildings possible, I support efforts to expand single-stair construction. A recent study shows that not only does this reform aid housing affordability and variety but also poses no safety risks: https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/reports/2025/02/small-single-stairwayapartment-buildings-have-strong-safety-record Thank you,
Jacob Wasserman
11th and Washington
90403
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
16.G.a
Packet Pg. 808 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7006 : Proposed Modifications to 2025 Building Code Update) 1 David Yakobson
From: Alex Brown <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 4:33 PM
To: councilmtgitems; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Ellis Raskin; Natalya Zernitskaya; Dan Hall; Barry Snell
Cc: Judy Kruger (Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce); Paula Larmore Subject: Letters of Support: Upcoming City Council Agenda Items 16.G & 12.A Attachments: Downtown IZO Community Assembly LOS March 24, 2025.pdf; Building Limits LOS March 24, 2025.pdf
EXTERNAL
Hello Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
Please see attached - Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce's Letters of Support for items 12.A and 16.G on March 25th's City Council meeting.
Respectfully,
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
16.G.a
Packet Pg. 809 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7006 : Proposed Modifications to 2025 Building Code Update) March 24, 2025
City Council
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: Agenda Item 16.G, Align the City’s Definition of High-Rise Building with Statewide Definition - SUPPORT
Dear Mayor Negrete and City Councilmembers,
On behalf of the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, we urge the Council to approve Item 16.G to align the City’s definition of a highrise building with the Statewide definition and establishing an Alternative Means/Methods for the construction of single-stairwell multifamily unit residential buildings up to six stories.
Aligning the City’s definition of a high-rise building with the Statewide definition significantly decreases the cost for housing projects in support of both City’s housing production and economic recovery goals. This change will also create consistency with Los Angeles and many other cities State-wide.
The Chamber appreciates City Staff and the Council’s attention and work to remove barriers to housing production for all income levels to increase opportunities for our workforce to both live and work in Santa Monica.
Respectfully,
Board Executives
Chair
Charlie LopezQuintana
ETC Hotels
Past Chair
Younes Atallah
Regent Santa Monica
Beach
Treasurer
Celia Fisher
Beach Moms
Vice-Chair
Dustin Peterson
Fairmont Miramar
Hotel & Bungalows
Vice-Chair
Dr. Kathryn Jeffery
Santa Monica College
Vice-Chair
Vee Gomez
Beach Yoga SoCal
Vice-Chair
Greg Morena
The Albright
Board Members
Dom Bei
SM Firefighters
Rudy Flores
SM Police Officers
Paula Larmore
Harding, Larmore,
Kutcher & Kozal LLP
Michael Altchule
UCLA Health
Board Continued
Eddie Guerboian
Jeweler
Neil Carrey
Attorney
Jeremy Rawitch
RAND
Elnie Vannatim
Cedars Sinai
Addie VanGessel
Tavern on Main
Gina Gribow
EKA Public Affairs
Jessica Rincon
Le Merigot Hotel
Florence Granteral
Fall
Neuehouse
Stephanie Eglin
Macerich
Lilit Avagyan
US Bank
Melissa Cohen
Boston Properties
Jenn Verma
Lionsgate
Ben Marcus
UP Partners
Elias Garcia
Kaiser Permanente
Yvette Sims
Hair by Yvette
Judy Kruger Cheree
President & CEO
Charlie Lopez-Quintana
Chair of the Board of Directors
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
Item 16-G
March 25, 2025
16.G.a
Packet Pg. 810 Attachment: Written Comments [Revision 1] (7006 : Proposed Modifications to 2025 Building Code Update)